Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
17.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120 BLACK
14.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6550 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 14.5 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 236 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 790 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual channel |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Twin RSU’s, with pre-load adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 150/70 R17 |
| 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) | DRLs LED |
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/2025/12/Jet-Black.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 | Jet Black | #0A0A0A Graphite and Matt Graphite | #3A3A3A |
| 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. | Weight and low-speed handling: The T120 is comparatively heavy and some riders find it less nimble in slow manoeuvres or tight traffic. Engine heat and comfort concerns in traffic: In stop-and-go city conditions, the engine and radiator heat can become noticeable and reduce comfort. Not a high-end sport performer: While competent, it lacks the aggressive performance or sport-bike handling of more focused machines, which may disappoint those seeking sharp cornering thrills. Premium cost and ownership aspects: As a premium modern-classic, it comes with higher pricing and possibly higher maintenance/spare costs compared to more mainstream 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 Triumph Bonneville T120 Black is a modern classic bike that mixes an old-school design with updated mechanical parts. It runs on a 1200 cc parallel-twin engine that makes around 80 PS and 105 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned for strong low-end and mid-range pull, so in daily riding you don’t need to change gears too often, whether you are in city traffic or cruising on the highway. It is not meant for aggressive riding, but more for smooth and steady use. The bike uses a steel frame along with conventional front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. This setup is mainly for comfort, so it works well on normal roads, although sharp bumps and bad patches can still be felt. It gets disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS, which gives controlled and predictable braking. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels also add to its stable and planted feel while riding. In terms of size, the T120 Black is on the heavier side at around 236 kg, which can be noticeable at low speeds and while handling it in tight spaces. The seat height is about 790 mm, so most riders can manage it easily. It comes with a 14.5-litre fuel tank, and in real use, mileage usually stays between 18 to 22 km/l. Ground clearance is around 140 mm, which is fine for regular roads but requires slowing down on bigger speed breakers. For features, the bike keeps things simple. It has a twin-pod semi-digital display that shows basic information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details. It also includes riding modes, traction control, and a torque-assist clutch, but there is no focus on advanced connectivity. Overall, the T120 Black is set up for relaxed riding with simple features, where the focus stays on smooth engine performance and a straightforward riding experience. |
| 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 | In India, the Triumph Bonneville T120 Black fits more into the category of a relaxed, easy-going motorcycle rather than something built for speed. It runs on a 1200 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces strong pull at low speeds, so you don’t have to keep changing gears in traffic or while cruising on highways. The seating position is straight and comfortable, but the overall weight of the bike is quite noticeable, especially in slow city riding or while handling it in tight spaces. The suspension setup is tuned for a softer feel, which works fine on normal roads, but sharp bumps can still be felt. It gets disc brakes on both ends with ABS, which offer steady and controlled braking. The bike also includes features like riding modes, traction control, and a simple digital-analogue display, without going too heavy on electronics. In Indian conditions, it makes more sense for calm rides and weekend use, as daily usage in traffic can feel demanding due to its size and weight., 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 specification of the Bonneville T120 Black? A: It features a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, delivering around 80 PS at 6,550 rpm and 105 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight of the T120 Black? A: The seat height is approximately 790 mm and the wet weight is around 236 kg. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and expected mileage of the T120 Black? A: The tank capacity is 14.5 litres, and official fuel consumption is listed as about 4.7 L/100km (~21 km/l) though real-world mileage may vary. Q: What features and rider aids are included on the T120 Black? A: Key features include LED lighting, twin-pod analogue instruments with LCD display, ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, ABS, two riding modes (Road & Rain), and cruise control. Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the T120 Black in India (recent model)? A: The 2023 edition of the T120 Black has a starting ex-showroom price of approximately ₹ 11.85 lakh. Q: What wheels and suspension does the T120 Black come with? A: The bike uses 18″ front and 17″ rear wire-spoked wheels. Suspension is 41 mm cartridge front forks and twin RSU rear shocks with preload adjustment. Brakes include twin 310 mm front discs (with Brembo 2-piston floating calipers) and 255 mm rear disc. Q: Is the T120 Black suitable for both city rides and longer road trips? A: Yes, thanks to its high torque engine, comfortable ergonomics, manageable seat height, and modern features (such as cruise control and two riding modes) it’s well-suited for both everyday use and relaxed longer rides. Q: What are the major differences between the T120 Black edition and the standard T120? A: The Black edition retains the same mechanical and specification elements as the standard T120, but offers a darker styling theme (blacked-out engine covers, black rims, black exhaust, dark trims) and sometimes exclusive colour options and finishes. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | |1235000 |
| 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. | Torquey, refined engine: The 1,200 cc parallel twin delivers strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery, making the bike easy to ride and relaxed in every-day use. Excellent build quality & classic styling: With its retro aesthetics (spoke wheels, twin-pod instruments, brushed metal finishes) combined with modern touches, it stands out and carries good craftsmanship. Good ergonomics for many riders: Its relatively low seat height (~790 mm) and relaxed upright riding posture make it accessible and comfortable for commuting or relaxed rides. Modern features despite classic looks: It includes ride-by-wire throttle, dual riding modes, switchable traction control, ABS, and USB charging point, all unintrusive yet present. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed Manual |
