Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar N160
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
YAMAHA R15 S
10.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-Cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Displacement | 164.82 cc | 155 CC |
| Engine Type | 4 Stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC, 2 Valve, Air Cooled, FI | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve |
| Power | 16 PS @ 8750 rpm | 13.5kW(18.4PS)/10000 RPM |
| Torque | 14.65 Nm @ 6750 rpm | 14.2 Nm (1.4 kgfm) @7,500 RPM |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14 L | 11 L |
| Mileage | 59.11 Kmpl | 40 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 142 |
| Seat Height | 795 | 815 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual‑channel ABS | Dual channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc | Disc brake (282 mm) |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Telescopic Forks | Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc | Disc brake (220 mm) |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono‑shock | Monocross (link suspension) |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/80-17M/C 52P |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70‑17 Tubeless | 140/70R17M/C 66H |
| 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 |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 4.0 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Glossy-racing-red.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/new-matte-black.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/SKy-blue.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/racing-blue-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Metallic-white.avif | — |
| Cluster | Semi‑digital LCD | Digital |
| Color Options | Brooklyn Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F4F4F0 Polar Sky Blue | #3A7BD5 Glossy Racing Red | #C1121F | Racing Blue | #1B4FAF Matte Black | #1A1A1C Matte Black (New) | #1A1A1C, #C62828 |
| 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. | Aggressive Riding Position for Daily Commuting – Although more comfortable than the R15 V4 due to its single-piece seat, the clip-on handlebars and sporty ergonomics can still become tiring in heavy traffic and during longer city rides. Misses Out on USD Front Forks – The R15S uses conventional telescopic front forks, whereas the R15 V4 and R15M come equipped with upside-down forks that offer a more premium feel and appearance. No Traction Control System – Unlike the higher-spec R15 V4 and R15M variants, the R15S does not offer traction control. No Quickshifter – Riders do not get the clutchless upshift functionality available on the R15M and selected R15 V4 variants. Basic Instrument Cluster Compared to Newer Rivals – The display provides essential information but lacks the advanced connectivity and modern interface offered by some competitors. Performance Requires Higher RPMs – The VVA engine performs best when revved, meaning riders often need to shift gears frequently to access its strongest performance. |
| 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 Yamaha R15S is aimed at riders who like the sharp styling and sporty character of the R15 range but want something a little more practical for everyday use. While it shares most of its mechanical components with the R15 V4, the biggest difference is the single-piece seat, which offers more room for both the rider and pillion. As a result, the R15S sits in an interesting space where it carries the DNA of a small supersport motorcycle while remaining usable for daily commuting. Power comes from Yamaha’s familiar 155cc liquid-cooled engine, which has been a key part of the R15 lineup for several years. The motor uses Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), a technology designed to maintain performance across different engine speeds. In normal city riding, the motorcycle feels smooth and manageable, but as the revs climb, the engine develops a more energetic character. The six-speed gearbox works alongside an assist and slipper clutch, which keeps clutch effort light in traffic and helps make downshifts feel smoother when riding enthusiastically. One of the strongest aspects of the R15S is its chassis. The motorcycle is built around Yamaha’s Deltabox frame, a setup that has long been associated with the company’s performance-oriented motorcycles. On the road, this translates into a motorcycle that feels stable when cornering and predictable when changing direction. Whether navigating through city traffic or riding on a winding road, the bike responds accurately to rider inputs without feeling nervous or heavy. The suspension setup consists of telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. Unlike the R15 V4, the R15S does not use upside-down forks, but the overall setup is tuned to provide a balance between everyday usability and sporty handling. The ride quality tends to feel firm rather than plush, which suits the motorcycle’s sporty nature but also means rough roads can be felt more clearly through the seat and handlebars. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS. This allows both wheels to benefit from anti-lock braking intervention during sudden braking situations. The braking performance matches the motorcycle’s overall character, offering a controlled and confidence-inspiring feel without requiring excessive effort from the rider. Visually, the R15S continues to look every bit like a member of Yamaha’s R-series family. The full fairing, sharp bodywork, sculpted fuel tank, and aggressive front-end design give it the appearance of a larger supersport motorcycle. LED lighting at both ends further adds to the modern look, while the fully digital instrument console provides information such as speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details in a clean layout. With a kerb weight of around 142 kg and a seat height of 815 mm, the R15S remains approachable for a wide range of riders. The 11-litre fuel tank offers a useful balance between range and overall weight, making the motorcycle suitable for both daily travel and occasional weekend rides. Rather than being defined by outright performance numbers, the Yamaha R15S is a motorcycle whose character comes from its combination of a high-revving engine, precise handling, sporty ergonomics, and a more accommodating seat layout. It takes the core ingredients of the R15 platform and presents them in a package that feels slightly more practical without moving away from its sportbike roots. |
| 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 Yamaha R15S occupies an interesting position within Yamaha's sportbike lineup because it combines the mechanical foundation of the R15 family with a slightly more practical approach to everyday riding. The 155cc VVA engine remains the centerpiece of the experience, delivering its performance in a manner that encourages riders to explore the upper reaches of the rev range while still offering enough flexibility for routine commuting. The motorcycle feels composed when leaned into corners, and the Deltabox frame continues to provide the sense of precision that has long been associated with the R15 platform. Compared with the R15 V4 and R15M, the single-piece seat improves day-to-day usability and pillion accommodation, though the riding posture still reflects the motorcycle's supersport origins. On uneven roads, the suspension setup prioritizes stability and control over outright softness, which means sharper bumps can be felt through the chassis. The overall package focuses more on rider engagement, chassis balance, and sport-oriented dynamics than on advanced electronics or touring comfort, resulting in a riding experience that remains closely aligned with the R-series identity., 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: Is the Yamaha R15S good for daily use? A: Yes, the R15S is often chosen by riders who want a sportbike for everyday commuting. The single-piece seat makes it more practical than the R15 V4, although the riding position is still sport-oriented. Q: What is the real mileage of the Yamaha R15S? A: Most owners report mileage figures between 40 km/l and 50 km/l, depending on traffic conditions, riding style, and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the Yamaha R15S? A: Under suitable conditions, the Yamaha R15S can reach around 135–140 km/h. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes, the Yamaha R15S comes equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have traction control? A: No, traction control is not available on the R15S. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S get a quickshifter? A: No, the R15S does not come with a quickshifter. This feature is available on the R15M and selected R15 V4 variants. Q: What is the seat height of the Yamaha R15S? A: The seat height is approximately 815 mm, which is the same as the R15 V4. Q: Is the Yamaha R15S comfortable for long rides? A: It is more comfortable than the R15 V4 because of its single-piece seat, but the sporty riding posture can still become tiring during very long journeys. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Yamaha R15S? A: The motorcycle comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Yamaha R15S? A: The Yamaha R15S has a kerb weight of approximately 142 kg. Q: What is the difference between Yamaha R15S and Yamaha R15 V4? A: The R15S uses a single-piece seat and conventional telescopic forks, while the R15 V4 gets split seats, USD front forks, traction control, Bluetooth connectivity, and additional premium features depending on the variant. Q: Which is better for daily use, Yamaha R15S or Yamaha R15 V4? A: Riders who prioritize comfort often prefer the R15S because of its single-piece seat, while the R15 V4 offers more features and a sportier overall package. Q: Is the Yamaha R15S suitable for beginners? A: Yes, many new riders start with the R15S because the engine is manageable, the bike is lightweight, and the handling is predictable. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have VVA technology? A: Yes, the R15S uses Yamaha's Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system, which helps maintain performance across different engine speeds. Q: Is the Yamaha R15S good for highway riding? A: The motorcycle is capable of highway cruising, and the fairing provides useful wind protection. However, the committed riding position may not suit every rider on very long trips. Q: Does the Yamaha R15S have an assist and slipper clutch? A: Yes, the Yamaha R15S comes equipped with an assist and slipper clutch as standard. |
| 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 | | 155600 |
| 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. | Refined 155cc VVA Engine – The liquid-cooled engine with Variable Valve Actuation delivers smooth performance across a wide rev range and remains one of the most technologically advanced engines in the segment. Sportbike-Inspired Handling – The Deltabox frame provides excellent chassis balance and precise handling, especially while cornering and changing direction. More Comfortable Than the R15 V4 – Unlike the split-seat setup on the R15 V4, the R15S uses a single-piece seat that offers improved comfort for both rider and pillion. Strong Highway Stability – The aerodynamic fairing and well-sorted chassis help the motorcycle remain composed at higher speeds. Good Fuel Efficiency – Despite its sporty nature, the engine is capable of delivering fuel economy figures that remain competitive in the 150cc category. Aggressive R-Series Styling – The design closely resembles Yamaha's larger supersport motorcycles, giving the bike a premium sportbike appearance. Assist and Slipper Clutch – This reduces clutch effort and helps improve stability during downshifts. Lightweight and Manageable – The motorcycle remains easy to handle in urban traffic while still offering a sporty riding feel. LED Headlamp and Tail Lamp – The LED lighting setup contributes to visibility and modern styling. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 5‑speed manual | Constant mesh, 6-speed |
