The Bajaj Pulsar N160 4V SS is the top variant of the updated N160 range, bringing a significantly reworked engine with ride-by-wire, a new 37mm USD fork, a 5-inch TFT display and Google Maps casting to a segment that was already competitive. It continues alongside the 2-valve N160 rather than replacing it. Here's what works in its favour and a couple of reasons it might not be for everyone.
Reasons to buy the Bajaj Pulsar N160 4V SS
Smooth, tractable and genuinely quick
The new 4-valve engine is a more significant step up than the numbers alone might suggest. Despite producing 18.5hp at 9,500rpm from the same 165cc displacement, it retains the excellent smoothness and tractability of the outgoing 2-valve unit, with only minor vibrations at high revs and a very light clutch pull. During our time with the bike, we found it genuinely pleasant to ride in the city at lower revs, while still having enough performance higher up in the range to more closely match the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, which was a rival it previously trailed.
TFT display and features that justify the step up
The SS model comes with a 5-inch TFT display that happens to be the most feature-rich instrument cluster in the segment, offering Bluetooth music control, document storage and Google Maps casting. The last feature works seamlessly on Android devices (with the phone screen staying off during casting) but iOS users will need to keep their screen on, which is a Google limitation rather than Bajaj's. Ride-by-wire unlocks four riding modes, making this the only bike in the 160cc segment to offer them. Dual-channel ABS and a larger 300mm front disc are also part of the SS package.
Competitive pricing
At Rs 1.43 lakh (ex-showroom), the N160 4V SS is priced slightly above the equivalent top variant of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V but offers a more comprehensive feature set in return. With a 4-valve engine, ride-by-wire, a USD fork, dual-channel ABS and feature-rich TFT display, the value proposition is genuinely strong for what the segment offers.
Reasons to skip the Bajaj Pulsar N160 4V SS
Suspension is on the firmer side
Despite the move to the larger 37mm USD fork, the overall suspension tune retains the taut, firm character of previous N160 models. It handles rough roads competently and corners well, but doesn't have the soft, cushioned feel of rivals like the Apache RTR 160 4V. Riders who spend long hours in the saddle or frequently encounter broken urban surfaces may find it harder work than the competition.
Kerb weight and turning radius
At 151kg, the N160 4V SS is not the lightest motorcycle in its class, and this makes itself felt in slow-speed city manoeuvring. The turning radius in particular is less generous than ideal for navigating tight urban situations and that’s a practical drawback that everyday commuters are likely to notice more than those who primarily ride on open roads.
Stephen Raj Antony
Ved Janve
Rishaad Mody
