TVS Apache RTR 160 4V vs Bajaj Pulsar N160 : If you want to buy a sporty commuter bike in the range of ₹1.5 lakhs, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N160 often crop up as two excellent vehicles. Both have performance, style, and comfort for the daily city ride. So, which takes the cake for urban usage? Let’s find them in real-time comparative conditions.
Design
Both look muscular and sporty. The Apache RTR 160 4V has a sharper layout with a race-inspired graphics and aggressive LED head lamp. It has a streetfighter feel that is attractive to a young rider. On the other hand, Pulsar N160 gets its design elements from the bigger Pulsar N250. It appears to be a tad bit more premium with a meaty tank, sleek LED lights and a modern stance. If you matter in terms of design and road presence, Pulsar holds a slight edge.
Performance and Engine
The Apache RTR 160 4V from TVS is equipped with a 159.7cc, oil cooled engine which produces 17.55 PS and a torque of 14.73 Nm. It is quick-feeling, responsive and notably very refined. It even offers three ride modes: Urban, Sport and Rain that modulate power delivery according to the needs of riding.
The Pulsar N160 gets a slightly bigger 164.8cc engine developing 16 PS and 14.65 Nm. It’s the more relaxed engine in the city traffic, offering slightly better low-end torque and feels oil-cooled and air-cooled.
City Comfort and Handling
Apache RTR 160 4V feels light and nimble. Because of this, its riding posture is sporty, though not aggressive. The bike slices through traffic with much ease, fun to ride. Could be a bit harsh on bad roads because of a stiff suspension but helps with handling.
Pulsar N160 feels a bit more stable and planted. Also comes with a slightly more upright seating position along with better cushioning making it even more comfortable on bumpy roads in cities. Plus, the dual-channel ABS (top variant) is a big plus when it comes to safety.
Mileage and Prices
Both give almost the same figures for mileage, around 45–50 km/l under city conditions. Apache comes out cheaper than the top-end Pulsar N160 with dual-channel ABS, yet the difference isn’t huge.
For an aggressive performer with riding modes and that sporty feel, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is your best bet. But if you want to have a handsome-looking bike intended for everyday city rides that is not so sporty but rather more comfortable with added features for safety, then Bajaj Pulsar N160 is the bike for you.