Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
18.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
JAWA PERAK
13.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 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 | 22.01 kW @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 30.01 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
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 | 187 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 750 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc with Dual Channel ABS - 280 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic Forks, Ø 35 mm |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc with Dual Channel ABS - 240 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Mono Shock Absorber, Gas Filled with 7-Step Adjustable Preload |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/90-18, 56H |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 140/70-17, 66H |
| 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 | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.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 | Stealth Matte Black & Matte Grey | #1A1A1A, #4A4F55 |
| 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. | Single-seat restriction: The bike cannot carry a pillion, which limits practicality for riders who occasionally need two-up capability. Firm suspension: On broken or uneven roads, the rear suspension can feel a bit stiff, especially at lower speeds. Not ideal for long touring: The smaller fuel tank and single-seat setup make long-distance touring less convenient. Spoke wheels: Since the wheels are not tubeless, punctures can be more troublesome to deal with. Basic instrument cluster: The cluster provides only essential information and lacks modern features like a gear indicator or detailed trip data. Engine heat in traffic: In slow-moving urban traffic, the engine can generate noticeable heat, especially in warmer weather. |
| 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. | There are motorcycles that try to balance many roles, and then there are those that follow a very specific idea. The Jawa Perak belongs to the second group, and that approach is visible not just in its design but also in the way it is built and set up. At the centre of the bike is a 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 30 bhp and 32.7 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the engine uses fuel injection to manage power delivery. The response from the throttle feels steady and predictable, especially at lower and mid speeds, which suits regular riding conditions. The gearing is spaced in a way that allows the bike to move through traffic without needing constant gear changes, while still being able to handle slightly higher speeds when required. The Perak is built on a double cradle frame, which supports its structure and keeps the bike stable while riding. It has a kerb weight of around 185 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 13.2 litres. The seat height is lower than most bikes in this segment, at around 750 mm, which makes it easier for riders to place their feet on the ground. Ground clearance is close to 160 mm, which means the bike needs a bit more attention over speed breakers and uneven roads. The suspension setup is different from most other bikes in this category. At the front, it uses telescopic forks, but at the rear, it gets a monoshock that is positioned under the seat. This gives the bike its hardtail-style look while still providing some level of comfort. The Perak runs on spoke wheels with tube-type tyres, with an 18-inch wheel at the front and a 17-inch wheel at the rear. Braking is handled by disc brakes on both ends, with a 280 mm disc at the front and a 240 mm disc at the rear. The bike comes with dual-channel ABS as standard, which helps maintain control during braking, especially on uneven or slippery surfaces. The braking setup is designed to feel progressive, building up stopping power in a gradual manner. In terms of features, the Perak keeps things simple. It uses a single-pod instrument cluster that shows basic information such as speed, fuel level and warning lights. Lighting is mostly halogen, in line with its overall design theme. There are no advanced electronics or riding modes, and the focus remains on essential functions that support everyday riding. The overall design is what sets the Perak apart. It uses a low, stretched stance with a single floating seat, chopped fenders and minimal body panels. The bike is offered in a single dual-tone colour scheme, which adds to its consistent visual identity. While most motorcycles in this segment follow a more practical approach, the Perak’s setup reflects a different direction, where design and mechanical layout are closely tied to a specific riding style and purpose. |
| 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 Perak occupies a very specific space in the Indian market, where most motorcycles are built for everyday practicality, but a few are designed to stand out for their style and character. Its factory bobber design, with a low stance, single seat and minimal bodywork, gives it a distinct identity that is not very common on Indian roads. While this styling limits its practicality for daily use, it reflects a growing interest among riders who are willing to trade some comfort and convenience for a more unique riding experience. The engine setup is based on a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled unit that is tuned for usable performance, making it manageable in city conditions despite its design focus. In a market dominated by conventional retro motorcycles, the Perak highlights how niche segments like bobbers are slowly finding space, especially among buyers who are looking for something different from the usual options available., 4.1, 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 Jawa Perak? A: It comes with a 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Q: How much power does the Jawa Perak produce? A: It produces around 22.01 kW of power. Q: What is the torque output? A: The bike generates about 30 Nm of torque, giving it strong mid-range pull. Q: What is the mileage of the Jawa Perak? A: The mileage generally falls around 30–35 kmpl depending on riding style. Q: Does the Jawa Perak come with ABS? A: Yes, it has dual-channel ABS for safer braking. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is approximately 750 mm, making it accessible for many riders. Q: Can the Jawa Perak carry a pillion? A: No, the Perak is strictly a single-seat bobber and does not support a pillion. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The tank holds around 13.2 litres of fuel. Q: Does it have a slipper clutch? A: Yes, it features an assist-and-slipper clutch for smoother downshifts. Q: Is the Jawa Perak suitable for long rides? A: It can handle short and moderate long rides comfortably, but its single seat and smaller tank make it less ideal for very long touring. Q: Are the suspension settings adjustable? A: The rear mono-shock offers 7-step preload adjustment. Q: What type of riders is the Perak best suited for? A: It’s ideal for solo riders who want a stylish, low-slung bobber with relaxed performance. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | STD | 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. | Iconic bobber styling: The Jawa Perak has a unique, low-slung bobber design that instantly stands out. The floating seat, wide rear tyre, and minimalist bodywork give it a true custom-bike vibe straight from the factory. Strong mid-range performance: Its 334cc liquid-cooled engine offers smooth power delivery with plenty of torque in the mid-range, making city riding effortless and highway cruising relaxed. Confident braking: Dual-channel ABS and disc brakes at both ends provide strong, predictable braking, especially useful during sudden stops. Stable handling: The long wheelbase and low seat height give the bike a very planted feel. It remains stable at higher speeds and feels secure while cornering. Engaging solo-riding experience: The single-seat layout combined with the relaxed riding posture creates a pure, focused, enjoyable solo-rider feel. Good road presence: The Perak attracts attention wherever it goes, thanks to its proportions, blacked-out components, and distinctive stance. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | Constant mesh, 6–Speed |
