KTM RC 490 vs Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 : Power, Performance, and Price – Which Sports Bike Reigns Supreme?

KTM RC 490 vs Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 : If you need a sports bike that behaves exquisitely well on highways as well as on roads of the city, then KTM RC 490 and Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 are ideal for you. Both motorcycles are highly favored in their category and are performance-oriented. But here is the question, among all of these bicycles which one is best and which one will be comfortable for you. Let’s analyze the answer by comparing them in detail.

1. Engine and Performance

KTM RC 490 is fitted with a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, 490cc engine that gives an estimated power of 50 to 55 PS and approximately 45 Nm torque. KTM bikes are known for swift speed and good handling, and RC 490 also has the same reputation. Its 6-gear transmission and slipper clutch enable it to ride smoothly even at top speed.

The Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 will come equipped with a 500cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that makes 45-50 PS power and 40 Nm torque. The Pulsar RS series has always been a good option as far as moderately priced sports bike riders are concerned, and the RS 500 would be its most powerful variant. Its engine offers class-leading low-end torque with which it rides almost equally well on city roads as well as highways.

2. Design and Looks

KTM RC 490 is all in the shape of a track-special sports bike. Its race bike attitude is thanks to its aerodynamic full-faired look, aggressive bodywork and LED headlamps. KTM’s RC series is racing DNA laden and the RC 490 is a sure bet in this category.

The Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 will look like a facelifted RS 200 but more muscular and aggressive. Its twin LED headlamp and sports graphics-given full-faired looks give it a premium feel. It has been designed like a performance bike by Bajaj, but its design won’t be as aggressive as the KTM.

3. Features and Technology

The KTM RC 490 is equipped with a plethora of hi-tech features like digital instrument cluster, ride-by-wire throttle, dual-channel ABS, traction control, slipper clutch and quick shifter.

The Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 also gets a lot of good features like full digital console, dual-channel ABS, riding modes, LED headlights and smartphone connectivity.

Still, the KTM is slightly more tech-heavy, especially due to features like traction control and quick shifter.

4. Mileage and performance

KTM RC 490 is able to offer mileage ranging from 25 to 30 km per liter with a great performance, which is decent according to this segment.

Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 mileage will be slightly greater, which will be from 30 to 35 km per liter. Bajaj has always been able to deliver a compromise between performance and mileage.

5. Price

Ex-showroom price of KTM RC 490 may be up to Rs 3.50 lakh.

The ex-showroom price of Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 may be Rs 2.80 to 3 lakh.

KTM is slightly higher in price, but since it possesses best features and racing performance, it will be premium. But Pulsar RS 500 can be a cheaper bike, which will be cheap and will have powerful performance too.

Conclusion: Which is the best bike?

If you want a racing, high-performance bicycle, high-tech and track-capable, then KTM RC 490 is the best fit. Its horsepower and performance, along with its specs, have earned it a premium offering in its category.

If you want a price-effective bike, yet powerful and good-looking sports bike, then Bajaj Pulsar RS 500 will be your perfect pick. It offers best mileage and performance balancing.

It’s now in your hands whether you require track-focused super sport or value-tastic sports tourer.