Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
31.5 pts
Unweighted: 22 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 50 SX
4.5 pts
Unweighted: 4 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 49.9 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | 1-cylinder, 2-stroke engine |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 5.3 bhp @ 11500 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 5.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 2.3 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 41 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 653 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 160 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | XACT 35 WP Upside-Down fork, Ø 35 mm |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc 160 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | XACT WP mono shock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 60/100 - 12 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 2.75 - 10 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubed |
| 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 | — |
| 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 | Electronic Orange | #F2771A |
| 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. | High Maintenance: As a 2-stroke engine, it requires frequent servicing and tuning. Small Fuel Tank: Limited capacity means more frequent refills. Kick-Start Only: No electric start, which can be tricky for very young riders. Limited Power for Older Kids: The 50cc engine may not be enough as the rider grows or becomes more skilled. Sensitive to Tuning: Owners report issues like fouling spark plugs or needing to frequently re-jet the carb. Parts Cost & Availability: As a race‑oriented bike, some parts can be expensive or harder to source for older models. |
| 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 50 SX is a purpose-built mini motocross bike, tailored primarily for very young and beginner racers who want to get a genuine motocross experience without jumping straight to bigger bikes. It’s more than just a “toy”, KTM has packed serious race-bike DNA into this 50cc model, making it a standout choice for youth motocross training and competitive racing. At the heart of the 50 SX is a 49.9 cc single-cylinder 2-stroke engine, which delivers a punchy yet manageable power output. According to KTM’s specs, this engine is paired with a centrifugal automatic clutch, meaning there’s no manual clutch lever to worry about — the clutch engages automatically, which is ideal for young riders still building coordination and confidence. The engine uses a Seletra 2p D36 system for fuel delivery (on some models), which helps in precise tuning and reliable performance. KTM has thoughtfully designed the chassis for both strength and agility. The frame is made from chromoly steel, which keeps it light but sturdy. The overall design ensures that the bike is highly maneuverable, making it easier for young riders to learn balance and control on a real race-ready structure. The 50 SX isn’t just about motor and frame it comes with serious suspension too: a WP XACT 35 mm upside-down fork at the front and a WP mono‑shock at the rear.The front suspension travel is around 200 mm and the rear is close to 190 mm, giving enough give for track bumps and jumps. In terms of ergonomics, the seat height is just 653 mm, making it very accessible for younger riders. Ground clearance is around 233 mm, giving the bike enough space to handle uneven terrain without scraping too much.The fuel tank capacity is modest 2.3 liters but that’s more than enough for short motocross sessions that young riders typically do. For braking, KTM hasn’t compromised: the 50 SX is equipped with disc brakes both front and rear, each 160 mm in size. This provides good stopping power and control, which is very important for safety and learning advanced braking techniques. On the wheels front, the bike uses spoke wheels, keeping things light and rugged for off-road racing. Despite its small size, the 50 SX is very race-focused. The frame has been redesigned to mimic the flex and rigidity characteristics of full-size MX bikes. The new frame also comes with frame protectors, which help reduce damage in case of falls — a common occurrence when young riders are learning. The handlebars are lightweight aluminum, with a bend that suits smaller riders, and the footpegs are designed to give a solid grip even when things get muddy or rough. KTM also includes power-reduction kits in its parts catalog for the 50 SX. These kits let parents or coaches limit the power output while the rider is still learning, which is a smart way to scale the bike’s performance to the rider’s ability and once they’re better, the full power can be unlocked. When it comes to reliability, the 50 SX has a liquid cooling system for better thermal management. The engine’s central crankshaft design helps in keeping the mass well-balanced, which contributes to smoother handling. As for maintenance, like all 2-stroke motorcycles, it does need regular care but KTM has made key parts (like the clutch) durable, using a reinforced clutch basket for longevity. Overall, the KTM 50 SX is a very well-engineered youth motocross bike that brings real race performance to younger riders. It balances power, weight, and control in a way that helps beginners grow into serious racers. Whether for track training, competitive racing, or just building early riding skills, it’s absolutely one of the top choices in the mini-moto world. |
| 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 50 SX is powered by a 49.9cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine producing 5.4 PS at 11,500 rpm, designed as an entry-level mini motocross bike for young riders aged 7 and above beginning their competitive racing journey. The engine uses a 3-shaft design with the crankshaft positioned near the center of gravity, and features a centrifugal automatic clutch that reduces complexity and boosts riding confidence for inexperienced riders. The chassis features a chromium-molybdenum steel frame paired with a state-of-the-art WP XACT AER fork and fully adjustable monoshock, providing precision handling suitable for learning racing technique. In the Indian context, the 50 SX serves as an ideal entry platform for children with access to organized motocross training facilities in urban centers, though its competitive pricing and maintenance requirements make it best suited for families committed to structured racing programs rather than casual riding., 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 50 SX? A: It has a 49.9 cc 2-stroke engine. Q: What kind of transmission does it use? A: The KTM 50 SX has a single-speed automatic transmission. Q: How is the KTM 50 SX started? A: It uses a kick-start. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of KTM 50 SX? A: The fuel tank capacity is 2.3 litres. Q: What is the seat height of KTM 50 SX? A: The seat height is 653 mm. Q: What is the weight of KTM 50 SX? A: The dry (or “without fuel”) weight is about 43.5 kg for recent models. Q: What kind of suspension does the KTM 50 SX use? A: It comes with WP XACT suspension, a 35 mm upside-down fork in the front and a WP mono-shock at the rear. Q: What brakes does KTM 50 SX have? A: It has disc brakes both at the front and rear, each 160 mm. Q: What power does the KTM 50 SX produce? A: The KTM 50 SX produces around 5.3–5.4 PS at ~11,500 rpm. Q: Is the KTM 50 SX road legal? A: No, it's designed for off-road / motocross use, not for street-legal riding. Q: What kind of clutch does KTM 50 SX have for young riders? A: It uses a centrifugal clutch, which automatically engages at high RPM, good for beginners or young riders who don’t manually operate a clutch. Q: What is the ground clearance of KTM 50 SX? A: The ground clearance is 233 mm. Q: Is there a guarantee or warranty for KTM 50 SX? A: According to specs, it has a 2-year standard warranty. Q: What is the typical maintenance challenge or issue to watch for in KTM 50 SX? A: Some owners report carburetor tuning issues |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | STD | 475000 |
| 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. | Very Lightweight: Makes it easy for young riders to handle and build confidence. Automatic Transmission: The centrifugal clutch and automatic gearbox simplify riding for beginners. Adjustable Suspension: High-quality WP fork and shock can be tuned to rider weight and track conditions. Racing‑Oriented Build: Frame and components are derived from KTM’s full-size SX range, giving a race-ready feel. Power-Reduction Kits Available: Helps beginners by limiting power until they’re ready for more. Good Cooling: Liquid cooling ensures the engine stays healthy even under hard off‑road use. Tool-Free Adjustability: Seat height, suspension, and other parts can be adjusted without special tools. |
| Starter | Electric | Kick Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | Manual |
