The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 continues to uphold the legacy of the Pulsar series as one of India’s most trusted and performance-driven motorcycles in the 160cc segment. Combining the muscular design language of its elder sibling, the NS200, with a more efficient and commuter-friendly engine, the Pulsar NS160 strikes the perfect balance between performance, handling, and fuel economy.
Introduced as a premium commuter-sport offering, the NS160 caters to riders who want a sportbike’s looks and agility without sacrificing comfort or daily practicality. Over the years, Bajaj has refined the NS160 with updates to its engine, styling, and features, ensuring it remains one of the most appealing motorcycles in its class.
Whether it’s your daily city ride or an occasional weekend sprint, the Pulsar NS160 is engineered to perform reliably across conditions — making it a standout in India’s competitive 150–160cc motorcycle market.
Design and Build: Aggressive and Street-Ready
At first glance, the Pulsar NS160 mirrors the striking streetfighter stance of the larger NS200. The design exudes aggression and confidence, characterized by sharp lines, muscular tank extensions, and sporty graphics. The signature naked streetfighter styling appeals to younger riders who want a bold, athletic-looking bike without venturing into high-maintenance territory.
Design highlights:
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Perimeter frame for improved rigidity and handling
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Sculpted 12-liter fuel tank with aerodynamic extensions
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Split seat design for sporty ergonomics
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LED tail lamp and halogen projector headlamp setup
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Alloy wheels with machine-cut finish
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Semi-digital instrument cluster with tachometer and gear indicator
The attention to detail in its styling — especially the muscular fuel tank and the underbelly exhaust — gives it a distinct identity while maintaining practicality and comfort for daily riding.
Bajaj Pulsar NS160 – Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 164.82cc, oil-cooled, 4-valve, single-cylinder |
| Max Power | 17.2 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed gearbox |
| Frame Type | Perimeter frame |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks (upside-down on new variant) |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono-shock absorber |
| Front Brake | 300mm disc with single-channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 230mm disc |
| Tyres | Front: 90/90-17, Rear: 120/80-17 (tubeless) |
| Kerb Weight | 152 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 liters |
| Ground Clearance | 177 mm |
| Top Speed | Around 120 km/h |
Engine, Performance, and Ride Dynamics
The heart of the Pulsar NS160 is its 164.82cc oil-cooled engine — a refined unit that delivers both punch and efficiency. With 17.2 PS of power and 14.6 Nm of torque, it offers one of the best power-to-weight ratios in its class.
This engine is tuned for responsive acceleration in city traffic, while still offering ample top-end performance for highway runs. Bajaj’s four-valve setup ensures better breathing, while the oil cooling system maintains consistent temperature control during prolonged rides.
Performance highlights:
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Linear and smooth power delivery across RPMs
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Crisp throttle response and excellent mid-range punch
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Refined engine with minimal vibrations
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Top speed of approximately 120 km/h
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Excellent low-end torque for city maneuverability
The NS160 performs equally well in urban environments and open highways, offering an engaging ride experience without compromising comfort.
Mileage and Real-World Efficiency
Despite its sporty performance, the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 mileage remains impressive. Real-world figures show that it delivers around 42–45 km/l in city traffic and up to 48–50 km/l on highways when ridden efficiently.
Mileage details:
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Claimed Mileage: 52 km/l
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Real Mileage: 42–48 km/l
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Fuel Tank Range: Around 500–550 km
This makes the NS160 an excellent choice for riders looking for a sporty commuter that doesn’t drain the wallet on fuel costs.
Ride Quality, Handling, and Comfort
The Pulsar NS160 uses the same perimeter frame as its elder sibling, ensuring excellent stability and cornering confidence. The well-balanced chassis, combined with a compliant suspension setup, gives it an edge over traditional commuters in handling and control.
The riding position is slightly sporty yet comfortable, offering an ideal balance between aggressiveness and ease of use. Its wide handlebar provides good leverage, while the footpeg positioning complements both city rides and long stretches.
Ride & Handling highlights:
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Perimeter frame ensures precise control and agility
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Telescopic front forks / USD variant for better stability
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Nitrox mono-shock for enhanced rear comfort
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Excellent grip from tubeless tyres
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Neutral steering geometry for confident cornering
The suspension absorbs road irregularities effectively, and combined with its wide tyres and ABS-equipped brakes, the NS160 inspires strong rider confidence.
Braking and Safety
The braking performance on the NS160 is solid and predictable. Bajaj offers a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, paired with single-channel ABS for controlled braking.
Safety features:
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Single-channel ABS for enhanced safety under sudden braking
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Grippy MRF tyres for reliable traction
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Wide front and rear disc setup for balanced braking performance
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Excellent weight distribution for stability during emergency stops
These features together make the NS160 one of the safest bikes in its category.
Features and Practical Equipment
The Pulsar NS160 offers a comprehensive feature set suitable for modern riders.
Feature highlights:
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Semi-digital instrument console with gear position indicator
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Backlit switchgear for night usability
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Engine kill switch and pass beam switch
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Split grab rails and aerodynamic styling
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Alloy wheels and tubeless tyres
While it doesn’t go overboard with electronics, it provides all essential features that enhance safety and convenience in everyday use.
Bajaj Pulsar NS160 Price and On-Road Cost
The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 price in India starts at approximately ₹1.36 lakh (ex-showroom), with the top variant featuring USD forks priced around ₹1.41 lakh. On-road pricing varies depending on the state but generally falls between ₹1.55 lakh and ₹1.65 lakh.
In the used bike market, prices range from ₹85,000 to ₹1.10 lakh, depending on model year, mileage, and condition. Considering its performance, reliability, and design, it offers excellent value for money among sporty commuters.
FAQs
What is the mileage of Bajaj Pulsar NS160?
The NS160 delivers a real-world mileage of around 42–48 km/l depending on riding conditions.
What is the engine capacity of Bajaj Pulsar NS160?
It is powered by a 164.82cc oil-cooled, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine.
Does Bajaj Pulsar NS160 have ABS?
Yes, it comes with single-channel ABS for enhanced braking safety.
What is the on-road price of Bajaj Pulsar NS160?
The on-road price ranges between ₹1.55 lakh and ₹1.65 lakh depending on the variant and city.
Is Pulsar NS160 good for long rides?
Yes, the NS160’s comfortable ergonomics and refined engine make it suitable for both daily commutes and occasional long rides.
What is the top speed of Bajaj Pulsar NS160?
It can reach a top speed of approximately 120 km/h.
What is the fuel tank capacity of Bajaj Pulsar NS160?
It has a 12-liter fuel tank, offering a range of over 500 km on a full tank.
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