Bajaj Pulsar N160 : Bajaj Auto has always been a leader in India’s motorcycle industry, and with the Pulsar N160, the company continues to raise the bar in the 160cc segment. Combining performance, style, and modern technology, the Pulsar N160 has quickly become a popular choice among riders.
A New Chapter in the Pulsar Legacy
The Pulsar brand has been known for providing affordable performance for over 20 years. With the N160, Bajaj has taken things up a notch, delivering a bike that not only carries the Pulsar legacy but also sets new standards for its class.
Design Changes
The 2024 Pulsar N160 showcases a fresh design. While it maintains its strong, muscular stance, the bike now features smoother lines that give it a more premium look. The redesigned LED headlamp and stylish daytime running lights improve both visibility and appearance.
A source from Bajaj revealed, “The design team spent hours refining every detail, aiming to create a bike that catches attention while keeping the Pulsar spirit intact.”
The fuel tank is now more ergonomic, and the split seat design adds a sporty touch while enhancing rider and pillion comfort. New colors like Metallic Pearl White and Racing Red provide more options for riders to express their personal style.
Performance Upgrades
The 2024 Pulsar N160 is powered by a 164.82cc, oil-cooled engine, offering a great mix of performance and efficiency. It delivers 16 PS at 8,750 rpm and 14.65 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. Bajaj has also worked to reduce vibrations, making the ride smoother and more comfortable.
Fuel efficiency is another strong point, with the new N160 claiming a mileage of 59.11 kmpl, making it one of the most fuel-efficient bikes in its segment.
Improved Suspension and Chassis
The 2024 model features a big upgrade to the front suspension. Higher variants come with Upside Down (USD) forks, which are typically seen in more expensive motorcycles. This enhances the bike’s stability and handling, especially when cornering or braking.
At the rear, the monoshock setup has been retuned for a more balanced ride. The perimeter frame, a key feature of Pulsar bikes, provides the perfect mix of rigidity and flexibility for both city and highway riding.
Braking System
Safety is a priority for Bajaj with the new Pulsar N160. The bike now comes with a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc as standard. The top variant also features dual-channel ABS, while the base model has single-channel ABS.
An exciting new feature is the multiple ABS modes on the high-end variant, including Road, Rain, and Off-road modes. Riders can choose the mode that best suits their riding conditions.
Technology Enhancements
The 2024 Pulsar N160 brings a significant boost in tech features. The new fully-digital instrument cluster has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones with the bike. This enables features like turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, and message notifications.
The updated Bajaj Ride Connect app also tracks ride statistics, vehicle health, and even fuel consumption, making the N160 more appealing to younger, tech-savvy riders.
Market Position and Competition
The Pulsar N160 competes in a tough market against bikes like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Honda X-Blade, and Yamaha FZ-S FI V3. However, its mix of performance, features, and competitive pricing has helped it stand out.
With a price range of Rs. 1.34 lakh to Rs. 1.40 lakh (ex-showroom), the N160 offers great value for money. The USD fork variant priced at Rs. 1.40 lakh adds a more premium option for those looking for a more sophisticated ride.
Consumer Feedback and Sales Performance
Since its launch, the Pulsar N160 has received strong praise for its balanced performance, comfort, and premium features at an affordable price. Sales have been impressive as well, with a 15% increase in sales during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, even in a market slowdown.
What’s Next for the Pulsar N160?
Looking ahead, Bajaj is expected to continue refining the Pulsar N160. There are rumors of a fully-faired version, possibly named the RS160, aimed at riders who prefer a sportier look. There’s also talk of a mild-hybrid version in the future, in line with global trends for more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly bikes.
Environmental Considerations
The 2024 Pulsar N160 is BS6 Phase 2 compliant, meaning it meets stricter emission norms without sacrificing performance. Bajaj has also made efforts to make its manufacturing process more sustainable, using recycled materials and working to reduce its carbon footprint.
The Future of the Pulsar N160
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is more than just a motorcycle – it’s a testament to Bajaj’s commitment to innovation and performance. With continuous improvements and a focus on consumer preferences, the N160 is set to maintain its place as a leader in the 160cc segment.
For riders looking for a blend of power, technology, and style at an affordable price, the Pulsar N160 is an excellent choice. As Bajaj keeps refining this model, we can expect even more exciting developments in the years to come. The success of the Pulsar N160 is a win not just for Bajaj, but for the entire Indian motorcycle industry, showing that domestic manufacturers can compete with global brands.
