KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The updated Pulsar now only comes in two variants: Dual Channel ABS and USD forks
- The Xtreme 160R 4V is cheaper than the Pulsar N160 by Rs 5000
- Check out this clash of the titans and find out which one suits you better
If you are planning to buy a commuter-cum-sports bike under the price bracket of Rs 1.5 lakh, then you must have come across the Bajaj Pulsar N160 vs Hero Xtreme 160R 4V. These two are the hottest 160cc Indian motorcycles on sale, loved by youngsters for their bold design. To clear up any ambiguity around these motorcycles, I am going to do a detailed comparison to help sharpen your decision-making process. So stay tuned, and let's start without any further ado. Also, you can join the 91Wheels WhatsApp group to receive more informative content like this.
Also Read: TVS Apache RTR 160 VS Honda SP 160: A Detailed Comparison!
Price Comparison Between Bajaj Pulsar N160 vs Hero Xtreme 160R 4V
The Pulsar N160 is available in two variants, as per the official Bajaj site. They are the N160 Dual Channel ABS priced at Rs 1,33,408 and the N160 Dual Channel ABS (with USD) priced at Rs 1,39,693 ex-showroom. The first model is available in three colour options: white, blue, and black with dual-tone graphics.
The second model comes with five colour options: white, blue, black, and red, and it features dual-tone aesthetics with refreshed tank highlights. Additional features include three ABS modes: road, rain, and off-road, as well as turn-by-turn navigation.
Our second bike, the Hero Xtreme 160R, starts at Rs 1,27,300, and the top one costs Rs 1,36,500. The base model, Double Disc, comes with two paint options: "Matt Slate Black," and "Pearl Red". As you move up the range, dual-channel ABS and additional paint options become available.
| Variants | Price (ex-showroom) | Variants | Price (ex-showroom) |
| Pulsar N160 Dual Channel ABS | Rs 1,33,408 | Xtreme 160R 4V Double Disc | Rs 1,27,300 |
| Pulsar N160 Dual channel ABS (with USD) | Rs 1,39,636 | Xtreme 160R 4V Double Disc Connected | Rs 1,32,800 |
| Xtreme 160R 4V Premium | Rs 1,36,500 |
Engine Specification of Bajaj Pulsar N160 VS Hero Xtreme 160R 4V
The heart of the Pulsar N160 is a single-cylinder, 4-stroke 164.82cc engine that produces 16 Ps and 14.65 Nm of torque. The fuel tank capacity is 14 L, and under normal riding conditions, it can achieve 59 to 60 kmpl mileage. To add more, the Pulsar N160 reaches 0 to 100 km/h in 16.55 seconds and has a top speed of 120 km/h.
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V also features a 4-stroke, 4-valve 163.2cc engine, producing 16.9 Ps and 14.6 Nm of peak torque, paired with a 5-speed transmission. However, the mileage of this motorcycle is 48 to 50 kmpl, which is way too lower than that of the Pulsar. To add more, Hero claims this bike to be the fastest in the 0 to 60 km/h distance but has not disclosed the actual time figures. The top speed is 115 km/h.
| Specifications | Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Hero Xtreme 160R 4V |
| Displacement | 164.82cc | 163.2cc |
| Power | 16 Ps | 16.9 Ps |
| Torque | 14.65 Nm | 14.6 Nm |
| Mileage | 59 to 60 Kmpl | 48 to 50 kmpl |
| Top Speed | 120 km | 115 km |
Performance Comparison
Bajaj has outperformed itself with the Pulsar N160, as this bike performs excellently on both city and highway roads. The engine is smooth and always ready to be revved hard. In city traffic, you can cruise at speeds of 25 to 30 km/h in fifth gear without any jerks. Another positive aspect of its engine is the mileage, around 60 kmpl with a light foot. If you feel like having some fun, gear down, throttle up, and it will reach high speeds quickly. The Pulsar N160 can easily cruise at 80 to 90 km/h and even higher, but this will result in more vibrations.
If we talk about the 4-Valve Xtreme 160R, the overall report is not positive. This engine peaks at 75 to 80 km/h, and beyond that, it signals you to hold your horses. Even the 4-Valve configuration doesn't contribute much to its performance when compared with the Pulsar. Hero claims it to be the fastest in the segment, but in real conditions, you might not agree with this statement. The peppy factor is missing, and the bike feels heavier despite being lighter than the Pulsar N160.
Braking Performance
The dual-channel ABS on the Pulsar is quite sharp, and the rider needs to develop a connection with the bike before going on any adventures with it. The result is an excellent braking performance that elevates confidence and allows you to fully enjoy everything this motorcycle has to offer.
The braking performance of the Xtreme 160R 4V adds another layer of disappointment, creating a barrier between the rider and the bike. Even after riding it for a long time, you won't be able to anticipate the stopping power and will always be cautious. Moreover, this issue was also present in the 2V model of the Xtreme 160R.
Features
The features available in the Pulsar N160 are:-
- Fully digital console
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Accepting and rejecting calls feature
- ABS Modes - Road, Rain, Off-road
- Dual Channel ABS
- USB Mobile charging port
- Upside-down telescopic forks
Feature in the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V:-
- New split seat
- Inverted LCD console
- Adjustable brightness display
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB Charger
- Dual Channel ABS
- USD forks
Also Read: Hero Splendor Plus VS Bajaj CT 110X: Which Offers The Best Value?
Verdict
The final verdict on these two bikes is that the Pulsar N160 is more competent, with everything working in its favor. The engine, suspension, brakes, and mileage are far superior to those of the Xtreme 160R 4V. Hero might have added sports bike features, but they don't make much of a difference. So, if you are looking for an entry-level naked sports bike that you can also use for your day-to-day chores, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a much better option.
