Quick Analysis
Bajaj Dominar 250
29.5 pts
Unweighted: 18 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Aprilia SR 160
5.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid‑cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 248.77 cc | 160.03 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4 valve, Twin Spark, FI | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 3-valve, air-cooled. |
| Power | 19.85 kW (27 PS) @ 8,500 rpm | 11.27 PS @ 7100 rpm |
| Torque | 23.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 13.44 Nm @ 5300 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 L | 6 L |
| Mileage | 35.03 Kmpl | 35 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 180 | 118 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 780 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Single-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc with Abs | Disc 220 mm |
| Front Suspension | USD telescopic fork, 43 mm | Front fork with 30 mm inner tube |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc with Abs | Drum 140 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono-shock, 110 mm travel | Mono-shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80–17 Tubeless | 120/70-14 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70–17 Tubeless | 120/70-14 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Full‑LED with AHO | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | 12V, 5 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Citrus.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_carbon-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-7.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_red-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_grey-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_blue-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_black-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_race-scaled.webp |
| Cluster | Digital LCD w/ turn-by-turn navigation | Fully digital |
| Color Options | Canyon Red | #B32025 Sparkling Black | #1C1C1C Citrus Rush | #C7D300 | SR CARBON | #687559, #000000 SR RACE | #f2180c, #000000 ENIGMA BLACK | #000000 VIBRANT BLUE | #0479cc STORM GREY | #b0b0b0 POWER RED | #f2180c ESSENCE WHITE | #fafaf7 |
| Cons | Heavier Than Most Rivals – The motorcycle's kerb weight is noticeably higher than many competing 250cc motorcycles, which can affect low-speed manoeuvrability. Engine Feels More Relaxed Than Sporty – While refined, the engine focuses on smoothness and usability rather than aggressive acceleration and high-rev excitement. Weight Noticeable in City Traffic – Frequent stop-and-go traffic and tight parking situations may require more effort compared to lighter motorcycles. Limited Fuel Tank Capacity for Touring – Although suitable for highway rides, the 13-litre fuel tank is smaller than what some touring-oriented riders may prefer. Feature Updates Have Been Gradual – Some competitors offer more advanced electronics, riding modes, or traction control systems depending on the price range. Pillion Comfort Could Be Better on Long Trips – The rear seat is adequate for daily use, but some passengers may prefer additional cushioning for extended journeys. Not as Agile as Lightweight Street Bikes – The motorcycle prioritizes stability and comfort, which means it can feel less nimble than lighter sport-oriented alternatives. Maintenance Costs Higher Than Entry-Level Commuters – Routine maintenance and consumables are generally more expensive than those of smaller-capacity commuter motorcycles. | The suspension is on the stiffer side, making rough roads and broken patches feel more noticeable than on comfort-oriented scooters. Fuel efficiency is average, and riders looking for high mileage may be disappointed. Under-seat storage is limited, which reduces practicality for carrying larger items or a full-face helmet. The seat is slightly firm and not ideal for long rides, especially for pillion comfort. The pricing is on the premium side, so it may feel expensive compared to traditional commuter scooters. |
| Detailed Overview | Positioned as a sports tourer in the 250cc motorcycle segment, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to accommodate both daily commuting and long-distance riding requirements. Drawing inspiration from its larger sibling, the Dominar 400, the motorcycle combines touring-oriented ergonomics, premium hardware, and a liquid-cooled engine within a package intended for riders seeking versatility. Its design emphasizes stability, comfort, and practicality while incorporating features commonly associated with larger-capacity touring motorcycles. The Dominar 250 features a muscular and substantial appearance characterized by a sculpted fuel tank, split-seat layout, exposed perimeter frame, and LED lighting system. The front end incorporates a compact windscreen positioned above the LED headlamp, helping direct airflow around the rider during highway journeys. Sharp body panels and minimalistic graphics contribute to a modern design, while the overall proportions create a larger visual presence compared to many motorcycles in the quarter-litre category. The motorcycle’s styling reflects its touring-oriented purpose without adopting the aggressive ergonomics of a dedicated sport bike. Powering the Dominar 250 is a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine produces approximately 27 PS of power and 23.5 Nm of torque. Liquid cooling assists in maintaining stable operating temperatures during prolonged rides and varying weather conditions, while fuel injection helps ensure consistent throttle response and fuel delivery. The engine is tuned to provide a broad spread of usable power, making it suitable for city commuting, highway cruising, and overtaking manoeuvres. A six-speed transmission allows riders to utilize the available performance efficiently across different riding situations. The motorcycle is built around a perimeter frame chassis that contributes to structural rigidity and handling stability. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension setup. This combination is designed to absorb road imperfections while maintaining composure over varying surfaces. The suspension tuning focuses on balancing comfort and control, enabling the motorcycle to manage both urban roads and extended highway journeys. The relatively long wheelbase further contributes to stability, particularly at higher speeds. Braking performance is provided by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS as standard. The anti-lock braking system helps prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking situations and assists riders in maintaining control on different road surfaces. The motorcycle also features an assist and slipper clutch, which reduces clutch lever effort and improves stability during rapid downshifts. The Dominar 250 incorporates several modern features aimed at improving rider convenience. A fully digital instrument cluster displays speed, fuel level, trip information, gear position indication, and other ride-related data. A secondary display mounted near the fuel tank provides additional information and navigation-related functions. Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation support are available on recent versions, allowing smartphone integration for enhanced functionality. LED lighting is used throughout the motorcycle, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators. Rider comfort remains a key aspect of the motorcycle’s design. The upright riding position, wide handlebar, and centrally positioned footpegs create an ergonomic layout suitable for longer journeys. The seat height of approximately 800 mm accommodates a wide range of riders, while the split-seat arrangement provides adequate space for both rider and passenger. A 13-litre fuel tank further supports touring duties by offering a practical riding range between refuelling stops. With its liquid-cooled 248.77cc engine, premium suspension components, dual-channel ABS, navigation features, and touring-friendly ergonomics, the Bajaj Dominar 250 combines performance, comfort, and practicality in a package tailored to riders seeking a versatile 250cc sports tourer. | The Aprilia SR 160 is powered by a 160.03 cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 3-valve engine that runs air-cooled. That modest displacement might sound normal on paper, but the way this engine behaves in urban traffic and everyday use gives it a distinct identity, it never feels sluggish, and its refinement suits daily commuting well. The engine sends its output through a CVT (automatic) transmission with a dry centrifugal clutch, meaning rides are smooth and stress-free: no gear shifting, just twist-and-go, perfect for stop-and-go city traffic or quick bursts on open stretches. In real-world terms, you get just over 11 PS of power (officially, 11.27 PS at 7100 rpm on some spec-lists) and a torque output around 13.4 Nm (some sources quote 11.6 Nm at 6000 rpm, depending on variant), which provides enough low-end and mid-range punch for city rides and occasional highway runs. The stated fuel efficiency is about 35 km/l, which for a 160-cc sporty scooter represents a fair balance between performance and efficiency. The 6-litre fuel tank gives a reasonable range between refuels, making it practical for daily commuting or moderate distance rides without frequent stops at the pump. The chassis rides on a tubular steel frame, with a front suspension that uses a telescopic front fork (with 30 mm inner tube) and a rear mono-shock absorber. That setup gives the SR 160 a stable yet nimble ride: you feel confident navigating busy streets or weaving through traffic, and the suspension does a decent job absorbing typical road undulations. It’s not plush like a cruiser, but for an urban-centric sporty scooter, it strikes a comfortable middle ground — firm enough for stability, but forgiving enough for potholes and uneven roads. Braking duties are carried out by a 220 mm front disc and a 140 mm rear drum brake (on most standard variants). Higher trims come equipped with a single-channel ABS (or combined braking system), which enhances safety and gives confidence when braking suddenly — useful when you’re sharing chaotic traffic or need quick stops in unpredictable conditions. Alloy 14-inch wheels shod with tubeless 120/70-14 tyres both front and rear help maintain grip and control. That tyre size and wheel setup give decent stability during cornering or lane changes, and make everyday manoeuvring easier compared to bulky, heavy scooters. In terms of size and ergonomics, SR 160 stretches roughly 1,985 mm in length, with a wheelbase around 1,365 mm. The seat height sits at about 780 mm — a middle-of-the-road height that tends to suit a wide range of riders; it gives a semi-sporty riding stance while keeping it accessible for city traffic and frequent stops. The kerb weight is around 118–122 kg depending on trim, balancing lightness for agility with enough heft for stable rides when speed picks up or on rough patches. The electricals and features feel suitably modern. SR 160 gets a LED headlight (and typically LED tail-/parking lights), a digital or semi-digital instrument console with speedometer, odometer/tripmeter, fuel gauge/indicator, sometimes a fuel-economy readout, and other basic readouts. There’s under-seat storage and usually an accessory (like a USB charger in some markets) — practical touches for daily use. For starting the scooter, you get both kick and electric start, nice for reliability, especially in situations where battery strength might be compromised. Putting it all together, riding the Aprilia SR 160 feels like having a sporty-looking commuter that doesn’t compromise practicality. It isn’t a high-power beast, but its engine offers enough punch for city commuting and occasional longer rides; the CVT and air-cooled setup keep things simple and low-maintenance. Suspension and tyre setup deliver a balanced ride without being overly harsh or overly soft. Brakes give adequate stopping power, and ABS/CBS adds a layer of safety often missing in basic scooters. Its weight and dimensions strike a balance, light and nimble enough for city traffic, stable enough for comfort on rough roads. |
| Expert Review | Built around a 248.77cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to balance everyday usability with long-distance touring capability. The engine delivers smooth and predictable performance, with a strong emphasis on refinement and accessible power delivery rather than outright sportiness. Its perimeter frame, upside-down front forks, and rear monoshock contribute to stable handling and confident highway manners, while the upright riding position and well-cushioned seat support rider comfort during extended journeys. Dual-channel ABS, LED lighting, and a digital instrument cluster with navigation support add modern functionality, while the motorcycle's touring-friendly design allows riders to comfortably cover longer distances. The relatively high kerb weight provides stability at speed but can feel noticeable in congested traffic and low-speed manoeuvres. Overall, the Dominar 250 combines touring-oriented comfort, premium hardware, and practical performance within the 250cc sports tourer segment., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The Aprilia SR 160 is a sporty scooter that focuses more on performance than everyday comfort. Its 160cc engine delivers quick acceleration and a responsive feel, especially in city riding, while the lightweight body and 14-inch wheels make handling sharp and engaging. The suspension is slightly stiff, which helps in stability but can feel firm on rough roads. Braking performance is adequate with a front disc and single-channel ABS. However, the feature list remains basic, and practicality takes a back seat compared to more commuter-focused scooters., 3.9, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Bajaj Dominar 250 suitable for touring? A: Yes. The comfortable ergonomics, stable chassis, windshield, and refined engine make it suitable for long-distance highway touring. Q: What mileage does the Dominar 250 deliver? A: Most owners report real-world fuel efficiency between 30–38 kmpl, depending on riding conditions, speed, and maintenance. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle comes with a 13-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard equipment. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The seat height is approximately 800 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Is the Dominar 250 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with some basic riding experience can adapt to it comfortably, although the motorcycle's weight may require some familiarisation for complete beginners. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have Bluetooth connectivity and navigation? A: Yes. Recent versions offer Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation through the digital console. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: Under suitable conditions, the motorcycle can achieve approximately 130–140 km/h, depending on rider weight, weather, and road conditions. Q: How is the Dominar 250 different from the Dominar 400? A: The Dominar 250 uses a smaller engine, produces less power, and is generally more accessible for everyday riding, while the Dominar 400 offers stronger performance and higher touring capability. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have a slipper clutch? A: Yes. The motorcycle features an assist and slipper clutch, which helps reduce clutch effort and improves stability during downshifts. Q: Is the Dominar 250 comfortable for a pillion rider? A: Yes. The spacious rear seat and supportive grab rails provide reasonable comfort for passengers on daily rides and occasional tours. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: It is classified as a sports tourer motorcycle, combining touring comfort with everyday practicality and performance. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's extensive service network across India generally ensures good parts availability and maintenance support. Q: Does the Dominar 250 use the same engine as the KTM 250 Duke? A: The engine is derived from the same KTM-Bajaj platform but is tuned differently to suit the Dominar 250's touring-oriented character and riding dynamics. | Q: Is the Aprilia SR 160 good for daily commuting? A: It can handle daily commutes, but it is more focused on performance than comfort, so it may feel slightly stiff over rough roads compared to typical commuter scooters. Q: What is the mileage of the Aprilia SR 160? A: The scooter offers a real-world mileage of around 30–35 km/l, depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: How is the performance of the Aprilia SR 160? A: Performance is one of its strong points, with quick acceleration and a responsive throttle that makes city riding more engaging. Q: Is the Aprilia SR 160 comfortable for long rides? A: It is not primarily designed for long-distance comfort, as the suspension is on the stiffer side and the seat is better suited for shorter rides. Q: Does the Aprilia SR 160 have good handling? A: Yes, it offers sharp handling and stability thanks to its lightweight body and larger wheels, making it enjoyable in corners. Q: What features does the Aprilia SR 160 offer? A: It comes with a semi-digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and basic modern features, but lacks advanced connectivity options. Q: Is the Aprilia SR 160 suitable for beginners? A: Yes, it is easy to ride and manageable, but its sporty nature may feel slightly aggressive for completely new riders. Q: How does it compare to other scooters in the segment? A: It stands out for performance and handling, while many rivals offer better comfort, features, or fuel efficiency. Q: What are the common drawbacks of the Aprilia SR 160? A: Users often point out the stiff suspension, average mileage, and limited features as its main downsides. Q: Is the Aprilia SR 160 worth its price? A: It depends on what you value, if performance and sporty feel matter more than comfort and features, it fits well within that preference. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 181460 | STD | 120692 Carbon | 122991 Race | 129165 |
| Pros | Refined and Smooth Engine – The 248.77cc liquid-cooled engine offers smooth power delivery with good refinement levels, making it comfortable for both city rides and long-distance touring. Comfortable Highway Cruising – The motorcycle maintains stability at highway speeds and allows relaxed cruising without feeling strained. Touring-Friendly Riding Position – The upright ergonomics, wide handlebar, and spacious seat provide comfort during extended rides and daily commuting alike. Premium Hardware Package – Features such as upside-down front forks, LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, and a perimeter frame add to the motorcycle's overall equipment list. Confident High-Speed Stability – The chassis and weight distribution help the Dominar 250 remain planted on highways and open roads. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure over rough surfaces. Modern Digital Features – A digital instrument console and secondary tank-mounted display provide access to essential ride information, navigation support, and smartphone connectivity. Suitable for Touring Accessories – The motorcycle's design accommodates luggage mounts and touring accessories more easily than many motorcycles in the segment. | The SR 160 offers strong acceleration and lively performance, making it one of the peppiest scooters in the 160cc class. Its sporty, aggressive design stands out on the road and appeals to riders who want a stylish, premium-looking scooter. The scooter feels very stable at higher speeds, thanks to its larger 14-inch wheels and firm suspension setup. Handling is sharp and confidence-inspiring, especially in city traffic where quick lane changes and gaps are common. The front disc brake and ABS provide solid stopping power and add an extra layer of safety during emergency braking. Build quality feels premium, and the scooter gives a sense of riding something more performance-focused than a typical commuter. |
| Starter | Electric | Self start |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual (w/ slipper clutch) | Automatic |
| YouTube Video URL | — | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AZ6pX18eFw |
