The Pulsar brand holds a special place in Indian motorcycling history. Back in 2004, I bought the original Pulsar 180 – a motorcycle ahead of its time. I vividly recall riding it from Punjab to Delhi in 10 hours. Fast forward 22 years: after spending a day in Gurgaon riding the all-new Bajaj Pulsar N160, I am convinced I could do that same long-distance trip in 8 hours today. That is a testament to how refined this machine has become, even as its rider has grown 22 years older!
Despite having a smaller displacement at 165 cc, the N160 feels faster and considerably punchier than my classic 180 cc. The engine offers an explosive start off the line, and a strong mid-range that keeps urban riding lively. Out on the highway, top-end performance settles into what you would expect from the 160-cc segment, but its overall rideability is good.
Ergonomically, Bajaj has struck a sweet spot. The seat is well-contoured – firm enough to support long stints without feeling too hard or overly soft. What helps is its 151 kg kerb weight – even during peak Gurgaon rush-hour stop-and-go traffic, where you constantly put your feet down to balance, the chassis balance ensures you do not tire out. Cruising through traffic is aided by responsive braking that inspires confidence.
That said, no motorcycle is without its shortcomings. The top-end power delivery tapers off rather quickly when pushing hard towards the redline, leaving speed enthusiasts wanting a bit more oomph on open highways. In addition, while the overall styling is aggressive, some of the switchgear plastics and body panel fitments could be a bit more premium to match its tech-forward positioning.
Priced competitively – there are two variants, the N160 S (Rs 1.34 lakh) and the N160 SS (Rs 1.43 lakh), ex-showroom – the bike is targeted at college students and young professionals seeking a balanced mix of daily practicality, aggressive style, and good performance. It bridges the gap between everyday commuter convenience and sporty thrills, proving that the Pulsar moniker continues to evolve intelligently.
