Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
9.5 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM RC 200
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
||
| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid cooling. Curved radiator with fans for better heat management |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 199.5 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 25 PS @ 10000 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 19.2 Nm at 8000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 13.7 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 43.5 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
||
| Kerb Weight | 152 | 160 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 835 |
Brakes & Suspension |
||
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| 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, 43 mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | 230 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | WP APEX Monoshock, 10 step adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
||
| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 110/70 - 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 150/60 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
||
| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
||
| 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/2025/12/Blue-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Metallic-Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GP-Ed.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | New LCD Dash display |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | BLACK | #000000 BLUE | #0033A0 METALLIC GREY | #5A5A5A GP Edition | #FF6600 |
| 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. | Vibration at High RPMs: The single-cylinder engine can vibrate noticeably when revved hard, which may affect comfort. Seat Comfort: The seat is fairly firm, making long touring rides less comfortable. High Revving, Less Torque: While it revs well, mid-range torque isn’t very punchy, which may make overtaking on highways less smooth. Heat: The engine can generate noticeable heat in slow or heavy traffic conditions. Suspension Harshness: Sport-tuned suspension tends to feel stiff on broken or rough roads. Rear Seat: The pillion seat is quite compact and may not be very comfortable for longer rides. Service Costs: Due to premium parts and performance tuning, maintenance and servicing may be a bit costlier than more commuter-focused 200cc bikes. |
| 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 RC 200 is a fully faired sports bike that uses a 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine. It produces around 25 bhp and comes with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine feels smooth when you are riding slowly in the city, and as you increase speed, it starts to feel more active and pulls better. It is not too aggressive at low speeds, so it can be managed in daily traffic, but it clearly feels more comfortable when you ride it on open roads. The gear shifts are smooth, and the bike does not feel too demanding to ride once you get used to it. The bike is built on a steel frame which helps keep it stable. It comes with upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, and this setup makes the bike feel firm on the road. Because of this, the bike handles corners well and feels steady at higher speeds. At the same time, on bad roads or bumps, the suspension can feel a bit hard, so you will notice the uneven surface more than on softer bikes. For braking, the RC 200 has disc brakes on both wheels along with dual-channel ABS. This helps in controlling the bike better during sudden braking and reduces the chances of the wheels locking. The braking feels predictable and does the job without feeling too sharp or too weak. The tyres offer decent grip for normal riding conditions. In terms of design, the RC 200 has a sharp and sporty look with a full fairing. The riding position is leaned forward because of the low handlebars and slightly raised footpegs. This position feels good when riding fast, but in traffic or on longer rides, it can feel tiring on the wrists and back. The seat height is around 835 mm, and the weight is close to 160 kg, which makes it manageable for most riders. The bike comes with a simple LCD display that shows speed, fuel level, gear position, and other basic details. It also gets LED lights, which help with visibility at night. The fuel tank is around 13.7 litres, which is enough for regular daily use without needing to refuel too often. Overall, the KTM RC 200 is built in a way that focuses more on how the bike feels when you ride it, especially at higher speeds, while still being usable for everyday riding if needed. |
| 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 RC 200 is a sport-focused bike that puts riding performance ahead of comfort. Its aggressive riding position feels natural at higher speeds but can be tiring in city traffic. The 199.5cc engine is smooth at low speeds and becomes more lively in the mid and top range, making it engaging without being difficult to ride. Handling is one of its strongest areas, with sharp responses and good stability, especially on corners and highways. However, the stiff suspension and committed posture make everyday use a bit less comfortable. Braking is reliable with dual-channel ABS, though the front could feel slightly softer at first. Overall, the bike feels built for precise control and active riding rather than relaxed daily commuting., 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 KTM RC 200? A: It has a 199.5 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. Q: How much power and torque does the RC 200 produce? A: It produces 25 PS (18.4 kW) at 10,000 rpm and 19.2 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the RC 200? A: The claimed mileage is 43.5 km/l according to Autocar India. Q: What kind of brakes and ABS does the RC 200 have? A: The RC 200 comes with a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, plus dual-channel ABS with a Supermoto mode. Q: What is the suspension setup on the RC 200? A: It uses WP APEX 43 mm USD forks at the front and a 10-step adjustable WP monoshock at the rear. Q: What is the ground clearance and seat height of the RC 200? A: The RC 200 offers a seat height of 835 mm and a ground clearance of 156 mm (per KTM specs). Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank on the RC 200 holds 13.7 litres, according to KTM India. Q: What kind of instrument console does the RC 200 use? A: It features a digital LCD dash that shows information like speed, RPM, gear position, and fuel. Q: Is the RC 200 suitable for city commuting and occasional sport rides? A: Yes, its engine is punchy enough for spirited rides and yet efficient and manageable for daily city commuting. Q: What is the top speed of the KTM RC 200? A: The top speed is around 140 km/h, according to online reviews and specs. Q: Are there any common problems reported by RC 200 owners? A: Some users report engine heating, especially at high RPMs or slow traffic. Also, a few say they faced fuel-efficiency sensor glitches (reporting 99.9 km/l) |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | GP Edition | 220664 STD | 220665 |
| 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. | Peppy Engine: The 199.5 cc single-cylinder engine delivers a fun, rev-happy performance that’s great for sporty rides and city commuting. Lightweight & Agile: With a lightweight trellis frame and agile chassis, the RC 200 is very flickable and responsive in corners. Premium Components: Features like USD WP forks, adjustable monoshock, slipper-and-assist clutch make it feel “premium” in ride and build. Modern Braking Setup: Big 320 mm front disc + 230 mm rear disc and dual-channel ABS (with supermoto mode) give good stopping power. Sporty Design: Fully-faired design, sharp graphics and a race-inspired silhouette make it visually very sporty. Good Mileage (Relative): It offers decent fuel efficiency for a performance bike, especially in city riding. Digital Instrument Cluster: The digital dash provides clear readouts for speed, rpm, gear, fuel, practical for everyday use. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
