Bajaj Pulsar N160

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a very good-looking bike with aggressive and sharp lines. That said, it does not stand out when parked alongside the Pulsar N250, since both bikes look exactly the same. If only Bajaj gave the N160 its own unique identity. However, Bajaj has a tradition of using a shared platform for the Pulsar range that ensures the bikes can be priced competitively.

Even though it’s less powerful than the NS160 (on paper), the Pulsar N160 is more exciting to ride, because there is a lot of torque right from low speeds... The acceleration from 27kmph in fifth gear up to 95kmph is smooth and without vibrations, making for effortless riding in the city. 

The new engine stands out because of its excellent refinement. Beyond 5500rpm, the loud exhaust note adds a sporty feel.  In our tests, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 returned a mileage of 59.11kmpl in the city and 44.38kmpl out on the highway.

The torquey engine combined with its sharp handling makes the Pulsar N160 a lot of fun to ride, especially in the city. It turns into corners easily and stays stable even on wet roads. The front suspension absorbs bumps effortlessly and it gives the rider a lot of confidence. 

The Pulsar N160’s brakes are sharp and you won’t need to pull the brake lever hard to stop the bike, even in emergency situations. Additionally, the dual-channel ABS works well and intervenes on time to ensure the tyres don’t lock up and that braking is safe and effective.

The seat is well-padded and the upright riding posture is a nice balance between being sporty but also comfortable. The tank's shape, similar to the N250, is designed to provide enough space for locking in your knees and thighs securely for better control over the bike.

While the front suspension easily handles bumps and potholes, the rear suspension is on the firmer side. Over sharper bumps, the rider may feel like they are tossed around a bit and it doesn’t feel very comfortable. Although the ride isn’t uncomfortable, a softer monoshock for better absorption could have significantly improved the ride quality. That said, the rear suspension feels much more comfortable with a pillion on board.

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is packed with modern features. It comes equipped with an LED projector headlight with LED DRLs and features a fully digital instrument cluster that provides basic information along with a digital clock, gear indicator, mileage, and range indicator. You can connect your phone to it through the Bajaj Ride Connect app, which has call and message alerts and even phone battery warning. Additionally, the digital display includes a warning message section at the bottom for mileage error messages and low fuel warnings. However, it misses out on turn-by-turn navigation. Other features include a USB charging port, and updated left-side switchgear.

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a great bike to rival the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, which has long been the best bike in the segment. Even with a slightly firm monoshock, the N160 shines with its performance-packed and refined engine, well-tuned dual-channel ABS, impressive handling, and fantastic fuel economy. What makes it even better is its highly competitive price of Rs 1,32,525 (ex-showroom Delhi).