Top 4 160cc Motorcycles With Impressive Braking

When just power isn't good enough

Riding fast can be a whole lot of fun. However, it is also inherently dangerous and could lead to painful consequences, especially considering the road and traffic conditions in most of our major cities. So if you are in the market for an entry-level 160cc motorcycle, it’s not just enough that you look at the power and torque figures and acceleration times. You also need to know about each bike’s braking setup and the performance they offer. Well, we’re here to help with our pick of the top 4 motorcycles in the country with the most impressive braking prowess.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Carb

TVS launched the Apache RTR 160 4V with the intention of establishing a new benchmark in the segment. While it manages to do so in some regards with its slew of features and impressive engine, the same cannot be said about its braking performance. It just lacks the extra bite that we would’ve liked. The 270mm front and 200mm rear disc setup can bring the bike to a halt from 60kmph in 22.20m, which might not be class leading but isn't dismal either. Hence, it comes in at number 4. It comes equipped with 90/90 front and 130/70 rear tyres.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160

The Pulsar NS 160 looks virtually the same as its elder sibling, the Pulsar 200 NS. However, it has a different brake setup from the version with the larger engine capacity, settling for a 240mm disc up front and a 130mm drum unit at the rear. While the brakes provide good bite and help in shedding speed in a linear manner, we would’ve loved to have a rear disc brake, which is offered on the other two models above it. Shod with 80/100 front and 110/80 rear tyres, this motorcycle requires 20.18 metres to come to a complete halt from 60kmph.

Honda CB Hornet 160R

The Honda CB Hornet 160R is ideal for those who want a commuter motorcycle with a bit of flair. It manages to look the part thanks to its aggressive styling and chiselled lines,while offering decent levels of performance. The Hornet is equipped with disc brakes at both ends that help the bike screech to a halt from 60kmph in just 20.11 metres. It offers plenty of bite too. The 110/80 front and 140/70 rear tyres mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels provide impressive grip too. Not to mention, Honda’s Combined Brake System (CBS) aids in making things easier for the rider.

Suzuki Gixxer SF

The Suzuki Gixxer SF is a jack of all trades, combining form with function like no other motorcycle in its segment. Its sporty looks are complemented by a butter smooth engine. That said, it’s quite easy to push the limits of the Gixxer SF and that’s where the need for strong brakes come in. Thankfully, the Suzuki gets disc brakes at the front and rear, and paired with the 17-inch (100/80 front and 140/60 rear tyres) alloy wheels, they do a good job of bringing the bike to a halt quickly. During our tests, the Gixxer SF managed the 60-0kmph braking test in just 17.20 metres. It’s not surprising then that the Suzuki Gixxer SF takes the first place on our list.