Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
17.5 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 390 ADVENTURE X
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 398.63cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder, DOHC |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 46 PS @ 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 39 Nm @ 6500 RPM |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 14.5 |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 181 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 825 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Switchable ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 320mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter, 200mm travel |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc 240mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | WP APEX Monoshock, 205mm wheel travel Adjustable for Preload (10 steps) |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/90 - 19 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 130/80 - 17 |
| 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) | LED headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12V / 8AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/KTM-390-Adventure-X_White.webp |
| 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 | Electronic Orange | #FF5F00 Ceramic White | #F2F2F2, #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. | Tall Seat Height: At 825 mm, the seat may be uncomfortable or difficult to reach for shorter riders, especially off-road. Lack of Cornering ABS: Unlike the standard 390 Adventure, the X variant skips cornering ABS, which reduces safety margin when leaning hard. Limited Traction Control: Fewer electronic aids compared to higher-spec ADVs, could be less forgiving on unpredictable terrain. Vibrations at High RPMs: The single-cylinder engine can produce noticeable vibrations when pushed hard, affecting comfort. Moderate Wind Protection: The windscreen and fairing design might not deflect wind strongly enough at high speeds. Suspension Can Feel Harsh on Pavement: While great off-road, the long-travel suspension may feel firm or bouncy on uneven city roads. Maintenance Cost: Premium suspension components and tech might lead to higher service costs compared to simpler commuter bikes. Limited Pillion Comfort: The seat design and limited rear padding may not provide much comfort for a passenger over long distances. |
| 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 some motorcycles that feel layered with features, and then there are ones like the KTM 390 Adventure X, where the focus shifts more towards the core mechanical setup. It uses a 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 46 PS and 37 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox along with a slipper clutch and quickshifter. At lower speeds, the engine feels slightly restrained, but as the revs build, it starts to respond more actively, which becomes noticeable on open roads where maintaining higher speeds feels more natural. The bike is built on a steel trellis frame, supported by long-travel suspension at both ends. It gets upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear, tuned to keep the bike stable over varying surfaces. On smoother roads and highways, the setup feels composed, while on broken patches or sharp bumps, especially at lower speeds, some of the impact comes through. With around 200 mm of ground clearance, the bike can handle speed breakers and uneven roads without much concern. The riding position is upright and fairly relaxed. A wide handlebar, neutral foot peg placement, and a flatter seat help create a posture that does not put much pressure on the rider, even over longer distances. The seat height is around 825 mm, which makes it slightly more accessible compared to the standard version, especially in city riding conditions. The kerb weight is close to 177 kg, and once the bike is in motion, it feels balanced and predictable. Braking is managed by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS. The setup provides a consistent and controlled braking feel in regular riding situations. The bike rides on a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, both with tubeless tyres, a combination that keeps it stable on uneven roads while still being more suited to paved surfaces. The instrument cluster is a digital unit that shows basic riding information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip data in a clear layout. Compared to the standard version, the Adventure X keeps things simpler by not including features like traction control or riding modes. The focus remains on essential functionality rather than additional electronic layers. With a fuel tank capacity of around 14.5 litres, the bike offers a usable range for both daily use and longer rides. It also comes with LED lighting and a windscreen that helps reduce wind impact to some extent at higher speeds. Overall, the KTM 390 Adventure X is structured around its engine, chassis, and suspension, keeping the riding experience straightforward while still covering a mix of city roads, highways, and occasional rough surfaces. |
| 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 390 Adventure X is powered by a 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing around 43–45 bhp and 37 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox along with a slipper clutch and quickshifter. The engine feels slightly dull at lower RPMs but picks up strongly in the mid-range, making highway riding feel effortless, while in city conditions it requires more gear shifts to stay smooth. It uses a steel trellis frame with long-travel suspension that is tuned on the firmer side, offering stability at higher speeds but transmitting sharper bumps at lower speeds. The upright riding posture, wide handlebar, and 825 mm seat height make it relatively accessible, while the bike remains balanced once in motion. Braking is handled by disc brakes with dual-channel ABS, offering consistent stopping performance. Compared to the standard version, it comes with a simpler electronics setup, missing features like traction control and riding modes, but still includes essentials like a TFT display and quickshifter. With a 14.5-litre fuel tank and road-focused wheel setup, it is designed for highway use along with occasional rough roads., 4.3, 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 specification of the KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The 390 Adventure X is powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. According to KTM India, its displacement is 398.63 cc, producing 46 PS @ 8,500 rpm and 39 Nm torque @ 6,500 rpm. Q: What type of transmission does KTM 390 Adventure X use? A: It uses a 6-speed gearbox, according to KTM’s technical specs. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and the expected range of KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The Adventure X comes with a 14.5 litre fuel tank. This gives it decent range for touring, especially when combined with its efficient engine. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance of KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The seat height is 825 mm, according to several official sources. The ground clearance is 228 mm, which helps its off-road credentials. Q: What suspension setup does the 390 Adventure X use? A: It features WP APEX 43 mm USD front forks with 200 mm of travel, and a WP APEX monoshock at the rear. Q: What brakes and ABS features are on KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The bike uses a 320 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc, per KTM’s spec sheet. It also offers switchable ABS, including an Off-Road mode, but does not have cornering ABS on this X variant. Q: What electronic rider aids are offered in KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The Adventure X includes Ride-by-Wire throttle, a Quickshifter+, and switchable off-road ABS. Unlike the standard 390 Adventure, it doesn't include features like cornering ABS or full traction control (MTC). Q: What does the instrument panel look like in KTM 390 Adventure X? A: It comes with a 5-inch TFT display that provides essential ride information and adapts to ambient light. Q: Is the KTM 390 Adventure X good for off-road riding? A: Yes, with its 19″ front / 17″ rear wheel setup, high ground clearance, and off-road ABS, it’s designed to tackle dirt trails and gravel while remaining very capable on-road. Q: What is the kerb / wet weight of KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The kerb (fully fueled) weight is around 176 kg, per KTM’s UK technical spec sheet. Q: What is the rated fuel efficiency / mileage of KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The mileage is claimed to be around 30 km/l for the 390 Adventure X. Some real-world owners report 21–25 km/l, depending on conditions. Q: Are there some known issues or drawbacks reported by owners? A: Yes, several riders mention vibrations at higher RPMs, particularly in the footpegs and handlebar. Also, some users believe KTM has compromised on certain parts quality (e.g., the side stand assembly) to cut costs. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | STD | 343250 |
| 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. | Lightweight & Nimble: Being a small-displacement ADV, it’s easier to manage than larger dual-sport bikes, making it ideal for both urban and trail use. Good Power for Class: Its ~398 cc single-cylinder engine provides enough punch for highway cruising and off-road sections without being too intimidating. Long-Travel Suspension: Equipped with WP APEX USD forks and a capable rear monoshock, it offers very good travel for handling rough terrain. High Ground Clearance: With around 228 mm of ground clearance, the 390 Adventure X is well-suited for mild to moderate off-road trails. Off-Road ABS Mode: Switchable ABS allows the rear wheel to slide slightly in off-road mode, which provides more control on loose surfaces. Modern Tech Features: Features like Quickshifter+, ride-by-wire throttle, and a 5-inch TFT display add a premium, tech-savvy feel. Good Fuel Range: With a 14.5 L fuel tank and decent efficiency, it offers a respectable touring range for a mid-sized ADV. Durable Build: Trellis frame and quality components contribute to its rugged build, making it reliable for adventure rides. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
