Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar N160
8.0 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S
24.5 pts
Unweighted: 18 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-Cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 164.82 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Type | 4 Stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC, 2 Valve, Air Cooled, FI | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° |
| Power | 16 PS @ 8750 rpm | 160 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 14.65 Nm @ 6750 rpm | 140 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14 L | 23 L |
| Mileage | 59.11 Kmpl | 17.5 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 250 |
| Seat Height | 795 | 849/869 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual‑channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc | Disc 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Telescopic Forks | WP SAT (semi-active technology) Upside-Down Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc | Disc 267 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono‑shock | WP SAT (semi-active technology) shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 120/70 - ZR19 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70‑17 Tubeless | 170/60 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Bi-functional Sealed LED projector HL with LED DRLs | LED Headlight |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Glossy-racing-red.avif | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/SKy-blue.avif | — |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Metallic-white.avif | — |
| Cluster | Semi‑digital LCD | Scratch-resistant 7-inch TFT display |
| Color Options | Brooklyn Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F4F4F0 Polar Sky Blue | #3A7BD5 Glossy Racing Red | #C1121F | Orange | #FF6600, #000000 |
| Cons | Limited Top-End Performance – While the bike performs well in the city and mid-range, riders seeking strong high-speed acceleration may find the top-end performance less exciting than some rivals. Slightly Firm Rear Suspension – On badly broken roads and sharp bumps, some riders report that the rear suspension can feel firm, especially when riding solo. Weight Noticeable at Parking Speeds – Although manageable while riding, the motorcycle's weight can feel slightly noticeable during tight parking manoeuvres and low-speed handling. Pillion Comfort Could Be Better for Long Rides – The split-seat design provides adequate space, but extended journeys may feel less comfortable for the passenger compared to some commuter-focused motorcycles. Gear Shift Feel Not Always Consistent – A few owners have reported occasional stiffness in gear shifts, particularly before the motorcycle has been fully run-in. Limited Wind Protection – As a naked streetfighter, the N160 offers little protection from wind blast during sustained highway riding. Feature Availability Varies by Variant – Certain features such as Bluetooth connectivity and navigation are restricted to specific variants, which may create differences in equipment levels across the range. Engine Character Prioritizes Practicality – The tuning focuses on everyday usability and smoothness rather than outright sportiness, which may not appeal to riders looking for a more aggressive performance-oriented feel. | High Price & Running Cost: As a premium big adventure bike, the 1290 SAS is expensive to buy and maintain. Complex Electronics: The rich electronics package may be overwhelming for some riders and can lead to occasional software glitches. Reliability Concerns: Some owners report electrical issues (e.g., MTC error, key fob issues) and other rare faults. Seat Comfort: The stock seat is criticized by several users for being hard, especially on long rides. Weight: With a kerb weight of around 250 kg, it’s a heavy machine, which can make it less agile in certain situations, particularly off-road. Heat & Engine Complexity: The powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, and servicing its complex components (like twin plugs, semi-active suspension, etc.) can be demanding. |
| Detailed Overview | The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a street-naked motorcycle positioned in the 160cc segment and forms part of Bajaj’s newer generation of Pulsar models. It adopts a muscular design language inspired by larger motorcycles in the Pulsar N series, featuring sharp body panels, a sculpted fuel tank, compact tail section, and a projector-style LED headlamp setup. The motorcycle combines commuter-friendly dimensions with styling elements commonly associated with modern streetfighters, giving it a distinct appearance within its category. At the heart of the Pulsar N160 is a 164.82cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, air-cooled engine. The engine produces approximately 16 PS of power and 14.65 Nm of torque, and is paired with a five-speed gearbox. The powertrain is tuned to provide accessible performance across everyday riding conditions, particularly in urban environments where smooth throttle response and low-to-mid-range torque are important. Fuel injection technology helps ensure consistent fuel delivery under varying operating conditions, while the air-cooled configuration contributes to mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance. The motorcycle is built around a perimeter frame that serves as the foundation of its chassis. This frame design is intended to provide structural rigidity while supporting stable handling characteristics. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock setup. Together, these components are designed to absorb road irregularities encountered during daily commuting while maintaining predictable behaviour through corners and changing road surfaces. The suspension tuning aims to balance rider comfort with handling stability across a variety of riding conditions. Braking performance is managed through disc brakes, with dual-channel ABS available on higher variants. The anti-lock braking system helps prevent wheel lock-up during sudden braking situations and contributes to controlled deceleration on different types of road surfaces. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, a configuration commonly used for convenience and practicality in everyday riding scenarios. The Pulsar N160 incorporates a range of modern features depending on the selected variant. LED lighting is used for the headlamp, tail lamp, and daytime running lamps, improving visibility while contributing to the motorcycle’s contemporary appearance. A fully digital instrument console provides information such as speed, fuel level, odometer readings, trip information, gear position indicator, and other riding data. Certain variants also include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing access to functions such as call notifications, message alerts, and turn-by-turn navigation through a compatible smartphone. In terms of rider ergonomics, the motorcycle adopts an upright seating position with a wide handlebar and centrally positioned footpegs. This arrangement is designed to support comfort during daily commuting while maintaining adequate control during longer rides. The seat height of approximately 795 mm makes the motorcycle accessible to a broad range of riders, while the split-seat design accommodates both rider and passenger. A 14-litre fuel tank further supports everyday usability by reducing the frequency of fuel stops during regular travel. Combining a fuel-injected air-cooled engine, perimeter frame chassis, modern digital features, LED lighting, and streetfighter-inspired styling, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 represents a contemporary offering in the premium commuter motorcycle segment. Its specifications focus on balancing practicality, rider comfort, everyday performance, and modern technology for a wide range of riding requirements. | The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is the thrilling apex of KTM’s travel bike lineup, blending raw power with modern electronics and long-distance capability to deliver a truly versatile adventure machine. At the core of the bike lies its mighty 1,301 cc LC8 V-twin engine, which churns out around 160 PS of power and 140 Nm of torque. This translates into effortless rapid acceleration, strong highway performance, and the brute force needed to carry luggage or cruise with a pillion. Whether you’re blasting down twisty mountain roads or towing through open terrain, the 1290 SAS feels like a bike that can do it all. One of the standout features of the Super Adventure S is its adaptive cruise control (ACC) – a rare find in this segment. With its radar-based system, riders can maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, reducing fatigue during long rides. This, combined with a rich electronics suite that includes Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes (Rain, Street, Off-road, Rally), gives you confidence and control no matter where you’re headed. The 7-inch TFT display serves as the cockpit brain, presenting ride data, navigation details, and vital alerts with clarity. In terms of handling and comfort, the 1290 SAS strikes a remarkable balance. Equipped with semi-active WP suspension, the bike dynamically adjusts damping based on ride conditions, ensuring a smooth ride over broken tarmac while maintaining tight control when pushing hard. The trellis frame is rigid yet light enough to make the weight (over 250 kg) feel manageable. The ergonomics are well thought out – the adjustable windshield, comfortable seat, and raised handlebars make for a relaxed riding posture that’s ideal for long touring. Fuel capacity is another strong point. With its 23-litre tank, the Super Adventure S offers excellent range, making it ideal for epic road trips. For riders planning multi-day journeys or even cross-country routes, fuel stops are less of a chore, and the engine’s broad torque curve ensures manageable fuel consumption even under load. However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The Super Adventure S’s powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, especially in heavy traffic or warm climates. The price tag is also quite premium, reflecting its status as a high-spec adventure bike with semi-active suspension and advanced electronics. As with any complex, electronics-loaded machine, maintenance and service costs are higher than simpler bikes. Despite these trade-offs, the 1290 Super Adventure S excels at its intended purpose: it’s a performance-focused travel machine that doesn’t compromise on comfort or high-speed capability. For riders who crave an adventure bike that feels equally at home on high-speed highways, winding backroads, or loose terrain, the 1290 SAS is one of the most compelling choices. It combines KTM’s racing pedigree with real-world usability, making long-distance touring not just practical but exhilarating. In summary, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a high-performance, high-comfort adventure bike that brings together advanced technology, raw power, and touring durability. If you’re looking for an adventure motorcycle that doesn’t feel like you’re making too many compromises power-wise or comfort-wise, the 1290 SAS delivers a premium, capable, and thrilling ride. |
| Expert Review | The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is built around a 164.82cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine paired with a five-speed gearbox. The engine focuses on delivering usable low- and mid-range performance, making it well-suited to urban traffic conditions where frequent acceleration and gear changes are common. Its perimeter frame provides a stable foundation, while the suspension setup balances ride comfort with predictable handling on a variety of road surfaces. The motorcycle features LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and dual-channel ABS on selected variants, adding modern functionality to the overall package. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and well-padded seat contribute to everyday comfort, while the fuel tank capacity and refined power delivery make it practical for regular commuting as well as occasional highway use. At higher speeds, riders may notice the lack of wind protection typical of naked motorcycles, and the engine's tuning prioritizes smoothness and accessibility over aggressive top-end performance. The N160 combines contemporary streetfight, 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a large touring-focused bike built around a 1301cc V-twin engine that produces strong power and feels smooth even at highway speeds. Despite its size, the bike feels quite balanced once it is moving, and the riding position is upright, which helps on long rides. It comes with electronic suspension, ride modes, traction control, and cruise control, which allow the rider to adjust the bike based on road and riding conditions. The suspension handles most road surfaces well, though its size can feel noticeable in tight city spaces. The windscreen and overall design offer good protection from wind, making long-distance riding easier. The TFT display is clear and shows a lot of information, but it may take some time to get used to all the settings and controls., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N160? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 164.82cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Bajaj Pulsar N160 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes. Its upright riding posture, smooth power delivery, and manageable dimensions make it suitable for everyday city riding. Q: What mileage does the Pulsar N160 deliver? A: Owners generally report real-world fuel efficiency between 45-55 kmpl, depending on riding style, traffic conditions, and maintenance. Q: Does the Pulsar N160 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Higher variants come equipped with dual-channel ABS, while equipment may vary depending on the selected model. Q: Is the Pulsar N160 comfortable for long rides? A: The upright ergonomics, spacious seat, and stable chassis make it suitable for occasional highway rides and weekend trips. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Pulsar N160? A: The motorcycle features a 14-litre fuel tank, helping reduce the frequency of fuel stops during regular use. Q: Does the Pulsar N160 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Selected variants offer Bluetooth connectivity with features such as call alerts, message notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Pulsar N160? A: The seat height is approximately 795 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Is the Pulsar N160 beginner-friendly? A: Yes. Its predictable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and manageable weight make it approachable for new riders. Q: How does the Pulsar N160 differ from the Pulsar N150? A: The N160 offers a more powerful engine, dual-channel ABS options, a perimeter frame, and a stronger focus on performance-oriented riding dynamics. Q: Does the Pulsar N160 vibrate at high speeds? A: Most riders find the engine relatively refined, though mild vibrations may be noticeable at higher RPMs and sustained highway speeds. Q: What type of riding is the Pulsar N160 best suited for? A: It is primarily designed for urban commuting, daily transportation, and occasional highway journeys. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj has an extensive dealership and service network across India, making routine maintenance and parts availability relatively convenient. Q: What are the key features of the Bajaj Pulsar N160? A: Depending on the variant, features include LED lighting, a digital instrument console, Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, USB charging, and dual-channel ABS. Q: Does the Pulsar N160 offer good highway stability? A: The perimeter frame and chassis setup help the motorcycle maintain stability and predictable handling at typical highway cruising speeds. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It uses a 1,301 cc V-twin (LC8) engine with 75° configuration. Q: How much power and torque does KTM 1290 Super Adventure S deliver? A: The motor produces 160 PS (118 kW) and 140 Nm of torque. Q: What is the fuel capacity and mileage of KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It has a 23-litre fuel tank. According to Autocar India, the claimed fuel efficiency is 17.5 km/l. Q: What type of brakes and ABS does this bike use? A: The 1290 Super Adventure S features 320 mm front discs and 267 mm rear discs, backed by Bosch combined ABS with cornering ABS and an off-road ABS mode. Q: What suspension setup is on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It comes with WP semi-active suspension (SAT), a 48 mm upside-down fork in the front and a semi-active rear shock absorber. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance of KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: The seat height is 849 mm, adjustable up to 869 mm, and ground clearance is 223 mm. Q: What instrument cluster does KTM 1290 Super Adventure S come with? A: It features a 7-inch TFT display, which supports angle adjustment, navigation via KTM Connect, and can show ride data. Q: Is the 1290 Super Adventure S good for touring? A: Yes, with its large fuel tank, long travel suspension, and comfort-oriented electronics (like ACC and adjustable windscreen), it's well-suited for long-distance touring. Q: What is the kerb / dry weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: The kerb weight is approximately 220 kg (per 91Wheels). |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel Single Seat | 116142 Dual Channel Single Seat | 118909 Dual Channel Single Seat USD | 124549 Dual Channel Split Seat USD | 128496 | STD | 2273900 |
| Pros | Refined Engine Performance – The 164.82cc Air-cooled engine delivers smooth power delivery with minimal vibrations, making it suitable for both city commuting and occasional highway rides. Strong Low and Mid-Range Torque – The engine produces usable torque at lower and mid RPMs, allowing riders to accelerate comfortably in traffic without frequent gear shifts. Comfortable Riding Ergonomics – The upright handlebar position, well-placed footpegs, and spacious seat create a relaxed riding posture for daily use. Confident Braking Performance – Dual-channel ABS variants provide controlled and predictable braking, enhancing rider confidence during sudden stops and wet-road conditions. Stable Handling Characteristics – The chassis feels planted through corners and remains composed at higher speeds, contributing to a balanced riding experience. Modern Feature Package – Features such as LED lighting, digital instrumentation, smartphone connectivity, and turn-by-turn navigation on select variants add convenience to everyday riding. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively, helping maintain comfort on uneven urban roads. Muscular Streetfighter Styling – The sharp tank extensions, projector LED headlamp, and aggressive bodywork give the motorcycle a distinctive street-naked appearance. | Massive Power & Torque: Powered by a 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine, the 1290 SAS delivers 160 PS and 140 Nm of torque, great for both highway cruising and spirited rides. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Comes with radar-based ACC, which allows you to lock on to a vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance automatically, a big plus for long touring. Advanced Rider Electronics: Features such as Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes add a high level of safety and versatility. Semi-Active WP Suspension: The WP semi-active suspension adjusts damping dynamically, offering comfort, sporty control, or off-road capability depending on the mode. Long Range Fuel Tank: With a 23-liter fuel tank, it gives a very decent range for touring or long rides. Premium Build & Components: The build quality is high, with a strong trellis frame, durable engine internals (like DLC coatings), and overall excellent material quality. Comfort & Ergonomics: Adjustable windshield, adjustable seat height, and rider-focused ergonomics make it comfortable for long-distance journeys. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 5‑speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
