Summary of "Most Loaded Bike in this Segment - Before You Buy Know The Purpose: Bajaj Pulsar N160 Ride Review"

Bajaj Pulsar N160 Motorcycle Review

Main Features

Engine: 164cc, producing 16 bhp and 14.8 Nm torque; E20 compliant; air cooled only (air-oil cooling vent removed).
Brakes: Front 300mm disc, rear 230mm disc; Gamka branded discs; available in two variants:
- Dual channel ABS (front and rear)
- Single channel ABS (front only)
Tyres: Front 100/80-17, rear 130/70-17 Eurogrip tyres.
Suspension: Front USD (upside-down) forks; rear mono suspension (softer and effective).
Fuel Tank: 14 liters.
Mileage: Company claims ~59.1 km/l; realistic range around 55-60 km/l depending on riding style.
Exhaust: Underbelly exhaust with a boomy sound.
Weight: Approximately 10 kg lighter than the Pulsar N250, contributing to better handling.
Display: Bluetooth-enabled digital console with three riding modes (Road, Rain, Off-road); includes gear indicator, fuel gauge, tachometer, and connectivity features like calling and navigation.
Other Features: USB charging port on the console; projector headlamp; side stand with auto cut-off; five-speed gearbox; grab rail; matte and gloss finish body panels with new badging and graphics.

Pros

Good power delivery and pickup for a 160cc bike, capable of cruising comfortably at 100-110 km/h.
Refined engine with minimal vibrations in footpegs and handlebars.
Dual channel ABS variant offers better safety.
Lightweight and nimble, easy to maneuver in city traffic and on small mountain roads.
Effective suspension setup, especially the rear mono shock, which feels softer and manages bumps well.
Practical features like USB charging, Bluetooth console with ride modes, and projector headlamps.
Good fuel efficiency, suitable for daily commuting and occasional long rides.
Underbelly exhaust gives a pleasing, boomy sound enhancing riding experience.

Cons

Chassis tends to shake on uneven roads or potholes, similar to the Pulsar N250 model.
Eurogrip tyres reduce confidence during aggressive cornering; not ideal for sharp turns.
No slipper clutch, though downshifting does not lock the rear wheel.
The USD front suspension may feel stiff or “locked” on rebounds, which some riders may find uncomfortable.
Tail lamp and other lights only activate with ignition on (no always-on DRL).
Removal of air-oil cooling vent (cost-cutting) may affect engine cooling and performance during extended long rides.
The digital display design requires some time to get used to as fuel and tachometer indicators look similar.
Limited top speed exploration; reviewer felt confident up to ~110 km/h but no higher speed tested.

User Experience

The reviewer enjoyed the bike’s practical nature, smooth ride, and power delivery. It is suitable for city commuting and short to medium distance rides (up to ~110-120 km stretches). The bike feels stable but not overly planted; its lighter weight improves handling compared to heavier Pulsar models.

Additional user insights include:

Soft and easy-to-operate clutch.
Bluetooth console and ride modes add modern convenience.
Strong and reliable brakes, especially with dual channel ABS.
Suspension is generally good, though the USD fork behavior might feel unusual for some riders.

Comparisons

Shares chassis and many components with Pulsar N150 and N250, differing mainly in tyre size and minor graphics.
Lighter than Pulsar N250 by about 10 kg, improving handling and suspension performance.
Lacks the infinity display found in earlier Pulsar models, replaced by a Bluetooth-enabled digital console.
Air-oil cooling system removed from N160 (present in some older models), which may impact long ride performance.

Verdict / Overall Recommendation

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a well-rounded, practical commuter motorcycle that balances power, features, and fuel efficiency effectively in the 160cc segment. Its lightweight chassis, refined engine, and modern digital features make it ideal for city riders and those seeking occasional weekend rides on highways or small hills. The dual channel ABS variant is recommended for enhanced safety.

However, potential buyers should be aware of:

Chassis vibrations on rough roads.
Limitations of Eurogrip tyres for aggressive cornering.
Absence of air-oil cooling which may affect prolonged high-speed rides.

Recommended for: Daily commuters and casual riders looking for a feature-loaded, stylish, and efficient 160cc bike with good handling and modern tech.

Additional Notes from the Reviewer

The boomy exhaust sound is a positive highlight.
Caution is advised during cornering due to tyre grip limitations.
The USD suspension’s rebound “locking” is normal behavior.
Emphasized the importance of choosing dual channel ABS over single channel.
Removal of the air-oil cooling vent is a cost-cutting measure impacting cooling.
Appreciated the soft clutch and easy gear shifts.
Practical size and fuel tank capacity make it suitable for daily use.