A few years ago Bajaj predicted that 125cc motorcycles would be the next big news and boldly concentrated its R&D focus on this segment. Fast forward a few years and models and the aggressive manufacturer is now the numero uno in this critical segment. Its 125cc XCD DTS-Si has done another Pulsar, quickly securing a lion’s share of the market and now Bajaj plans to further reinforce its 125 frontline with the Platina 125 DTS-Si says AutoCar (Nov. ’08).
Basically the new bike is an upgrade to a DTS-Si engine as on the XCD and is based on the discontinued Wind 125. Slim, short and slightly longer looking the new Platina isn’t that attention grabbing when compared to premium 125cc models like the Honda Stunner. But 100cc motorcycle buyers might find it tempting thanks to a really attractive price tag. The latest Bajaj model comes clad with five-spoke back alloy rims and a familiar, friendly looking bikini fairing in front. An undesirable design aspect is a void left visible between its front mudguard and 17-inch wheels but the new Platina 125 enjoys a decent headlight beam. The instrument panel is user-friendly, comfy levers, supple grips and wide mirrors are all quality kit, while the bike offers up-to-date switches that work with a crisp, built-to-last feel and provide a pass light as well as push-to-cancel turn indicators.
Its fuel tank comes with a smart alloy filler lid while its side panels are other neatly designed items that complement the bike’s looks. The tail warning light above the bike shows off a blackened alloy grab bar.
The Platina’s DTS-Si engine uses twin spark plugs seated in different planes fore and aft of the cylinder observes AutoCar (Nov.’08). The motor also individually monitors and customises the interval and strength at which either plug is fired. Other engine features include an automatic choke system on the carburettor and an exhausTEC resonator on the silencer bent-pipe to help the Platina perform strongly at low rpm. While the front suspension is telescopic forks, the rear uses a pair of SNS (Spring iN Spring) hydraulic shock absorbers with orange inner coils lending a dash of colour. The new Platina uses 17-inch rims, front and rear like most new Bajaj bikes but continues to use an outdated tubular swingarm instead of a more rigid box section swingarm.
Ride quality is soft, pliant yet not overly bouncy while the seat offers good padding and keeps even long-distance rides a stress free affair. A combination of 130mm and 110mm drum brakes provide the Platina 125 DTS-Si adequate braking and on acceleration it passes 60kph in a tardy 8.4 seconds and hits top speed at 96kph. So while speed is not its virtue the DTS-Si tech ensures this 125 is genuinely frugal, matching the XCD with class-beating 100cc like fuel efficiency. Thus the Platina 125 fits the bill for a comfortable city motorcycle thanks to its soft suspension and light handling. And although it could have had better tyres, the cleverly positioned 125cc model sits smartly in 100cc territory sums up AutoCar (Nov. ’08).
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