Bajaj Pulsar NS160: Desi Powerhouse at ₹1.47 Lakh, 40 kmpl Mileage!

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 has been a popular choice in the 160cc segment, offering a blend of performance and style. As a sporty naked streetfighter, it competes with bikes like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Yamaha FZ-S FI V3. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Pulsar NS160 stand out in this crowded segment.

Design and Styling

The Pulsar NS160 boasts an aggressive and muscular design that turns heads on the street. Its sharp lines and sporty stance give it a premium look that appeals to young riders. The bike features:

• LED headlamp with twin DRLs
• Muscular fuel tank with extensions
• Split seat design
• Sporty rear cowl
• Underbelly exhaust

The overall design is inspired by its bigger sibling, the Pulsar NS200, giving it a larger bike feel. The NS160 is available in four attractive colors: Ebony Black, Pearl Metallic White, Pewter Grey, and Cocktail Wine Red.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Pulsar NS160 is a 160.3cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This powerplant is known for its peppy performance and smooth power delivery. Key engine specifications include:

• Maximum power: 17.2 PS @ 9000 rpm
• Peak torque: 14.6 Nm @ 7250 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed gearbox

The engine provides ample low-end torque for city riding, while also offering enough top-end power for highway cruising. Riders appreciate the linear power delivery, making it easy to handle in various traffic conditions.

Ride and Handling

The Pulsar NS160 is built on a perimeter frame, which provides excellent stability and handling. The suspension setup includes:

• Front: Telescopic forks with anti-friction bush
• Rear: Nitrox mono-shock absorber with canister

This combination offers a good balance between comfort and sporty handling. The bike feels agile in city traffic and confident on twisty roads. With a kerb weight of 152 kg, it’s not the lightest in its class but still manageable for most riders.

Brakes and Safety

Safety is a priority on the Pulsar NS160, and it comes equipped with:

• Front disc brake: 300mm
• Rear disc brake: 230mm
• Dual-channel ABS

The dual-channel ABS provides excellent braking performance and safety, especially in wet conditions. This feature sets it apart from some competitors that only offer single-channel ABS.

Features and Technology

Despite being a performance-oriented bike, the Pulsar NS160 doesn’t skimp on features. It comes with:

• Fully digital instrument cluster
• Gear position indicator
• Real-time mileage indicator
• Distance-to-empty display
• LED tail lamp

These features add to the overall riding experience and provide useful information to the rider. The digital display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Pulsar NS160 offers a comfortable riding position suitable for both city commutes and weekend rides. Key comfort features include:

• Split seat design with ample padding
• Upright handlebar position
• Well-placed footpegs

The seat height of 805mm is accessible for most riders, and the split seat design provides good support for both the rider and pillion. However, some taller riders might find the seating position a bit cramped on long rides.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the key factors for Indian buyers is fuel efficiency, and the Pulsar NS160 doesn’t disappoint. In real-world conditions, riders can expect:

• City mileage: 35-40 kmpl
• Highway mileage: 40-45 kmpl

With a fuel tank capacity of 12 liters, the NS160 offers a good range for both city commutes and occasional highway trips. The real-time mileage indicator helps riders optimize their riding style for better fuel efficiency.

Price and Value for Money

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is priced at ₹1.47 Lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). At this price point, it offers:

• Sporty design and performance
• Dual-channel ABS
• Digital instrument cluster
• Competitive fuel efficiency

While it’s not the cheapest option in the 160cc segment, the NS160 justifies its price with its performance, features, and brand value. It’s a good choice for riders looking for a sporty commuter with weekend touring capabilities.

Maintenance and Service

Bajaj has a wide service network across India, making maintenance and servicing convenient for NS160 owners. The bike requires regular service at intervals of 5000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first. Some key maintenance aspects include:

• Oil changes
• Air filter cleaning/replacement
• Chain adjustment and lubrication
• Brake pad inspection

The cost of regular services is reasonable, and spare parts are readily available. This makes the NS160 an economical bike to maintain in the long run.

Competitors and Comparison

The 160cc segment is highly competitive, and the Pulsar NS160 faces stiff competition from:

While the NS160 is priced higher than its competitors, it offers a good balance of performance, features, and brand value. Its dual-channel ABS and perimeter frame are standout features in this comparison.

Pros and Cons

Let’s summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the Bajaj Pulsar NS160:

Pros:

• Sporty design and aggressive styling
• Powerful engine with good low-end torque
• Dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety
• Digital instrument cluster with useful features
• Comfortable riding position for city and highway use

Cons:

• Higher price compared to some competitors
• Slightly heavier than other bikes in the segment
• Fuel efficiency could be better for a 160cc bike
• Lacks some modern features like Bluetooth connectivity

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)

Q1. What is the top speed of Bajaj Pulsar NS160?

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 can reach a top speed of around 120 km/h, depending on riding conditions and rider weight.

Q2. Does Pulsar NS160 have ABS?

Yes, the Pulsar NS160 comes equipped with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety and braking performance.

Q3. What is the ground clearance of Pulsar NS160?

The Pulsar NS160 has a ground clearance of 176mm, which is sufficient for Indian road conditions.

Q4. How often should I service my Pulsar NS160?

Bajaj recommends servicing the Pulsar NS160 every 5000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first.

Q5. Is Pulsar NS160 good for long rides?

While primarily designed for city use, the Pulsar NS160 can handle occasional long rides comfortably, thanks to its ergonomic design and capable engine.

Wrapping Up

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 offers a compelling package for riders seeking a sporty 160cc motorcycle. With its aggressive styling, peppy performance, and safety features like dual-channel ABS, it stands out in a crowded segment. While it may be priced higher than some competitors, the NS160 justifies its cost with its overall quality and brand value. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend enthusiast, the Pulsar NS160 is worth considering for its blend of style, performance, and practicality.

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