The all-new Pulsar N160 has finally been released into the market. The bike will take on the likes of TVS Apache RTR 160, Suzuki Gixxer, Hero Xtreme 160R, and Yamaha FZ-FI and in this specification comparison review, we pit this new Bajaj against its arch-rivals to find out how competitive this new offering turns out to be.
1) Engine and Transmission
Apache RTR 160 4V uses the most advanced architecture with a 4-valve configuration while all other bikes in this comparison come with old-school, 2-valve architecture. The advantage manifest in terms of the maximum output offered by the TVS followed by Bajaj and Hero. Yamaha and Suzuki lag behind in the output department while Hero is the only one that still chooses to come with a Kickstarter mechanism.
2) Suspension and Braking Hardware
Bajaj has the distinction of offering a dual-channel ABS system as an option while it also comes with the largest disc size of 300 mm and 230 mm at the front and rear respectively. Hero and TVS come with a drum brake at the rear while the suspension system comprising Telescopic forks up front and mono-shock suspension at the rear are common to all the bikes in this comparison.
3) Dimension and weight
Pulsar N160 is the heaviest bike in the lot with 20 kg more curb weight than the Yamaha which is the lightest at 135kg in this comparison. There is not much difference in terms of the fuel-tank capacity and all bikes offer manageable seat height to help even short riders to ride without any hassle. TVS has the highest ground clearance of 180 mm which helps the bike tide over bad roads and undulations with ease.
4) Feature List
In terms of features and equipment, all bikes in this comparison feature a fully LED headlamp, DRLs, and tail lamp as the standard part of the equipment. Also, the digital instrument cluster is part of all bikes except the Bajaj which comes with a semi-digital arrangement. TVS is definitely the most well-equipped bike here with features such as different riding modes, guide-through technology, and adjustable levers on offer for prospective buyers. Bluetooth connectivity (as an option) is available on all bikes except Bajaj and Suzuki.
5) Price
Hero and Yamaha come across as the most affordable option in the price comparison while Suzuki is the most expensive bike in the lot and that too by a significant margin. Bajaj is not cheap either but it does offer a dual-channel ABS system to customers. TVS does a decent job as it slots in the middle of the price range and thanks to its long list of equipment, it does offer a decent value for money. It is almost a tie for Pulsar N160 this time around as it finally reaches very close to the Apache in the way it rides and behaves. Check our reviews for both on our Youtube channel!
