Pulsar vs Pulsar: The 2024 N150 Face-off With Its Latest N160 Sibling
Reviews by Team Drivio | 14 Feb 2024
The Pulsar line-up sees fresh additions in the form of the new N150 and N160 models, expanding the 150cc family for 2024.
- Bajaj has armed the latest Pulsars with modern 150cc fuel-injected engines to deliver enhanced performance.
- The N160 prioritizes power and sporty dynamics while the N150 strikes a balance between performance and pricing.
- Styling and features are similar but the two differ in their riding experience and capabilities.
Bajaj aims to cater to young enthusiasts seeking an accessible big bike experience with these new 150cc Pulsars. But which one should you choose between the N150 and N160?
Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs N160: Engine & Performance
Specs | Bajaj Pulsar N150 | Bajaj Pulsar N160 |
Engine | 149cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled | 160cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled |
Max Power | 16hp @ 9000rpm | 18hp @ 9500rpm
|
Max Torque | 13Nm @ 7000rpm | 14.5Nm @ 7500rpm |
Transmission | 5-speed | 6-speed |
At the heart of the Pulsar N150 is a 149cc single-cylinder engine making 16hp and 13Nm torque, paired to a 5-speed gearbox.
The N160 gets a bigger 160cc motor developing 18hp power and 14.5Nm torque, mated to a 6-speed transmission. This gives it best-in-class performance figures.
Both engines feature modern tech like fuel injection and oil-cooling. Expect strong mid-range grunt and high rpm performance from these new motors.
Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs N160: Underpinnings & Brakes
Specs | Bajaj Pulsar N150 | Bajaj Pulsar N160 |
Front Suspension | Telescopic Fork | Telescopic Fork |
Rear Suspension | Twin Shocks | Monoshock |
Front Brake | 240mm Disc | 300mm Disc |
Rear Brake | 130mm Drum / 190mm Disc | 230mm Disc |
The Pulsar N150 and N160 share a similar steel perimeter frame offering adequate stiffness. However, the suspension components differ. The N150 sports conventional telescopic forks upfront and twin shock absorbers at the rear. It comes equipped with a 240mm front disc and 130mm drum or 190mm disc at the rear along with single-channel ABS.
The N160 gets beefier suspension - telescopic fork and mono-shock. The braking hardware is upgraded to a 300mm front and 230mm rear disc working in conjunction with dual-channel ABS. This endows the N160 with superior ride and handling characteristics compared to the modest N150. Expect a more engaging and sporty feel from the N160.
Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs N160: Design & Features
Visually, both Pulsar N150 and N160 look similar except for colors and graphics. They get a muscular fuel tank, wolf-eyed headlamp, step-up seats, split grab rails, and stubby exhaust.
LED headlamps and tail lamps along with a semi-digital console are part of the package. You also get features like a mobile charging port and tire pressure monitoring.
The N160 commands a slight premium due to its rear mono-shock, wider tires, projector headlamp, and dual-channel ABS. Overall, the N150 and N160 have matching equipment.
Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs N160: Dimensions & Weight
The Pulsar N150 has a length of 1990mm, 785mm width, and 1060mm height along with a 1320mm wheelbase. It tips the scales at 154kg and has a 795mm seat height. With a length of 2000mm, 750mm width, 1085mm height, and 1350mm wheelbase, the N160 has a marginally bigger footprint. It weighs 156kg and has a 790mm seat height.
Though both models belong to the 150cc class, the N160 feels bigger. But there is little difference in their dimensions or weight, ensuring accessible ergonomics.
Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs N160: Pricing
The Bajaj Pulsar N150 is priced at around Rs. 1.18 lakh, ex-showroom. Whereas, the more premium Pulsar N160 is pegged at approximately Rs. 1.23 lakh, ex-showroom. The price differential between the models is significant with the N160 commanding a premium of about Rs. 5,000. This accounts for its bigger engine and upgraded hardware.
Verdict
The latest Pulsar 150s cater to both ends of the spectrum. The N160 is for enthusiasts wanting maximum performance on a budget. Its potent engine, sharp dynamics, and premium features make it compelling.
But if you want a practical and frugal 150cc commuter, the N150 fits the bill with its balance of price, features, and usable performance. Choose as per your priorities between these solid Pulsar offerings.