Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
23.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Ntorq
7.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 124.8 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 3-valve, SI |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 7 KW @7000 RPM |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 10.6 Nm @ 5,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 5.8 litres |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 47 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 111 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 770 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 220mm with SBT / Drum 130mm with SBT |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic Suspension with Hydraulic Dampers |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Dia Drum 130mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Coil spring with Hydraulic Dampers |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/80 – 12 tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 110/80 – 12 tubeless |
| 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) | LED (Race XP) / Halogen (standard) |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12 V, 4 Ah MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Blaze-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 10 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Super-Soldier.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Dark-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Harlequin-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Lightning-Gray.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Nardo-Gray.avif |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Neon.avif |
| Bike Image 7 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Race-Edition-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 8 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Race-Edition-Red.avif |
| Bike Image 9 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Stealth-Black.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | Fully digital with SmartXonnect (Bluetooth, Navigation, Voice Assist in Race XP) |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Stealth Black | #111111 Dark Black | #1A1A1A Race Red | #A50000 Race Edition Red | #8B0000 Race Edition Blue / Marine Blue | #1F4E8C Harlequin Blue | #2962A3 Turquoise Blue | #009CA6 Nardo Gray | #7B7E80 Lightning Gray | #6D6D6D Amazing Red | #B11226 Neon | #111111, #D4FF00 Blaze Blue | #2456A6 Super Soldier Edition | #4B4F54, #1A1A1A (Black) |
| 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. | Fuel efficiency is lower compared to many other scooters in the segment. Plastic quality and long-term fit-and-finish could feel better in some areas. Rear seat space may feel slightly short for some riders during longer journeys. Braking performance, especially in lower variants, could have been sharper. Engine vibrations and noise become noticeable at higher speeds. Service experience varies depending on the dealership location. |
| 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 NTORQ 125 takes a noticeably different approach compared to traditional family scooters, with its design and mechanical setup leaning more toward sporty riding and connected technology. Built around a 124.8cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine, the scooter produces around 9.3–9.5 bhp in standard variants, while higher-spec Race XP versions push the output slightly further with over 10 bhp. The engine is paired with a CVT automatic transmission, and the throttle response feels quicker than most regular commuter scooters, especially during city overtakes and rapid acceleration from traffic signals. The overall styling follows a sharp and aggressive design language inspired by sport motorcycles and racing scooters. Angular body panels, split grab rails, bold graphics, LED lighting, and chunky tyres give the scooter a more performance-oriented appearance. The riding posture also reflects this approach, with slightly firmer ergonomics and a narrower floorboard compared to more comfort-focused scooters. While it remains practical enough for everyday commuting, the design clearly prioritizes sporty character over traditional family-scooter simplicity. Performance is one of the main highlights of the NTORQ 125. The engine delivers strong low-end and mid-range acceleration, which helps the scooter feel lively in urban conditions. The Race XP variant additionally introduces riding modes such as Street and Race mode, altering throttle response for different riding styles. Acceleration figures and top speed remain among the stronger points in the 125cc scooter segment, with the scooter capable of cruising comfortably at moderate highway speeds as well. The chassis and suspension setup are tuned to support sporty handling. The scooter uses telescopic front suspension and a gas-charged rear shock absorber that provide stable cornering and predictable handling during quick direction changes. The 12-inch alloy wheels and wide tubeless tyres offer good road grip, especially while cornering or riding through fast-moving traffic. At the same time, the firmer suspension setup means rough roads and potholes are felt more noticeably compared to softer family-oriented scooters. Technology is another area where the NTORQ stands out. It was among the first scooters in India to introduce Bluetooth-connected features through the SmartXonnect system. Depending on the variant, the fully digital instrument cluster provides navigation assist, ride statistics, lap timer, call alerts, SMS notifications, and voice assist functionality. Higher variants also include multiple display modes and riding analytics aimed at riders who prefer a more tech-focused riding experience. In terms of practicality, the scooter offers around 20 litres of under-seat storage along with USB charging and an external fuel filler cap. The fuel tank capacity stands at approximately 5.8 litres, while mileage figures usually remain in the range of 45–50 km/l depending on riding conditions and riding style. Kerb weight stays around 111–118 kg depending on the variant, helping the scooter maintain stable handling without feeling excessively heavy in city traffic. Braking duties are handled by a front disc or drum brake depending on the model, paired with a rear drum brake and synchronized braking technology. The braking feel is tuned more for sporty urban usage, while the chassis remains stable during quick braking and cornering situations. Overall, the TVS NTORQ 125 combines sporty styling, responsive performance, connected technology, and agile handling into a scooter that focuses more on rider engagement and modern features than purely comfort-oriented commuting. |
| 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 | Unlike most family-oriented scooters that focus mainly on comfort and mileage, the TVS NTORQ 125 takes a more performance-focused approach. Its 124.8cc engine delivers quick acceleration and strong low-end response, which makes the scooter feel lively in city traffic and more engaging during open-road riding. The chassis setup and handling characteristics give it a stable and sporty feel around corners, while the steering remains light enough for daily commuting. One of its standout elements is the fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation assist, ride statistics, and multiple ride modes in higher variants, which still feels modern within the segment. The aggressive styling, sharp body panels, and sporty riding posture also give the scooter a distinct identity compared to traditional commuter scooters. At the same time, the NTORQ’s sporty nature comes with trade-offs in areas like fuel efficiency and ride comfort over rough roads, especially at lower speeds where the suspension can feel firm. Some users have also reported inconsistent plastic quality and varying service experiences depending on location. Overall, the scooter is designed more around performance, technology, and sporty character rather than pure practicality or mileage-focused commuting., 4.4, 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 capacity of the TVS NTORQ 125? A: The TVS NTORQ 125 comes with a 124.8cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. Q: What mileage does the TVS NTORQ 125 give? A: The scooter generally delivers around 42–50 km/l depending on riding style, traffic, and variant. Q: What is the top speed of the TVS NTORQ 125? A: The standard variants have a top speed of around 94–95 km/h, while the Race XP variant can reach close to 98 km/h. Q: Does the TVS NTORQ 125 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, the scooter comes with SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity featuring navigation assist, call alerts, ride stats, and more. Q: How many riding modes are available in the TVS NTORQ 125? A: The Race XP and XT variants offer Street and Race riding modes. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the TVS NTORQ 125? A: The scooter comes with a 5.8-litre fuel tank. Q: Is the TVS NTORQ 125 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes, it can be used for daily commuting, though its setup is more performance-oriented compared to regular family scooters. Q: Does the TVS NTORQ 125 have a digital instrument cluster? A: Yes, it features a fully digital instrument console with connected technology features. Q: What type of brakes are available in the TVS NTORQ 125? A: Depending on the variant, it gets front disc or drum brakes along with a rear drum brake setup. Q: Is the TVS NTORQ 125 good for highway riding? A: It can handle short highway rides comfortably thanks to its strong acceleration and stable chassis, though it is mainly designed for city-focused riding. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Disc | 81750 Race Edition | 87050 Super Squad Edition | 91550 Race XP | 93050 XT | 100650 |
| 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. | Strong 125cc engine performance with quick acceleration and responsive pickup in city riding. Sporty handling and stable ride quality make it feel more engaging than regular commuter scooters. Fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, call alerts, and ride statistics stands out in the segment. Aggressive styling and multiple color options give the scooter a youthful appearance. Comfortable riding posture with decent space for taller riders and daily commuting. Suspension setup handles regular city roads and bumps reasonably well. Feature-rich package including USB charger, engine kill switch, LED lighting, and external fuel filler in higher variants. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric & Kick |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | CVT automatic |
