Bajaj Pulsar NS160

Powered by a 160.3cc, air and oil-cooled, single-cylinder DTS-i engine, the Pulsar NS160 delivers 17.2 PS at 9,000 rpm and 14.6 Nm at 7,250 rpm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. It achieves a top speed of 120 kmph and a claimed mileage of 45-52 km/l, ideal for city commuting and short highway rides. The engine offers strong low-end torque but lacks the refinement of some rivals at higher revs. Its BS6 Phase 2 compliance ensures cleaner emissions.

The Pulsar NS160 sports a muscular naked streetfighter design with sharp lines, a sculpted fuel tank, and a full LED headlamp. Available in colors like Cocktail Wine Red, Pearl Metallic White, Pewter Grey and Ebony Black, it features new decals for 2025. The fully digital instrument cluster displays speed, fuel, and trip data and also gets bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts, phone battery, signal levels, and turn by turn navigation. Its 152 kg kerb weight ensures agile handling, though the build quality, with some plasticky panels, feels less premium than the competition.

The 2025 Pulsar NS160 includes standardised dual-channel ABS, full LED headlamp, LED tail light, a side-stand cut-off sensor, and dual disc brakes (260 mm front, 230 mm rear). The ABS enhances braking safety. However, it misses out on traction control, available on the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. The sturdy frame and tubeless tires ensure reliability.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V - The Apache RTR 160 4V is slightly cheaper (₹1,37,000 vs ₹1,40,000) offers similar power (17.5 PS), better refinement, and sharper handling. Its lighter 145 kg frame and Glide Through Traffic (GTT) enhance urban agility. The Pulsar NS160 offers dual-channel ABS as standard, enhancing safety. Its aggressive styling and full LED headlamp appeal to younger riders.

Suzuki Gixxer 150 -  The Gixxer 150 is marginally cheaper (₹1,38,000), gets a smoother 155cc engine producing 13.6 PS at 8000 rpm, premium build, and full LED lighting. Its lighter 141 kg frame and sporty handling appeal to enthusiasts, with its refinement surpassing the NS160. The Pulsar NS160 delivers higher power (17.2 PS vs. 13.6 PS) and torque (14.6 Nm vs. 13.8 Nm), with a higher top speed of 120 km/h. Its dual-channel ABS and LED headlamp outshine the Gixxer’s features.

Yamaha FZ-S F V4 - Yamaha’s 149cc engine is smoother, with a premium build, full LED lighting, and traction control (Deluxe variant). Its lighter 136 kg frame and softer suspension provide better comfort during city runabouts. The FZ-S is also more affordable at ₹1,31,000. The Pulsar NS160 offers more power (17.2 PS vs. 12.4 PS) and a higher top speed (120 kmph vs. 115 kmph). Its dual-channel ABS and wider rear tire (120/80 vs. 100/80) enhance safety and grip.

Hero Xtreme 160R 4V - The Xtreme 160R 4V is slightly more affordable at ₹1,39,000. Its 163 cc engine produces 16.9 PS at 8,500 rpm, offers better refinement and a lighter 145 kg frame. The Pulsar NS160 offers dual-channel ABS as standard, greatly enhancing safety. Its aggressive design and all-LED lighting give it a sportier edge.

The 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS160, starting at ₹1,40,000, is a compelling choice for young urban riders seeking a sporty 160cc motorcycle with aggressive styling, strong performance (17.2 PS), and promising safety with dual-channel ABS. Its lightweight design and agile handling make it ideal for city commuting, backed by Bajaj’s extensive service network. However, its plasticky build, firm suspension, and lack of modern features like traction control trail some of its rivals. For budget-conscious riders wanting style and power, the NS160 delivers, but those prioritizing refinement or advanced tech may prefer alternatives.