Summary of "PULSAR N160 HONEST LONG TERM REVIEW 🔥 | REAL TRUTH AFTER 10K KM | STILL WORTH IT IN 2025?"

Bajaj Pulsar N160 (Top Variant) Review

Usage Duration: Approximately 10,465 km over nearly 1 year

Main Features & Specifications

Engine: 164 cc, two-valve, air-cooled
Power: 16 PS max power
Torque: 14 Nm max torque
Top Speed: 131 km/h (tested)
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in ~9 to 9.5 seconds
Suspension: USD front suspension (upside-down forks); rear suspension is a bit stiff
Brakes: Dual-channel ABS, 320 mm front disc, 240 mm rear disc, Gama calipers
Riding Modes: Three modes (Rain, Road, Off-road) — primarily ABS settings, not performance modes
Instrument Cluster: Fully digital, accurate speedometer and RPM meter
Tires: Comes with TVS Euro Grip and MRF Zers (both rough, affecting cornering confidence)
Mileage: Varies from 18 kmpl to 55 kmpl; average around 38-40 kmpl in mixed riding conditions
Price: Approx ₹150,000 on-road (Delhi/Agra), with festive discounts (~₹146,000)

Pros

Engine Performance: Smooth and refined; no power drop even when heated; good acceleration
Braking: Excellent braking performance, superior to many 200cc bikes in the segment
Stability: USD front suspension provides good highway stability and handles potholes well
Digital Meter: Accurate and reliable digital instrument cluster
Build Quality: Good paint finish with minimal color fading; durable fiber parts
Maintenance: No major engine issues after 10,000 km; parts are easily replaceable
Price: Competitive pricing with discounts offers good value for money
Comfort (Solo): Front seat comfortable for solo rides
Refinement: Minimal vibrations even at high speeds (120-130 km/h)

Cons

Riding Modes: Considered ineffective; mostly just ABS settings without performance enhancement
Seat Comfort: Rear seat uncomfortable for pillion; not recommended for long rides with a passenger
Chain Noise: Noticeable knocking or rattling sound from the chain area; solution still being sought
Tires: Rough tires reduce confidence during leaning and cornering at speed
Mileage Fluctuation: Mileage varies widely; possibly affected by ethanol-blended petrol requiring throttle body cleaning
Maintenance Issues: Bajaj service can be uncooperative with warranty claims on certain parts (e.g., gas kit damaged by rats)
Paint: Color tends to get dirty quickly; requires regular washing and polishing
Rear Suspension: Stiff and gives a harsh ride on bumps or potholes
Throttle Body Cleaning Cost: Recommended periodically due to ethanol petrol; costs around ₹450 (may vary by location)

User Experience

No major engine or heating issues even after long continuous rides (~400 km nonstop)
Smooth performance without loss of power or refinement after heating
Digital speedometer accuracy comparable to KTM; better than Yamaha and TVS
Chain noise is a minor irritation but no serious mechanical fault reported
Rear seat discomfort limits long-distance pillion rides
Bajaj’s warranty service attitude disappointing in some cases
Riding modes do not significantly enhance the riding experience

Comparisons

Braking is better than other bikes in the 160-200 cc segment, including Pulsar NA series
Digital instrument cluster accuracy comparable to KTM; better than TVS and Yamaha
Stability on highways improved due to USD forks compared to conventional setups
Price and features make it competitive in the 160 cc segment

Additional Notes

Recommended to use full synthetic engine oil for best maintenance
Air filter should ideally be changed every service (company claims 10,000 km, but user found it wears out by 5,000 km)
Chain cleaning should be done with diesel or water pressure; avoid chain cleaner chemicals
Ethanol blended petrol (E20) affects throttle body, requiring cleaning for smooth performance

Final Verdict / Recommendation

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a well-rounded, stylish, and performance-oriented bike suitable for city and occasional highway use. It offers excellent braking, refined engine performance, and good build quality at a competitive price point, especially with current discounts.

However, its riding modes are ineffective, the rear seat is uncomfortable for pillion riders, and the tires and chain noise may reduce rider confidence during aggressive riding or cornering.

If you prioritize style, reliable performance, and good braking in the 160 cc segment, the N160 remains a strong contender in 2025. Potential buyers should be aware of minor maintenance issues and consider upgrading tires for better handling.

Overall, it is worth buying, especially for solo riders looking for a value-for-money, stable, and refined motorcycle.

Different Perspectives

Main Reviewer: Provided detailed long-term ownership experience, including technical specs, real-world performance, maintenance tips, and honest pros and cons.
Bajaj Service Manager: Mentioned ethanol petrol effects and recommended throttle body cleaning with a nominal charge.
User Feedback: Some dissatisfaction with Bajaj’s warranty service and chain noise issue, but overall satisfaction with engine and braking.

Summary: Bajaj Pulsar N160 offers strong engine refinement, excellent braking, and stable handling with USD forks, making it a great city and highway bike under ₹1.5 lakh in 2025. Minor drawbacks include ineffective riding modes, rear seat discomfort, rough tires, and occasional chain noise. Despite some service-related frustrations, it remains a recommended purchase for solo riders seeking performance and style in the 160 cc segment.