Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Hero XPULSE 210
9.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 210 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | 4 Stroke 4 Valve Single Cylinder Liquid Cooled DOHC |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 24.6 PS @9250rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 20.7 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 13 litres |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 40 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 168 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 830 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Single / Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Petal Disc 276 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic Front Forks Dia 41mm with anti friction bush |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Petal Disc 220 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Rectangular swingarm with 10 steps adjustable gas charged mono-shock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 90/90 - 21 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 120/80 - 18 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubed |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | 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 | 12V - 6Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Azure-Blue.png |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/White.png |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | — |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Azure Blue | #1F4E8C Alpine Silver | #6F7378 Glacier White | #F5F7F7 |
| 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. | Wind Protection Is Limited: Despite its adventure-bike styling, the windscreen offers only moderate protection at higher highway speeds. Seat Height May Be Challenging: Shorter riders may find the tall seat height intimidating, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Engine Refinement at Higher RPMs: Some riders notice vibrations becoming more apparent when the engine is pushed harder for extended periods. Not Focused on Sporty Handling: The long-travel suspension and off-road setup prioritize versatility over sharp cornering performance on tarmac. Pillion Comfort Could Be Better: While suitable for daily use, the rear seat may feel narrow during longer journeys. Fuel Tank Capacity Is Average: Riders planning extended touring routes may find themselves stopping more frequently compared to some larger adventure 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 Hero XPulse 210 is designed for riders who often find themselves dealing with a mix of road conditions rather than sticking to perfectly paved highways. Whether it’s pothole-ridden city streets, broken rural roads, gravel tracks, or occasional off-road trails, the motorcycle has been built with the idea of handling all of them without requiring major compromises. While it continues the adventure-focused philosophy of the XPulse family, the move to a new 210cc platform brings noticeable changes in performance, technology, and overall capability. One of the biggest updates is the new 210cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. Producing around 24.6 PS and 20.7 Nm, it offers a stronger and more relaxed riding experience than its predecessor, especially when speeds start to rise. In city traffic, the engine feels flexible enough to move along without constant gear changes, while on highways the six-speed gearbox allows it to cruise more comfortably. The liquid-cooling system also helps maintain consistent performance during long rides and in slow-moving traffic where air-cooled engines can often feel more strained. The motorcycle’s adventure-bike credentials remain a central part of its identity. A 21-inch front wheel, long-travel suspension, and around 220 mm of ground clearance allow the XPulse 210 to tackle rough terrain that would make many road-biased motorcycles uncomfortable. Deep potholes, rocky paths, loose gravel, and uneven surfaces are all areas where the bike’s suspension setup comes into its own. Rather than transmitting every bump directly to the rider, the suspension is designed to absorb impacts and maintain control across changing terrain. The riding position reflects the motorcycle’s intended purpose. The wide handlebar provides plenty of leverage when maneuvering through traffic or standing on the footpegs during off-road riding. The seat is relatively spacious, and the upright posture reduces strain on the wrists and shoulders during longer journeys. With a seat height of around 830 mm, taller riders are likely to feel comfortable, while shorter riders may need some time to get accustomed to it. Technology has also taken a step forward. The XPulse 210 features a TFT instrument display that provides access to navigation functions, smartphone connectivity, ride information, and other vehicle data. Full LED lighting improves visibility and gives the motorcycle a more modern appearance. Multiple ABS modes allow riders to adjust braking intervention depending on whether they are riding on tarmac or venturing onto loose surfaces. The fuel tank holds approximately 13 litres, which, combined with the motorcycle’s fuel efficiency, provides a useful range for touring and adventure riding. Despite its adventure-focused design, the XPulse 210 remains relatively light for the category, helping riders manage the bike more easily during low-speed riding, off-road situations, and everyday commuting. Visually, the motorcycle retains the rugged look that XPulse models are known for. The tall stance, raised front mudguard, windscreen, knuckle guards, and rally-inspired bodywork give it a purpose-built appearance. Unlike many adventure motorcycles that are primarily designed for touring, the XPulse 210 continues to emphasize versatility and the ability to explore beyond paved roads. The Hero XPulse 210 combines a liquid-cooled engine, long-travel suspension, adventure-oriented chassis, modern electronics, and practical ergonomics into a motorcycle intended for riders who regularly encounter different types of terrain. Its design and specifications reflect the needs of those who want a machine capable of handling daily commutes during the week and exploring less-traveled roads when the opportunity arises. |
| 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 Hero XPulse 210 builds on the formula that made the XPulse series popular, but the larger 210cc liquid-cooled engine gives it a broader range of abilities. The additional power is immediately noticeable on highways, where the motorcycle feels more comfortable maintaining cruising speeds and handling overtakes, while still remaining easy to ride in city traffic. Its long-travel suspension, 21-inch front wheel, and generous ground clearance continue to be key parts of the package, allowing it to deal with broken roads, gravel tracks, and uneven surfaces with confidence. The upright riding position, wide handlebar, and spacious seat make it suitable for spending extended hours on the road, while features such as a TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, and riding modes add modern functionality. Rather than feeling like a motorcycle designed purely for off-road adventures or highway touring, the XPulse 210 comes across as a machine intended to handle a wide variety of riding conditions, from daily commuting to weekend exploration, with its engine, chassis, and equipment working together to support that versatility., 4.6, 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 engine capacity of the Hero XPulse 210? A: The Hero XPulse 210 is powered by a 210cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces approximately 24.6 PS of power and 20.7 Nm of torque. Q: What is the real-world mileage of the Hero XPulse 210? A: Most riders can expect a real-world fuel efficiency of around 35-42 km/l, depending on riding conditions, terrain, and riding style. Q: What is the top speed of the Hero XPulse 210? A: The Hero XPulse 210 can achieve a top speed of approximately 130 km/h under suitable conditions. Q: Is the Hero XPulse 210 suitable for off-road riding? A: Yes, the Hero XPulse 210 is designed with off-road capability in mind and features long-travel suspension, high ground clearance, spoke wheels, and a 21-inch front wheel. Q: What is the ground clearance of the Hero XPulse 210? A: The Hero XPulse 210 offers approximately 220 mm of ground clearance, helping it tackle rough terrain and obstacles. Q: Does the Hero XPulse 210 have riding modes? A: Yes, the Hero XPulse 210 comes with multiple ABS modes, including settings designed for off-road riding. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Hero XPulse 210? A: The Hero XPulse 210 is equipped with a 13-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Hero XPulse 210 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, the motorcycle features Bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and smartphone integration. Q: What is the seat height of the Hero XPulse 210? A: The Hero XPulse 210 has a seat height of approximately 830 mm, which may feel tall for some riders. Q: Is the Hero XPulse 210 suitable for touring? A: Yes, the combination of an upright riding position, comfortable ergonomics, long-travel suspension, and a six-speed gearbox makes the Hero XPulse 210 suitable for touring. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Hero XPulse 210? A: The Hero XPulse 210 has a kerb weight of approximately 168 kg, making it relatively light for an adventure motorcycle. Q: What are the major differences between the Hero XPulse 210 and XPulse 200 4V? A: The Hero XPulse 210 offers a larger liquid-cooled engine, more power, a six-speed gearbox, updated electronics, improved highway performance, and a redesigned chassis compared to the Hero XPulse 200 4V. Q: Can the Hero XPulse 210 be used as a daily commuter? A: Yes, despite its adventure-bike design, the Hero XPulse 210 remains practical for daily commuting thanks to its manageable weight, upright ergonomics, and flexible engine characteristics. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Base | 166745 Top | 175963 |
| 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. | More Powerful Engine: The new 210cc liquid-cooled engine offers noticeably stronger performance than the older XPulse 200, especially during highway riding and overtaking. Built for Bad Roads: With its long-travel suspension, high ground clearance, and 21-inch front wheel, the XPulse 210 feels comfortable on broken roads, gravel, and rough terrain. Comfortable Riding Position: The upright handlebar, spacious seat, and relaxed ergonomics make the motorcycle suitable for long hours in the saddle. Improved Highway Capability: The additional power and sixth gear allow the bike to cruise at highway speeds more comfortably than its predecessor. Lightweight Adventure Motorcycle: Compared to many adventure bikes, the XPulse 210 remains relatively light and easy to handle, both on and off the road. Feature-Rich Package: Features such as a TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, riding modes, and full LED lighting add modern functionality. Good Suspension Travel: The suspension setup is designed to absorb rough surfaces effectively, helping the bike maintain composure on uneven terrain. Accessible for New Adventure Riders: The manageable weight and predictable handling characteristics make it approachable for riders entering the adventure touring segment. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed |
