AutoCar (Oct 2008) tested the new version of the successful Discover 135 DTSi on whether it can prove its mettle and stand out as a worthy successor in a rapidly crowding bike market.
Its been four years since the Discover was launched, and the 135 cc variant arrived last year in much the same price. Bajaj has added a pair of new tank panels apart from a few other detailed touches. Among the smartest changes are strips hat run the circumference of both the alloy rims, this being cleverly engineered to allow them to last the life of the bike.
Digital instruments replace the earlier analog bay, a large tachometer with a an illuminated pointer set to the left, while an ember backlit display relays information which includes speed, odometer and trip readings as well as fuel levels.
Grip feel is adequate, the bike switches work crisply and the powder coated clutch and brake levers are also up to the mark. The new Bajaj uses a fully enclosed chain replacing the earlier ‘O’ ring sealed unit. AutoCar (Oct 2008) found the fit and finish as well as all rubber and plastic parts to be of satisfactory quality.
No changes have been implemented on the Discover 135 4- stroke digital twin spark- ignition, or DTSi engine. This short stroke engine displaces 134.2 cc and continues to churn out the identical peak power of 13.1 bhp at 8500 rpm as found on the first bike, as well as the same peak torque at 1.21 kgm at 6500 rpm.
Bajaj’s patented exhausTEC technology is present on the silencer bent pipe to help the new discover achieve a torque laden feel from low in its power band. The clutch feels well weighted and operates with good feel at all times. While the all down shifting gear box could certainly improve in shift quality and feel, its four gear ratios are perfectly spaced for stress free riding in chaotic city traffic conditions.
Performance stays identical on the new Discover 135, the bike can dash 0- 60 kph in 5.48 secs, easily faster than most 125 cc models, while its top speed is 105 kph. The discover 135 DTSi deploys a rigid dual down tube frame which runs under the engine sump and reattaches at the swing arm pivot. The front suspension of this bike is conventional with dual twin telescopic forks.
The 135 uses dual gas charged shock absorbers and a rectangle section swing arm at the rear and the gas cushioned rear suspension provides an excellent ride quality, while 17” rims aided by wide 100- 90 section rear rubber translates in to decent handling. The 135 uses a progressive yet potent disc brake in front supported by a drum brake at the rear. And just like all Discovers the 135 remains best suited to shorter riders, thanks to its snug proportions.
Thus, the Discover 135 DTSi is a cleverly positioned motorcycle that’s value for money with little competition to speak of. tackling city riding conditions with aplomb. The latest Discover delivered 52.6 kpl on the road test
says AutoCar (Oct 2008), and this improved to 55.4 kpl when it was run on traffic free highways.
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