Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS125
21.5 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Aprilia SR 160
9.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 124.45 cc | 160.03 cc |
| Engine Type | 4-Stroke, SOHC 4-Valve, Air Cooled, BSVI Compliant DTS-i Ei Engine | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 3-valve, air-cooled. |
| Power | 11.8 bhp @ 8500 rpm | 11.27 PS @ 7100 rpm |
| Torque | 11 Nm @ 7000 rpm | 13.44 Nm @ 5300 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 6 litres |
| Mileage | 50 kmpl | 35 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 145 | 118 |
| Seat Height | 805 | 780 mm. |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Single channel ABS with 3 ABS ride modes | Single-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 240 mm (CBS/CBS premium) and 260 mm (ABS) front disc | Disc 220 mm |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic | Telescopic front fork |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum CBS | Drum 140 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock | Mono-shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 90/90 - 17 | 120/70-14 |
| Rear Tyre | 120/80 - 17 | 120/70-14 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Halogen Headlamp | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12V, 4Ah | 12V, 5 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/blue-1.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/2026/03/red-1.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/2026/03/peal-mettalic-white-1.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_grey-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 4 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/pewter-grey-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aprilia_sr_160_banner_blue-scaled.webp |
| Bike Image 5 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/orange-1.avif | 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 | — | Fully digital |
| Color Options | Burnt Black | #1C1C1C Beach Blue | #4A7FA0 Burnt Red | #8B1A1A Pearl Mettalic white | #E8E8E6 Pewter Grey | #6E6E6E Fiery Orange | #F05A28 | SR CARBON|#687559,#000000 SR RACE|#f2180c,#000000 ENIGMA BLACK|#000000 VIBRANT BLUE|#0479cc STORM GREY|#b0b0b0 POWER RED|#f2180c ESSENCE WHITE|#fafaf7 |
| Cons | Not as refined as competitors Air-cooled engine limitation Stiff braking | 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 | The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is built as a smaller-capacity motorcycle within the NS (Naked Sport) lineup, combining a compact engine with a perimeter frame and design elements inspired by larger Pulsar models. At its core, the motorcycle is powered by a 124.45 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that uses a 4-valve SOHC configuration and fuel injection to manage combustion. This engine produces around 12 PS of power at 8500 rpm and 11 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm, figures that are broadly in line with other motorcycles in the 125cc segment. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, which allows the rider to shift through gears depending on speed and riding conditions. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a chain drive system, a common setup in motorcycles of this category. The overall powertrain is designed to provide a mix of usable power and efficiency for everyday riding scenarios. The NS125 is built on a perimeter frame, a structure that surrounds the engine and distributes loads around it during cornering and regular riding. This type of frame is derived from larger NS models. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock suspension, which work together to absorb road irregularities such as bumps and uneven surfaces. For braking, the motorcycle features a front disc brake and a rear drum brake, supported by a combined braking system (CBS). In some variants, a single-channel ABS setup is also available, depending on the configuration. The braking system is designed to distribute stopping force between the wheels to maintain balance during deceleration. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, which are commonly used for road grip and ease of maintenance. This wheel setup contributes to maneuverability and stability in both city traffic and open roads. In terms of dimensions, the Pulsar NS125 has a fuel tank capacity of 12 litres, providing a riding range between refueling stops that depends on fuel consumption and riding conditions. The motorcycle has a kerb weight of around 145 kg and a seat height of approximately 805 mm. Ground clearance is around 178 mm, intended to provide clearance over uneven road surfaces and speed breakers. The instrument cluster on the NS125 is typically a semi-digital console, combining an analog tachometer with a digital display for speed, fuel level, and trip information. Some variants also include Bluetooth connectivity features, offering additional ride data and navigation-related functions through a connected device. Lighting components include a halogen or LED headlamp setup depending on variant, and an LED tail lamp, along with design elements such as the wolf-eyed headlamp styling and split grab rails. | 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 | The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 occupies an interesting position in the 125cc segment - it borrows the perimeter frame, monoshock rear suspension, and streetfighter styling from its larger NS siblings, which gives it a hardware advantage that most competitors at this price point simply cannot match on paper. In real-world city riding, the 124.45cc air-cooled engine delivers adequate performance for stop-and-go traffic and college commutes, though it begins to show its limitations above 80 km/h where vibrations become noticeable through the handlebar and footpegs. The claimed ARAI efficiency of 56+ km/l is optimistic, most owners report figures closer to 34–45 km/l under mixed riding conditions, which is decent but not exceptional for a 125cc motorcycle. The addition of single-channel ABS on the top variant is a genuinely meaningful safety feature for the segment, though the base and mid variants still make do with CBS, and the rear drum brake across all variants feels like a cost compromise that affects overall braking confidence. Build quality and finish are adequate for the price but fall short of what the sporty design aesthetic suggests, plastics feel thin in places and panel gaps are inconsistent on some units. At roughly ₹93,000–₹1,02,000 ex-showroom, the NS125 is reasonably positioned, but buyers willing to stretch their budget slightly will find the NS160 a considerably more complete motorcycle in terms of performance and refinement., 3.2, MotoAutiv Team | Aprilia SR 160 is a "motorcycle in a scooter's body" for its thrilling acceleration and sharp handling, though it is frequently criticized for its stiff suspension, lack of practical storage, and premium price tag., 3.9, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What mileage can I expect from the NS125? A: The bike is reported to deliver around 45–55 km/l, depending on riding conditions, maintenance, and usage. Q: Is the NS125 good for daily commuting? A: Yes, it is generally considered suitable for daily commuting, due to its manageable power, relatively lightweight feel, and fuel efficiency. Q: Is the NS125 comfortable for long rides? A: It can handle short to medium rides comfortably, but for longer highway rides, higher-capacity motorcycles may offer more relaxed cruising ability. Q: What type of engine does the NS125 use? A: The NS125 uses a single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine, which is a straightforward setup compared to liquid-cooled engines found in higher-capacity NS models. | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 35 kmpl. Q: What is the engine displacement? A: The engine displacement is 160.03 cc. Q: What is the power output? A: The power is about 11.27 PS at 7100 rpm. Q: What is the torque output? A: The torque is around 13.4 Nm (varies slightly by variant). Q: What type of cooling system does it have? A: It uses an air-cooled system. Q: What type of transmission does it use? A: The scooter gets a CVT automatic transmission. Q: What braking system does it have? A: It gets a 220 mm front disc and rear drum brake. Q: Does the Aprilia SR 160 have ABS? A: Yes, it comes with single-channel ABS on higher variants. Q: What is the front suspension? A: A telescopic front fork with 30 mm inner tube. Q: What is the rear suspension? A: A mono-shock absorber. Q: What are the tyre sizes? A: Both tyres are 120/70-14 tubeless. Q: What is the kerb weight? A: The kerb weight is around 118–122 kg depending on the variant. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is around 780 mm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 6 litres. Q: What type of headlight does it have? A: It comes with a LED headlight. Q: What type of starter is provided? A: You get both electric start and kick start. Q: What type of instrument cluster does it have? A: It gets a digital or semi-digital cluster depending on variant. Q: Is the Aprilia SR 160 good for daily city commuting? A: Yes, its lightweight, nimble handling, and strong mid-range make it excellent for daily rides. Q: Does it have under-seat storage? A: Yes, it provides practical under-seat storage, with optional USB charging in some variants. |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel injection | Fuel Type: Petrol |
| Price Variants | Standard | 92760 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels, CBS, Halogen headlamp LED Bluetooth | 97409 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels, CBS, LED headlamp LED Bluetooth - ABS | 102111 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels, Single channel ABS, LED headlamp | | 130000 |
| Pros | Sporty NS design and road presence Good performance for daily use Fuel-efficient engine Comfortable and easy to handle Value-for-money positioning | 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 | Kick and Self Start | Self start |
| Transmission | 5 speed manual | Automatic |
| YouTube Video URL | — | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AZ6pX18eFw |
