Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
32.0 pts
Unweighted: 21 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
ATHER RIZTA
22.5 pts
Unweighted: 32 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | — |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | — |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | — |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 4.3 kW |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 22 Nm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | — |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 123 km/charge |
| Top Speed (km/h) | — | 80 |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 125 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 780-840 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Combi Brake System |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 200 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic Forks |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Drum 130 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Monoshock Absorbers |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 90/90 - 12 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 100/80 - 12 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| 0–40 km/h (s) | — | 4.6 |
| Anti-Theft / IoT Tracking | — | Yes |
| App Connectivity | — | Yes |
| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | — |
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | — | 2.9 |
| Battery Chemistry | — | Li-ion |
| Battery Warranty (Years) | — | 5 |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Deccan-grey.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Terracotta-Red.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Pangong-Blue.webp |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Terracotta-Red-duo.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Pangong-Blue-duo.webp |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Deccan-grey-duo-1.avif |
| Bike Image 7 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Cardomom-Green-Duo.avif |
| Bike Image 8 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Alphonso-yellow-Duo.webp |
| Built-in GPS Navigation | — | Yes |
| Charger Output Power (kW) | — | 0.7 |
| Charging Port Type | — | Proprietary |
| Charging Time (Fast) | — | ~0–80% in ~1.5–2 hour (Ather grid) |
| Charging Time (Standard) | — | 0-80% in 6–7 hours |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | — |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Deccan grey | #6E6E73 Terracotta Red | #A63A2A Pangong Blue | #1F3A93 Siachen White | #F5F5F5 Terracotta Red Duo | #A63A2A, #F5F5F5 Deccan Grey Duo | #6E6E73, #F5F5F5 Alphonso Yellow Duo | #F4C430, #F5F5F5 Pangong Blue Duo | #1F3A93, #F5F5F5 Cardomom Green duo | #6B8E23, #F5F5F5 |
| Connectivity Features | — | Bluetooth, 4G, Wi-Fi |
| Cons | Limited Top-End Performance – While strong in the mid-range, the motorcycle is not as exciting at higher RPMs as some performance-focused rivals. Engine Vibrations at Higher Speeds – Mild vibrations can become noticeable through the handlebar and footpegs during prolonged high-speed riding. Seat Comfort Could Be Better for Touring – The seat works well for commuting, but longer highway rides may feel tiring for some riders. Feature List Not Segment-Leading – Certain competitors offer Bluetooth connectivity, riding modes, TFT displays, or traction control systems. Pillion Comfort Is Average – The rear seat is usable for daily travel but may not feel ideal for extended two-up journeys. Wind Blast at Highway Speeds – As a naked street motorcycle, riders experience noticeable wind pressure at higher speeds. Gearbox Feel Could Be Smoother – Some riders report that gear shifts do not feel as refined as certain competitors in the segment. Headlamp Performance Could Be Better – While modern-looking, some users feel the headlamp throw could improve for highway night riding. | Rear drum brake feels basic compared to full disc setups. Ride can feel firm on rough or broken roads. Top speed is limited for highway or long-distance usage. Higher initial price than many petrol scooters. Charging time requires planning if you ride frequently. Some premium features may require optional add-on packs. |
| Detailed Overview | The Pulsar NS160 has always felt slightly different from the average 160cc motorcycle, mainly because it borrows a lot from bigger street bikes instead of following the usual commuter-bike formula. Even today, the exposed perimeter frame, sharp tank shrouds, and underbelly exhaust give it a more mechanical and purposeful look than most motorcycles in its category. It does not look minimal or commuter-focused, and that visual character plays a big role in how the bike is perceived on the road. The motorcycle uses a 160.3cc single-cylinder engine with fuel injection and oil cooling. On paper, the numbers are fairly competitive for the segment, but the way the engine delivers power is more important than outright figures. Most of the usable performance sits in the mid-range, so the bike feels responsive in regular riding conditions like overtaking traffic, accelerating out of corners, or riding through open city roads. It does not chase extremely high top-end performance, but the engine feels energetic enough to keep the motorcycle engaging without becoming difficult to manage in daily use. A large part of the NS160’s identity comes from its chassis. Bajaj uses a perimeter frame instead of the simpler setups seen on many commuter motorcycles, and that changes the way the bike behaves while riding. The front end feels more planted while cornering, and the motorcycle remains fairly stable even when pushed harder than a typical city commuter usually would be. This is one of the reasons many riders still consider the NS160 one of the more enjoyable bikes in the segment from a handling perspective. The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The tuning is not especially soft, so the bike tends to feel firmer over rough roads and sharp potholes. On smoother roads, though, that same firmness helps the motorcycle feel controlled and stable. The wider tyres also contribute to that sense of grip and confidence, particularly while leaning into turns or riding at higher speeds. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends, and newer versions include dual-channel ABS. The braking feel is predictable during regular riding, and the addition of dual-channel ABS helps the motorcycle feel more secure during sudden braking situations, especially on wet or uneven surfaces. Despite the aggressive styling, the riding posture is not overly committed. The handlebar is positioned high enough to avoid putting excessive pressure on the wrists, and the seat height remains manageable for most riders. That balance makes the NS160 usable for everyday commuting while still retaining the slightly sporty feel the design suggests. The split-seat layout and compact tail section add to the visual appeal, although pillion comfort is average rather than especially spacious. The instrument console includes a digital display with information such as speed, fuel level, trip readings, and gear position indication. Recent updates have also added LED lighting and Bluetooth-based navigation support on certain variants, although the feature list remains less extensive than some newer competitors that focus heavily on connected technology. Overall, the NS160 feels more like a street motorcycle adapted for daily use than a commuter bike trying to look sporty. Its strongest points continue to be the chassis behaviour, mid-range performance, and the overall riding feel rather than outright specifications alone. | The Ather Rizta is an electric scooter designed mainly for everyday urban use, with a focus on practicality and ease of riding. It is powered by an electric motor that delivers smooth and silent acceleration, which suits stop-and-go traffic conditions commonly found in cities. The scooter is offered with different battery options, including around 2.9 kWh and 3.7 kWh packs, which affect the overall riding range. Depending on the variant, the claimed range goes up to around 120–160 km on a single charge, although real-world figures can vary based on riding style, traffic, and road conditions. Charging can be done at home using a standard charger, and the time required depends on the battery size. In terms of design, the Ather Rizta has a wider and more spacious layout compared to many other scooters. It features a long and flat seat that is designed to accommodate both the rider and pillion comfortably. The riding posture is upright, with a relaxed handlebar position that makes it easier to manage in daily commuting situations. The floorboard area is also practical, allowing riders to carry small items or bags. The overall weight is balanced in a way that keeps the scooter manageable at low speeds and during parking. The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock, which are tuned to handle typical city roads. While the setup is aimed at providing a comfortable ride, uneven surfaces and potholes can still be felt depending on speed. The braking system includes disc brakes at the front and rear (depending on variant), along with a combined braking system for better control. The scooter runs on standard-sized wheels that are suitable for urban riding conditions. The Ather Rizta comes with a digital display that shows essential information such as speed, battery level, range, and trip details. Higher variants may include a touchscreen interface with additional connected features like navigation, call alerts, and ride statistics. The scooter also supports features such as reverse mode, which can help while parking, and different ride modes that adjust how the motor delivers power. Storage is one of the key aspects of this scooter, with a large under-seat compartment that can fit everyday items and possibly a helmet. There are also additional storage options like front hooks or accessories for carrying bags. Safety and convenience features include LED lighting, side-stand sensors, and other basic alerts. |
| Drive Modes | — | Smart Eco, Eco, Ride, Zip |
| Expert Review | The Pulsar NS160 still feels like one of the more engaging motorcycles in the 160cc segment, mainly because of the way its chassis behaves. The perimeter frame gives the bike a planted feel through corners, and the steering remains predictable even when ridden aggressively in traffic or on twisty roads. Its 160cc oil-cooled engine performs best in the mid-range, where throttle response feels lively enough for quick overtakes and daily commuting, although the top-end performance is less exciting than some rivals. The riding position strikes a reasonable compromise between sporty and comfortable, so the motorcycle does not become tiring in regular use. Ride quality is slightly on the firmer side, especially over sharp bumps, but the suspension setup helps the bike feel stable at higher speeds. The NS160 also benefits from mature styling that still looks purposeful without appearing overly aggressive. At the same time, the feature list now feels simpler compared to newer competitors offering connectivity features and more advanced electronics., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The Ather Rizta is positioned as a family-focused electric scooter in India, with an emphasis on comfort and practicality. Its electric motor offers smooth and quiet performance, which works well for daily city commuting. The seating is wide and relaxed, making it suitable for both rider and pillion, especially in urban conditions. Storage space and usability are designed for everyday needs, though charging infrastructure and range planning still play a role in ownership. The overall riding experience is easy to manage, but road conditions and traffic can influence real-world usability. It fits into the growing electric scooter segment where convenience and running cost are key considerations., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Pulsar NS160? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 160.3cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, oil-cooled engine. Q: Is the Pulsar NS160 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes. Its upright riding posture, manageable dimensions, and responsive mid-range performance make it practical for city riding. Q: What mileage does the Pulsar NS160 deliver? A: Most riders report real-world fuel efficiency between 40–50 kmpl, depending on riding style, traffic, and maintenance. Q: Does the Pulsar NS160 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Recent versions come equipped with dual-channel ABS. Q: Is the Pulsar NS160 beginner-friendly? A: Yes. The motorcycle's predictable handling and manageable power delivery make it approachable for riders upgrading from commuter motorcycles. Q: What is the top speed of the Pulsar NS160? A: Under suitable conditions, the motorcycle can reach approximately 115–120 km/h. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the NS160? A: The motorcycle comes with a 12-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Pulsar NS160 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Selected newer variants offer Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation support. Q: How comfortable is the NS160 for long rides? A: The motorcycle can handle occasional highway rides comfortably, although the firmer suspension and compact seat may feel tiring over very long distances. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Pulsar NS160? A: It is classified as a streetfighter-style street motorcycle with sporty handling and commuter-friendly ergonomics. Q: How is the NS160 different from the Pulsar N160? A: The NS160 feels sportier and sharper in handling due to its perimeter frame and riding dynamics, while the N160 focuses more on refinement and everyday comfort. Q: Does the Pulsar NS160 vibrate at high speeds? A: Mild vibrations can be felt at higher RPMs and sustained highway speeds, particularly through the handlebars and footpegs. Q: Is the NS160 good for college students and young riders? A: Many riders prefer it for its sporty styling, manageable performance, and relatively affordable running costs. Q: Does the Pulsar NS160 have LED lighting? A: Recent versions include LED lighting elements, though equipment may vary depending on the variant and model year. Q: Are spare parts and servicing easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj has a widespread dealership and service network across India, making maintenance and spare parts access relatively convenient. | Q: What is the range of the Ather Rizta? A: The claimed range (IDC) is 123 km with the 2.9 kWh battery and 159 km with the 3.7 kWh battery. Q: What is the top speed of the Ather Rizta? A: The top speed is about 80 km/h. Q: What is the motor specification of the Ather Rizta? A: It uses a PMSM (permanent magnet synchronous motor) with peak power of 4.3 kW and peak torque of 22 Nm. Q: How long does it take to charge the Ather Rizta? A: For 2.9 kWh variants, 0–80% takes about 5 hr 45 min (or 6 hr 30 min with some chargers); 0–100% around 8–8.5 hours. For 3.7 kWh variant, 0–80% takes about 4 hr 30 min and full charge around 5–6 hours. Q: Does the Ather Rizta support fast charging or quick top-up? A: Yes, it supports quick recharges: you can get around 15 km of range with a short 10-minute top-up on a compatible charger. Q: What is the storage capacity or boot space on the Ather Rizta? A: It offers about 56 litres total storage: 34 L under-seat and an optional 22 L front “frunk.” Q: What safety / convenience / smart features does the Ather Rizta offer? A: It includes features such as traction-control-like SkidControl™, emergency-stop signal, tow & theft alerts, “Find My Scooter” function, turn-by-turn navigation (on Z variants), a digital/TFT instrument cluster and a variety of connected-scooter/phone-integration features. Q: How many variants does Ather Rizta come in and what are the battery options? A: There are two primary trims — Rizta S and Rizta Z. Both trims are offered with a 2.9 kWh battery, and the Z trim also gets a 3.7 kWh battery option |
| Fast Charging Supported | — | Yes |
| Final Drive Type | — | belt |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electric |
| Ingress Protection (IP Rating) | — | IP67 |
| Motor Power (Continuous, kW) | — | 2.6 |
| Motor Power (Peak, kW) | — | 4.3 |
| Motor Type | — | PMSM |
| OTA Updates | — | Yes |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | S Mono | 119546 | S Super Matte | 121546 Z Mono | 139047 Z Duo | 140047 Z Super Matte | 141047 S (IDC 159 km) Mono | 142047 Z (IDC 159 km) Mono | 159046 Z (IDC 159 km) Duo | 160046 Z (IDC 159 km) Super Matte | 161046 |
| Pros | Strong Mid-Range Performance – The 160cc oil-cooled engine delivers responsive acceleration in the mid-range, making overtakes and urban riding feel effortless. Sharp Streetfighter Styling – Inspired by the larger NS-series motorcycles, the aggressive tank extensions, exposed perimeter frame, and muscular stance give the NS160 a sporty road presence. Good Handling Balance – The perimeter frame and suspension setup help the motorcycle feel stable while cornering and manageable in city traffic. Comfortable Riding Position – Despite its sporty appearance, the upright ergonomics and wide handlebar make it suitable for daily commuting and occasional longer rides. Refined Engine Character – The engine remains smooth through most of the rev range and provides predictable throttle response for everyday riding conditions. Dual-Channel ABS Availability – Recent versions include dual-channel ABS, improving braking confidence and safety during sudden stops. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively without making the motorcycle feel overly soft. Value-Oriented Feature Package – LED lighting, digital instrumentation, and sporty hardware help the NS160 offer a modern specification list within the segment. | Smooth and silent electric motor makes city riding stress-free. Strong low-end torque helps with quick getaways and overtakes in traffic. Practical real-world range suitable for everyday commutes. Spacious seat and excellent storage capacity, making it very family-friendly. Telescopic front suspension and monoshock rear offer stable, predictable ride quality. Front disc brake provides good stopping power for urban speeds. Smart features like reverse mode, hill-hold, navigation and connectivity enhance daily usability. Skid-control style traction assistance improves confidence on slippery surfaces. Affordable running costs thanks to low maintenance and no fuel expenses. Quiet, vibration-free performance adds to comfort on longer commutes. |
| Starter | Electric | Push Button Start |
| Torque (Electric, Nm) | — | 22 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | — |
| Vehicle Warranty (Years) | — | 3 |
