Bajaj Pulsar N160

First introduced in 2022, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 is one of the strong competitors in the popular 160cc motorcycle segment. It competes with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ-S FI V3, Honda SP160, and the Hero Xtreme 160R. Bajaj has given the Pulsar N160 a few crucial updates for the 2024 model year, making it a more feature-rich and bolder-looking motorcycle than before.

Sharing its basic design with the Pulsar N250, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 has several design elements similar to the former. The triangular headlight cowl with an LED projector and LED DRLs and the sporty-looking fuel tank with its extensions are all carried forward from the Pulsar N250. However, the Pulsar N160 gets a different set of body decals which make the motorcycle look different from the Pulsar N250.

The new Bajaj Pulsar N160 also gets golden finish for the front telescopic fork as a part of the update. The underbelly exhaust and split LED tail lamps are the same as before, though the N160 now gets LED turn indicators.

There are no changes to the single-cylinder, two-valve, air/oil-cooled, 164.82cc engine for the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160. This engine is paired with a 5-speed transmission. It puts out 16PS @ 8500 rpm and 14.65Nm @ 6750 rpm. These performance figures of the Pulsar N160 are among the highest in its class.

The 164.82cc engine of the Bajaj Pulsar N160 feels smooth and refined most of the time, with it offering a punchy mid-range and decent top-end performance. This engine has a wide torque band, which aids in accelerating from low speeds of 27kmph to 95kmph while running in the 5th gear.

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 has a 14-litre fuel tank, with the motorcycle capable of delivering 59.11kmpl within city limits and approximately 44.38kmpl on highways.

Previously equipped with a conventional telescopic fork at the front, Bajaj has now given the 2024 Pulsar N160 an inverted telescopic fork as the former's replacement. The upside-down fork aids in better handling and stability during daily commutes and as well as while hitting the corners at higher speeds. There are no changes to the rear suspension unit, which is the same Nitrox mono-shock.

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 has a 300mm disc at the front and a 230mm disc at the rear. The braking system on the Pulsar N160 provides excellent stopping power without much effort on the brake lever. The dual-channel ABS (anti-lock braking system), now available as standard in the Pulsar N160, enhances safety by preventing tyre lock-ups during sudden braking.

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 has a seat height of 795mm, with the seat sufficiently padded and offering a lot of space for movement. The seating posture is a bit sporty with the mildly rear-set footpegs and the low handlebar position. The fuel tank design, similar to that of the N250, provides ample space for your knees and thighs, thus enhancing comfort during longer rides.

The ride quality of the Pulsar N160 is a bit on the firmer side. As a result, the Pulsar N160 offers a comfortable ride over smooth roads, but one will have to slow down over bad roads and potholes. However, ride comfort improves when there's a pillion rider.

The 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 is equipped with modern features like an LED projector headlight and LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) for better visibility. The most crucial feature addition is the new full-LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity. The new-generation cluster provides essential information, including a gear indicator, mileage, range indicator, and clock. It also displays low fuel warnings and mileage error alerts.

You can also connect your phone via the Bajaj Ride Connect app to display call and message alerts and phone battery warnings on the LCD screen. If required, you can also charge your phone via the USB port on the bike. However, this console misses out on turn-by-turn navigation, which is available in the Pulsar N250. The new Pulsar N160 also gets revised backlit switches and LED turn indicators in the latest update.

With all the updates it has received, the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 is now a better package that offers stiffer competition to other 150-160cc sporty commuters. With optimal performance, economy, safety and handling capabilities, the Pulsar N160 is a well-balanced choice for daily commutes and fun weekend rides.