Bajaj Pulsar N160 Vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: Specs, Features & More

The 160cc segment motorcycles offer the perfect balance between daily commute and decent performance. Moreover, this segment also returns good fuel efficiency - Something many college-going youngsters should think about before buying a motorcycle.

Since manufacturers are always looking for ways to increase their market share, almost all motorcycle manufacturers in India have a unique offering in the 160cc segment. Though there are multiple offerings in the segment, we shall compare the newly launched Bajaj Pulsar N160 with TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.

In this comparison, we shall look at four parameters; Design, Features & Convenience, Powertrain, and Price.

Design

The design of a vehicle is a very subjective matter, and what may look good for me may not look likeable for others. However, both the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar N160 are designed to grab the attention of youngsters.

Starting with the newest design, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 looks pretty similar to the Pulsar N250 and the overall design looks much fresher to the eyes compared to the TVS Apache RTR 150 4V. Moreover, design traits such as the underbelly exhaust and the use of projector headlamps make the motorcycle look a bit more sporty and desirable.

On the other hand, the recent update to the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has made the motorcycle look a bit more sharper and contemporary with the updated headlight assembly, DRLs, body graphics and colour options. However, it slightly lacks behind the Pulsar in this regard.

Features & Convenience

Unlike other segments, customers have a wide variety of requirements and expectations on the 160cc segment motorcycle. This is because the 160cc segment should not only offer more performance than the 150cc motorcycles but they should also offer a decent feature list as well without breaking the bank account.

This means the bikes should be loaded with features that cater to long-distance rides as well as offer something to brag about amongst friends circle for the youngsters.

Bajaj has this category licked, by offering dual-channel ABS (optional) in this segment. While this may seem like a minor addition, this feature can be life-saving in certain conditions. Especially when the roads are wet. Other features include underbelly exhaust, LED projector headlamps, split seats, gear position indicator, clock, fuel economy meter and distance-to-empty read-out.

The Bajaj N160 comes with a larger 300mm front disc on the dual-channel ABS variant, whereas the single-channel ABS variant comes with a smaller 280mm front disc brake. The rear disc on both variants measures an identical 230mm.

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V also comes with a similar set of features such as LED headlamps, a digital instrument console with gear position indicator and more. However, it misses features such as dual-channel ABS, underbelly exhaust, split seats and more.

Moreover, the brakes on the TVS are smaller at 270mm petal disc brakes at the front and 200mm petal disc brakes at the rear.

Powertrain

Powertrain plays a significant role in the 160cc segment and that is one of the major reasons why people are spending extra money compared to a 160cc motorcycle

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 in this comparison is slightly on the back foot as It produces 15.7bhp of peak power and 14.6Nm of peak torque from its 4-Stroke 2-valve engine. Moreover, it is also slightly heavier at 154kg. Gearbox continues to be a 5-speed unit.

On the other hand, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V produces a lot more power at 17.39bhp and 14.7Nm of peak torque. Moreover, the motorcycle is also lighter weighing at just 147kg for the rear disc variant.

Price

In India, pricing plays a crucial role in the buying decision of many people, irrespective of the product.

At Rs 1.23 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V dual-disc variant is priced similar to the entry-level Bajaj Pulsar N160, which is also priced at Rs 1.23 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

However, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 with dual-channel ABS costs Rs 1.28 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), whereas the entry-level Apache RTR 160 4V with rear drum brakes costs almost Rs 7k less.

Thoughts About TVS Apache RTR 160 4V & Bajaj Pulsar 160 4V

It is almost a tie. The Bajaj Pulsar N160 offers more features and goodies, whereas the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V counters it with a more powerful powertrain setup. Moreover, the Bajaj also looks fresher among the two motorcycles. So, everything boils down to your preferences.