KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- NS160's 4-valve engine delivers better high-rev performance.
- The N160 features a conventional tubular frame, NS160 perimeter.
- Pulsar NS160 offers aggressive sporty design, and N160 modern.
- Pulsar N160 provides a more comfortable, upright riding position.
- NS160's price ranges higher than the N160.
Back in 2023, Bajaj added the Pulsar NS160 and the NS200 to its Pulsar range. The Pulsar NS160 took place in the highly competitive 160cc segment in the country. It competes with major players such as the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Hero Xtreme 160R and its sibling the Pulsar N160. Despite landing in the same 160cc segment, the Pulsar NS160 shares almost nothing with the N160. I have observed that buyers feel usually confused about choosing one of these as there is a considerable price difference. So, I planned to come up with a detailed comparison between the Pulsar N160 and the NS160, covering all the points from mechanical to ride comfort. Before moving ahead, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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Bajaj Pulsar N160 Vs NS160: Engine
| Feature | Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 164.82cc | 160.3cc |
| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Oil-cooled |
| Engine Type | 2-valve, SOHC | 4-valve, SOHC |
| Power Output | 16 PS @ 8,750 rpm | 17.2 PS @ 9,000 rpm |
| Torque | 14.65 Nm @ 6,750 rpm | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection | Fuel injection |
Both the Pulsar N160 and the NS160 come powered by a 160cc powerplant, but the unit on offer with the NS160 feels more well-tuned. The NS160 comes with a 4-valve engine setup while the smaller N160 carries a 2-valve configuration. The Pulsar NS160's better tuning helps it churn out slightly higher power figures than the N160. Overall, I would say that the Pulsar NS160 behaves much better when it comes to high revs and feels more potent.
Bajaj Pulsar N160 Vs NS160: Hardware
| Feature | Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | Tubular frame | Perimeter frame |
| Front Suspension | USD front forks (Higher trims) | USD front forks |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock with Nitrox | Monoshock with Nitrox |
| Front Brake | 300mm disc with single-channel ABS | 280mm disc with single-channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 230mm disc | 230mm disc |
| Front Tyre Size | 100/80-17 | 80/100-17 |
| Rear Tyre Size | 130/70-17 | 110/80-17 |
As I mentioned in the introduction, these motorcycles share almost nothing. In terms of hardware, the N160 uses a conventional tubular frame and the NS160 is based on the perimeter frame. The NS160's perimeter frame is usually found on sports motorcycles because of its rigidity and easy handling experience. The N160 features telescopic front forks/ USD forks on the higher trims and a mono-shock absorber at the rear while the NS160 has USD front forks in the front and the same mono-shock at the rear. Overall, the NS160 carries a more contemporary hardware setup that gives a sense of confidence to the rider.
Bajaj Pulsar N160 Vs NS160: Design and Features
| Feature | Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Modern and streetfighter-inspired with sharp lines | Aggressive and sporty, reminiscent of NS200 |
| Headlamp | LED projector headlamp | LED headlamps and Twin-thunder shaped DRLs |
| Taillight | LED taillight | LED taillight |
| Instrument Cluster | Full digital (Higher trims) Semi-digital on lower trims | Fully digital |
| Additional Features | USB charging port, gear position indicator | call and SMS alerts, smartphone battery level and other info. |
The Pulsar N160 has become more contemporary which positions it equivalent to the NS160 in terms of design elements after the last update. But the N160 misses out on the sporty characters and the hard-core muscular design that the NS160 offers. In terms of features, both motorcycles feature a fully digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity features. All in all, if you want practicality and features, you can go with the N160 and if you need a youthful and sporty characteristic, you should pick the NS160.
Ergonomics and Ride Comfort
| Feature | Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
|---|---|---|
| Riding Position | Upright and comfortable, suitable for daily commutes | Slightly sporty, with a forward lean |
| Seat Height | 795mm | 805mm |
| Kerb Weight | 154 kg | 151 kg |
When it comes to ergonomics and ride comfort, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 can be said better than the NS160 because it offers an upright and comfortable riding stance when compared to the NS160's slightly sporty riding position. Simply put, the NS160 demands an aggressive forward-inclined riding position which can make you feel uncomfortable during long rides. Additionally, the NS160 has a lower seat height than its bigger sibling which is more suitable for short riders.
Bajaj Pulsar N160 Vs NS160: Price
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 comes with a starting price tag of Rs. 1.22 lakh and goes up to Rs. 1.40 lakh (ex-showroom). In comparison, the Pulsar NS160 starts at Rs. 1.24 lakh for the base single-channel ABS trim and goes up to Rs. 1.46 lakh for the top-end Bluetooth variant.
Read more: Bajaj Pulsar N160 Key Features Explained: Here's All You Get
Verdict
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 and NS160 cater to different preferences. The N160 excels with its comfortable, upright riding position and modern features, making it ideal for daily use. Meanwhile, the NS160 offers a sportier, aggressive design and superior high-rev performance, appealing to enthusiasts. Choose the N160 for practicality and comfort, or the NS160 for a sportier edge.
