Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
8.0 pts
Unweighted: 3 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Apache RR 310
18.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid‑cooled Oil‑Coolant Technology |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 312.2 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | SI, 4‑stroke, 4‑valve, single‑cylinder, DOHC, reverse‑inclined |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | Sport 28 kW @ 9800 RPM ; Urban 22 kW @7600 RPM |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | Sport: 27.3 Nm @ 7900 RPM ; Urban: 25 Nm @ 6700 RPM |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 11 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 34 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 174 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 810 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual‑channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 300mm Petal type with ABS |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | KYB inverted cartridge telescopic fork |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc 240mm Petal type with ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Two‑arm aluminium die‑cast swingarm with monotube floating‑piston gas shock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 110/70‑ZR17 M/C 54W tubeless – Michelin Road 5 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 150/60‑ZR17 M/C 66W tubeless – Michelin Road 5 |
| 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) | Bi‑LED projector |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12 V, 8 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bomber-Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Anniversary-Edition-1.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | 5″ TFT (SmartXonnect connected) |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Sepang Blue Race Replica | #1D5AAE, #D6D6D6 Racing Red | #B00000 Bomber Grey | #5F6368 Black Champagne Gold Livery | #111111, #B08D57 |
| 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. | Engine vibrations are still noticeable at certain RPM ranges, especially near highway cruising speeds. The committed riding posture can feel tiring during long city traffic rides or extended touring sessions. Heat management around the engine area can become noticeable in slow-moving traffic conditions. The gearbox and quickshifter setup, while feature-rich, may not feel as smooth as some higher-priced international sport bikes. Pillion comfort is limited because of the sporty rear seat design and aggressive ergonomics. The motorcycle sits in a pricing zone where buyers also start considering larger-capacity motorcycles and twin-cylinder alternatives. Service quality and ownership experience can vary depending on dealership location and technician expertise. Low-speed maneuvering feels slightly heavier compared to lightweight naked motorcycles because of the full-faired setup and riding posture. |
| 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 TVS Apache RR 310 is built around the idea of offering a fully-faired sport motorcycle that can handle both everyday road riding and higher-speed performance riding without becoming too extreme for regular use. While the motorcycle clearly carries supersport-inspired styling and aerodynamics, its overall setup feels more balanced than a pure track-focused machine. The riding experience combines strong highway stability, modern electronics, and sporty handling with enough practicality to make the bike usable beyond weekend rides. Power comes from a 312.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that uses a reverse-inclined layout. This engine design helps centralize mass and improve handling characteristics while also contributing to better weight distribution. The motor produces around 38 PS and 29 Nm of torque in Track and Sport modes, giving the RR 310 strong acceleration through the mid and upper rev range. The engine feels smooth during regular riding but becomes more energetic once pushed harder, especially during highway overtakes and fast corner exits. A 6-speed gearbox handles transmission duties, and newer variants also receive a bi-directional quickshifter that allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts during spirited riding. The motorcycle includes four riding modes — Track, Sport, Urban, and Rain. These modes change throttle response, ABS behavior, power delivery, and traction control intervention depending on riding conditions. Track and Sport modes unlock the motorcycle’s full performance potential, while Urban and Rain modes soften throttle response and add more electronic intervention for smoother control on wet roads or city traffic. This system gives the RR 310 a more adaptable personality compared to many conventional sport motorcycles. Aerodynamics play a major role in the bike’s design. The fully-faired bodywork, sharp front profile, and windscreen are developed to improve airflow and stability at higher speeds. The motorcycle feels planted while cruising on highways, and the fairing helps reduce wind blast during long rides. At the same time, the aggressive styling with LED lighting, sculpted tank sections, split seats, and race-inspired graphics gives the RR 310 a strong visual presence on the road. The chassis setup focuses heavily on stability and handling precision. The bike uses a trellis frame combined with upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension. The suspension setup keeps the motorcycle composed during fast cornering while still absorbing regular road imperfections reasonably well. The RR 310 feels stable during high-speed riding and maintains confidence during quick direction changes, though the sporty riding posture places more weight on the wrists compared to upright street motorcycles. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS. Higher variants also receive cornering ABS and traction control, which improve stability during aggressive braking and leaned-over cornering situations. Michelin Road 5 tyres further improve grip and road feedback, especially during fast highway riding and wet conditions. Technology is one of the most feature-rich aspects of the RR 310. The TFT instrument display supports TVS SmartXonnect connectivity with navigation assist, call alerts, ride telemetry, voice assistance, and riding statistics. Features like cruise control, cornering traction control, wheelie control, and adjustable suspension on selected variants give the motorcycle a premium feel usually associated with larger sport bikes. The bike carries an 11-litre fuel tank and weighs around 174 kg. Fuel efficiency generally stays around 30–35 km/l depending on riding conditions and throttle usage. Overall, the TVS Apache RR 310 combines aerodynamic sportbike styling, modern rider electronics, stable chassis dynamics, and strong highway performance into a motorcycle developed for riders who want a sporty but road-usable fully-faired machine. |
| 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 TVS Apache RR 310 feels like a motorcycle developed with serious attention toward riding dynamics rather than just outright specifications. Once the bike starts moving, the chassis immediately stands out because of how stable and planted it feels through corners and at highway speeds. The 312.2cc reverse-inclined engine delivers strong acceleration and a smooth flow of power through the mid and top-end range, while the aerodynamic fairing helps the motorcycle remain composed during fast riding. TVS has also packed the RR 310 with a large number of electronic features including ride modes, cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control, and a bi-directional quickshifter, giving the motorcycle a much more premium feel than many bikes in this category. At the same time, the RR 310 does not try to behave like an extreme supersport machine all the time. The suspension setup and riding ergonomics still allow it to function as an everyday motorcycle, although engine heat, committed ergonomics, and vibrations at certain RPMs become noticeable during longer rides or city traffic. Overall, the RR 310 combines sporty handling, high-speed stability, modern electronics, and practical road usability into a fully-faired motorcycle designed mainly for riders who enjoy performance-oriented road riding., 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: What engine does the TVS Apache RR 310 use? A: The motorcycle uses a 312.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, reverse-inclined engine. Q: What is the power output of the Apache RR 310? A: The bike produces around 38 PS and 29 Nm in Track and Sport modes. Q: What is the top speed of the Apache RR 310? A: The motorcycle has an approximate top speed of around 160 km/h. Q: Does the Apache RR 310 have riding modes? A: Yes, the motorcycle offers Track, Sport, Urban, and Rain riding modes. Q: Does the RR 310 have a quickshifter? A: Yes, newer variants get a bi-directional quickshifter. Q: What type of brakes does the Apache RR 310 use? A: The motorcycle uses disc brakes at both ends along with dual-channel ABS. Q: Does the Apache RR 310 get traction control? A: Yes, higher variants include traction control and cornering traction control features. Q: What suspension setup does the Apache RR 310 use? A: The bike gets USD front forks and a rear monoshock suspension setup. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the RR 310? A: The motorcycle comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Apache RR 310 support Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, the motorcycle supports TVS SmartXonnect connectivity with navigation and ride analytics. Q: Is the Apache RR 310 suitable for touring? A: Yes, the bike is capable of highway touring because of its stable chassis, aerodynamic fairing, and strong cruising performance. Q: What tyres are used on the Apache RR 310? A: The motorcycle uses Michelin Road 5 tubeless tyres on newer variants. Q: Does the Apache RR 310 have cruise control? A: Yes, selected variants offer cruise control functionality. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Apache RR 310? A: The motorcycle weighs around 174 kg. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Red Without Quickshifter | 261240 Red With Quickshifter | 277190 Bomber Grey | 281790 Limited Edition | 314390 |
| 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. | The motorcycle feels very stable at higher speeds, especially on highways. The aerodynamic fairing, riding posture, and chassis setup help the bike maintain confidence during fast cruising and cornering. The 312.2cc reverse-inclined engine delivers strong acceleration and a noticeable top-end pull, making the RR 310 feel more performance-oriented than most smaller sport motorcycles. Ride modes such as Track, Sport, Urban, and Rain mode allow the motorcycle to adapt its throttle response and ABS behavior depending on riding conditions. The bike balances sporty handling with everyday usability better than many aggressive supersport motorcycles. It can still be used for regular commuting without feeling excessively uncomfortable. Features like cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control, bi-directional quickshifter, TFT display, and Bluetooth connectivity make the motorcycle feel technologically advanced within the segment. The fully-faired design gives the RR 310 strong road presence, and the race-inspired styling remains one of the most distinctive parts of the motorcycle. Suspension and braking performance feel premium, especially on variants equipped with adjustable suspension setups and Michelin tyres. High-speed stability and chassis feedback are among the strongest areas of the motorcycle, particularly during cornering and highway riding. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6‑speed with bi‑directional quick‑shifter |
