Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 250 DUKE
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid cooling with radiator |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 249.07 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, FI Engine |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 22.8 kW @ 9250 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 25 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 15 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 30.08 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 162.8 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 800 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Supermoto ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | WP APEX USD forks, 43mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | 240 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | WP APEX Monoshock, 10-step preload adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 110/70 - R17 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 150/60 - R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | Full Split LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/250duke-blue.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/250duke-ebony-black.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Metallic-Silver.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | 5" LCD display |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Ebony Black | #0A0A0A Electronic Orange | #FF5A00 Atlantic Blue | #1F3F8B Metallic Silver | #8A8F98 |
| 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. | Firm seat may not be comfortable on very long rides Mileage could be better compared to 200cc rivals Slightly aggressive riding posture not ideal for everyone High service & maintenance cost compared to non-premium 250cc bikes Engine can feel a bit vibey at higher RPMs |
| 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 KTM 250 Duke has built a reputation as one of the most exciting quarter-liter motorcycles in India, and the latest version takes this legacy even further. Known for its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and premium components, the 250 Duke continues to stand tall as a motorcycle that combines performance and practicality in a way very few bikes in its segment manage to do. At the heart of the KTM 250 Duke is a 248.8cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, delivering strong power with quick throttle response. The mid-range punch is especially impressive, making it ideal for overtaking, quick city rides, and even some spirited highway runs. Whether you’re accelerating out of traffic or enjoying weekend rides, the bike never feels underpowered. The 6-speed transmission paired with a slipper clutch ensures smoother gear shifts and reduces rear-wheel hopping during aggressive downshifts — a feature that adds both performance and safety. One of the standout aspects of the KTM 250 Duke is its dynamic handling. The lightweight trellis frame, paired with WP Apex suspension, offers sharp, confidence-inspiring control in corners. It feels planted at high speeds and agile in tight city streets. Braking performance is equally impressive, thanks to the front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS, offering reliable stopping power even in unexpected situations. In terms of design, the 250 Duke looks every bit like a modern streetfighter. The aggressive styling, angular lines, muscular tank, and bright paint schemes give it a premium and attention-grabbing appearance. KTM has always been known for offering bold designs, and the 250 Duke stays true to that identity. The LED headlamp setup (in newer variants) not only enhances night visibility but also adds to the overall visual appeal. The bike also gets a fully digital LCD console with essential information like gear position, fuel range, average mileage, and more. It’s not as advanced as the TFT unit found on the 390 Duke, but still offers plenty of useful features for daily commuting and touring. However, the KTM 250 Duke isn’t without its shortcomings. The seat is on the firmer side, which may lead to discomfort on longer journeys. Also, the riding posture is slightly sporty, which might take time to get used to, especially for beginners. The mileage, which hovers around 30–35 kmpl, is decent but not the best in the segment. Maintenance costs are also slightly higher due to premium components — something buyers should keep in mind. Despite these minor drawbacks, the KTM 250 Duke remains one of the best 250cc performance bikes in India, offering a near-perfect mix of power, agility, design, and modern features. Whether you’re a college rider looking for a stylish machine or an enthusiast seeking an exciting city performer, the 250 Duke continues to be a compelling choice. |
| 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 KTM 250 Duke stands out as a strong option for riders who want a mix of performance and everyday usability without going overboard. It carries the same sharp and aggressive design that KTM is known for, which gives it a sporty road presence even when standing still. The engine feels smooth and refined for a single-cylinder setup, and it has enough power to make city rides fun while still being comfortable on highways. One of its biggest strengths is the way it handles, light, quick to respond, and easy to control, especially in traffic. The suspension setup leans slightly towards the firmer side, which helps in corners but can feel a bit stiff on rough roads. Braking is confident and predictable, adding to the overall sense of control. The riding position is sporty but not too demanding, so it works well for daily use. While it may not feel as exciting as bigger KTMs, it strikes a good balance between performance, efficiency, and practicality, making it a sensible choice for riders upgrading from smaller bikes or looking for something engaging yet manageable., 4.5, 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 KTM 250 Duke? A: The KTM 250 Duke is powered by a 248.8cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Q: What is the mileage of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The KTM 250 Duke delivers a mileage of around 30–35 kmpl, depending on riding style and conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The top speed of the KTM 250 Duke is approximately 142 km/h. Q: Does the KTM 250 Duke come with riding modes? A: No, the KTM 250 Duke does not offer riding modes; however, it does come with advanced features like ABS, LCD display, and slipper clutch. Q: Is the KTM 250 Duke suitable for long rides? A: Yes, the 250 Duke can handle long rides due to its refined engine and strong mid-range, but some riders may find the seat slightly firm for extended touring. Q: What type of brakes does the KTM 250 Duke have? A: The bike features disc brakes on both ends with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. Q: What is the seat height of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The seat height is approximately 823 mm, making it accessible for most riders. Q: What are the available colours in the KTM 250 Duke? A: KTM usually offers the 250 Duke in multiple sporty colours, commonly Orange and Black, but availability may vary by year and region. Q: Is the KTM 250 Duke good for beginners? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners who want a powerful yet manageable motorcycle, though its aggressive power delivery may require some experience. Q: What is the price of the KTM 250 Duke? A: The price typically ranges between ₹2.30 lakh–₹2.50 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on city and variant. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Standard | 217401 |
| 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. | Powerful 250cc Engine with strong mid-range performance Sharp, aggressive design inspired by larger Dukes Excellent handling thanks to WP suspension and lightweight chassis High-quality components like slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS Sporty riding dynamics ideal for spirited riding Feature-rich LCD display with modern readouts Impressive braking performance with strong bite Good for city & occasional highway rides |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
