Looking for a first bike? Try this

A well-equipped sports-style motorcycle.

Either they’re simply tight-lipped or probably aren’t being paid by the word. But this, in a sentence, is how people at Kymco describe their Pulsar.

The Pulsar has been one of Kymco’s underpromoted yet fast selling products since it was introduced two years ago. Maybe because of its popularity especially among beginning riders that it never occurred to the Taiwanese manufacturer and their local partners here to really push this bike in the market.

It is not surprising why many got attracted to the Pulsar. Its bodywork and chassis give it a feel of a bigger bike, yet its simple features, fuel-efficient engine and very affordable price make it an ideal first bike.

The Pulsar carries the same powerplant as that of the Zing 125, Kymco’s lightweight cruiser. This engine is very similar to that of the Honda CG125, considered in other countries as the boss of commuter/learner bikes. Four-stroke and equipped with an overhead cam, this engine can do a 58-kilometer spirited run on a liter of gas.

But what is truly commendable with the Pulsar is its styling and value-for-money features. The fuel tank gives an impression of being Italian-inspired (a small Ducati comes to mind), and the seat and handlebar give the bike a truly sporty look.

The basic Pulsar is being sold at a little over P50,000, and at this price, you’ll get a bike with chrome headlamp, chrome speedometer and rev counter, electric and kick starter, front disc brakes and a one-year warranty on parts and service.

According to Kymco officials, an upgraded version called Pulsar Sport (inset) will be available later this year. It will have a headlamp fairing, a new tail lamp, new suspension and alloy magwheels. Naturally it will be sold at a higher price.