The Indian motorcycle market is a battleground for manufacturers offering a diverse range of two-wheelers. Bajaj, a household name in the Indian automotive scene, has entered the fray with the all-new Bajaj Pulsar N160. This feature-packed motorcycle targets young riders seeking a stylish, sporty, and commuter-friendly offering for city riding and occasional highway trips. Let’s peel back the layers and see what the Pulsar N160 brings to the table.
Aggressive Design Language Commands Attention
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 boasts a head-turning design that borrows inspiration from its elder sibling, the Pulsar N250. The sharp tank extensions with sculpted lines create a muscular and aggressive stance. An underbelly cowl protects the engine, while a stubby exhaust adds a touch of sportiness. The split LED taillight and multi-spoke alloy wheels enhance the N160’s modern appeal. The projector headlamps with twin LED DRLs provide excellent illumination at night and add a touch of sophistication. The overall design language is youthful and dynamic, perfectly suited for riders who want to make a statement on the road.
Balancing Functionality with Modern Touches
Swing a leg over the Pulsar N160, and you’re greeted by a comfortable riding position that caters to both city commutes and highway cruising. The well-laid-out switchgear falls readily at hand, and the semi-digital instrument cluster displays essential information like speed, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, and gear position indicator. A USB charging port tucked away beneath the handlebar ensures your devices stay juiced up on the go.
Safety First: Confidence-Inspiring Braking Performance
Safety is paramount for any motorcycle rider. The Bajaj Pulsar N160 prioritizes rider safety with a disc brake setup on both the front and rear wheels. The availability of a single-channel ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) or a dual-channel ABS variant gives riders the flexibility to choose the level of safety that best suits their needs and budget. ABS prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, shortening stopping distances and offering greater control, especially on slippery roads or during emergency maneuvers.
Power Packed for City Explorations
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 gets its grunt from a 164.82cc, single-cylinder, 2-valve, oil-cooled engine. This engine churns out a modest 15.8 bhp of power at 8,750 rpm and 14.7 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. While the power figures might not set the adrenaline pumping, they offer adequate muscle for navigating city traffic and keeping pace with highway speeds. The engine is paired with a 5-speed transmission, offering a smooth and responsive gear-shifting experience.
Fuel Efficiency: Keeping Running Costs in Check
Bajaj is known for its fuel-efficient motorcycles, and the Pulsar N160 is no exception. The refined engine and optimal gearing promise a mileage of around 55-59 kilometers per liter, a significant factor for budget-conscious riders. This translates to lower running costs, making the N160 an attractive proposition for everyday commuting.
A Contender in the Budget-Friendly Street Fighter Segment
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is available in two variants: a single-channel ABS variant and a dual-channel ABS variant. The price range starts from around ₹1.23 lakh for the single-channel ABS variant, making it a compelling option for first-time bike buyers or those seeking a value-for-money motorcycle. The dual-channel ABS variant offers an extra layer of safety and comes in at around ₹1.32 lakh (ex-showroom prices).
Bajaj Pulsar N160 vs. the Competition: Standing Out from the Crowd
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 faces stiff competition in the 160cc street fighter segment, with rivals like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and the Suzuki Gixxer 155 vying for market share. The Pulsar N160 differentiates itself with its aggressive design language, feature-rich package with a USB charging port, and the option of dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. The competitive pricing further strengthens the N160’s appeal in the budget-conscious segment.
