Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
23.0 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Raider
6.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Air & Oil‑cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 124.8 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Air & Oil‑cooled single‑cylinder, SI |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 8.37 kW @ 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 11.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 10 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 56 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 123 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 780 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | No, Synchronized Braking System |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc 240 / Drum 130 |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc 200 / Drum 130 |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Monoshock, 5‑step adjustable, gas‑charged |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 80/100‑17, tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 100/90‑17, 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 |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12V 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/Fiery-Yellow.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Forza-Blue.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Mercury-Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wicked-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Striking-Red.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | Reverse LCD digital console with ride modes |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Blazing Blue | #1F3A5F Fiery Yellow | #F5C400 Striking Red | #C62828 Wicked Black | #1A1A1A Forza Blue | #3A6EA5 Nardo Grey (iGO variant) | #8A8F95 |
| 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. | Braking could feel average - Some riders mention that the front brake requires more effort than expected, especially during sudden stops. Vibrations at higher speeds - As speeds go beyond ~70 km/h, slight vibrations can start to creep in, which is noticeable on longer rides. Build quality complaints in some areas - There are mixed opinions about plastic quality and certain parts feeling less premium. Service experience can vary - Some users report inconsistent service quality and higher-than-expected maintenance issues depending on location. No kick-start option - The absence of a kick starter can be inconvenient if the battery runs out. Not ideal for long-distance comfort - While fine for city use, longer rides can lead to discomfort after a certain point. |
| 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 Raider 125 is designed as a modern 125cc motorcycle that focuses on everyday usability while adding a slightly sportier feel compared to traditional commuter bikes. It uses a 124.8 cc single-cylinder, air and oil-cooled engine that produces around 11 bhp and 11.2 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox and is tuned to deliver smooth and predictable performance, especially at low and mid speeds where most city riding happens. The throttle response feels light and manageable, making it easy to ride in traffic, while still offering enough power for occasional highway use. The bike is built on a lightweight chassis, with a kerb weight of around 123–125 kg. This makes it easy to handle, especially for new riders or in crowded urban conditions. The riding posture is upright with slightly rear-set foot pegs, giving it a neutral stance that balances comfort and control. The seat height is around 780 mm, which should be accessible for a wide range of riders, and the overall ergonomics are designed to suit daily commuting without putting too much strain on the rider. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. The setup is tuned more towards comfort, so it absorbs most small bumps and uneven roads without much effort. On rougher roads, it may feel slightly soft, but it remains stable under normal riding conditions. Braking is managed by a disc at the front and either a drum or disc at the rear depending on the variant. The bike comes with synchronized braking or single-channel ABS, which helps improve braking control in regular riding scenarios. One of the noticeable aspects of the Raider 125 is its feature set. It comes with a fully digital instrument cluster that displays information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip data. Higher variants also offer a TFT display with smartphone connectivity, which allows features like call alerts, navigation assist, and ride statistics. The bike includes riding modes such as Eco and Power, which slightly adjust throttle response based on riding conditions. These features are not very common in the 125cc segment and add a different layer to the overall riding experience. In terms of design, the Raider 125 carries sharp lines and a more muscular look compared to basic commuter bikes. It uses LED lighting for the headlamp and tail lamp, giving it a more modern appearance. The fuel tank has a sculpted design, and the split seat setup adds to its sporty visual appeal. Despite this styling, the bike still maintains its core focus on practicality. The fuel tank capacity is around 10 litres, which works well with its fuel efficiency, reducing the need for frequent refuelling. Overall dimensions are compact, which helps in easy parking and maneuverability in tight spaces. The tyres are designed for regular road use, offering a balance between grip and longevity. Overall, the TVS Raider 125 combines everyday practicality with a few added features and design elements that set it apart from more basic options in the same category. |
| 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 Raider 125 is built as a sporty commuter that blends everyday usability with a slightly more engaging riding character than typical 125cc bikes. Its engine feels refined at low and mid speeds, making city riding smooth and predictable, while still offering enough response to feel lively when pushed a bit. The lightweight chassis and compact dimensions make it easy to handle in traffic, and the suspension setup is tuned more for comfort than outright performance, absorbing most road imperfections without much fuss. Feature-wise, it stands out with its digital console and riding modes, though not all of these are likely to be used regularly by every rider. At higher speeds, mild vibrations and a softer braking feel become noticeable, and overall build quality in certain areas may not feel as solid as expected. The bike leans more towards practicality and ease of use, with a design that adds a bit of visual appeal without changing its core purpose as a daily-use machine., 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: What is the engine capacity of the TVS Raider 125? A: The TVS Raider 125 comes with a 124.8 cc single-cylinder, air and oil-cooled engine, which is typical for this segment and tuned for daily usability. Q: What mileage can you expect from the TVS Raider 125? A: The TVS Raider 125 has an ARAI-claimed mileage of around 56–57 km/l, while real-world figures usually fall between 50–60 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: Is the TVS Raider 125 good for city riding? A: Yes, the TVS Raider 125 is well-suited for city use because it’s lightweight, easy to handle, and has smooth power delivery at lower speeds. Q: Does the TVS Raider 125 have riding modes? A: Yes, the TVS Raider 125 offers riding modes like Eco and Power (or Boost in newer variants), which slightly change how the bike responds to throttle inputs. Q: What is the top speed of the TVS Raider 125? A: The TVS Raider 125 has a top speed of around 95–100 km/h, which is in line with most 125cc commuter bikes. Q: Is the TVS Raider 125 comfortable for long rides? A: The TVS Raider 125 can handle occasional longer rides, but it is mainly designed for city commuting, so comfort may reduce after extended hours. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the TVS Raider 125? A: The TVS Raider 125 comes with a 10-litre fuel tank, which is decent for daily use and helps reduce frequent fuel stops. Q: Does the TVS Raider 125 have ABS? A: Some variants of the TVS Raider 125 offer single-channel ABS or synchronized braking, depending on the model you choose. Q: How heavy is the TVS Raider 125? A: The TVS Raider 125 weighs around 123–125 kg, making it one of the lighter bikes in its segment and easy to handle. Q: What makes the TVS Raider 125 different from other 125cc bikes? A: The TVS Raider 125 stands out mainly because of its sporty design, digital console with connectivity features, and slightly more engaging performance compared to regular commuter bikes. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Drum | 82860 Single Seat | 88470 iGo | 92520 Split Seat | 92520 Super Squad Edition | 93520 SXC Dual Disc | 96725 TFT Dual Disc | 98550 |
| 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. | Engine feels smooth and usable in daily riding - The TVS Raider 125 has a refined engine that works well in city conditions. It pulls cleanly and doesn’t feel stressed in normal use. Good mileage for everyday use - Mileage is one of its strong points, with many users reporting efficient fuel consumption in mixed riding conditions. Lightweight and easy to handle - Because the bike is light, it feels easy to manoeuvre in traffic and tight spaces, which is useful for daily commuting. Comfortable for city rides - The seating and suspension setup are tuned for regular usage, so short to medium rides feel manageable without much fatigue. Feature-loaded for a 125cc bike - You get things like a digital display, ride modes, and connectivity features, which are not common in this segment. Sporty design stands out - The styling is sharper than typical commuter bikes, which appeals to younger riders or those wanting something different. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric (self-start) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 5‑speed manual |
