Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Breakout
13.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 104.69 @ 5020 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 168 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 18.9 litres |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 17 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 309 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 665 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock, 43mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustment |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps, dual rate spring |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 130/60 B21 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 240/40 R18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Cast aluminum (26-spoke) |
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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| 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/2025/06/Centerline.jpeg |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Firestorm.jpeg |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Gray.jpeg |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Red.jpeg |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | Analog speedo with LCD inset |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Centerline | #D8A628 Brilliant Red | #A01824 Midnight Firestorm | #1A1A1A |
| 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. | Handling Prioritises Style Over Agility – The long wheelbase and wide rear tyre can make the motorcycle feel less nimble than other cruisers when changing direction quickly. Limited Cornering Clearance – Riders can reach the limits of the footpegs earlier than expected when cornering aggressively. Not Designed for Touring – The stock setup lacks wind protection, luggage capacity, and touring-oriented equipment. Wide Rear Tyre Influences Low-Speed Handling – The 240-section rear tyre can make the motorcycle feel heavier during slow-speed manoeuvres and tighter turns. Minimal Pillion Comfort – Passenger accommodation is secondary to the motorcycle's styling-focused design. Fuel Tank Capacity Is Modest for Long Trips – While suitable for cruising, the fuel tank is smaller than those found on dedicated touring motorcycles. Premium Ownership Costs – Insurance, servicing, tyres, accessories, and replacement parts can represent a significant expense. Engine Heat Can Be Noticeable in Traffic – The large V-twin engine can generate considerable heat during prolonged stop-and-go riding. Limited Practicality – Storage options, weather protection, and everyday utility are not major priorities in the Breakout's design. Requires Familiarity at Low Speeds – The combination of weight, wheelbase, and rear tyre width can require an adjustment period for riders unfamiliar with large cruisers. |
| 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 Harley-Davidson Breakout is a motorcycle that takes much of its inspiration from custom drag-style cruisers. Its proportions are noticeably different from those of conventional cruisers, with a long wheelbase, stretched fuel tank, low seat height, and an exceptionally wide rear tyre. These design choices play a major role in shaping both the motorcycle’s appearance and riding characteristics. Within Harley-Davidson’s lineup, the Breakout is part of the Softail family, sharing its underlying platform with several other models while maintaining a distinct visual identity focused on custom-cruiser styling. Power comes from Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-capacity V-twin designed around strong low- and mid-range torque. Unlike engines that rely on high engine speeds to deliver performance, the Milwaukee-Eight develops much of its pulling power lower in the rev range. This affects the way the motorcycle accelerates and responds to throttle inputs, particularly during relaxed road riding and highway cruising. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission, allowing the motorcycle to operate at relatively low engine speeds while travelling at highway velocities. Fuel injection manages fuel delivery and throttle response under varying riding conditions. The Softail chassis forms the structural foundation of the Breakout. One of the defining elements of the Softail platform is its hidden rear monoshock suspension system. Although the motorcycle visually resembles a traditional hardtail cruiser, the concealed rear suspension provides wheel travel and damping for road use. At the front, conventional telescopic forks handle suspension duties. Together, the suspension components are configured to support the motorcycle’s low stance while maintaining ride control across different road surfaces. A significant part of the Breakout’s visual and mechanical character comes from its rear wheel setup. The motorcycle uses a wide 240-section rear tyre, which is considerably larger than what is found on most standard motorcycles. This tyre contributes to the motorcycle’s appearance and influences handling characteristics, particularly at lower speeds and during directional changes. The front wheel adopts a narrower profile, creating a visual contrast that reinforces the stretched custom-cruiser design. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by modern electronic safety systems. Recent versions of the Breakout include ABS and traction control as standard equipment. Depending on market and specification, additional rider-assistance features such as selectable riding modes and cornering-sensitive electronic systems may also be available. These technologies work through onboard sensors and are intended to assist with braking and traction management under different riding conditions. The riding position reflects the motorcycle’s cruiser-oriented design. Forward-mounted foot controls place the rider’s legs in a stretched-out position, while the handlebar is positioned to allow a relatively relaxed upper-body posture. The seat height is approximately 665 mm, making it one of the lower motorcycles in Harley-Davidson’s range. This low seating position contributes to both the motorcycle’s styling and rider accessibility. The Breakout carries an 18.9-litre fuel tank integrated into its elongated fuel tank design. Lighting functions are handled by LED units, and the motorcycle incorporates a compact digital display for essential riding information. Compared to Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles, instrumentation remains relatively straightforward, focusing primarily on core vehicle data rather than extensive infotainment functions. With its Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, Softail chassis, hidden rear suspension, wide rear tyre, and stretched cruiser proportions, the Harley-Davidson Breakout represents a modern interpretation of the factory custom cruiser concept. Its specifications and layout are centered around low-slung styling, strong torque delivery, and traditional V-twin cruiser architecture while incorporating contemporary electronic safety systems and modern engineering solutions. |
| 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 Breakout is one of those motorcycles where the styling largely dictates the riding experience. Everything about it, from the stretched profile to the enormous rear tyre, is designed to create a particular visual impact, and that comes with certain compromises. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the motorcycle well, delivering strong torque with very little effort and making relaxed cruising feel natural. On open roads, the Breakout feels stable and unhurried, encouraging a laid-back riding style rather than aggressive cornering. The long wheelbase and wide rear tyre contribute heavily to its character, but they also make the bike feel less agile than some other cruisers when the road becomes tight or technical. Harley-Davidson has also incorporated modern electronics and rider-assistance systems, helping the motorcycle feel more contemporary beneath its traditional cruiser appearance. The Breakout is best understood as a factory custom cruiser rather than an all-round motorcycle. Its priorities are visual presence, straight-line performance, and relaxed cruising, with practicality and outright handling taking a secondary role., 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: What type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Breakout? A: The Breakout is classified as a power cruiser, combining custom-inspired styling with a large-capacity V-twin engine and relaxed cruiser ergonomics. Q: Which engine powers the Harley-Davidson Breakout? A: The motorcycle uses the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Breakout designed for touring? A: Not primarily. While it can cover long distances, the motorcycle is focused more on cruising and styling than dedicated touring comfort. Q: What is the seat height of the Breakout? A: The seat height is approximately 665 mm, making it one of the lower motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup. Q: Why does the Breakout have such a wide rear tyre? A: The 240-section rear tyre is a major part of the motorcycle's custom-cruiser styling and contributes significantly to its visual presence. Q: Does the wide rear tyre affect handling? A: Yes. It contributes to the Breakout's distinctive look but can make low-speed manoeuvres and direction changes feel heavier than on narrower-tyred motorcycles. Q: Does the Breakout have riding modes? A: Yes. Recent models include selectable ride modes and electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: Does the Breakout come with cruise control? A: Depending on market and model year, cruise control may be available as standard or optional equipment. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Breakout? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 18.9 litres. Q: Is the Breakout suitable for beginners? A: Due to its size, weight, torque output, and wide rear tyre, it is generally better suited to riders with some experience. Q: How is the Breakout different from the Fat Boy? A: The Breakout focuses more on custom-cruiser styling with a stretched profile and wider rear tyre, while the Fat Boy offers a broader, more traditional cruiser character. Q: Is the Breakout comfortable for a passenger? A: Passenger accommodation is relatively limited in stock form, as the motorcycle's design prioritizes its solo-rider custom-cruiser appearance. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Breakout? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 310 kg in running condition, depending on specification. Q: Does the Breakout have smartphone connectivity? A: The feature set is relatively simple compared to Harley-Davidson's touring motorcycles, and smartphone integration varies by market and model year. Q: What body type does the Breakout belong to? A: It is generally categorized as a power cruiser or custom cruiser, designed around strong torque delivery, relaxed ergonomics, and custom-inspired styling. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | STD | 3179000 |
| 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. | Striking Custom-Cruiser Styling – The Breakout is built around a long, low silhouette with a wide 240-section rear tyre, stretched fuel tank, and extensive chrome detailing. Its design takes strong inspiration from custom drag-style cruisers. Powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine – The large V-twin produces substantial torque across the rev range, making acceleration feel effortless without requiring frequent gear changes. Strong Straight-Line Performance – The combination of abundant torque and a low-slung chassis suits relaxed cruising and rapid roll-on acceleration. Premium Fit and Finish – Paint quality, chrome components, switchgear, and overall construction reflect the motorcycle's premium positioning within Harley-Davidson's lineup. Comfortable Solo Riding Position – The low seat height and relaxed ergonomics allow riders to spend extended periods in the saddle without adopting an aggressive posture. Wide Rear Tyre Enhances Road Presence – The massive rear tyre is a defining visual element and contributes to the motorcycle's distinctive stance. Modern Rider Assistance Features – Recent models include ABS, traction control, selectable ride modes, and other electronic rider aids integrated into the Softail platform. Strong Customisation Potential – Like many Harley-Davidsons, the Breakout serves as a popular base for aftermarket modifications and personalization. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
