Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
17.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
JAWA 350
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 334 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Single cylinder, 4 stroke, liquid cooled, DOHC |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 22.57 PS |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 28.1 Nm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 13.2 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 184 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 790 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc with floating caliper 280 mm 2 piston |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc with floating caliper 240 mm 1 piston |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Twin shock absorber, gas filled emulsion with 5-step adjustable pre-load |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | Spoke Wheel – 100/90-18, 56S |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | Spoke Wheel – 130/80-17, 65S |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tube |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | Halogen |
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/2025/11/350white.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Deep-Forest.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Gray.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Legacy-Edition-Deep-Forest.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Legacy-Edition-Maroon.avif |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Maroon.avif |
| Bike Image 7 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Mystic-Orange.avif |
| Bike Image 8 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Obsidian-Black.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | — |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Obsidian Black | #0D0D0D Chrome Black | #1C1C1C Chrome White | #F5F5F5 Legacy Edition Maroon | #7A1E24 Legacy Edition Deep Forest | #3A5F4A Mystic Orange | #C65A1E Maroon | #6E1A1F Deep Forest | #2F4F3E Grey | #6B6F76 |
| 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. | Mileage is average for a 350cc bike (28–32 kmpl) On the heavier side at around 184 kg Top speed is modest compared to some competitors Limited storage options without accessories Rear suspension can feel stiff on bad roads Pricing may feel slightly premium due to the special-edition package |
| 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. | Instead of trying to change the formula, the Jawa 350 sticks to a layout that feels familiar the moment you look at it, and that same approach carries into the way it is built. At its core is a 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 22.5 bhp and 28.2 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine uses fuel injection, and the power delivery is spread in a way that feels steady rather than sharp, allowing the bike to move through traffic and open roads without needing constant effort from the rider. The motorcycle is based on a double cradle frame, which plays a role in keeping the bike stable while riding. With a kerb weight of around 194 kg, it has a slightly heavy feel when standing still, but that weight also adds to its planted nature once in motion. The seat height is close to 790 mm, which makes it manageable for most riders, and the 13.2-litre fuel tank gives it a usable range for daily rides. Ground clearance of around 178 mm helps in dealing with uneven patches and speed breakers without much concern. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This setup is commonly seen in this segment and is meant to deal with regular road conditions. The bike runs on spoke wheels with tube-type tyres, with an 18-inch front and 17-inch rear combination. This setup influences how the bike feels on different surfaces, especially when it comes to stability and feedback from the road. Braking is managed by disc brakes at both ends, with a 280 mm disc at the front and a 240 mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS comes as standard, adding a layer of control during braking, particularly on unpredictable road surfaces. The braking feel is tuned to be progressive, which means it builds up gradually instead of feeling too sharp. In terms of features, the bike keeps things straightforward. It uses an analogue instrument cluster with a small digital display for basic information such as fuel level, trip details and warning lights. Lighting remains mostly halogen, staying in line with the overall design direction. There are no riding modes or advanced electronics, and the setup focuses on essential functions that support everyday use. The overall design follows a traditional pattern, with a rounded fuel tank, simple body panels and a long, single-piece seat. It is offered in multiple colour options, including standard and chrome finishes, depending on the variant. While these choices mainly change how the bike looks and is priced, the mechanical setup remains consistent, keeping the overall experience similar across the range. |
| 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 Jawa 350 sits in a segment in India where motorcycles are often chosen as much for their character as for their daily usability. Its design follows a traditional approach, drawing clear inspiration from older Jawa models, which continues to hold relevance among riders who prefer a familiar, classic appearance. At the same time, the underlying mechanical setup has been updated to meet present-day requirements, making it suitable for regular city commuting as well as occasional longer rides. In a market largely influenced by established players like Royal Enfield, the Jawa 350 positions itself as an alternative that delivers a similar old-school riding experience, but with its own distinct feel in terms of engine response and overall behaviour. It also reflects the broader shift in the Indian motorcycle market, where buyers are increasingly considering aspects like design identity and everyday practicality alongside performance., 4.0, 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 Jawa 350 Legacy Edition? A: It is a special-themed variant of the Jawa 350 with retro styling, chrome elements, and added touring accessories. Q: What is the engine capacity of the Jawa 350 Legacy Edition? A: It has a 334cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Q: What is the power and torque output? A: The bike produces around 22.5 PS of power and 28.1 Nm of torque. Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 28–32 kmpl in real-world riding. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 13.2 litres. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm. Q: Does it have ABS? A: Yes, it comes with dual-channel ABS. Q: What type of suspension does it use? A: It has 35mm telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers with 5-step preload adjustment at the rear. Q: What is the top speed? A: The top speed is around 120–125 km/h. Q: Is the Jawa 350 Legacy Edition good for daily commuting? A: Yes, its smooth engine and comfortable ergonomics make it suitable for daily use. Q: Is it good for long rides? A: Yes, the touring visor, comfortable seat, and relaxed riding posture make it ideal for touring. Q: What is the kerb weight of the bike? A: The kerb weight is around 184 kg. Q: What are the special features of the Legacy Edition? A: It includes a touring visor, pillion backrest, crash guard, chrome finish, and special edition collectibles. Q: Does it have any performance changes compared to the standard Jawa 350? A: No, performance is similar; the Legacy Edition mainly gets cosmetic and touring upgrades. Q: Is the Jawa 350 Legacy Edition worth buying? A: Yes, it is a great choice if you want a retro-styled motorcycle with added touring comfort and exclusivity. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Legacy Edition |183407 STD - Spoke Wheel | 183407 STD - Alloy Wheel | 194470 Chrome - Alloy Wheel | 211063 Chrome - Spoke Wheel | 219950 |
| 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. | Classic retro styling with premium chrome finish Smooth and refined 334cc liquid-cooled engine Good torque for city and highway rides Comfortable riding posture suitable for long journeys Touring extras like visor, backrest, and crash guard included Dual-channel ABS for safer braking Low seat height makes it accessible for most riders Strong road presence and limited-edition appeal |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6–Speed – Gearbox |
