Bajaj has a new contender in the 160cc naked sport segment – the Pulsar N160. Based on the Pulsar N250, the N160 is here to take on the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ and Suzuki Gixxer. Here are five key points to know about Bajaj’s latest motorcycle.

1. Available in two variants

Bajaj has launched the new Pulsar N160 in two variants. The single channel ABS variant is priced at Rs 1.23 lakh, while the dual channel ABS variant costs Rs 1.28 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi). 

In terms of paint shades, the N160 single channel ABS can be had in Carribean Blue, Racing Red and Techno Grey options, but the dual-channel variant is only offered in the Brooklyn Black colour for now.  

2. Features an underbelly exhaust

Although the new Pulsar N160 is almost identical to the N250, a key difference in their design is the exhaust. While the larger model features a side-slung exhaust, Bajaj has equipped the N160 with an underbelly exhaust system like the Pulsar NS160. 

Other than that, the new Pulsar N160 features the same single LED projector headlamp – flanked by slim LED Daytime Running Lamps on either side – fuel tank, tank extensions, split seats, alloy wheels and tail-lights as the Pulsar N250. 

3. Gets a new chassis and segment-first dual channel ABS

Major talking points on the new Bajaj Pulsar N160 are a new tubular frame chassis that's lighter than the perimeter frame of the NS160 and the inclusion of dual channel ABS, which is a segment first. The dual channel variant gets a 300mm front disc, while the single channel version gets a 280mm front disc. The rear disc on both versions, meanwhile, is 230mm.

Other features on the new Pulsar N160 include a USB charging port, a 14-litre fuel tank and a digi-analogue instrument cluster that displays the gear position, clock, fuel economy and range. 

4. Powered by a 165cc, oil-cooled engine

Powering the Pulsar N160 is new 16hp, 14.65Nm, 164.82cc, oil-cooled, single cylinder engine. This unit develops 1.2hp less than the Pulsar NS160, while the torque is similar to the latter. The NS’ 160cc engine uses a 4-valve set-up, but the N160 makes do with a 2-valve set-up. In terms of the gearbox, the Pulsar N160 uses a 5-speed unit.

5. Suspension and wheels

Suspension duties on the new Pulsar N160 are handled by a 37mm telescopic fork up front and a mono shock at the rear. Bajaj has given the motorcycle 17-inch wheels – 100/80-17 at the front and 130/70-17 at the rear. As for the kerb weight, the single channel version weighs in at 152kg while the dual channel version weighs 2kg more.