Bajaj Pulsar NS160

Introduction

A popular street bike in India, Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is available at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 1.1 Lakh. The bike comes in just one variant, Twin Disc ABS BS VI, and 4 attractive colour options: Pewter Grey, Satin Blue, Pearl White and Burnt Red. Bajaj introduced this motorbike not only as a more affordable version of NS 200, but it was also introduced as a vehicle to take on the competitive 150cc-160cc segment. 

How is the design? 

In terms of design, the Pulsar NS160 is apparently a more premium offering from Bajaj, and positioned only a notch above the Pulsar 150, in terms of features and pricing. Most of all the design elements are retained by the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 from its older sibling, the NS200. The smaller 240mm front disc and smaller tyre profile of the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 makes it look different from the NS200. However, the same perimeter frame of the NS200 is featured in the NS160 as well, and therefore, it is a better handling motorcycle than Pulsar 150. The onlookers are captivated by its aggressive and muscular stance as well as its dual-tone colour effect. The thinner tyres along with the shorter exhaust are some of the exclusive designs of the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and it comes with a stylish tail light as well. 

How is the performance?

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is powered by an oil-cooled-single cylinder, 160.3cc engine. The engine has the capacity to produce a maximum power of 17.03bhp, along with a peak torque of 14.6Nm, while delivering a top speed of 120km/hr. Even the engine of this bike feels refined, at higher revs, there might be a gruffness. The rider may feel that the bike is speeding ahead with some eagerness, soon after hitting 5000rpm. The engine and the ratios between the first gear and the second gear feel relaxed at slow speeds, which is quite favourable for riding in the city. The bike may as well go around 100 kmph on a highway, and that does not even stress out the engine. However, overtaking is only possible with some downshifting, planning, while wringing the throttle harder. Vibrations can be felt at around 6000 rpm, and a minor buzz on the handlebar starts emanating. 

How does the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 ride? 

The five-speed gearbox on the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 feels effortless while operating, however, while transitioning from the first gear to the second, the gearbox can get stuck at neutral. Fortunately, the lightness of the clutch makes gear shifting even easier. Despite having a kerb weight of 151kg, the bike feels well-mannered, quick and composed, while the rider changes directions. Given the well-engineered suspension setup and perimeter frame, going fast around twistiness and switching lanes is even better. Coming to ride quality, the monoshock at the rear and the telescopic forks at the front, handle all the damping duties. The minor road undulations are ironed out by this setup, preventing nasty jerks.  

How comfortable is the Bajaj Pulsar NS160? 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 comes with certain ergonomics which makes it comfortable, but what makes it even more engaging is the sense of commitment in the riding stance. With a seat height of 805mm, it is the tallest bike in this segment. However, it is a great fit even for short riders. The foot pegs are set on the rear, and the bike’s clip-on handlebar is positioned at a distance from the rider. Despite the optimum cushioning, the seat feels little firm, however, it does not bring discomfort to the riders, even while driving for long distances. The turning radius of the vehicle is wide and the braking setup ensures comfort and safety alike. 

How's the tech? 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 comes with thinner tyres and shorter exhaust along with a range of vital features like ABS (anti-lock braking system), pass light, AHO (automatic headlines on), backlit switch-gear, clear-lens indicator lenses and so on. A fully-digital instrument cluster is common in this segment, and it features a semi-digital console as well, that displays basic dates, and it is also equipped with LED headlamps that illuminates the streets with a good spread and range. Some of the other important features include fuel-warning indicator, engine-kill switch and so on. 

How's the mileage of the Bajaj Pulsar NS160? 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 delivers a fuel economy of 45 km/litre under mixed riding conditions and with a 12-litre fuel tank, it translates into a range of about 470 km, which seems more affordable than many other bikes in this segment. 

Is the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 good value for money? 

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160, with a price tag of Rs 1.1 Lakhs, is priced slightly higher than TVS Apache RTR and Hero Xtreme 160R. However, the likes of Honda X-Blade and Suzuki Gixxer are more expensive than Pulsar NS160. However, these bikes are able to deliver more in terms of techs and features, and therefore, Bajaj Pulsar NS160 needs more upgrades. However, due to the fact that it is a low-maintenance bike, it is expected to bring value to the customers. 

How is the after sales service? 

Bajaj offers 3 free services for its Pulsar NS160. The first free service is offered after 750km, or 45 days, whichever is earlier. The second free service is offered after 5000km or 240 days, whichever is earlier. The third free service is offered after 10,000km or 480 days, whichever is earlier. The paid services are offered after every 5000Km, or 90 days from the previous service. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

The other motorbikes competing in the same segment include TVS Apache RTR 160, Suzuki Gixxer, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Honda CB Hornet 160R, Yamaha FZ-FI and so on. 

Verdict (Value for money)

The performance and pickup make the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 a very powerful motorbike, and it delivers more utility than most of its rivals in the same segment. It delivers more value to customers than FZ Duke 125 or Yamaha MT 15, and comes with a low maintenance cost, making it even more affordable.