Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
19.5 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 250 SX-F
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 249.9 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 46.8 PS @ 13900 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 26.5 Nm @ 9500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 7.2 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 40 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 104 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 958 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 260 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | WP XACT-USD (AER), Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc 220 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | WP XACT Monoshock with linkage |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 80/100 - 21 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 110/90 - 19 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | — |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12.8V / 2AH |
| 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 | Orange | #FF5F00 |
| 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. | Starting Issues – Some users report difficulty starting the bike, especially when warm. Throttle Response Problems – Occasional throttle lag or bogging issues have been mentioned in user reports. Clutch Problems – Few riders have faced issues with clutch engagement or consistency over time. Aggressive Nature – Power delivery can feel too sharp for completely new riders or casual use. Maintenance Needs – Being a race-focused bike, it requires regular maintenance and attention. Heat & Minor Issues – Reports of overheating at startup or small component issues like fuel system or seals. |
| 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 SX‑F is a purpose-built motocross machine that combines race-ready performance, lightweight agility, and advanced electronics to deliver an exhilarating experience for serious off-road riders. As part of KTM’s renowned motocross lineup, the 250 SX‑F is designed for track dominance, providing the perfect balance of power, handling, and precision for competitive riding. Its 249.9 cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine is tuned to deliver strong, high-revving power that is immediately responsive to throttle inputs. This makes it exceptionally capable on tight corners, jumps, and technical track sections, giving riders a confident and aggressive edge in race situations. One of the standout features of the 250 SX‑F is its lightweight chassis. The bike benefits from KTM’s proprietary trellis frame, which offers a perfect blend of stiffness and controlled flex. This results in excellent stability at high speeds while also allowing precise feedback through the handlebars and footpegs. The frame’s low weight, combined with the compact engine, ensures the bike is agile and easy to maneuver—qualities that are especially important when navigating tight motocross tracks or technical off-road terrain. The overall kerb weight remains impressively low, which reduces rider fatigue and enhances the bike’s responsiveness. The 250 SX‑F’s suspension system is another highlight. It features WP XACT 48 mm inverted front forks and a WP XACT rear shock with linkage, delivering around 310 mm of front travel and 300 mm of rear travel. This setup allows the bike to absorb big jumps, handle rough terrain, and maintain traction even under extreme stress. Both the forks and the rear shock are fully adjustable, enabling riders to fine-tune the bike for their preferred riding style or track conditions. The combination of suspension, frame geometry, and lightweight design makes the KTM 250 SX‑F exceptionally capable at both high-speed sections and technical, slower parts of the track. Modern electronics further enhance the riding experience. The 250 SX‑F is equipped with launch control, which optimizes starts and reduces wheel spin. Additionally, it offers selectable engine maps and traction control, providing riders with the ability to adapt the bike’s power delivery to track conditions or personal preference. The inclusion of a quickshifter enables seamless clutchless gear changes, maintaining momentum during aggressive racing. While minimal compared to street motorcycles, these electronic aids give riders an advantage without sacrificing the raw, track-focused feel that motocross enthusiasts demand. The ergonomics of the 250 SX‑F are designed with performance in mind. A tall seat height, wide handlebars, and a compact, upright riding position make it ideal for both sitting and standing on the pegs, which is essential for maneuvering over rough terrain and jumps. The bike also features an electric start, a convenience that eliminates the need for kick-starting and enhances usability on the track. Despite its racing pedigree, the 250 SX‑F comes with some compromises. Its fuel tank is relatively small, limiting the bike’s range to short race sessions rather than long trail rides. Maintenance is more frequent compared to casual dirt bikes, as high-performance components require careful attention. The tall seat height may also challenge shorter riders, and its race-oriented suspension can feel harsh on less demanding trails. In summary, the KTM 250 SX‑F is a high-performance motocross machine designed for riders who demand precision, agility, and race-ready power. Lightweight, technologically advanced, and built with competition in mind, it offers an exhilarating experience for those seeking to dominate motocross tracks. It is not a casual trail bike, but for dedicated racers and serious off-road enthusiasts, it stands out as one of the most capable and exciting 250-class motocross motorcycles on the market. |
| 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 SX-F is built around a 249.9cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing around 46 bhp, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned to deliver stronger power at higher RPMs, with a noticeable top-end focus, while still offering enough mid-range for corner exits on track. Its lightweight construction, at around 104 kg, along with a steel frame and fully adjustable WP suspension, makes the bike quick to respond and easy to maneuver during aggressive riding. The suspension is set up to handle jumps and uneven terrain, though it feels firm and clearly track-focused. The riding ergonomics are compact with a tall seat height and narrow body, allowing better control while standing and shifting weight. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, offering consistent stopping performance, and features like traction control, launch control, and quickshifter add to its race-oriented setup. With a small fuel tank and minimal road-focused elements, the overall design remains centered on motocross use., 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 and type of the KTM 250 SX-F? A: It is powered by a 249.9 cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Q: How much power and torque does KTM 250 SX-F produce? A: The KTM 250 SX-F produces around 40 PS of power (approximately), tuned for high-rev motocross performance. Q: What transmission does the 250 SX-F use? A: It uses a 5-speed gearbox. Q: Does the 250 SX-F have an electric starter? A: Yes, the KTM 250 SX-F comes with an electric self-starter, which is very useful for motocross starting. Q: What suspension setup does KTM 250 SX-F have? A: It features WP XACT 48 mm USD forks at the front and a WP XACT linkage rear shock, tuned for motocross performance. Q: What are the brake specifications and ABS on the 250 SX-F? A: The 250 SX-F is fitted with disc brakes front and rear. Since it's a motocross (off-road) bike, it does not typically have road-legality ABS — it's built for track use. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance of KTM 250 SX-F? A: The seat height is very high (race-MX spec) — it's designed for standing and aggressive riding on dirt. Ground clearance is also high, optimized for motocross terrain. Q: What is the fuel capacity of the 250 SX-F? A: The fuel tank is relatively small, designed more for race duration than long touring. Q: Does the 250 SX-F come with any electronic rider aids? A: It has selectable engine maps (for different performance characteristics) and traction control, though it's minimal compared to street motorcycles. Q: What kind of instrument or dash does KTM 250 SX-F use? A: The 250 SX-F typically does not use a full digital dash like street bikes — it's race-oriented and focuses on weight savings. Q: Is the 250 SX-F good for both racing and trail riding? A: It’s primarily designed for motocross racing (track use), but experienced off-road riders might use it on trails — performance and setup are more race-oriented than touring. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | STD | 958000 |
| 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. | High Power-to-Weight Ratio: The 249.9 cc 4-stroke engine produces very strong power, and the bike is quite light, making it very agile and fast. Advanced Electronics: Comes with launch control, two engine maps, traction control, and quickshifter. Premium Suspension: Uses WP XACT forks and rear shock (310 mm / 300 mm travel) that are very capable for jumps and rough track terrain. Excellent Chassis Flex & Control: Updated frame in newer models improves flex, which helps in cornering and gives more control. Electric Start: Equipped with a self-starter (lithium-ion battery), which is very handy on the track. Strong Brakes & Clutch: Uses Brembo hydraulics for the clutch and good brake setup — helps with precise control under race conditions. Good for Track Riders: Designed for serious motocross use — responsive, fast, and optimized for racing-style riding. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 5 Speed Manual |
