Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH NEW SCRAMBLER 1200 X
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 13 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 | 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel-twin |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 90 PS @ 7000 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 110 Nm @ 4250 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 15 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 22.72 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 228 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 820 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Twin 310mm discs, 2 piston Nissin axial caliper, ABS |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Marzocchi Non-adjustable USD forks 170mm wheel travel |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Single 255mm disc, single piston floating Nissin caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Marzocchi twin RSU’s with piggyback reservoir, preload adjustable. 170mm wheel travel |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 90/90-21 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 150/70 R17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
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/2025/11/scrambler-1200-x_my24_sapphire-black_rhs.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/scrambler-1200-x_my24_ash-grey_rhs.webp |
| 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 | Sapphire Black | #242424 Ash Grey | #87868a Carnival Red | #a31f2e |
| 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. | Seat height still tall & weight heavy: While lowered vs some variants, the seat is still on the taller side and the overall mass remains substantial, which may challenge some riders. Fuel tank capacity / range trade-off: Some reviews note the fuel tank isn’t as large or optimized for very long distances compared to some rivals. Side-mounted exhaust & heat issues: The design and location of the exhaust may lead to heat transfer to the rider’s leg, especially in traffic or slow speeds. Suspension/brake spec compromises: To hit a better price point, some components (e.g., suspension adjustment, brake calipers) are less premium than higher spec variants and provide a firmer ride or less braking finesse in certain conditions. |
| 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 Scrambler 1200 X is the latest evolution in Triumph’s modern classic adventure lineup, designed to deliver a perfect blend of capability, everyday usability, and British style. Positioned as a more accessible and road-friendly version of the Scrambler 1200 XC, this motorcycle retains the character and performance of its larger sibling while offering improved comfort, manageability, and affordability. It’s crafted for riders who love the commanding stance and classic looks of a scrambler but want something easier to handle both on the highway and on light off-road terrains. At the heart of the Scrambler 1200 X lies Triumph’s proven 1,200cc Bonneville High Power parallel-twin engine, producing around 89 horsepower and 110 Nm of torque. This motor delivers smooth yet punchy performance with a focus on strong mid-range torque, making it ideal for real-world riding. Whether cruising on the highway, maneuvering through city traffic, or exploring gravel trails, the engine provides effortless power delivery and a distinctive twin-cylinder exhaust note. The six-speed gearbox is well-tuned, ensuring precise shifts and responsive throttle control. Triumph has fine-tuned the power delivery for the X to offer a more controlled and balanced feel, especially at lower speeds. In terms of design, the Scrambler 1200 X is unmistakably Triumph a perfect combination of retro style and modern engineering. The high-mounted exhaust, minimal bodywork, brushed aluminum details, and wire-spoked wheels give it the signature scrambler aesthetic, while practical updates such as a lower seat height (820 mm standard and 795 mm with the low seat option) make it more approachable for a wider range of riders. Despite its rugged looks, the ergonomics are relaxed and comfortable, with wide handlebars, a well-padded seat, and a neutral riding triangle that ensures fatigue-free long-distance riding. The Scrambler 1200 X also benefits from a solid package of modern technology and rider aids. It features five riding modes – Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, and Rider-configurable that adjust throttle response, traction control, and ABS according to terrain and riding conditions. The cornering ABS and traction control are IMU-based, providing greater safety and stability, especially during aggressive cornering or uneven surfaces. The bike also comes equipped with full LED lighting, a multi-function instrument display (with optional Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and media control), and switchable rider aids, ensuring both convenience and confidence on every ride. When it comes to ride and handling, the Scrambler 1200 X shines with its new suspension setup that’s optimized for both on-road comfort and off-road resilience. It uses Marzocchi 45mm USD front forks and twin rear shocks with 170 mm of travel, offering a plush yet stable ride over mixed terrain. The lightweight aluminum wheels (21-inch front and 17-inch rear) paired with dual-purpose Metzeler Karoo Street tires provide excellent grip on asphalt and adequate traction on dirt tracks. The braking system, handled by Brembo Stylema calipers at the front, ensures reliable stopping power and excellent feedback. In summary, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X is a masterful fusion of classic styling, cutting-edge technology, and versatile performance. It’s built for riders who want the authentic scrambler experience with more accessibility and comfort for everyday use. While it may not have the extreme off-road capability of the Scrambler 1200 XE, it strikes an ideal balance for those who split their time between city commutes, weekend adventures, and highway touring. With its refined engineering, high-quality finish, and commanding presence, the Scrambler 1200 X continues Triumph’s legacy as one of the most iconic names in the modern classic motorcycle 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 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X feels like a scrambler that has been tuned more for usability than extremes, without losing its core character. Its 1200cc parallel-twin engine delivers strong low-end and mid-range torque, which means the bike pulls easily without needing high revs, making it feel relaxed in normal riding but still capable when pushed. What stands out is how approachable it feels compared to earlier Scrambler 1200 versions, the lower seat height and softer suspension setup make it easier to manage, especially at low speeds and on uneven surfaces. On the road, the ride is stable and planted, with a suspension setup that leans slightly toward comfort while still maintaining control during faster riding. Off-road, it remains capable for trails and light dirt use, though it does show its limits on harsher terrain due to its weight and less aggressive suspension compared to the XE variant. Overall, it comes across as a more balanced and accessible version of the Scrambler 1200, where ease of use and everyday rideability are prioritised alongside its torque-rich performance., 4.2, 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 engine does the Scrambler 1200 X use? A: It is powered by a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve SOHC parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, producing around 89 bhp (≈90 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 110 Nm of torque at ≈4,250 rpm. Q: Will the high exhaust on the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X bother you in daily riding? A: In slow traffic, yes, you can feel heat on your right leg, especially in summer or when wearing lighter riding gear. It’s not constant, but it’s noticeable enough to be part of the ownership experience. Q: Does the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X feel intimidating in city traffic? A: Initially, yes. The height and width make it feel big in tight gaps, but once you get used to the balance and clutch control, it becomes manageable. It’s just not something you forget about in traffic. Q: Can you comfortably ride the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X without standing on pegs off-road? A: For light trails, yes. But if the terrain gets rough, you’ll end up standing, mainly because the suspension isn’t as forgiving as the XE and the bike’s weight starts to show. Q: How does the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X behave on highways at steady speeds? A: It feels relaxed and stable. The engine doesn’t feel stressed, but windblast becomes noticeable above 100–110 km/h since there’s no real wind protection. Q: Is the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X the kind of bike you can just “hop on and ride” daily? A: Not really. It’s usable daily, but you’re always aware of its size, heat, and weight. It feels more like a bike you ride with intent rather than something completely effortless. Q: Does the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X feel different with a pillion? A: Yes, especially at low speeds. The added weight makes the bike feel heavier to balance, and the tall stance becomes more noticeable during stops and slow turns. Q: How often do you actually use its off-road capability in real life? A: Most owners end up using it occasionally rather than regularly. It’s capable, but the size and cost make people cautious about pushing it hard off-road. Q: Do you feel the weight while riding, or only at low speeds? A: Mostly at low speeds. Once you’re moving, the bike feels stable and balanced, but that initial weight never completely disappears in tighter situations. Q: Does the Triumph Scrambler 1200 X come with accessories or do you need to add them separately? A: The Triumph Scrambler 1200 X comes with basic items like a bash plate and hand guards, but most useful accessories - such as crash guards, luggage, heated grips, and touring add-ons—are optional and need to be installed separately based on your usage. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic fuel injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Sapphire Black | 1264100 Ash Grey and Carnival Red | 1289100 |
| 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. | Premium fit & finish: The bike is praised for its high-quality build, refined finishes and strong road presence. Powerful and torquey engine: Its 1,200 cc twin delivers solid mid-range pull and character-filled performance suited to both road and light off-road. More accessible than before: The lower seat height (around 820 mm, option to go ~795 mm) improves accessibility for a wider range of riders. Good tech & features: Includes five riding modes, cornering ABS/traction control, full-LED lighting and modern instrumentation. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed |
