Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
24.5 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Bajaj CT125x
8.0 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
||
| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Air‑cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 124.45 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | 4 stroke, Air cooled Single cylinder, SOHC, DTSi |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 10.9 PS @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 11 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 11 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 59.6 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
||
| Kerb Weight | 152 | 130 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 810 |
Brakes & Suspension |
||
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | 130 mm Disc/Drum |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic (125 mm travel) |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | 130 mm Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | SNS with Nitrox (100 mm travel) |
Tyres & Wheels |
||
| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 80/100–17 Tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 100/90–17 Tubeless |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
||
| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | Halogen |
Other Specifications |
||
| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-green.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ebony-red-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | — |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | — |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Ebony Black with Red Decals | #111111, #A00000 Ebony Black with Blue Decals | #111111, #2456A6 Ebony Black with Green Decals | #111111, #2F6B3D |
| 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. | Despite the larger engine, performance remains commuter-oriented and does not feel particularly exciting at higher speeds. The motorcycle uses a front disc and rear drum brake setup, but braking performance is still tuned more for regular commuting than aggressive riding. The design is functional rather than premium, and some buyers may find the styling too utilitarian compared to modern 125cc commuters. The instrument cluster is basic and lacks features such as Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or advanced digital displays. Engine vibrations can become noticeable when the motorcycle is ridden near its top speed for extended periods. The suspension is comfort-focused, which means handling feels stable but not especially sharp during fast cornering. Highway cruising ability is better than smaller commuter bikes, but the motorcycle is still primarily designed for daily transportation rather than long-distance touring. Since the model has been discontinued in India, availability of certain body panels, graphics, or model-specific cosmetic parts may become more limited over time compared to current-production motorcycles. |
| 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 Bajaj CT 125X is a commuter motorcycle that has been developed with an emphasis on practicality, durability, and everyday usability. While it shares the basic purpose of most commuter bikes, providing economical transportation, it introduces several design elements that make it stand apart from conventional city-focused commuters. Features such as a metal bash plate, fork gaiters, crash guards, and semi-knobby tyres give the motorcycle a more rugged appearance and highlight its focus on handling rough road conditions alongside regular urban commuting. Powering the motorcycle is a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned to deliver usable low and mid-range performance rather than aggressive acceleration. This tuning allows the motorcycle to respond smoothly in city traffic and makes it easier to ride at everyday speeds. Compared to smaller 100cc commuter motorcycles, the additional engine capacity provides improved pulling power, which can be useful when carrying a pillion rider, transporting luggage, or riding on inclines. The 5-speed transmission also helps maintain a more relaxed engine speed during longer rides and moderate highway usage. Fuel efficiency remains an important part of the motorcycle’s overall character. Real-world mileage generally falls in the range of approximately 55–65 km/l depending on riding habits, traffic conditions, and maintenance. Combined with its 11-litre fuel tank, the motorcycle offers a riding range that suits riders who cover substantial distances as part of their daily routine. The riding posture is designed around comfort and control. A wide handlebar, upright seating position, and neutral footpeg placement create a natural riding triangle that does not place excessive strain on the rider. The seat is long and reasonably spacious, allowing both rider and pillion to sit comfortably during daily commutes. These ergonomics make the motorcycle suitable for prolonged periods of use in urban environments and on mixed road surfaces. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. The setup is tuned primarily to absorb uneven surfaces and reduce the impact of potholes, speed breakers, and damaged roads. This suspension configuration works together with the motorcycle’s relatively high ground clearance, allowing it to travel over rough patches without frequent contact between the underside of the bike and the road surface. The semi-knobby tyre pattern further contributes to the motorcycle’s ability to maintain grip on mixed terrain, including gravel roads and less-developed routes. Visually, the CT 125X follows a straightforward and functional design philosophy. The bodywork remains simple, but the addition of protective elements and contrasting graphics creates a tougher appearance than a typical commuter motorcycle. Alloy wheels, tank pads, and practical utility-focused components contribute to the overall design theme without significantly increasing complexity. Braking performance varies depending on the variant, with front disc and drum brake options offered during its production run. The motorcycle uses Combined Braking System (CBS), which distributes braking force between the wheels to improve stability during braking. Tubeless tyres add another practical element by reducing inconvenience in the event of minor punctures. The feature list remains focused on essential functionality. The instrument cluster provides basic riding information in a simple and easy-to-read format, while electric start functionality improves convenience during daily use. Unlike premium motorcycles, the CT 125X does not rely heavily on advanced electronics or connected technologies, instead maintaining a straightforward mechanical setup aimed at routine transportation and ease of ownership. |
| 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 Bajaj CT 125X feels like a motorcycle developed for riders who need something tougher than a typical city commuter without moving into a larger or more expensive segment. Its 124.4cc engine provides a noticeable improvement in pulling power over most 100cc commuters, making daily riding with a pillion or luggage feel less demanding. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, and the higher ground clearance, bash plate, fork gaiters, and semi-knobby tyres give the bike a practical advantage on broken roads and rural routes. The riding posture remains upright and relaxed, which helps during long hours of commuting. Rather than focusing on modern technology or sporty performance, the CT 125X prioritizes durability, simplicity, and ease of ownership. Features remain basic and highway performance is limited by commuter-bike standards, but the motorcycle is clearly aimed at riders who value robustness and everyday usability above everything else., 4.3, 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: Is the Bajaj CT 125X discontinued in India? A: Yes. Bajaj has discontinued the CT 125X from its current India lineup, although used models are still available in the pre-owned market. Q: What engine does the Bajaj CT 125X use? A: It is powered by a 124.4cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Q: What mileage does the Bajaj CT 125X deliver? A: Real-world mileage generally ranges between 55–65 km/l depending on riding conditions and maintenance. Q: What is the top speed of the CT 125X? A: The motorcycle can reach an approximate top speed of around 95–100 km/h. Q: What makes the CT 125X different from the CT 110X? A: The CT 125X gets a larger 124.4cc engine, a 5-speed gearbox, and stronger performance while retaining the rugged commuter design. Q: Does the Bajaj CT 125X have a front disc brake? A: Yes. Higher variants were offered with a front disc brake, while some versions used a drum brake setup. Q: Does the CT 125X have ABS? A: No. The motorcycle does not offer ABS and instead uses CBS (Combined Braking System). Q: What suspension setup does the CT 125X use? A: It uses telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the CT 125X? A: The motorcycle comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of the CT 125X? A: Depending on the variant, kerb weight is approximately 130 kg. Q: Does the CT 125X use tubeless tyres? A: Yes, it comes equipped with tubeless tyres mounted on alloy wheels. Q: Is the CT 125X suitable for rough roads? A: Yes. The higher ground clearance, semi-knobby tyres, bash plate, and comfort-oriented suspension help it handle rough surfaces more effectively than many standard commuters. Q: Does the CT 125X have electric start? A: Yes, electric start was available on the motorcycle. Q: Is the Bajaj CT 125X beginner-friendly? A: Yes. The upright ergonomics, predictable power delivery, and manageable weight make it easy for new riders to handle. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Carburetor |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Drum | 73702 Disc | 76902 |
| 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. | The 124.4cc engine offers noticeably stronger pulling power than typical 100–110cc commuter motorcycles, making overtakes, pillion riding, and carrying luggage easier in everyday use. The motorcycle is built with rough-road practicality in mind. Features such as the metal bash plate, fork gaiters, crash guards, and higher ground clearance help it cope better with broken roads and rural routes. Ride comfort is a strong point. The suspension setup absorbs potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces reasonably well, making long daily commutes less tiring. Fuel efficiency remains impressive for a 125cc motorcycle, with real-world mileage often ranging between 55–65 km/l depending on riding conditions. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and spacious seat create a comfortable riding position for both city commuting and longer daily journeys. The motorcycle feels mechanically simple, which helps keep maintenance costs affordable and servicing straightforward even in smaller towns. The rugged design gives it a tougher visual identity than most conventional commuter motorcycles in the segment. Tubeless tyres and electric start improve convenience for everyday ownership. |
| Starter | Electric | Kick and Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 5‑speed |
