Finding a 150–160cc bike that’s both fun and practical is usually a headache. Most options force you to compromise either performance or comfort. Enter the Bajaj Pulsar N160, launched in August 2025. It feels like Bajaj finally cracked the formula — sporty enough to enjoy, yet reliable enough for daily rides.
This isn’t just another spec sheet refresh. The N160 arrives packing serious upgrades aimed squarely at riders who crave a bit more zing and tech without stepping into premium territory. Let’s peel back the layers on this surprisingly exciting newcomer.
The Heart of the Matter: Where the Magic Happens
Forget the old 160. Bajaj has seriously uprated the engine in the N160:
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The Big News: A brand new 160.8cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine. Oil-cooling! This is a major step up from the air-cooled units common in this segment.
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Power Punch: It churns out a very healthy 16 PS @ 8750 rpm. That’s noticeably more pep than its predecessor and key rivals.
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Torque Talk: A solid 14.65 Nm @ 6750 rpm means strong pull right from the mid-range, perfect for city overtakes and highway cruising.
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Smooth Operator: Bajaj promises refined performance thanks to improved internals and the oil-cooling advantage.
Translation: This engine isn’t just about numbers. It’s about delivering a smoother, more powerful, and more enjoyable ride, especially when pushed a little. The oil-cooling is a genuine game-changer for sustained performance.
Tech & Safety: Getting Seriously Smart
Bajaj isn’t skimping on the tech that matters:
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Braking Peace of Mind: Dual-Channel ABS is now standard. This is HUGE. Stopping power is confident and controlled on both wheels, wet or dry. A major safety win.
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See Clearly: A crisp, full-digital instrument cluster gives you all the essential info (speed, rpm, fuel, gear position, trip, clock) in a modern layout. No more squinting at basic dials.
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Lighting the Way: Signature Pulsar twin-pod LED DRLs up front and a sleek LED tail lamp ensure you’re seen and look sharp doing it.
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Grippy Confidence: Wider section tyres (front and rear) provide better contact with the road, boosting stability and cornering feel.
Built for Comfort & Control (Not Just Looks)
The N160 isn’t just about going fast; it’s about riding well:
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Stable Foundation: A rigid double-cradle frame forms the backbone, promising better handling precision.
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Suspension Sorted: Telescopic forks up front and a pre-load adjustable Nitrox mono-shock at the rear handle bumps competently. The mono-shock is a significant upgrade over twin shocks for this segment.
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Rider Focus: The ergonomics strike a nice balance – slightly sporty yet comfortable enough for daily commutes. The split seat design looks the part too.
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Signature Pulsar Style: Aggressive tank shrouds, sharp lines, and that unmistakable Pulsar stance make it stand out in traffic.
Riding the N160: What’s the Vibe?
(As someone who’s tested dozens of commuters and sporty 160s, this is where it counts). The N160 feels genuinely livelier. The throttle response is eager, and that extra power is instantly noticeable pulling away from lights or climbing inclines. The oil-cooling keeps things noticeably smoother during longer rides or in stop-and-go traffic compared to purely air-cooled rivals.
The handling feels planted and predictable. The wider tyres and mono-shock inspire confidence when leaning into corners. The brakes, backed by dual-channel ABS, feel reassuringly strong without being grabby. The digital dash is clear and modern. It doesn’t feel like a budget bike.
The Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Pulsar N160?
If you want a genuinely exciting, well-equipped, and safe 160cc motorcycle without venturing into 200cc+ pricing, the N160 is a VERY strong contender.
Buy it if:
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You prioritize powerful, refined performance in this segment.
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Dual-channel ABS is non-negotiable for your safety.
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You want modern tech (digital dash, LED lighting) and contemporary styling.
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You enjoy a slightly sporty ride without sacrificing daily usability.
Think twice if:
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You absolutely need the highest possible fuel efficiency (the extra power might trade off a tiny bit here).
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You strictly want the absolute cheapest commuter option.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Classic 350 2025 – What’s Changed and What’s Not
Hi, I’m Ricky, the founder of OKSociety.in. I’m a tech enthusiast with a deep passion for smartphones, mobile technology, and everything that makes our digital lives smarter. I started OKSociety to share honest reviews, the latest phone updates, and practical buying guides to help people make better choices in this fast-paced tech world.