Review: 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160, Now More Likable

The N160’s 164cc engine hasn’t been altered with by Bajaj Auto

• The sweet and torquey engine makes a good 16PS and 14.65Nm
• That engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox but without a slip-and-assist clutch
• New features for it include a new fully digital console 

Witnessing the ingenuity motorcycle manufacturers unveil with each new platform is always a captivating experience. The debut of the Bajaj Pulsar N250 and F250, crafted entirely anew, heralded a fresh chapter for the esteemed Pulsar lineage. Now, as expected, Bajaj has introduced yet another addition to its lineup, albeit with a distinct engine configuration.

Enter the Bajaj Pulsar N160, sharing its foundation with the Pulsar N250 while boasting a downsized powerplant. Housing a 164.82cc air- and oil-cooled single-cylinder engine, this model emerges as Bajaj's flagship contender in the fiercely contested 160cc segment. The question lingers: does it possess the prowess not only to withstand but to surpass expectations?

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160: Design & Features

In the latest iteration, the 2024 Pulsar N160 introduces a fully digital negative LCD console, offering smartphone connectivity for call and SMS alerts, alongside indicators for phone battery and signal strength. However, it misses out on turn-by-turn navigation, a feature reserved for larger Pulsar models in the pipeline.

Displaying vital information such as speed, distance covered, engine speed, average mileage, remaining fuel, and time, the console also features a bottom section for warning messages like mileage errors and low fuel. Notably, the Pulsar N160 is equipped with a 14-litre fuel tank, complete with a tank-mounted USB charging port for added convenience.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160: Engine

Under the hood, the Pulsar N160 houses a 164.82cc air-oil-cooled single-cylinder engine, churning out 16PS and 14.65Nm, coupled with a 5-speed gearbox. In contrast, its counterpart, the Pulsar NS160, boasts figures of 17.2PS and 14.6Nm.

Distinguished from the Pulsar NS160, the N160's engine is a fresh development, conceived concurrently with the Pulsar 250's powerplant. Featuring a long-stroke configuration with a two-valve head, it delivers competitive performance with 16hp and 14.7Nm of peak torque. While it may not lead the class in figures, it maintains parity with segment leaders, despite the N160's heavier weight of 154kg.

In practice, the engine exhibits remarkable smoothness, offering ample torque and commendable top-end performance. Notably strong in the low and midrange, cruising through city traffic is effortless, with clean acceleration from 4,000 to 7,000rpm. While swift overtaking may necessitate downshifting, the gearbox operates seamlessly, complemented by a light clutch lever for effortless gear changes.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

Constructed on the same chassis as its 250cc counterparts, the N160 features a 37mm telescopic fork and monoshock suspension setup. Braking is facilitated by a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard. Weighing 154kg, the streetfighter boasts a wheelbase of 1,358mm, seat height of 795mm, ground clearance of 165mm, and 17-inch alloys with 100-section front and 130-section rear tyres.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160: Dimensions

Capable of maintaining steady speeds of 80-90kph without strain, the N160 effortlessly cruises at 100kph without pushing the engine to its limits. Beyond this, performance gradually diminishes, with the digital speedometer indicating a top speed of around 120kph, nearing the engine's maximum capability.

In terms of dimensions, especially when riding in the city, the Pulsar N160 feels delightfully light and a lot of that feel is because of the incredible front-end feel. Despite its relatively simple suspension, the bike feels very stable even if you start riding the bike hard. And that is important because that very front-end feel is something that the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V lacks. 

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160: Price

Priced at Rs 1,30,560 (Without digital console) and Rs 1,32,627 (With digital console), ex-showroom Pune, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 offers three colour options: Brooklyn Black, Racing Red, and Caribbean Blue. Of these colours on offer, we think the Carribean Blue paint scheme looks the absolute best. It really accentuates the Pulsar N160’s muscular looks, especially its chunky tank, and makes the bike look amazingly good. 

Verdict 

Bajaj's foray into reclaiming dominance in the 160cc segment with the Pulsar N160 signals an intriguing and impressive endeavour. Positioned as a direct challenger to the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, it warrants comparison to determine its superiority. Prospective buyers considering the N160 are advised to opt for the dual-channel ABS variant, priced at Rs 1.30 lakh, surpassing the single-channel ABS variant. With similarities in pricing, the choice between the N160 and its competitor beckons an eagerly anticipated comparison test.