Bajaj Pulsar N160 Review: The Pulsar Mania Continues!

This is a detailed review of the new Bajaj Pulsar N160.

After redefining the segment in the early 2000s, Bajaj Auto has continued to rule the motorcycle world for more than two decades. However, the company didn’t put as much effort into revolutionizing in its later years.

Fortunately, this is about to change.

And, the company has finally introduced a new series of its iconic Pulsars. We will take a deep dive into all of its recently launched Pulsars.

Right now, it is all about the new Bajaj Pulsar N160.

It is based on a brand-new platform, ready to take on all of its modern competitors.

Debuting with the brand-new Brooklyn Black color, it also sports the Dual-Channel ABS and 37mm Telescopic front suspension.

Interestingly enough, it is priced the same as its competition with a price of Rs. 3.83 Lakhs.

In this review, we will explore what the new Bajaj Pulsar N160 brings to the table.

Does it add value to the iconic Pulsarmania? Or, is it another failed attempt to capture the good old glory days?

We will find that out today!

This is the Bajaj Pulsar N160 Full Review.

Bajaj Pulsar N160 Overview

New Design

Bajaj Pulsar N Series sports brand-new design aesthetics.

The styling is based on the “Sculptural Purity” principle. However, the overall styling takes inspiration from past Bajaj legacies.

There are hints of the Pulsar and Dominar series.

For example, the front headlamp continues the Bajaj wolf-head styling. However, it does share similarities with its Yamaha counterpart.

Nevertheless, the headlamp styling is a bit sleeker in comparison.

And, it is unique enough to create its own legacy.

Furthermore, both N160 and N250 share the same styling and feature set. Interestingly enough, there are no compromises in tyre sizes and dimensions either.

So, the rider will get the 250cc level styling in the 160cc segment.

It gets a metalized dual-tone color, like an interplay of premium shades.

Muscular Aesthetics

The build and finish are so much better in the Bajaj Pulsar N160.

The front profile gets a darker shade moving towards a lighter shade towards the rear. This helps emphasize the contours of the beast.

The front section comes with a Bi-Functional Projector LED headlamp with Twin-LED DRLs. Moreover, it gets standard halogen indicators.

The nighttime visibility is one of the best ones, where the high beam exceeds expectations.

The Automatic Headlamp On (AHO) feature goes through a bit of cost-cutting.

Even when a rider turns on the ignition, the front DRLs or Headlamp does not turn automatically on.

You need to start the engine to turn it on.

It is slightly annoying during nighttime, especially at traffic stops.

Moreover, the mirrors are large enough and provide good visibility.

The side profile includes a Muscular Fuel Tank, Pulsar emblem, Split-Seat Setup, and signature Twin Crystalline LED Taillamp with Stylish Grab Rail. 

Bajaj has opted for the belly-pan exhaust for a better center of gravity.

The side styling highlights its prominent muscular aesthetics. The same can be said about its engine cowl as well. It is one of the most aggressive cowls I have ever seen.

Additionally, Bajaj Pulsar N160 comes only in one color: Brooklyn Black.

Performance

Bajaj Pulsar N160 is powered by a 164.82cc, Single-Cylinder, 4-stroke, Oil-cooled, SOHC FI engine. It can generate a max power of 16PS at 8750rpm and a max torque of 14.65Nm at 6750rpm.

Moreover, it is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a 14-liter fuel tank capacity.

Bajaj Auto has developed this new engine from the ground up, taking heavy reference from its N250 engine.

So, it is the DTS-I BS6 compliant with the side stand engine cut-off as standard.

Another interesting take is, there are no riding modes here. Bajaj gives riders full access to its raw performance, which should help it feel more engaging and rider-focused.

Additional Details

It is built on a Tubular Frame with an Engine as a stressed member

The dimensions are 2017mm in length, 804mm in width, and 1060mm in height. Moreover, the wheelbase sits at 1358mm.

Bajaj Pulsar N160 has 165mm ground clearance. And, the kerb weight is 154kg.

Interesting Features

Bajaj has introduced many segment-leading features. However, the feature set still misses out on Bluetooth Connectivity or any other performance-assisted features.

Nevertheless, Pulsar N160 takes the courtesy of introducing practical features.

There are no gimmicks in this one. Although, a few gimmicky features would have been nice.

Braking Performance

Bajaj Pulsar N160 features Dual Disc Brakes with Dual-Channel ABS.

It uses a 300mm Disc at the front and a 230mm Disc at the rear. Interestingly enough, these Disc sizes are the same used in the N250.

Yet another interesting point to note.

The brake calipers are Grimeca. With the new calipers on board, the braking experience does feel different than past Bajaj motorcycles.

The braking department has largely improved, giving back mature braking feedback.

The rear brake does lack a bit of feedback. Thankfully, the Dual-Channel ABS helps overpower that shortcoming.

The braking is confidence inspiring!

Tyres

Like the Disc sizes, the N160 also includes the same tyre size as the N250.

Both are 17-inch tyres with a 100/80-section at the front and a 130/70-section at the rear. Unfortunately, there is no Radial option.

We have seen the Radial Tyre option in rivals like Yamaha FZS v3, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, and Suzuki Gixxer 155.

Bajaj should have given a rear radial tyre or at least a wider one.

Nevertheless, these tyres are good in terms of both cornering accuracy and stability. It should have been better with the inclusion of the Radial option.

Suspension

Coming to the suspension setup, Pulsar N160 includes a standard Telescopic Fork and Mono Shock setup.

Interestingly enough, the front suspension travel is 37mm.

Again, this is the same setup seen in the N250.

As far as suspension feel goes, it falls on the softer side. So, it can easily absorb most bumps with relative ease.

However, there is a hint of stiffness on the rear side.

Nevertheless, it is preload adjustable, where the riders can adjust accordingly.

Seat Comfort and Pillion

Bajaj Pulsar N160 gets a Split-Seat setup.

The seating material is a bit unique, kind of like an Alcantara finish. The seat cushioning is soft, maintaining a focus on comfort.

Moreover, the seat can easily accommodate both rider and pillion. However, riders might get slight discomfort on longer rides.

The seat position is very familiar. The riding style is just like any other Pulsar.

So, you will feel right at home.

Fuel Tank Capacity and Mileage

Bajaj Pulsar N160 gets a massive 14-liter fuel tank capacity.

After testing it out, we managed to get around 35-40 Kmpl. Riders can achieve more than 40-45Kmpl with more economical riding.

It should give 560km to 630 km on a full tank.

Hence, the riders don’t need to go to frequent petrol stations as often.

Infinity Display

Bajaj has opted for a Digital-Analog meter instead of an all Digital meter.

While this goes against the modern standard, the new display is very attractive in its own right.

The borderless design goes well with the new Pulsar styling.

It provides important information like Trip Meter, Clock, Gear Position Indicator, Real-Time Fuel Economy, Distance to Empty, and more.

However, there is no Bluetooth Connectivity. So, it misses out on Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Riding Telemetry, Call Notifications, and more.

Nonetheless, there is a nifty USB charging while on the go.

Bajaj Pulsar N160 Features Highlight

• Aggressive Naked Sports Styling
• 160cc Twin-Spark FI Engine
• LED Projector Headlamp with LED DRLs
• Twin LED Tail Lamp
• Chunky Engine Cowl
• Infinity Analog-Digital Meter
• Single-Piece Handlebar
• 5-Speed Gearbox with Slipper Clutch
• Under Belly Exhaust
• Split Seat Setup
• Dual Disc Braking
• Dual-Channel ABS
• 37mm Telescopic Front Suspension

My Experience with Bajaj Pulsar N160

Pulsar-Centric Performance

Bajaj Pulsar N160 comes with a brand-new engine.

Yet, the overall configuration is familiar in both riding and performance. It is super refined with little vibrations.

Interestingly, the Pulsar grunt is still here.

However, the engine does lose out on its refinement past 8000rpm. During that time, the vibrations were felt on levers and footpegs.

The engine offers a wide torque band generating 85% of peak power over a wider rev range. Bajaj calls this, “Torque on Demand”.

Thanks to this, both the acceleration and pickup have improved.

However, the adrenaline-pumping performance can only be experienced around 6000-8000rpm.

It is a rev-happy engine by heart like the Pulsar we know and love.

Mid-range is the definitive sweet spot of the motorcycle. The low-end performance is good enough, however, it is lacking in top-end punch.

Gearshifts are super smooth.

The gear ratios are tall, making a well-tuned performance from third to fifth gear.

Although this does not come with Slipper Clutch, the clutch work is lighter… kind of like an assisted clutch.

The overall configuration is made in such a way that, it is different than past Pulsars, yet so familiar.

Superior Practicality

The same can be said for its real-world practicality.

The bike is easy to handle, especially with its well-engineered center of gravity and weight distribution.

It can be easily ridden in low-speed and tight traffic without any second thought. And, it manages to take things further on the highways.

Pulsar N160 provides a thrilling experience on the open roads.

It is an all-rounder in terms of engine refinement and performance.

However, there were times the 160cc felt short. Fortunately, there is the 250cc option for those who want to unleash its full potential.

Battle with the Competition

Bajaj Pulsar N160 rivals TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.

It is a fierce battle to be the segment leader.

TVS offers a feature-loaded, improved-performance machine. Whereas, Bajaj hopes to turn the table with its 250-inspired styling and Dual-Channel ABS.

It is a tough choice to choose between the two.

Both are equally fun and amazing in their own right.

If you want something fun and feature-loaded, the Apache RTR 160 4V is the way to go.

If you want something muscular and aggressive, then Pulsar N160 won’t disappoint either.

Conclusion

Bajaj Auto did a great job with the new Pulsar N160.

It is a no-nonsense motorcycle, striking a good balance between performance, style, and price. Moreover, it nails down the most important aspect: a perky fun engine. 

If Bajaj struggled in the 160cc segment before, it will no longer do so.

This is a motorcycle made by a Pulsar-maniac for the Pulsar-maniacs.

By the looks of it, the Pulsar-Mania continues.

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Also, watch our Bajaj Pulsar N160 Review!