Quick Analysis
Bajaj Pulsar NS160
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
YAMAHA R15 V4
15.5 pts
Unweighted: 14 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil-cooled | Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 160.3 cc | 155 CC |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Valve, Twin Spark, DTS-i FI | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve |
| Power | 12.5 kW (17 PS) @ 9000 rpm | 13.5kW(18.4PS)/10000 RPM |
| Torque | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm | 14.2 Nm (1.4 kgfm) @7,500 RPM |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 11 L |
| Mileage | 40.36 Kmpl | 45 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 152 | 141 |
| Seat Height | 804 | 815 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Dual Channel ABS, 300 mm Disc | Disc brake 282 mm |
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Upside Down (USD) Fork (130 mm travel) | Telescopic Upside Down Fork (USD Fork) |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc(ABS) | Disc brake 220 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox Mono-shock | Linked-Type Monocross Suspension |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80-17 Tubeless | 100/80-17M/C 52P |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 Tubeless | 140/70R17M/C 66H |
| 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-functional LED (Class D) |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | DC, 12V, 4 Ah VRLA | 12 V, 4.0 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Dark-Knight.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pewter-grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Icon-performance.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wine-Red-3.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Intesity-White.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Metallic-Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Metallic-red.avif |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Moto-GP.avif |
| Bike Image 7 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Pearl-White.avif |
| Bike Image 8 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Racing-Blue.avif |
| Cluster | Semi-digital LCD | Digital |
| Color Options | Ebony Black | #1B1B1B Pearl Metallic White | #F1F1ED Cocktail Wine Red | #7A1023 Pewter Grey | #6A6D70 | Racing Blue | #1B4FAF Dark Knight | #1A1A1C Metallic Black | #121214 Intensity White | #F3F5F7 Matte Pearl White | #F0F1EB Metallic Red | #B3262E Icon Performance | #F2F3F5, #1B4FAF MotoGP Edition | #1B4FAF, #121214 Metallic Grey | #5C6166 |
| 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. | Aggressive Riding Position – The low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs can become tiring during long city commutes and heavy traffic conditions. Limited Pillion Comfort – The compact rear seat is designed more around styling and sportbike proportions than passenger comfort. Performance Requires Higher RPMs – Riders often need to keep the engine in the upper rev range to extract its full performance potential. Firm Ride on Poor Roads – The suspension setup prioritizes handling precision, which means sharp bumps and rough surfaces can be felt more clearly. Small Engine Compared to Some Rivals – While technologically advanced, the 155cc engine competes against motorcycles with significantly larger engine capacities. Underseat Storage Is Minimal – Practical storage space is extremely limited, as expected from a fully-faired sportbike. |
| 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 Yamaha R15 V4 is a fully-faired sport motorcycle that occupies a unique position in the Indian motorcycle market. It is designed to offer styling, technology, and riding characteristics inspired by larger supersport motorcycles while using a smaller-displacement engine. As the fourth generation of the R15 series, the motorcycle incorporates updates to its design, electronics, and chassis package while continuing to focus on sporty riding dynamics. Powering the motorcycle is a 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The engine features Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology, which changes valve operation at different engine speeds to improve performance across the rev range. This system helps the engine maintain usable low- and mid-range performance while also supporting power delivery at higher RPMs. The engine produces approximately 18.4 PS of power and 14.2 Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed gearbox. An assist-and-slipper clutch is included as part of the transmission package. The assist function reduces clutch lever effort during normal riding, while the slipper mechanism helps manage rear-wheel stability during aggressive downshifts. Selected variants also feature a quickshifter, allowing riders to perform clutchless upshifts while the motorcycle is in motion. The R15 V4 uses Yamaha’s Deltabox frame, a chassis design that has been associated with the company’s performance motorcycles for many years. The frame is intended to provide a balance between rigidity and agility, contributing to the motorcycle’s handling characteristics. Combined with the motorcycle’s relatively low weight, the frame helps create a responsive riding experience that suits both urban riding and cornering-focused roads. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock. The upside-down fork arrangement increases front-end rigidity and contributes to steering precision, while the rear suspension supports stability and rider comfort. The suspension setup is tuned to complement the motorcycle’s sport-oriented nature, placing emphasis on control and handling feedback. Braking is managed by disc brakes at both the front and rear wheels. Dual-channel ABS is provided as standard equipment, allowing both wheels to benefit from anti-lock braking functionality. The braking system is designed to work alongside the motorcycle’s chassis and tyre setup to provide controlled stopping performance in a variety of riding situations. One of the major updates introduced with the R15 V4 is its expanded technology package. Depending on the variant, the motorcycle includes traction control, Bluetooth connectivity through Yamaha’s Y-Connect system, and a digital instrument cluster capable of displaying connected-bike information. The display can provide details such as call alerts, message notifications, fuel economy data, gear position, trip information, and service reminders. The riding position reflects the motorcycle’s supersport inspiration. Clip-on handlebars are mounted below the upper triple clamp, while rear-set footpegs position the rider in a forward-leaning stance. This arrangement supports aerodynamic efficiency and rider control during cornering, although it is more aggressive than the seating position found on typical commuter motorcycles. The seat height is approximately 815 mm, while kerb weight varies between 141 and 142 kg depending on the variant. The motorcycle’s styling is heavily influenced by Yamaha’s larger R-series models. The aerodynamic fairing, central LED projector headlamp, LED position lights, sculpted fuel tank, and compact tail section contribute to its supersport appearance. LED lighting is used throughout the motorcycle, further reinforcing its modern design. Overall, the Yamaha R15 V4 combines a 155cc VVA-equipped engine, six-speed gearbox, Deltabox frame, dual-channel ABS, advanced electronics, and sportbike-inspired ergonomics into a motorcycle designed to deliver a lightweight supersport experience while remaining accessible to a wide range of riders. |
| 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 Yamaha R15 V4 stands out for the way it combines sportbike-focused engineering with a relatively small-displacement engine. Rather than chasing outright power, the motorcycle places considerable emphasis on chassis balance, handling precision, and rider engagement. The 155cc VVA-equipped engine rewards riders who enjoy working through the gearbox and exploring the higher end of the rev range, while the Deltabox frame and USD forks contribute to a planted and confidence-inspiring feel through corners. The riding position, fairing design, and overall ergonomics clearly reflect the motorcycle's supersport intentions, making it feel closer to a scaled-down sportbike than a conventional commuter motorcycle. Features such as traction control, Bluetooth connectivity, assist-and-slipper clutch, and dual-channel ABS add modern functionality, but the motorcycle's core identity remains rooted in its handling and riding dynamics. While comfort and practicality are not its primary focus, the R15 V4 delivers an experience that emphasizes precision, control, and a strong connection between rider and machine., 4.5, 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 Yamaha R15 V4 a good bike for daily use? A: Yes, the Yamaha R15 V4 can be used daily, although its sporty riding position may feel less comfortable in heavy traffic compared to commuter motorcycles. Q: What is the real mileage of Yamaha R15 V4? A: The real-world mileage of the Yamaha R15 V4 generally ranges between 40 km/l and 50 km/l, depending on riding conditions and riding style. Q: What is the top speed of Yamaha R15 V4? A: The Yamaha R15 V4 can achieve a top speed of approximately 140 km/h under suitable conditions. Q: What is the engine capacity of Yamaha R15 V4? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). Q: How much power does the Yamaha R15 V4 produce? A: The engine produces approximately 18.4 PS of power and 14.2 Nm of torque. Q: Does Yamaha R15 V4 have a quickshifter? A: The quickshifter is available on selected variants of the Yamaha R15 V4 and comes as standard on the Yamaha R15M. Q: Does Yamaha R15 V4 have traction control? A: Yes, traction control is available on the Yamaha R15 V4. Q: Does Yamaha R15 V4 have Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, Bluetooth connectivity is available through Yamaha's Y-Connect system on supported variants. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of Yamaha R15 V4? A: The Yamaha R15 V4 comes with an 11-litre fuel tank. Q: What is the kerb weight of Yamaha R15 V4? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 141–142 kg, depending on the variant. Q: What is the seat height of Yamaha R15 V4? A: The Yamaha R15 V4 has a seat height of approximately 815 mm. Q: Is Yamaha R15 V4 comfortable for long rides? A: The motorcycle can handle long-distance riding, but the aggressive ergonomics may become tiring over extended periods for some riders. Q: Which is better: Yamaha R15 V4 or KTM RC 200? A: The Yamaha R15 V4 focuses on refinement, fuel efficiency, and handling balance, while the KTM RC 200 offers stronger outright performance due to its larger engine. Q: Which is better: Yamaha R15 V4 or Bajaj Pulsar RS200? A: The Yamaha R15 V4 offers a more modern electronics package and lighter handling, whereas the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 provides more displacement and stronger highway performance. Q: Does Yamaha R15 V4 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes, the Yamaha R15 V4 comes equipped with dual-channel ABS. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Single Channel | 122897 Dual Channel USD | 131305 | Metallic Red | 171100 Intensity White Without Quickshifter | 171100 Metallic Black | 171100 Dark Knight | 172000 Vivid Magenta Metallic | 174019 Intensity White With Quickshifter | 175700 Matte White Pearl | 175700 Racing Blue | 175700 Metallic Grey | 184307 MotoGP Edition | 187500 Icon Performance | 196100 |
| 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 Handling Characteristics – The Deltabox frame, balanced chassis, and USD front forks help the R15 V4 deliver precise steering and confidence-inspiring cornering ability. Refined 155cc VVA Engine – The liquid-cooled engine with Variable Valve Actuation provides a broad powerband, making the motorcycle feel responsive across different engine speeds. Sportbike-Inspired Design – The styling closely resembles Yamaha's larger R-series motorcycles, with aerodynamic bodywork, LED lighting, and a sharp front fascia. Feature-Rich for the Segment – Depending on the variant, features include traction control, Bluetooth connectivity, quickshifter, dual-channel ABS, and a fully digital instrument cluster. Strong Fuel Efficiency – Despite its sporty nature, the engine is capable of delivering competitive fuel economy figures in everyday riding. High-Speed Stability – The fairing, chassis setup, and riding position contribute to a planted feel at highway speeds. Premium Build Quality – Fit and finish levels are among the strongest in the 150cc sportbike segment. Assist and Slipper Clutch – This helps reduce clutch effort and improves stability during aggressive downshifts. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | Constant mesh, 6-speed |
