PULSAR NS 160

Bajaj has introduced a number of new motorcycles under the Pulsar banner over the years, with the most recent ones being the NS, RS and AS models. However, the brand still enjoys considerable success from traditional Pulsars, like the 150, 180 and 220 DTSis. Though, there is one segment where Bajaj hasn't managed huge numbers – the premium 150-160cc category. In this segment, Yamaha regularly ships upwards of 20,000 units of the FZ-FI per month, while other rivals like Honda and Suzuki are also seeing success with their offerings, the CB Hornet 160R and the Gixxer, respectively. Bajaj needs a rival to these motorcycles that fits between the traditional Pulsar 150/180 and the more expensive NS200. This is where the new NS160 comes in; it doesn't replace the smaller Pulsar 150, but is positioned ahead of it.

Design and style

The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 shares the style of its bigger brother, the NS200, and that means handsome lines, an underslung exhaust and split grab rails. Colour options are not disclosed yet, but we do like the Grey-Black combination on the bike recently spied at a dealership. It's a similar theme to the BS-IV compliant 2017 NS200 that went on sale a few months earlier. Overall, the Pulsar NS160, aside from the new colour scheme, will cut a handsome, yet familiar shape. Looks play an important role in this segment and the NS160 will certainly be up to the challenge. We'll have to spend some time with the bike to see if it can meet the quality and finish of benchmark-setting rivals like the Yamaha FZ.

Chassis and brakes

The NS160 uses a perimeter frame, just like the NS200, and that makes it stand out from its rivals with their more traditional diamond-type chassis. Suspension is handled by conventional forks up front and a monoshock at the rear, a combination used by every motorcycle in this segment. The tyres, however, will be slimmer than on the NS200, with a 80/100 R17 front and a 110/80 R17 section rear. All three of its rivals offer larger tyres, spanning 100/80 R17 at the front and fat 140 section at the rear. The Gixxer and FZ ship with a radial tyre at the rear. Braking is handled by a disc up front and a drum at the rear. There's no word on whether a rear disc will be offered later. Suzuki offers an optional rear disc and so does Honda if you pay about Rs 5,000 more for its CBS version.

 CR: autocarindia