The Pulsar N160 has found favour with buyers looking for something more than what 150cc motorcycles offer, but without having to dig too deep into their pockets. And in a bid to ensure the bike continues to perform well, Bajaj Auto has just upped the Pulsar N160’s game. The bike maker has launched a revised N160 that’s not only equipped with more features that up its premium quotient, but is also powered by an all-new engine.
First things first, while this is an all-new engine, some might get confused by its displacement, which is exactly the same at 165cc. And that’s because the bore is now bigger at 63.5mm, while the stroke has been reduced to 52mm. Peak power produced is up by a significant 2.5PS and the output stands at 18.5PS now, produced at 9,500rpm, as compared to the older engine’s 16PS that was produced at 8,750rpm. The rev limit is also higher, at 10,900rpm. There’s a negligible drop in the peak torque produced – the new engine offers 14.4Nm at 8,000rpm, as compared to the older engine’s output of 14.65Nm at 6,750rpm.
I’ve stressed as much on the numbers here to highlight Bajaj’s intent of having the N160 SS feel sportier, given the higher rev range and the higher revs at which peak power and torque are produced. This is interesting, because Bajaj also continues to sell the existing 2-valve engine equipped Pulsar N160. That said, it’s also important to note that the bottom half and gearbox used by the new 4V engine are the same as before. What’s also the same as before, is the bike’s kerb weight, at 151kg. This is again thanks to some clever engineering (despite the new engine being heavier), thanks to minor revisions to the chassis and swingarm, besides the move to 37mm upside down forks on the N160 4V.
Things can get a little confusing since there’s single-seat and split-seat versions both on offer, besides two engine options. Bajaj also tells us there’s significant differences between the S and SS, not just cosmetic, and this includes different suspension, manual and electronic throttle bodies and even adjustable levers. For now though, we’re focusing only on the top-spec Pulsar N160 4V SS, as that’s the bike we rode. Bajaj has also reprofiled the split seat and altered the handlebar angle for more relaxed ergonomics, so while the saddle height remains unchanged at 795mm, taller riders will find the revised seating more accommodating. The bike looks the same to say so and it’s only the decals that are new. The decals, new colour options including wheels painted in red on the black bike and carbon fibre-like panels help the bike look fresh though. You also get a new, 5-inch TFT display that looks very good. There’s features like Bluetooth music control, document storage etc, but more importantly, this is the best-looking console on a Pulsar yet.
The engine has the same, slightly angry tone that we’ve known Pulsars to offer, and it also feels smooth at all times. There’s a very likeable feel to the power delivery and acceleration, with just a hint of aggression. Clutch action is light and throttle responses are quick, while riding modes like Road, Rain, Sport and Off-road help in tailoring responses to suit your liking. You also get ‘crawl tech’ which essentially is an anti-stall mechanism, along with traction control, features that enhance the riding experience. Effectively, Bajaj has ensured the N160 SS retains the distinct Pulsar feel, while also offering a more modern experience in keeping with the times and customer demands. This also holds true for the suspension which feels slightly firm to aid handling, but soaks up undulations and potholes well, ensuring sportiness does not compromise comfort. A larger, 300mm front disc ensures the bike can slow down quickly too, and braking feel and tyre grip were both commendable even on wet roads.
Overall, there’s a very likeable feel to the N160 SS, and it seems poised to take the fight to its arch rival, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, not just in terms of performance and handling, but the overall packaging too, in a bigger way. The base, S version of the N160 4V with single-channel ABS, a one-piece seat and an LCD display is priced at ₹1.34 lakh while the SS you see here retails at ₹1.43 lakh ex-showroom. These are prices that help in making the N160 very attractive, especially the SS, given how well-equipped it is as a 160cc machine.
Words Abhay Verma
Photography Saidatta Naik
