Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Street Bob 117
13.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 1,923 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 Classic |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 91 hp @ 5,020 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 156 Nm @ 2,750 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 13.2 litres |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 18.18 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 293 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 680 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps; dual rate spring; gaiter covers |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock; 43mm stroke; cam-style preload adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/90 B19 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 150/80 B16 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless (blackwall bias) |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Cast Aluminum |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | H4 Blue Tinge (12V 55/60W), With AHO (Auto Headlamps On) | All LED, low beam, high beam and signature position lamp |
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 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Black.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Centerline.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Horse-Metallic.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Purple.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | — |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Centerline | #D8A628 Iron Horse Metallic | #5A5A58 Purple Abyss Denim | #4B3A63 |
| 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. | Limited Touring Comfort – The minimalist approach means there is no wind protection, luggage system, or touring-focused equipment as standard. Single Front Disc Brake Feels Basic for the Performance Available – While adequate for normal riding, some riders may expect a stronger braking setup given the motorcycle's weight and engine output. Minimal Pillion Accommodation – Passenger comfort is limited compared to cruisers and touring motorcycles designed with two-up riding in mind. Wind Fatigue at Highway Speeds – Without a fairing or windscreen, riders are exposed directly to airflow during long highway journeys. Rear Suspension Travel Is Limited – Sharp bumps and poor road surfaces can sometimes be felt more noticeably than on motorcycles with longer-travel suspension. Premium Ownership Costs – Servicing, insurance, accessories, and replacement parts can be expensive compared to middleweight motorcycles. Ground Clearance Limits Aggressive Cornering – Footpegs can touch down relatively early when cornering enthusiastically. Feature List Remains Relatively Simple – The Street Bob focuses more on mechanical character than technology and lacks some of the advanced electronics available on similarly priced motorcycles. Not Ideal for Long-Distance Touring in Standard Form – Riders planning extensive highway travel often add accessories such as windscreens, saddlebags, and upgraded seats. Engine Heat Can Be Noticeable in Traffic – The large air/oil-cooled V-twin can generate noticeable heat during prolonged stop-and-go riding. |
| 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 Harley-Davidson Street Bob is part of the company’s Softail family and follows a traditional bobber-inspired design philosophy. Compared to Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles, the Street Bob adopts a much simpler layout, with minimal bodywork, a compact fuel tank, and fewer touring-oriented components. Its design emphasizes exposed mechanical elements and a stripped-back appearance, characteristics that have long been associated with the bobber style of motorcycle. The result is a motorcycle that appears visually lighter and less complex than many other large-capacity cruisers in the Harley-Davidson range. Power comes from the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a large-displacement V-twin that serves as the centerpiece of the motorcycle. The engine is designed to produce strong torque at relatively low engine speeds, which influences the motorcycle’s riding characteristics. Rather than relying on high engine revolutions to generate performance, the power delivery is concentrated lower in the rev range. The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission that allows relaxed cruising at highway speeds while keeping engine speeds relatively low. Fuel injection is used to manage fuel delivery and throttle response across different riding conditions. The Street Bob is built around Harley-Davidson’s Softail chassis architecture. A key feature of this platform is the hidden rear monoshock suspension, which allows the motorcycle to retain the appearance of a traditional hardtail frame while still providing rear suspension travel. Front suspension duties are handled by conventional telescopic forks. This combination contributes to the motorcycle’s low-slung profile while maintaining the suspension functionality expected from a modern road-going motorcycle. Braking is managed through a single disc brake at the front and a rear disc brake at the back. Modern versions of the Street Bob also incorporate electronic rider-assistance systems, including ABS and traction control. Depending on market and model year, additional rider aids such as selectable riding modes and cornering-sensitive electronic systems may also be available. These systems are designed to assist with braking and traction management under different riding conditions. One of the defining characteristics of the Street Bob is its riding position. The motorcycle uses mid-mounted foot controls and mini ape-hanger handlebars, creating an upright seating posture that differs from the feet-forward layout commonly found on some larger cruisers. The seat height is relatively low, allowing many riders to place their feet comfortably on the ground when stationary. This low seating position also contributes to the motorcycle’s overall visual stance. The Street Bob uses a 13.2-litre fuel tank integrated into its compact design. While smaller than the fuel tanks found on dedicated touring motorcycles, the tank size is consistent with the motorcycle’s bobber-inspired layout. The minimalist approach extends to the bodywork, where components such as the front fender, rear section, and side panels are kept relatively compact. Lighting is provided through LED units, contributing to visibility while maintaining a modern specification. Instrumentation is intentionally simple compared to Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles. Instead of a large infotainment system or touchscreen display, the Street Bob uses a compact digital display for essential riding information. This setup aligns with the motorcycle’s stripped-back character and keeps the focus on core riding functions rather than extensive electronic interfaces. With its Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine, Softail chassis, hidden rear suspension, low seat height, and minimalist bodywork, the Harley-Davidson Street Bob represents a modern interpretation of the traditional bobber concept. The motorcycle combines contemporary engineering and electronic safety systems with a design approach that emphasizes simplicity, exposed mechanical components, and classic cruiser proportions. |
| 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 Street Bob is arguably one of the purest motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's current lineup. Unlike the company's touring models that surround the rider with screens, luggage, and electronics, the Street Bob keeps the experience relatively simple. The focus here is on the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine and the riding character that comes with it. The motor produces effortless torque from almost any rpm, which means the bike rarely feels like it's working hard, whether it's pulling away from a traffic light or cruising on an open road. Its lighter weight compared to Harley's larger cruisers and tourers also makes it feel more approachable and easier to live with on a daily basis. At the same time, the stripped-back design brings compromises. Wind protection is nonexistent, passenger comfort is limited, and longer highway rides can become tiring in stock form. The Street Bob isn't trying to be a do-everything motorcycle, it leans heavily into the traditional bobber formula. For riders who value engine character, simplicity, and customization potential over technology and touring equipment, that focused approach is exactly what defines the motorcycle., 4.4, 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 type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Street Bob? A: The Street Bob is classified as a bobber-style cruiser motorcycle, featuring minimalist styling, a low stance, and a torque-focused V-twin engine. Q: Which engine powers the Street Bob? A: The latest model uses the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Street Bob suitable for beginners? A: While the low seat height can make it approachable, the engine size, torque output, and overall weight mean it is generally better suited to riders with some experience. Q: What is the seat height of the Street Bob? A: The seat height is approximately 680 mm, making it one of the more accessible motorcycles in Harley-Davidson's lineup. Q: Does the Street Bob have cruise control? A: Depending on model year and market specification, cruise control may be available as standard or optional equipment. Q: Is the Street Bob comfortable for long-distance touring? A: It can handle longer rides, but the lack of wind protection and limited touring equipment means many owners add accessories such as windscreens and luggage. Q: Does the Street Bob have riding modes? A: Recent versions include selectable ride modes and modern electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Street Bob? A: The motorcycle is equipped with a fuel tank of approximately 13.2 litres. Q: Is the Street Bob good for city riding? A: Its low seat height and strong low-end torque make urban riding manageable, although its weight can still be noticeable in congested conditions. Q: How is the Street Bob different from the Fat Bob? A: The Street Bob follows a minimalist bobber philosophy, while the Fat Bob features more aggressive styling, dual front disc brakes, wider tyres, and a more performance-oriented character. Q: Does the Street Bob have a passenger seat? A: Some variants are sold with a solo-seat appearance, though passenger seating can be fitted depending on specification and accessories. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Street Bob? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 290–300 kg in running condition, depending on specification. Q: Does the Street Bob support smartphone connectivity? A: The feature set is intentionally simple compared to Harley's touring models, so smartphone integration varies by market and model year. Q: What makes the Street Bob popular among custom builders? A: Its stripped-back design, exposed mechanical components, and extensive aftermarket support make it a common platform for personalization and custom builds. Q: Is the Street Bob a cruiser or a touring motorcycle? A: It is a cruiser, more specifically a bobber-style cruiser, designed around simplicity, styling, and V-twin character rather than touring-focused comfort and equipment. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | STD | 2023000 |
| 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. | Authentic Bobber Character – The stripped-back styling, mini ape-hanger handlebars, solo-style look, and minimal bodywork give the Street Bob a traditional bobber personality without excessive visual clutter. Strong Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine – The large V-twin produces substantial torque from low revs, allowing relaxed acceleration and effortless overtakes without needing to constantly work through the gearbox. Lighter Than Harley's Touring Models – Compared to motorcycles such as the Street Glide or Road Glide, the Street Bob feels noticeably less intimidating and easier to manage. Simple, Rider-Focused Design – The motorcycle avoids excessive bodywork and touring equipment, resulting in a cleaner and more direct riding experience. Comfortable for Short and Medium-Distance Riding – The relaxed ergonomics and low seat height make the motorcycle approachable and easy to ride in a variety of conditions. Strong Customisation Potential – The Street Bob is often used as a starting point for custom builds thanks to its minimalist design and extensive aftermarket support. Good Low-Speed Rideability – The torque-rich engine and predictable throttle response make city riding and low-speed manoeuvres easier than the motorcycle's engine size might suggest. Distinctive Harley-Davidson Presence – The combination of styling, engine character, and riding position gives the Street Bob a personality that is immediately recognizable. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
