KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- At Rs 1,47,206, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 is priced higher than the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Hero Xtreme 160R
- The Pulsar NS 160's most recent update added features such as a full-LCD instrument console and LED headlamp and turn indicators
- The Pulsar NS 160 also has bigger brakes and tyres than its rivals while having a more advanced frame
Amidst the well-diversified lineup comprising various Bajaj Pulsar models, the Pulsar NS 160 brings a different dimension of performance to the brand. Inspired by the larger Pulsar NS 200, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 has the most advanced and performance-oriented engine and mechanical hardware among other 150-160cc Pulsar models. The Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 was recently updated with new features, making it a more compelling proposition than ever. Here's the comparison of the Pulsar NS 160 vs rivals. Let's start, and in the meantime, do join 91wheels WhatsApp Community to never miss out on automotive update.
Also Read: Bajaj Pulsar 150 VS Rivals: Detailed Comparison
Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs Rivals: Price
With a price of Rs 1,47,206 for the single variant on sale, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 is significantly more expensive than its direct rivals, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Hero Xtreme 160R. Both have almost identical price points in their dual-channel ABS versions, with the Apache RTR 160 4V being the only one with more affordable single-channel ABS variants.
| Model | Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Hero Xtreme 160R |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs 1,47,206 | Rs 1,24,870 Rs 1,38,670 | Rs 1,38,500 |
Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs Rivals: Engine
All three motorcycles here have oil-cooled 160cc engines powering them, which also have almost equal torque outputs, with the Xtreme 160R producing that peak torque output at a lower RPM. The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V might have the smallest-sized engine among these three motorcycles, but it edges ahead of the two with marginally higher power and torque outputs. The Pulsar NS 160, like the other two motorcycles here, loves to be revved and has much of its performance at higher RPMs.
| Model | Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Hero Xtreme 160R |
| Engine | Single-cylinder, oil-cooled, 160.3cc | Single-cylinder, oil-cooled, 159.7cc | Single-cylinder, oil-cooled, 163.2cc |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Maximum power | 17.2 PS @ 9,000 rpm | 17.55 PS @ 9,250 rpm | 16.9 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 14.73 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 14.6 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs Rivals: Hardware
It is where the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 feels superior over the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Hero Xtreme 160R. With its more sport-oriented perimeter frame under its skin, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 has the widest upside-down telescopic fork and only has a gas-charged mono-shock at the rear. The Pulsar NS 160 also has the largest front and rear discs for the braking system and the widest tyres. However, it is the only motorcycle here that does not have a radial rear tyre.
| Dimensions | Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Hero Xtreme 160R |
| Frame | Perimeter | Double cradle tubular | Diamond tubular |
| Front suspension | Upside-down telescopic fork | Telescopic fork | Upside-down telescopic fork |
| Rear suspension | Gas-charged mono-shock | Mono-shock | Mono-shock |
| Front brake | 300mm disc | 270mm disc | 276mm disc |
| Rear brake | 230mm disc | 200mm disc (Twin disc variants)130mm drum (Single disc variants) | 220mm disc |
| Front tyre | 100/80-17 | 90/90-17 | 100/80-17 |
| Rear tyre | 130/70-17 | 130/70 R17 (Twin disc variants)110/80-17 (Single disc variants) | 130/70 R17 |
Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs Rivals: Features
Even on the equipment front, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 leads the pack with exclusive features like backlit switchgear and split seats. The Pulsar NS160 and Hero Xtreme 160R have LED turn indicators. Along with the Apache RTR 160 4V, the Pulsar NS160 has clip-on handlebars for sportier riding ergonomics.
| Dimensions | Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Hero Xtreme 160R |
| LED headlamp | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| LED tail lamp | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| LED turn indicators | Yes | No | Yes |
| Full-LCD instrument console | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth connectivity | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Clip-on handlebars | Yes | Yes | No |
| USB charger | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Backlit switchgear | Yes | No | No |
| Split seats | Yes | No | No |
Also Read: Bajaj Pulsar 150 Pros & Cons In Detail - Does It Still Hold Up?
Verdict
The Pulsar NS 160 already had some exclusive features and matched others in performance while having superior hardware. However, with the most recent update, the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 has become much more recommendable than the TVS Apache RTR 160 and Hero Xtreme 160.
