Bajaj Pulsar NS160 vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Performance And Real-world Mileage Compared
The segment benchmark goes up against the recently updated Pulsar model
Bajaj gave the Pulsar NS160 a much-needed update recently, but has that made this Pulsar better than one of the benchmarks of the 160cc segment – the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V? We tested both the motorcycles to give you a lowdown based on our VBox-tested figures:
Acceleration
|
Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|
|
0-60kmph |
5.33s |
5.58s |
|
0-80kmph |
9.37s |
9.84s |
|
0-100kmph |
16.06s |
18.34s |
|
30-70kmph (3rd Gear) |
6.09s |
6.43s |
|
40-80kmph (4th Gear) |
7.81s |
8.71s |
The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 beats the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V in the 0-100kmph sprint. While the difference isn’t much till the 80kmph mark, the RTR is a whole two seconds slower by the time it touches 100kmph. This is primarily because of the free-revving nature of the Bajaj Pulsar which allows it to sprint quicker, something that is evident in the in-gear acceleration runs too.
Braking
|
Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|
|
80-0kmph |
33.07m |
38.36m |
|
60-0kmph |
16.89m |
21.51m |
The chink in the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V’s armour has been its braking, and now, with the upgraded brakes on the NS160, the difference is pretty evident. The Pulsar’s brakes feel sharp and have a good stopping force, whereas the brakes on the RTR feel wooden.
Fuel Efficiency
|
Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|
|
City Mileage |
47.88kmpl |
47.61kmpl |
|
Highway Mileage |
38.23kmpl |
49.80kmpl |
Now, both are equally fuel-efficient in the city, however, when it comes to the highway, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V takes the win. Though both the bikes can achieve similar highway speeds, the NS160 starts feeling a bit strained towards the top of its rev range.
Verdict
|
Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|
Rs 1,36,736 |
Rs 1,27,270 |
When it comes to pricing, the NS160 is expensive by a fair margin compared to the disc variant of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. However, even the top-of-the-line variant of the Apache is more affordable than the NS, despite offering a bunch of features. However, if you are looking for sheer performance, the NS160 is the one for you, but when it comes to handling, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V still comes off as a better product.
User Reviews
- Good bike for youngstersGood handling and medium breaking, medium performance for short time city and highway riding, good sharp stylish looking naked bike, good road presence, low service charge with medium mileage 30 to 40 kmpl. Long ride comfort is not good after 100km. Wrist pain and shoulder pain, good handling bike. It's give you confidence to flicker very easily. Front break is good stopping power but too much abs kicking problem, rear brake is not good, no stopping power. Top speed after 2nd service 124 highest, mileage not that good 40 km after simple riding. If you ride aggressively, mileage can drop upto 30-25 kmpl. Can recommend this bike to the youngsters who go to college and those who want to explore many places on bike. Short time riding and some time aggressive riding and those who want naked sports bike in low cc and low service charge bike, this is good for them.Read More