When it comes to motorcycles in the Indian market, the Bajaj Bajaj Pulsar range has always been a favorite among riders of all ages. Known for its rugged design, powerful performance, and value-for-money pricing, the Bajaj Pulsar series has evolved significantly since its inception. Among the more recent additions to the lineup is the Bajaj Pulsar N160, a bike that effortlessly combines the best aspects of performance, styling, and technology, all at an attractive price point.
In this comprehensive review, we will explore what makes the Bajaj Pulsar N160 an outstanding choice for riders who seek a motorcycle that delivers both in city commutes and longer rides. We’ll delve into its key features, engine performance, handling, design, and much more to give you a detailed understanding of this impressive machine.
1. Introduction to the Bajaj Pulsar N160
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 was launched as part of Bajaj Auto’s strategy to continue dominating the 150-160cc segment in India. With a design that borrows cues from its elder sibling, the Pulsar 250, the N160 stands out with its aggressive and muscular appearance. It caters to riders who want more than just a commuter bike—those who desire a motorcycle with a sporty edge, advanced features, and enough power to tackle a variety of riding conditions.
The N160 is available in multiple variants, including a single-channel ABS version, a dual-channel ABS version, and the top-spec Bluetooth-enabled variant, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers. With prices starting from approximately ₹1.22 lakh (ex-showroom), the Pulsar N160 provides an enticing option for those who want a premium ride without breaking the bank.
2. Design and Build Quality
One of the first things that stands out about the Bajaj Pulsar N160 is its aggressive design. With its naked streetfighter look, the bike has a bold stance that gives it an imposing presence on the road. The sculpted fuel tank, sharp tank shrouds, and underbelly cowl all contribute to its dynamic and edgy styling.
The N160 also comes with a split LED headlamp setup, which enhances both its look and its functionality. The headlamp is flanked by sleek LED DRLs, giving the bike a modern touch while providing excellent visibility during low-light conditions.
The bike’s overall build quality is impressive, with well-finished panels and attention to detail. The robust steel perimeter frame provides a sturdy structure, and the use of high-quality materials ensures that the Pulsar N160 can withstand daily wear and tear.
The Pulsar N160 is available in several attractive colors, including Racing Red, Caribbean Blue, Brooklyn Black, and Pearl Metallic White, each adding to the bike’s visual appeal. The golden USD (upside-down) forks on the top-spec variant further enhance its premium feel.
3. Ergonomics and Comfort
While the N160 is styled as a streetfighter, Bajaj has ensured that rider comfort has not been compromised. The ergonomics of the Pulsar N160 strike a balance between sportiness and comfort, making it suitable for both short city rides and longer journeys. The bike features a slightly forward-leaning riding posture, typical of streetfighter motorcycles, but the handlebar is positioned in such a way that it doesn’t strain the rider’s wrists during extended rides.
The seat is well-cushioned and wide enough to offer comfort to both the rider and the pillion. With a seat height of 795 mm, the N160 is accessible to a wide range of riders, including those who may not be particularly tall. Additionally, the 165 mm ground clearance ensures that the bike can easily navigate through Indian roads, whether in urban environments or on rougher rural terrain.
The footpegs are rear-set but not overly aggressive, allowing for a comfortable riding stance. This makes the bike versatile enough for daily commuting as well as weekend rides.
4. Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a 164.82cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that delivers a power output of 15.7 bhp at 8,750 rpm and a peak torque of 14.65 Nm at 6,750 rpm. While these figures may not seem extraordinary on paper, the N160’s performance on the road tells a different story.
The engine is tuned to provide a smooth and linear power delivery, making it ideal for city riding where stop-and-go traffic is common. However, the bike also shines on highways, where it can maintain steady speeds without feeling strained. The 5-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine, offering precise shifts and allowing the rider to extract the best performance in various riding conditions.
Thanks to its torquey nature, the Pulsar N160 accelerates briskly from a standstill, and its mid-range performance is particularly strong. This makes overtaking easy and allows the bike to tackle steep inclines without needing frequent gear shifts.
The Pulsar N160’s engine is compliant with BS6 Phase 2 norms, ensuring that it meets the latest emissions standards while delivering efficient performance. Owners report a real-world mileage of around 47 kmpl, which, combined with the 14-liter fuel tank, gives the N160 excellent range for longer trips.
5. Handling and Ride Quality
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is designed to offer a fine balance between handling and ride comfort. It features a steel perimeter frame that enhances stability at higher speeds and offers good handling characteristics during cornering. The 31mm telescopic forks at the front and the monoshock with Nitrox at the rear work together to absorb bumps and undulations on the road effectively.
The handling is further enhanced by the 17-inch alloy wheels, which come fitted with grippy tires that offer ample traction. Whether you’re navigating sharp corners or weaving through traffic, the Pulsar N160 feels composed and confident.
One of the standout features of the Pulsar N160 is its braking system. The bike is equipped with disc brakes at both ends, with single-channel ABS on the base variant and dual-channel ABS on the higher variants. The braking performance is sharp, and the ABS system ensures that the wheels do not lock up during hard braking, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
On the top-spec model, the Pulsar N160 also offers three ABS modes – Road, Rain, and Off-road – giving riders additional control over the braking system based on the riding conditions. This feature is particularly useful for riders who frequently switch between different types of terrain.
The bike’s relatively light kerb weight of 152 kg further contributes to its nimble handling, allowing it to change directions quickly and effortlessly. At the same time, the N160’s weight distribution is well-balanced, ensuring that it remains stable even at higher speeds.
6. Technology and Features
Bajaj has packed the Pulsar N160 with a host of modern features that enhance both the riding experience and convenience. The base model comes with a semi-digital instrument cluster that provides essential information such as speed, fuel level, odometer, and trip meter. It also includes a USB charging port, allowing riders to charge their devices on the go.
The top-spec variant, however, takes things up a notch with a fully digital instrument console that offers additional features such as smartphone connectivity. This allows the rider to receive call and SMS alerts, check battery levels, and use turn-by-turn navigation. The Bluetooth connectivity feature is a welcome addition for tech-savvy riders who prefer to stay connected while riding.
The Pulsar N160 also includes a side-stand engine cut-off feature, which prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is engaged. This is a thoughtful safety feature that helps avoid accidents caused by riders accidentally riding off with the side stand down.
7. Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers in this segment, and the Pulsar N160 delivers in this regard. With an ARAI-rated mileage of 51.6 kmpl, the bike offers excellent fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting.
Regarding maintenance, the Pulsar N160 benefits from Bajaj’s widespread service network and affordable spare parts. The bike is designed to be low-maintenance, with service intervals that are spaced out to reduce the overall cost of ownership. The standard warranty of 5 years or 75,000 km further adds to the peace of mind for buyers.
8. Competition: How Does the N160 Stack Up?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 competes in a highly competitive segment, with rivals such as the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Suzuki Gixxer, and Hero Xtreme 160R. Each ofbikeffers a unique blend of performance, styling, and features, but the Pulsar N160 stands out for several reasons.
Compared to the Apache RTR 160 4V, the Pulsar N160 offers slightly better fuel efficiency and more refined power delivery, making it a better option for city riders. The Suzuki Gixxer, on the other hand, is known for its sharp handling, but the N160’s advanced braking system and technology features give it an edge in terms of overall value.
The Hero Xtreme 160R is priced lower than the Pulsar N160 but lacks some of the premium features found on the latter. For riders who prioritize advanced technology and safety features, the Pulsar N160 presents a more attractive option.
9. Verdict: Is the Bajaj Pulsar N 160 Worth It?
The Bajaj Pulsar N 160 is an excellent motorcycle for riders who want a stylish, powerful, and feature-packed bike without stretching their budget. It offers a well-rounded package that includes good performance, advanced technology, and the signature Pulsar styling that has made the brand so popular over the years.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable commuter bike or a machine that can handle weekend rides with ease, the Pulsar N160 delivers on all fronts. Its combination of comfort, power, and handling makes it a strong contender in the 160cc segment, and the inclusion of modern features such as dual-channel ABS and smartphone connectivity adds to its appeal.
FAQs for Bajaj Pulsar N160
1. What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 comes with a 164.82cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that delivers a power output of 15.7 bhp and 14.65 Nm of torque, providing a smooth yet powerful ride.
2. What is the mileage of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 offers an ARAI-rated mileage of 51.6 kmpl, making it a fuel-efficient option for daily commutes and long rides alike.
3. Does the Bajaj Pulsar N160 have ABS?
Yes, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 comes with dual-channel ABS on the higher variants and single-channel ABS on the base variant, ensuring safety during hard braking and in slippery conditions.
4. What is the price of the Bajaj Pulsar N160 in India?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is priced at approximately ₹1.22 lakh (ex-showroom), with slight variations depending on the location and the variant chosen.
5. What are the color options available for the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is available in several attractive colors, including Racing Red, Caribbean Blue, Brooklyn Black, and Pearl Metallic White, allowing riders to choose according to their personal style.
6. How is the riding comfort of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 offers a comfortable riding experience with its well-padded seat, slightly forward-leaning posture, and well-placed handlebars, making it suitable for both city cong and longer rides.
7. What type of suspension does the Bajaj Pulsar N160 have?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is equipped with hahasforks at the front and a mono-shockk with Nitrox at the rear, ensuringa smooth ridey even on rough roads.
8. How is the braking performance of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 features disc brakes on both ends, with dual-channel ABS in the higher variant, ensuring strong and reliable braking performance under various riding conditions.
9. What is the top speed of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 can reach a top speed of around 120 km/h, making it one of the faster bikes in the 160cc segment, suitable for both city rid. It is and hhhighway cruising.
10. What is the fuel tank capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj PuN160’shas a fuel tank capaisty of 14 liters, providing a good rangelong-distance travelblees and reducing the need for frequent refueling.
11. Does the Bajaj Pulsar N160 come with Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, the higher variant of the Bajaj Pulsar N160 comes with Bluetooth connectivity and a fully digital instrument console, allowing riders to access features like turn-by-turn navigation and call/SMS alerts.
12. Is the Bajaj Pulsar N160 suitable for begsuitableablers?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a great option forbeginner. Itt offers a balanced mix of power, handling, and safety features, including ABS and easy-to-use controls, making it a rider-friendly bike for new motorcyclists.
13. How does the Bajaj Pulsar N160 compare to the TVS Apache RTR 160? Thee Bajaj Pulsar N160 and the TVS Apache RTR 160 are strong contenders in the 160cc segment. The Pulsar N160 offers better mileage and advanced braking features, while the Apache is known for its sharp handling and sportier design.
14. What kind of tires does the Bajaj Pulsar N 160 have?
The Bajaj Pulsar N 160 is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with high-grip tandrovide excellent road traction, ensuring stability during and ensure stability during.
15. Is the Bajaj Pulsar N 160 BS6 compliant?
Yes, the Bajaj Pulsar N 160 complies with with with 2 emission norms, making it an environmentally friendly option with reduced emissions.
16. What is the maintenance cost for the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The maintenance cost for the Bajaj Pulsar N160 is affordable, thanks Bajaj’sj’s wide service network and the availability of reasonably priced spare parts. The bike is designed to be low-maintenance with long serviextended realsals.
17. What is the ground clearance of the Bajaj Pulsar N160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N 160 offers a ground clearance of 165 mm, making it suitable for Indian roads and capable of tackling speed bumps and uneven surfaces without bottoming out.
18. What is the warranty on the Bajaj Pulsar N 160?
The Bajaj Pulsar N 160 comes with a standard warranty of 5 years or 75,000 km, whichever comes first, giving riders peace of mind regarding long-term reliability.
19. Is the Bajaj Pulsar N160 suitable for long rides?
Yes, the Bajaj Pulsar N 160 is well-suited for long rides due to its comfortable seating, refined engine performance, and impressive fuel efficiency, . It also offers an experienceor touring.
20. How does the Bajaj Pulsar N160 perform in terms of handling?
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 excels in handling,itshanks to is steel perimeter frame and well-balanced weight distribution. It feels stable at high easily maneuversverstthrough city traffic.
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