Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
27.0 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS StaR City+
2.5 pts
Unweighted: 4 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 109.7 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | ET – FI Eco Thrust Fuel Injection Technology |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 8.08 bhp @ 7,350 rpm |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 8.7 Nm @ 4,500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 10 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | — |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 115 (Drum), 116(Disc) |
| Seat Height | 804 | 785 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | — |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Drum: 130 | Disc: 240 |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic, oil-damped |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Drum: 110 (Synchro) |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | 5‑step adjustable hydraulic shock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 2.75 × 17 tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 3.00 × 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 | 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/black-blue.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Black-red.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Grey-black.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | Semi-digital console |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Black Red (Dual Tone) | #0B0B0B, #8B0000 Black Blue | #0B0B0B, #1F3A8A Grey Black | #6B6B6B, #0B0B0B Black Green | #0B0B0B, #1B5E20 |
| 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. | Limited power and performance: The bike is not very powerful and may feel underpowered, especially during overtakes or when riding with a pillion. Engine refinement issues at higher speeds: Some users report vibrations and less smoothness when the bike is pushed beyond city speeds (around 60 km/h+). Basic braking performance (in lower variants): Drum brake variants may not offer very strong stopping power compared to disc setups. Outdated instrument cluster and features: The semi-digital console and overall feature list feel slightly dated compared to newer competitors. Mixed service experience: Some users have reported inconsistent service quality and occasional engine-related concerns over time. Not ideal for long rides: Seat comfort and performance may feel limited on longer highway journeys. |
| 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 Star City Plus is built as a straightforward commuter motorcycle, and its specifications reflect a focus on everyday usability, efficiency, and ease of riding. At the heart of the bike is a 109.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces around 8.08 bhp of power and 8.7 Nm of torque. This engine is tuned to deliver smooth and consistent performance at city speeds, making it suitable for daily travel rather than high-speed riding. It is paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox, which offers simple and predictable gear shifts for regular use. The engine uses EcoThrust Fuel Injection (ET-Fi) technology, which helps in maintaining fuel efficiency while keeping emissions in check. Mileage figures are one of the key highlights, with real-world numbers often hovering around 65–70 km/l, while claimed figures go higher depending on conditions. This efficiency, combined with a 10-litre fuel tank, allows the bike to cover longer distances without frequent refueling. In terms of construction, the bike is designed on a lightweight frame, with a kerb weight of around 115–116 kg. This makes it easy to handle in traffic, especially for new riders or those who prefer a lighter motorcycle. The seat height is approximately 785 mm, which allows most riders to comfortably place their feet on the ground. The overall ergonomics are upright, with a wide handlebar and a long, single-piece seat that supports both rider and pillion during daily rides. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This combination is designed to handle uneven roads, speed breakers, and potholes commonly found in urban and semi-urban areas. The ground clearance of around 172 mm further helps the bike manage rough patches without scraping underneath. For braking, the Star City Plus is available with drum brakes on both wheels, along with an option for a front disc brake in higher variants. It also features a synchronized braking system, which distributes braking force between the wheels for better control. The bike runs on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres, contributing to stability and convenience during daily rides. Feature-wise, the motorcycle includes a semi-digital instrument cluster that displays essential information like speed, fuel level, and trip details. It also gets functional additions such as automatic headlamp on (AHO), a side-stand engine cut-off, service reminder, and USB charging in some variants. These features are aimed at improving day-to-day usability rather than adding complexity. Overall, the TVS Star City Plus brings together a set of specifications that focus on fuel efficiency, manageable performance, and practical comfort, aligning it closely with the needs of regular commuting and routine travel. |
| 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 Star City Plus presents itself as a straightforward commuter motorcycle with a clear focus on everyday usability. Its 109.7cc engine delivers a calm and predictable performance that suits stop-and-go city traffic, with smooth power delivery at lower speeds and a gearbox that feels easy to operate. The lightweight chassis and upright ergonomics make it manageable for a wide range of riders, especially in crowded urban conditions where agility matters. Ride comfort is supported by a suspension setup that handles uneven roads reasonably well, and the long seat adds to overall practicality for both rider and pillion. At the same time, the bike shows its limitations when pushed harder, as performance remains modest and some vibrations can be noticed at higher speeds. The braking setup, particularly in drum variants, feels adequate for routine riding but not especially strong. Feature-wise, it stays functional with a semi-digital console and a few modern touches, though it doesn’t feel particularly up-to-date. Overall, the Star City Plus reflects a design approach centered around simplicity, efficiency, and ease of use rather than performance or advanced features., 4.2, 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 Star City Plus? A: It comes with a 109.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine designed for daily commuting. Q: What mileage does the TVS Star City Plus give? A: It typically delivers around 65–70 km/l in real-world riding conditions, depending on usage. Q: Does the TVS Star City Plus have a disc brake option? A: Yes, it is available in both drum and front disc brake variants. Q: Is the TVS Star City Plus suitable for long rides? A: It can manage short highway rides, but it is mainly designed for city commuting. Q: What technology is used for fuel efficiency in TVS Star City Plus? A: It uses EcoThrust Fuel Injection (ET-Fi) technology for better fuel efficiency and smoother performance. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the TVS Star City Plus? A: The bike comes with a 10-litre fuel tank. Q: Is TVS Star City Plus good for beginners? A: Yes, its lightweight design and simple handling make it beginner-friendly. Q: What type of instrument cluster does TVS Star City Plus have? A: It features a semi-digital instrument console with essential information. Q: What is the top speed of TVS Star City Plus? A: The top speed is around 85–90 km/h under normal conditions. Q: Does TVS Star City Plus have USB charging? A: Yes, select variants come with a USB charging port and LED DRLs. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Drum | 72500 Disc | 75200 |
| 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. | Excellent mileage: One of the biggest highlights is fuel efficiency. Many users report around 65–70 km/l in real-world riding, making it economical for daily use. Comfortable for daily commuting: The bike offers a relaxed seating posture and a well-padded seat, which works well for city rides and short distances. Lightweight and easy to handle: Its light weight and simple ergonomics make it easy to ride in traffic and convenient for beginners or family use. Low maintenance cost: Users often mention that the bike is affordable to maintain, making it suitable for regular use without high expenses. Smooth engine for city speeds: At normal speeds, the engine feels refined and delivers a smooth riding experience with minimal stress. Good suspension setup: The suspension handles rough Indian roads reasonably well, offering a stable and comfortable ride. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric & Kick |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 4-speed manual |
