Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH TIGER 1200 RALLY PRO
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 1160 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 | 150PS / 148bhp (110.4kW) @ 9,000rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 130 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 20 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 19.6 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 249 |
| Seat Height | 804 | Adjustable 850/870 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Brembo M4.30 Stylema monoblock radial calipers, OC-ABS, twin 320mm floating discs. Magura HC1 span adjustable radial master cylinder with separate reservoir. |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Showa 49mm, semi-active damping USD forks. 200mm travel. |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Brembo single piston caliper, OC-ABS, single 282mm disc. Rear master cylinder with remote reservoir. |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | 200mm wheel travel Showa semi-active damping monoshock, with automatic electronic preload adjustment and New Active Preload Reduction feature. |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | Metzeler Tourance, 120/70R19 (M/C 60V TL) |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | Metzeler Tourance, 150/70R18 (M/C 70V TL) |
| 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/Untitled-design-5.png |
| 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 | Matt Sandstorm | #C2A57B Matt Khaki | #6B705C |
| 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. | Tall and intimidating for many riders - The high seat height (around 875 mm and above) makes it difficult for shorter riders, especially in traffic or at stops. Heavy and demanding at low speeds - The overall weight (around 250 kg) can make it challenging to manage in tight spaces or slow riding situations. Requires proper riding technique off-road - It is not very forgiving, riders need skill and control to fully use its off-road capability. Minor ergonomic issues reported - Some users mention limited grip area near the tank, which can affect control during aggressive riding. Engine vibrations - Some earlier models had noticeable vibrations, though updates have reduced this issue. Premium pricing and ownership cost - It sits in a higher price bracket, with maintenance and accessories adding to overall cost |
| 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 Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is a large-capacity adventure motorcycle designed to handle both long-distance touring and demanding off-road conditions. It is powered by a 1160cc inline three-cylinder engine that produces around 148 bhp and 130 Nm of torque. This engine uses a T-plane crankshaft design, which gives it a different feel compared to traditional triple engines. At lower speeds, it behaves more like a twin-cylinder engine with strong torque, making it easier to control on rough terrain, while at higher speeds it delivers a more typical triple-cylinder performance with smooth and strong acceleration. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and comes with a quickshifter, allowing clutchless gear changes for smoother riding. The bike is built on a tubular steel frame with a bolt-on aluminium rear subframe, designed to provide strength while keeping weight manageable for its size. It uses a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel with tubeless spoked rims, which are better suited for off-road riding as they help the bike handle obstacles like rocks and uneven surfaces more effectively. The suspension setup includes fully adjustable Showa upside-down front forks with around 220 mm of travel and a rear monoshock with around 200 mm of travel. This long-travel suspension allows the bike to absorb bumps and rough terrain comfortably while maintaining control. The riding position is upright and designed for both seated and standing riding, which is important for off-road use. The wide handlebar and adjustable seat height, ranging roughly from 875 mm to 895 mm, provide flexibility for different riders, though the height may feel challenging for shorter riders. The bike also comes with an adjustable windscreen, which helps reduce wind pressure during highway riding. The fuel tank capacity is around 20 litres, allowing for long-distance travel with fewer stops. In terms of features, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is equipped with a wide range of electronics. It includes multiple riding modes such as Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, and Off-Road Pro, allowing the rider to adjust the bike’s behaviour depending on conditions. It also comes with traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, and a 7-inch TFT display that provides information and connectivity features. Additional features like heated grips and seats add to comfort, especially during long rides or colder conditions. The braking system includes dual front disc brakes with Brembo calipers and a rear disc brake, offering strong and consistent stopping power. The overall weight of the bike is around 249–261 kg, which gives it stability at higher speeds but can make it feel heavy at low speeds or in tight situations. The design reflects its purpose, with a tall stance, minimal bodywork, and rugged styling that suits its off-road capability. Overall, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is built to deliver a combination of strong engine performance, advanced electronics, and off-road-ready hardware, making it suitable for riders who want a motorcycle that can handle a wide variety of riding conditions. |
| 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 Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is a large-capacity adventure motorcycle that places a strong emphasis on off-road capability while still maintaining long-distance touring comfort. It is powered by a 1160cc inline three-cylinder engine producing around 148 bhp and 130 Nm, delivering a mix of strong low-end torque and a responsive top-end, which allows it to handle both slow technical terrain and high-speed highway riding with ease. The engine’s T-plane crank design gives it a unique character, offering a twin-like feel at lower revs and a more energetic triple-cylinder response as speeds increase, making it adaptable across different riding conditions. The long-travel suspension, spoked wheels, and off-road-focused geometry provide stability and control over rough terrain, while the chassis improvements and weight reduction compared to earlier models help it feel more manageable once in motion. On the road, it remains stable and composed rather than sporty, reflecting its focus on versatility rather than sharp cornering. The upright ergonomics, wide handlebar, and touring-oriented features like cruise control, riding modes, and a large TFT display enhance comfort and usability over long distances. However, its tall seat height and overall weight can make it demanding at low speeds or for shorter riders, especially in urban conditions. Overall, the Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is designed to deliver a balance of off-road capability, touring comfort, and strong performance, with its setup clearly favouring riders who want to explore beyond paved roads., 4.6, 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 Tiger 1200 Rally Pro good for off-road riding? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is designed for serious off-road use, with a 21-inch front wheel, long-travel suspension, and dedicated off-road riding modes. Q: What is the mileage of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro typically delivers around 16–20 km/l in real-world riding, depending on terrain, load, and riding style. Q: What is the seat height of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro has an adjustable seat height ranging from approximately 875 mm to 895 mm. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro suitable for beginners? A: No, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is not beginner-friendly due to its weight, tall seat height, and powerful engine. Q: What is the engine capacity of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro comes with a 1160cc, liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder engine. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro have a quickshifter? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro comes with a standard up-and-down quickshifter. Q: Is the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro comfortable for long rides? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is designed for touring, with comfortable ergonomics, cruise control, and features like heated grips and seats. Q: What is the weight of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro has a wet weight of around 249–261 kg, depending on the model year. Q: Does the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro have cruise control? A: Yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro includes cruise control, which is useful for highway riding. Q: What is the top speed of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro? A: The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro has a top speed of around 220 km/h under ideal conditions. Some sources and real-world tests suggest it can go slightly higher (around 220–230 km/h), depending on conditions and rider input. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | RALLY PRO | 2079000 GT PRO | 1939000 GT EXPLORER | 2089000 RALLY EXPLORER | 2229000 |
| 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. | Very capable off-road performance - The Rally Pro handles rough terrain confidently, with long-travel suspension and a 21-inch front wheel helping it stay stable on trails and uneven surfaces. Strong and characterful triple-cylinder engine - The 1160cc T-plane engine delivers strong torque and a unique feel, offering both low-end tractability and strong top-end performance. Comfortable for long-distance touring - Upright ergonomics, a spacious seat, and wind protection make it suitable for long rides without much fatigue. High-quality suspension and ride comfort - The suspension absorbs rough terrain and bad roads effectively, keeping the bike composed in different riding conditions. Balanced on-road and off-road usability - Even though it is off-road focused, the bike still performs well on highways and paved roads without feeling compromised. Premium build quality and features - The bike offers strong fit and finish along with modern electronics and touring features, giving it a well-equipped feel overall. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 speed |
