Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar 125
10.0 pts
Unweighted: 4 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
19.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air‑cooled | Oil-cooled with Ram-Air Assist |
| Displacement | 124.4 cc | 159.7 cc |
| Engine Type | 4-Stroke, 2-Valve, Twin Spark BSVI Compliant Engine | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, fuel-injected |
| Power | 8.68 kW (11.8 PS) @ 8500 rpm | 17.55 PS @ 9250 rpm |
| Torque | 10.8 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 14.73 Nm @ 7250 rpm (Sport Mode) |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 L | 12 litres |
| Mileage | 51.46 Kmpl | 41 |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | Split: 144 / Single: 146 | 144–146 |
| Seat Height | 795 | 800 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | — | Single/Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm Disc | 270 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | 30mm Telescopic forks | Upside Down Forks with 37mm dia |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum | 130 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Hydraulic Suspension | Monotube Inverted Gas Filled Shox (MIG) With Spring Aid |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 80/100 × 17 Tubeless | 90/90 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 100/90 × 17 Tubeless | 130/70 – 17 (Tubeless, Radial) |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | 12 V HS1 35/35 W | LED with DRL |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4Ah VRLA | 12V, 6Ah MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/black-2.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/White-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cyan.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Matte-black-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Granite-black.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/gold.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Black-1.avif |
| Cluster | Fully Digital LCD | Fully digital with SmartXonnect |
| Color Options | Racing Red Tan Beige | #A50000, #C7A27C Black Race Red | #111111, #B00000 Black Cyan Blue | #111111, #00A3C7 Black Dark Grey | #111111, #5C6166 Black Gold | #111111, #B08D57 | Marine Blue | #315C9B Racing Red | #A50000 Pearl White | #F2F2EE Matte Black | #1A1A1A Glossy Black (BE) | #151515 Granite Grey | #6B6F76 |
| Cons | The feature list feels basic compared to some newer 125cc motorcycles that offer fully digital displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and additional rider information. Engine vibrations become noticeable at higher RPMs and prolonged highway speeds. The motorcycle carries more weight than several competitors in the segment, which can make low-speed maneuvering feel slightly heavier. Rear suspension comfort can feel firm on badly broken roads, especially when riding solo. The design has evolved gradually over the years, so some buyers may find it less modern than newer rivals. Highway performance remains limited by the engine capacity, particularly when riding with a pillion or luggage at higher speeds. Lighting and instrumentation remain relatively simple on lower variants. | Engine vibrations can still be noticed at higher RPMs, especially during longer highway rides or aggressive acceleration. The seat cushioning and slightly committed riding posture may feel tiring on very long rides compared to more relaxed commuter motorcycles. Fit-and-finish quality in some plastic panels and switches could feel better considering the competition in this segment. The rear suspension can feel slightly firm on rough roads, especially for pillion comfort. Service experience varies depending on the dealership location, and some owners have reported inconsistent after-sales support. The sporty tuning prioritizes performance more than outright refinement, so riders looking for a very smooth commuter bike may prefer calmer alternatives like the Yamaha FZ or Honda SP160. |
| Detailed Overview | The Bajaj Pulsar 125 is a motorcycle that combines the practicality of a commuter bike with styling elements that are usually associated with larger motorcycles. It is designed for riders who want a motorcycle for daily transportation but also prefer a sportier appearance and a slightly more engaging riding experience than a traditional commuter model. The bike carries the familiar Pulsar design language, including a muscular fuel tank, sporty graphics, split grab rails on selected variants, and body panels that give it a larger road presence than many motorcycles in the 125cc category. Power comes from a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled DTS-i engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine produces around 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. The tuning focuses on providing a balance between fuel efficiency and usable performance. In city traffic, the motorcycle feels responsive enough for daily commuting, while the engine also has sufficient power for occasional highway rides. The 5-speed transmission helps maintain smoother engine operation at moderate cruising speeds and allows the rider to make better use of the available power across different road conditions. Fuel efficiency is one of the important aspects of the Pulsar 125. Under normal riding conditions, real-world mileage generally ranges between 50 and 60 km/l, depending on traffic, riding style, road conditions, and maintenance. The motorcycle is equipped with an 11.5-litre fuel tank, which provides a useful riding range and reduces the need for frequent fuel stops during daily commuting. The riding position is designed to balance comfort and control. The handlebar is positioned in a way that allows a slightly sporty feel without putting excessive pressure on the rider’s wrists. The footpegs and seat placement create a natural riding posture that works well for city riding as well as longer daily commutes. The seat is wide enough for both rider and pillion, and the overall ergonomics are intended to support regular use in different riding environments. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. The setup is tuned to absorb common road imperfections such as potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces. This allows the motorcycle to remain comfortable during everyday riding while also maintaining stability on smoother roads. The chassis provides predictable handling characteristics, making the bike easy to maneuver in traffic and around corners at normal riding speeds. Braking performance depends on the variant selected. Higher variants are equipped with a front disc brake, while other versions use drum brakes. All variants use Combined Braking System (CBS), which helps distribute braking force between the front and rear wheels during braking. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, which add convenience during punctures and routine maintenance. The instrument cluster combines analogue and digital elements. Riders can view information such as speed, fuel level, odometer readings, and other basic ride-related data. The layout remains straightforward and easy to read. Unlike some newer motorcycles in the segment, the Pulsar 125 does not focus heavily on connected technology or smartphone integration. The overall character of the motorcycle is shaped by its combination of commuter-friendly mechanics, sporty styling, practical ergonomics, and everyday usability. Its engine, suspension, braking system, and riding position are designed to handle regular commuting requirements while maintaining the visual identity associated with the Pulsar series. | Some motorcycles feel fast only when pushed hard, but the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V starts showing its character much earlier. Even in regular city traffic, the bike feels alert and eager, especially when the throttle is opened through the mid-range. The 159.7cc oil-cooled engine has a very different personality compared to basic commuter bikes. Instead of focusing only on mileage and relaxed riding, it delivers stronger acceleration and a sharper response that makes everyday riding feel more active. The 4-valve setup helps the engine pull more freely at higher RPMs, which becomes noticeable during overtakes and highway stretches where the motorcycle continues building speed without feeling strained. The bike uses a 5-speed gearbox, and the gear shifts feel light enough for daily commuting. Newer versions also get ride modes like Sport, Urban, and Rain. Sport mode keeps the throttle response aggressive and lets the motorcycle feel at its quickest, while Urban and Rain modes calm things down slightly for smoother riding in traffic or wet conditions. It is not something most riders constantly switch between every day, but it does change the feel of the motorcycle depending on road conditions. Visually, the Apache RTR 160 4V carries a sharp streetfighter design with aggressive tank shrouds, LED lighting, and sporty graphics. The motorcycle looks compact and muscular rather than bulky, which suits its lightweight and agile nature. The riding posture also reflects that balance. It is slightly sporty with rear-set footpegs and a forward-leaning stance, but not uncomfortable enough to become tiring during normal commuting. Where the motorcycle really stands out is handling. The chassis feels light and responsive, and the bike changes direction quickly without feeling nervous. In traffic, this makes the motorcycle easy to filter through gaps, while on open roads it feels stable enough to maintain confidence at higher speeds. The telescopic front forks and rear monoshock suspension are tuned on the firmer side, which helps during cornering and spirited riding, though rough potholes can sometimes be felt more clearly than on softer commuter bikes. Braking performance is another strong point. Higher variants receive dual-channel ABS along with disc brakes at both ends, and the braking feel remains progressive without becoming too sharp. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres that offer decent grip for both city and highway usage. The Apache RTR 160 4V also packs more technology than many motorcycles in this segment. The fully digital display supports Bluetooth connectivity through TVS SmartXonnect, giving access to navigation, call alerts, gear position indication, ride statistics, and even lean angle data on some variants. The interface feels modern without becoming distracting while riding. Despite its sporty character, the motorcycle still manages decent fuel efficiency. Most riders see around 40–45 km/l in mixed riding conditions, which keeps it practical enough for everyday use. The 12-litre fuel tank also gives it enough range for longer weekend rides without frequent fuel stops. Overall, the Apache RTR 160 4V feels like a motorcycle built for riders who enjoy an active riding experience but still need something usable for daily life. It mixes sporty performance, quick handling, modern features, and commuter practicality in a way that keeps the bike entertaining without making it difficult to live with. |
| Expert Review | he Bajaj Pulsar 125 takes the familiar Pulsar formula and adapts it for riders looking for everyday practicality with a slightly sportier feel than a conventional commuter bike. The 124.4cc engine delivers smooth low and mid-range performance, which suits city traffic and routine commuting, while still providing enough response for occasional highway use. What stands out most is how the motorcycle carries the visual proportions and road presence of a larger bike despite belonging to the 125cc category. The riding posture feels natural for daily use, and the suspension setup is tuned to balance comfort and stability across different road conditions. The motorcycle does not focus heavily on modern electronics or premium features, instead relying on straightforward mechanical simplicity and familiar riding characteristics. Engine refinement remains acceptable for regular use, though vibrations become more noticeable as speeds increase. The overall package is centered around everyday usability, balanced performance, and the established character associated with the Pulsar name., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V feels like a motorcycle that was built with rider involvement in mind rather than just basic commuting. Its 4-valve engine delivers stronger top-end performance and quicker throttle response compared to the standard RTR 160, which becomes noticeable during overtakes and higher-speed riding. The bike feels sharp while cornering, and the chassis gives a stable and confident feel even when ridden aggressively through city roads or highways. At the same time, it still manages to remain practical enough for everyday use, with decent fuel efficiency and a suspension setup that balances sporty handling with reasonable comfort. Features like ride modes, Bluetooth connectivity, and the digital instrument console make the motorcycle feel modern without becoming overly complicated. However, the sporty tuning also means some vibrations are still present at higher RPMs, and the slightly aggressive riding posture may not feel as relaxed on long-distance rides. Overall, the Apache RTR 160 4V combines sporty performance, agile handling, and modern features in a way that makes it feel more engaging than a typical commuter-focused 160cc motorcycle., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What engine does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 use? A: It is powered by a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, DTS-i engine. Q: How much power does the Pulsar 125 produce? A: The engine produces approximately 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque. Q: What mileage does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 deliver? A: Real-world fuel efficiency generally ranges between 50–60 km/l depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the Pulsar 125? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of around 100–105 km/h. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 suitable for highway riding? A: Yes, it can handle occasional highway rides comfortably, although it is primarily designed for city commuting and everyday transportation. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 have a front disc brake? A: Yes, higher variants are equipped with a front disc brake, while some variants are available with drum brakes. Q: Does the Bajaj Pulsar 125 have ABS? A: No, the Pulsar 125 does not offer ABS. It uses CBS (Combined Braking System). Q: What suspension setup does the Pulsar 125 use? A: The motorcycle uses telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Pulsar 125? A: The motorcycle comes with a 11.5-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Bajaj Pulsar 125? A: Depending on the variant, kerb weight is approximately 140–142 kg. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 use tubeless tyres? A: Yes, all variants come equipped with tubeless tyres. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 beginner-friendly? A: Yes, the motorcycle offers predictable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and manageable performance, making it suitable for new riders. Q: Does the Pulsar 125 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: No, the standard Pulsar 125 does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone integration. Q: What type of instrument cluster does the Pulsar 125 get? A: The motorcycle uses a semi-digital instrument cluster with an analogue tachometer and digital information display. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar 125 a commuter motorcycle or a sports bike? A: The Pulsar 125 is generally classified as a sporty commuter motorcycle. It combines commuter-bike practicality with styling and riding characteristics inspired by larger Pulsar models. | Q: What is the engine capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 159.7cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled, 4-valve engine. Q: What is the power output of the Apache RTR 160 4V? A: The bike produces around 17.3 bhp in Sport mode and approximately 14.8 Nm of torque. Q: What mileage does the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V give? A: Real-world mileage usually stays around 40–45 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the Apache RTR 160 4V? A: The motorcycle has an approximate top speed of around 114–120 km/h. Q: Does the Apache RTR 160 4V have riding modes? A: Yes, newer variants offer Sport, Urban, and Rain riding modes. Q: Does the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V get Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, higher variants support TVS SmartXonnect with navigation, call alerts, and ride analytics. Q: What type of cooling system does the Apache RTR 160 4V use? A: The motorcycle uses an oil-cooled engine setup. Q: What brakes are offered on the Apache RTR 160 4V? A: It comes with disc brakes and dual-channel ABS on higher variants. Q: What suspension setup does the Apache RTR 160 4V use? A: The bike uses telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock suspension. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Apache RTR 160 4V? A: The motorcycle comes with a 12-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Apache RTR 160 4V? A: Depending on the variant, kerb weight is around 144–146 kg. Q: Does the Apache RTR 160 4V have LED lights? A: Yes, the motorcycle gets LED headlamp and LED DRLs in newer variants. Q: Is the Apache RTR 160 4V suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes, despite its sporty nature, the bike remains practical enough for everyday city riding. Q: Is the Apache RTR 160 4V good for highway riding? A: Yes, the motorcycle feels stable at highway speeds and has enough performance for touring, though some vibrations can be noticed at higher RPMs. Q: What tyre setup does the Apache RTR 160 4V use? A: The bike uses tubeless tyres mounted on alloy wheels. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Seat | 92170 Split Seat | 94229 Neon Single Seat | 107675 | RM Disc (Black Edition) | 118690 Single Channel ABS | 125440 Dual Channel ABS with USD | 130690 USD with TFT | 138190 |
| Pros | The 124.4cc engine offers stronger performance than most basic commuter motorcycles, making overtakes and daily city riding feel easier without significantly affecting fuel efficiency. The motorcycle retains the familiar Pulsar design language, giving it a larger and more muscular appearance than many other bikes in the 125cc segment. Ride quality is well balanced for everyday use. The suspension setup handles potholes, speed breakers, and uneven roads reasonably well while maintaining stability at regular commuting speeds. The riding position strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The handlebar and footpeg placement allow comfortable daily commuting without feeling overly upright or aggressive. Fuel efficiency remains practical for daily use, with real-world mileage generally ranging between 50–60 km/l depending on riding conditions. The front disc brake variant provides better stopping confidence than many entry-level commuter motorcycles that rely entirely on drum brakes. Spare parts availability, service network reach, and maintenance costs are generally manageable due to the widespread presence of the Pulsar lineup across India. The motorcycle feels stable at moderate highway speeds compared to many lightweight commuter-focused alternatives. | The 159.7cc 4-valve engine feels noticeably stronger and more refined than the regular RTR 160, especially in the mid and top-end range. Acceleration feels quick and lively during overtakes and spirited riding. Handling is one of the bike’s biggest strengths. The chassis feels sharp while cornering, and the motorcycle remains stable even during fast direction changes and higher-speed riding. The suspension setup balances sporty handling with everyday comfort reasonably well, making the bike usable both for city commuting and occasional highway rides. Features like riding modes, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, gear position indicator, and a fully digital display help the motorcycle feel modern within the segment. The exhaust note and aggressive styling give the bike a sporty road presence without becoming excessively loud or flashy. Braking performance on the disc variants feels confident, and dual-channel ABS on higher variants improves control during hard braking situations. The bike manages to maintain decent fuel efficiency despite its sporty tuning, with real-world mileage usually staying around 40–45 km/l depending on riding style. |
| Starter | Electric & Kick | Electric |
| Transmission | 5‑speed | 5-speed manual |
