Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
16.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 STORM R
15.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 182 PS / 180 bhp (134 kW) @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 225 Nm (166lbft) @ 4,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 18 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 15 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 317 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 773 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Twin 320mm discs, Brembo M4.32 Stylema® 4-piston monobloc caliper, Optimised Cornering-ABS |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Showa 47mm USD 1 1 cartridge front forks, compression and rebound damping adjustment, 120mm wheel travel. |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Single 300mm disc, Brembo M4.32 4-piston monobloc caliper, Optimised Cornering-ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Fully adjustable Showa piggyback reservoir RSU with remote hydraulic preload adjuster, 107mm wheel travel. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 150/80 R17 V |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 240/50 R16 V |
| 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/2025/11/rocket-3-r-my26-satin-baja-orange-rhs-629.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/rocket_3_r_my24_granite_rhs_629px.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/rocket_3_r_my24_pacific_blue_rhs_629px.webp |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | colour TFT screen |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Carnival Red/Sapphire Black | #8a1d1c,#1a1c1c Satin Baja Orange / Matt Sapphire Black | #f2570a,#242424 Sapphire Black / Granite | #1f1c1e,#474747 Satin Pacific Blue / Matt Sapphire Black | #3d4c7d,#0f0f0f |
| 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. | Extremely Heavy – Weight is very noticeable, especially during slow-speed riding and parking manoeuvres. Low Fuel Efficiency / Range – Fuel consumption is high, and range is relatively limited for long-distance touring. Expensive to Own – High purchase price and maintenance costs make it less accessible. Not Beginner-Friendly – Power delivery and size can feel overwhelming for inexperienced riders. Missing Features for Price – Some expected features like quickshifter or advanced connectivity may not be standard. |
| 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 Rocket 3 Storm R is not a typical motorcycle, and it becomes clear as soon as you start riding it. The 2458cc engine is extremely large, and what you feel most is not top speed but the way it pulls from very low speeds. Even a small twist of the throttle moves the bike forward strongly, without needing to rev the engine much. Because of this, riding it feels different from smaller bikes, you don’t have to change gears often or plan overtakes carefully, as the engine already has enough power in almost any situation. At low speeds, the size and weight are noticeable. Moving the bike in parking areas or taking tight turns requires attention, and it doesn’t feel light or easy in these situations. But once the bike is moving, it becomes more stable and easier to manage than expected. It doesn’t feel quick to turn like smaller motorcycles, but it stays steady and predictable, especially on open roads. The long wheelbase and wide tyres help it feel planted rather than unstable. The riding position on the Storm R is slightly more upright compared to cruiser-style bikes. The footpegs are placed in the middle, which gives a bit more control and makes it feel closer to a roadster in some ways. Even then, the bike is not focused on fast cornering or aggressive riding. It prefers smooth inputs and steady riding rather than quick direction changes. In daily use, there are some clear limitations. The engine produces heat in slow traffic, and fuel consumption is on the higher side. The size of the bike also means it can feel difficult in crowded roads or narrow spaces. It is not something that easily fits into everyday city riding without effort. At the same time, these aspects come from the way the bike is built, rather than being separate issues. The overall riding experience feels controlled despite the power. The throttle response is smooth, and the electronics work quietly in the background without making the bike feel complicated. Once you get used to it, the bike behaves in a predictable way, even though the engine is very powerful. Overall, the Rocket 3 Storm R is shaped around its engine and the way it delivers power. Most of its design and riding feel come from managing that large amount of torque, rather than trying to behave like a typical motorcycle used for daily riding. |
| 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 Rocket 3 Storm R delivers a riding experience that feels more about managing immense torque than chasing outright speed. Its 2458cc inline-triple produces massive low-end pull that arrives instantly, making overtakes effortless without needing high revs. What stands out is how controlled this power feels, despite its size, the bike remains stable and composed once moving, with a chassis that holds its line confidently through corners if ridden smoothly. At low speeds, however, the weight and physical scale are always noticeable, requiring careful handling in tight situations. The mid-set ergonomics give it a slightly more active feel than a cruiser, but practicality takes a back seat to sheer presence and performance. Overall, it feels less like a conventional motorcycle and more like a machine built around delivering torque in its most extreme and refined form., 4.3, 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: Is the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R difficult to ride in traffic? A: Yes, in slow traffic the weight and width are very noticeable. The bike feels manageable once moving, but tight U-turns and stop-go conditions require experience and control. Q: Can the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R be used for long-distance touring? A: It can, but the R variant is more roadster-focused with mid-set footpegs. For long touring, most riders prefer the GT version due to better ergonomics and comfort. Q: Is the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R too powerful for normal riding? A: The power is extreme on paper, but the throttle tuning is smooth and predictable. The real challenge is managing the torque, not the speed. Q: How does the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R feel at low speeds? A: It feels heavy and slightly intimidating at low speeds, especially for parking or maneuvering, but becomes stable and surprisingly balanced once in motion. Q: Can shorter riders handle the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R? A: It is possible due to a relatively accessible seat height, but the overall weight and size matter more than height when handling this bike. Q: Is the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R suitable for Indian road conditions? A: It handles highways very well, but poor roads, tight city lanes, and rough terrain can feel challenging due to its size and limited ground clearance. Q: What kind of mileage can you expect from the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R? A: Real-world mileage is typically low, often around 12–15 km/l, which is expected for a 2.5-litre engine. Q: Is the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R beginner-friendly? A: No, it is not recommended for beginners. The combination of weight and massive torque requires experience and confidence to handle safely. Q: What makes the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R different from other cruisers? A: Its engine size and torque output are unmatched in production motorcycles, giving it a completely different riding experience compared to traditional V-twin cruisers. Q: Does the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R feel like a cruiser or a performance bike? A: It sits somewhere in between—a power cruiser that mixes cruiser ergonomics with performance-focused acceleration and handling. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | 3R | 2403100 |
| 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. | Brutal Performance – Massive 2458cc triple engine delivers insane torque and acceleration that feels unmatched in this segment. Unique Road Presence – Muscular design and sheer size make it stand out like no other bike on the road. Surprisingly Stable Handling – Despite its size, the bike feels balanced and confidence-inspiring at speed and through corners. Comfortable Ride Quality – Plush suspension and relaxed ergonomics make it comfortable for cruising and long rides. Premium Build & Tech – High-end components, electronics, and overall finish give it a premium ownership feel. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 speed |
