Are you planning to bring home the new Bajaj Pulsar N160? With its aggressive “wolf-eye” look and the trust of the Pulsar badge, it’s tempting. But in a market flooded with Apaches and Heros, does the N160 truly stand out?
We dug through real owner reviews, official manuals, and expert tests to give you the no-nonsense truth. Let’s throttle up!
Why Everyone is Talking About It (The Good Stuff)
1. The “Kitna Deti Hai” Reality Let’s talk money first. Bajaj claims an ARAI mileage of 59.11 kmpl, which sounds insane for a sports commuter. But what happens on actual Indian roads?
- City Traffic: Real users report getting 47–50 kmpl.
- Highway Cruising: On open roads, it can touch 51–52 kmpl.
- Verdict: It beats almost every rival (like the Apache RTR 160 4V) in fuel efficiency.
2. Features That Feel Premium The 2024-25 editions have leveled up. You now get a fully digital console with Bluetooth connectivity (call & SMS alerts) and turn-by-turn navigation,. Plus, the USD (Upside Down) Forks in the top variant make the bike look and handle like a much more expensive machine.
3. Butter-Smooth Engine The 164.82cc engine isn’t about racing; it’s about gliding. It produces 16 PS of power, but the magic is in the torque. You can ride at 25 kmph in 5th gear without the engine knocking! It is arguably the most effortless city commuter in its class,.
The “Hidden” Problems (What Salesmen Won’t Tell You)
We looked at real owner feedback (specifically a 2025 model owner who rode 1500+ km), and here are the red flags you must know:
- Engine Heat: Even though it has oil-cooling tech, owners have reported feeling significant engine heat in heavy traffic, especially during summer.
- The Mud Splash Issue: The rear mudguard design looks cool but isn’t very practical. In the rainy season, mud splashes onto the pillion rider’s back,.
- Fit & Finish Gaps: Some users noticed uneven gaps in fuel tank panels and a slightly misaligned fuel cap straight from the showroom.
- Display Glitches: There have been reports of the digital console acting up—sometimes not turning on immediately or flickering.
The Showdown: N160 vs. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
Stuck between these two legends? Here is the quick cheat sheet:
| Feature | Bajaj Pulsar N160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Feel | Smooth, relaxed, great for daily traffic | Sharp, aggressive, sporty handling |
| Mileage | Winner (~49 kmpl mixed) | Good (~45-47 kmpl) |
| Comfort | Upright stance, better for relaxed commuting | Slightly sportier posture |
| Braking | Dual Channel ABS (Game Changer!) | Single Channel ABS mostly |
Verdict:
If you want to race on weekends, pick the Apache. If you want a stress-free ride to college or office with maximum safety (Dual Channel ABS), pick the Pulsar N160.
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes