Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar N250
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Apache RTR 160
10.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil‑cooled | Air-cooled (2V) |
| Displacement | 249.07 cc | 159.7 cc |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, 4 stroke, SOHC, 2 valve, Oil cooled, FI | SI, 4 Stroke, Air Cooled, SOHC, Fuel Injection |
| Power | 18 kW (24.5 PS) @ 8750 rpm | 16.04 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 21.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 13.85 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14 L | 12 litres |
| Mileage | 39 Kmpl | 47 |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 164 | 137 |
| Seat Height | 795 | 790 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual‑channel ABS | Single/Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc | 270 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | USD telescopic fork (37 mm) | Upside Down Forks with 37mm dia |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc | 130 mm Disc / Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono‑shock | Monotube Inverted Gas Filled Shox (MIG) With Spring Aid |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/70–17 Tubeless | 90/90 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 140/70–17 Tubeless | 110/80 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy wheels |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Bi functional LED projector headlamp with LED DRLs | Halogen HS1 35/35W with LED DRL |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | 12V, 6Ah MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-6.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/T-Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Matte-Blue-1.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Matte-Black-2.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Glossy-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Anniversary.avif |
| Cluster | Fully digital LCD | Digital |
| Color Options | Glossy Racing Red | #C1121F Pearl Metallic White | #F4F4F0 Brooklyn Black | #1B1B1B | Matte Black | #1A1A1A Matte Blue | #315C9B Pearl White | #F2F2EE Glossy Black | #111111 T Grey | #6B6F76 Racing Red | #A50000 Anniversary Edition | #2E2E2E, #C89B3C |
| Cons | Limited Top-End Excitement – While the engine performs strongly in the mid-range, some enthusiasts feel it lacks the aggressive high-RPM character found in certain rivals. Gearbox Could Feel More Precise – Some riders have reported that gear shifts are not always as slick or crisp as those offered by a few competing motorcycles. Suspension Can Feel Firm on Sharp Bumps – The setup generally balances comfort and handling well, but harsh potholes and broken roads can occasionally be felt through the chassis. No Wind Protection at Highway Speeds – As a naked streetfighter, the motorcycle exposes the rider to wind blast during prolonged high-speed riding. Pillion Comfort Is Average for Touring – While suitable for daily use, the rear seat may not be the most accommodating option for extended two-up journeys. Feature Availability Depends on Variant – Certain features such as traction control, riding modes, and connectivity functions may be restricted to specific versions. Weight Noticeable During Parking Manoeuvres – Although manageable while riding, the motorcycle's weight can feel slightly noticeable when pushing it around in tight spaces. Competition Offers More Premium Hardware – Some rivals in the segment provide features such as upside-down forks, more advanced electronics, or liquid-cooled engines, depending on the price point. | Some riders still notice vibrations at higher RPMs and highway speeds, especially during longer rides. The riding posture and seat setup can feel slightly tiring on long-distance touring compared to more relaxed commuter motorcycles. Fit-and-finish quality in certain plastic panels and components could feel better when compared to some rivals in the segment. Some owners have reported inconsistent service experiences depending on dealership location. The braking setup on older or lower variants has received mixed feedback from some riders, although newer versions now offer improved ABS equipment. Taller riders may find the riding ergonomics slightly compact during extended rides. |
| Detailed Overview | Within India’s growing 250cc motorcycle segment, the Bajaj Pulsar N250 occupies a space that bridges the gap between everyday commuter motorcycles and larger performance-oriented street bikes. It has been developed to offer a combination of practical usability, modern technology, and accessible performance, making it suitable for riders who require a motorcycle capable of handling both urban travel and highway riding. The N250 also represents one of the more feature-rich offerings in the Pulsar lineup, incorporating updated styling and contemporary equipment alongside a larger-capacity engine. The motorcycle draws attention with its muscular design language. A sculpted fuel tank, sharp tank shrouds, projector LED headlamp, and compact rear section contribute to its modern street-bike appearance. The bodywork follows an aggressive yet functional approach, with exposed mechanical components and minimal fairing panels emphasizing its naked-bike design. LED lighting is used throughout, including the headlamp, daytime running lights, and tail lamp, enhancing visibility while complementing the overall styling. At the heart of the Pulsar N250 is a 249.07cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled engine paired with a five-speed gearbox. The engine produces approximately 24.5 PS of power and 21.5 Nm of torque. Fuel injection helps ensure precise fuel delivery and consistent throttle response across varying riding conditions, while the oil-cooling system assists in regulating operating temperatures during extended use. The engine characteristics focus on delivering usable performance throughout the rev range, particularly in low- and mid-range speeds where most daily riding takes place. Supporting the engine is a tubular frame chassis designed to provide a balance between stability and manoeuvrability. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension system. This setup is intended to absorb road imperfections while maintaining predictable handling characteristics. Whether navigating city streets, uneven surfaces, or open highways, the suspension and chassis work together to provide controlled road manners and rider confidence. Braking responsibilities are managed by disc brakes at both ends, complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard equipment. The anti-lock braking system helps reduce the possibility of wheel lock-up under hard braking conditions and assists riders in maintaining control. Recent versions of the motorcycle also include traction control, which monitors rear-wheel grip and intervenes when excessive wheel slip is detected. Riding modes are available as well, allowing riders to adjust throttle response characteristics according to different riding requirements. The feature list includes a digital instrument console that displays information such as speed, fuel level, gear position, trip information, distance-to-empty data, and other ride-related details. Bluetooth connectivity on selected variants enables smartphone integration, providing call alerts, message notifications, and navigation assistance. These features are designed to improve convenience while maintaining a rider-focused interface. Comfort remains an important aspect of the motorcycle’s design. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and centrally positioned footpegs create a relaxed seating position for everyday use. A seat height of approximately 795 mm makes the motorcycle accessible to a wide variety of riders, while the split-seat arrangement provides accommodation for both rider and passenger. The 14-litre fuel tank further supports longer journeys by reducing the frequency of refuelling stops. With its 249cc engine, modern electronics, advanced safety features, and street-focused design, the Bajaj Pulsar N250 offers a specification package that caters to a broad range of riding scenarios within the 250cc motorcycle category. | The TVS Apache RTR 160 is designed as a sporty commuter motorcycle that tries to combine everyday practicality with a more engaging riding experience. Unlike regular commuter bikes that focus mainly on fuel efficiency and comfort, the Apache RTR 160 adds sharper performance and aggressive styling into the package while still remaining usable for daily riding. Its overall design follows the streetfighter approach, with muscular tank extensions, sharp body panels, LED lighting elements, and a sporty riding stance that gives the motorcycle a more performance-oriented appearance. At the centre of the bike is a 159.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces close to 16 bhp of power and around 13.8 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox, and the tuning focuses heavily on strong mid-range performance. This becomes noticeable during overtakes and quick acceleration in city traffic, where the motorcycle feels more responsive than many basic commuter bikes. Power delivery remains smooth at lower speeds, but the engine also feels eager when pushed harder through the mid and upper RPM range. The exhaust note further adds to the sporty feel without becoming excessively loud. The Apache RTR 160 also offers riding modes in newer variants, including Sport, Urban, and Rain mode. These modes adjust throttle response and ABS intervention depending on riding conditions. Sport mode delivers sharper acceleration, while Urban and Rain modes soften throttle response slightly to improve control on slippery roads or during regular commuting. This feature is not commonly seen in many motorcycles within this segment and adds a more modern feel to the riding experience. The chassis and suspension setup play a major role in the motorcycle’s sporty character. The bike uses telescopic front forks along with twin rear shock absorbers that are tuned to balance comfort and handling. The suspension setup handles potholes and uneven roads reasonably well, but it also keeps the motorcycle stable during cornering and quick direction changes. The overall handling feels agile and confidence-inspiring, especially in city traffic where the lightweight chassis and responsive steering help the bike feel easy to maneuver. Braking duties are managed by disc brakes, with newer variants receiving single-channel ABS for added safety during sudden braking. The braking setup provides predictable stopping power for everyday riding as well as more spirited usage. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres that offer decent grip and stability on regular road surfaces. In terms of dimensions, the Apache RTR 160 remains compact enough for urban riding while still offering a slightly sporty riding posture. The seat height is manageable for most riders, and the split-style seat setup adds to the motorcycle’s aggressive appearance. The fuel tank capacity is around 12 litres, which works well with the bike’s fuel efficiency figures that usually stay between 40–50 km/l depending on riding conditions and throttle usage. Feature-wise, the motorcycle includes a fully digital instrument cluster with SmartXonnect connectivity in higher variants. Riders get access to Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, gear position indicator, lap timer, and riding analytics. LED DRLs and modern graphics also help the bike feel updated compared to more traditional commuter motorcycles. |
| Expert Review | The Bajaj Pulsar N250 is powered by a 249.07cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox, delivering a torque-focused riding experience that is particularly noticeable in city traffic and during highway overtakes. The motorcycle's perimeter frame, wide handlebar, and upright ergonomics contribute to stable handling and rider comfort across a variety of road conditions. Features such as a digital instrument console, LED lighting, traction control, riding modes, and Bluetooth connectivity on selected variants bring modern functionality to the package. The suspension setup is tuned to balance ride comfort and control, while the braking system with dual-channel ABS provides predictable stopping performance. The engine emphasizes smooth power delivery and mid-range usability rather than aggressive high-rev performance, and the naked streetfighter design means riders experience noticeable wind blast at higher speeds. Overall, the N250 combines contemporary styling, everyday practicality, modern features, and accessible performance., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team | The TVS Apache RTR 160 has always been known for bringing a sporty feel into the commuter motorcycle segment, and that character is still very noticeable in the way it rides. The engine feels energetic in city traffic, especially in the mid-range, where quick acceleration and overtakes happen without much effort. What makes the bike stand out more is its handling, the chassis feels light and responsive while cornering, and the overall balance gives the rider confidence even at higher speeds. At the same time, the suspension setup manages to keep the ride reasonably comfortable on uneven roads, so the bike does not feel overly stiff during daily commuting. Features like the digital console, Bluetooth connectivity, and riding modes on higher variants help it feel more modern compared to many traditional commuters. However, the sporty tuning also means some vibrations can still be noticed at higher RPMs, and the riding posture may feel slightly tiring on long highway rides. Overall, the Apache RTR 160 balances commuter practicality with sporty performance in a way that makes it feel more engaging than a typical everyday motorcycle., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N250? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 249.07cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled engine. Q: Is the Pulsar N250 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes. The upright riding position, manageable dimensions, and strong low- and mid-range torque make it practical for everyday city use. Q: What mileage does the Pulsar N250 deliver? A: Most owners report a real-world fuel efficiency of around 32–40 kmpl, depending on riding style, traffic conditions, and maintenance. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. The motorcycle is equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 offer traction control? A: Yes. Recent versions include traction control to help manage wheel slip under certain riding conditions. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 feature riding modes? A: Yes. Select variants offer riding modes that adjust throttle response characteristics for different riding situations. Q: Is the Pulsar N250 comfortable for long rides? A: The upright ergonomics, spacious seat, and stable chassis make it suitable for highway travel and weekend touring. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar N250? A: The motorcycle comes with a 14-litre fuel tank, providing a useful riding range between refuelling stops. Q: What is the seat height of the Pulsar N250? A: The seat height is approximately 795 mm, making it accessible to a wide variety of riders. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Selected variants include Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts, message notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation. Q: Is the Pulsar N250 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with basic motorcycling experience can adapt to the motorcycle comfortably, thanks to its predictable power delivery and manageable ergonomics. Q: How does the Pulsar N250 differ from the Pulsar NS200? A: The N250 offers a larger engine, stronger torque delivery, modern electronics, and a more relaxed riding posture, while the NS200 has a more rev-happy performance character. Q: Does the Pulsar N250 vibrate at highway speeds? A: Most riders consider the engine reasonably refined, though mild vibrations may become noticeable at higher RPMs and sustained high speeds. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Pulsar N250? A: It is classified as a naked streetfighter or sports commuter, designed to balance everyday practicality with sporty performance. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's extensive dealership and service network across India generally ensures good parts availability and maintenance support. | Q: What is the engine capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 160? A: The bike comes with a 159.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. Q: What mileage does the TVS Apache RTR 160 give? A: Real-world mileage generally stays around 40–50 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the TVS Apache RTR 160? A: The motorcycle has an approximate top speed of around 110–115 km/h. Q: Does the TVS Apache RTR 160 have riding modes? A: Yes, newer variants offer multiple ride modes including Urban, Rain, and Sport. Q: Does the TVS Apache RTR 160 get Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, higher variants support Bluetooth connectivity with navigation and call alerts through TVS SmartXonnect. Q: What type of brakes does the Apache RTR 160 use? A: It comes with disc brake options along with single/Dual channel ABS. Q: Is the TVS Apache RTR 160 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes, the bike balances sporty performance with everyday practicality for regular commuting. Q: What suspension setup does the TVS Apache RTR 160 use? A: The bike uses telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 160? A: The motorcycle comes with a fuel tank capacity of around 12 litres. Q: Is the TVS Apache RTR 160 good for highway riding? A: It can handle highway rides comfortably, though some vibrations become noticeable at higher speeds. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 136974 | RM Drum Black Edition | 112190 RM Drum | 113340 RM Disc | 116540 RM Disc BT | 119640 Racing Edition | 120940 Dual Channel ABS | 123990 Limited Edition | 126650 |
| Pros | Strong Mid-Range Performance – The 249cc engine delivers ample torque in the mid-range, making overtaking and highway cruising feel effortless without frequent gear changes. Refined Engine Character – Riders often appreciate the smooth power delivery and relatively low vibration levels compared to many motorcycles in the segment. Comfortable Riding Ergonomics – The upright seating position, wide handlebar, and well-cushioned seat provide comfort for daily commuting as well as longer rides. Stable Highway Manners – The motorcycle feels planted at higher speeds, giving riders confidence during highway journeys and fast-moving traffic conditions. Light and Predictable Handling – Despite its engine capacity, the N250 remains easy to manoeuvre in city traffic and offers confidence-inspiring cornering behaviour. Feature-Rich Package – Depending on the variant, features such as traction control, riding modes, a digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB charging add modern functionality. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively while maintaining stability on uneven surfaces. Attractive Streetfighter Styling – The muscular fuel tank, LED projector headlamp, and sharp bodywork give the motorcycle a distinctive road presence. Practical for Everyday Use – The combination of manageable power, comfortable ergonomics, and reasonable fuel efficiency makes it suitable for a wide range of riding conditions. | The engine feels lively and responsive in city riding conditions, especially in the mid-range where quick overtakes and acceleration feel effortless. The throttle response adds a sporty character without making the bike difficult to manage. Handling is one of the strongest areas of the bike. The chassis feels agile in corners, and the motorcycle remains stable while changing directions or filtering through traffic. Ride quality is balanced well for Indian roads. The suspension handles potholes and uneven surfaces reasonably comfortably while still maintaining sporty feedback. The bike manages to combine decent mileage with performance. Many owners report real-world efficiency figures around 40–50 km/l depending on riding style. Features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, riding modes (on higher variants), and a fully digital instrument cluster help the bike feel modern within the segment. The aggressive styling, sporty exhaust note, and road presence continue to attract riders looking for a performance-oriented commuter motorcycle. Maintenance costs and spare part availability are generally considered manageable for long-term ownership |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | Manual 5‑speed | 5-speed manual |
