The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 remains one of the most popular sporty commuters in India - loved for its aggressive streetfighter looks, punchy 160cc engine, sharp handling, and value for money. Whether you're upgrading from a 125cc bike or looking for something fun yet practical for daily use, here are the most common questions answered based on the latest 2026 model details.
What is the current price of the Bajaj Pulsar NS160?
Ex-showroom price: 1.23 lakh - 1.38 lakh (depending on variant and city)
On-road price (approx.): 1.45 lakh - 1.65 lakh (varies by state taxes, RTO, insurance)
EMI starts around 3,500 - 4,500 rupees/month (with reasonable downpayment)
What engine does it use & what is the power & torque?
Engine: 160.3cc air-cooled single-cylinder, fuel-injected (BS6 Phase 2)
Power: 17.03 PS (16.8 bhp) @ 9000 rpm
Torque: 14.6 Nm @ 7250 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
Real-world top speed: 115-120 km/h
0-60 km/h: ~5.5-6 seconds (quick for its class)
What is the real-world mileage of Pulsar NS160?
Claimed mileage: 52-56 kmpl
Real-world mileage: 45-52 kmpl (city riding), 50-55 kmpl (highway at steady 60-80 km/h)
With 12-litre fuel tank - 540-660 km range on a full tank
What are the available colours in 2026?
Ebony Black
Pearl Metallic White
Racing Red
Matte Blue (new for 2026)
Cocktail Wine Red (limited edition shades in some regions)
What are the key features of Pulsar NS160?
Full LED headlight with twin DRL strips
Digital instrument cluster (speed, rpm, fuel gauge, trip meter, gear position)
Dual-channel ABS (standard on all variants)
Front 300 mm disc brake + rear 230 mm disc
Upside-down front forks + nitrox mono-shock rear
Tubeless tyres (100/80-17 front, 120/80-17 rear)
Split grab rail, underbelly cowl, sporty tank shrouds
USB charging port (select variants)
Is it good for daily city use & pillion riding?
Yes - very practical for daily use.
Upright riding position = no wrist pain in traffic
Pillion seat is wide & comfortable for short-medium rides
Good ground clearance (170 mm) for bad roads & speed bumps
Light clutch & smooth gearbox = easy in stop-go traffic
TVS Apache RTR 160 (around 1.25-1.35 lakh): More aggressive styling & features, but slightly lower real-world mileage
Yamaha MT-15 (around 1.70 lakh): Premium feel & handling, but less power & higher price
Bajaj Pulsar NS200 (around 1.50 lakh): More power but lower mileage & higher running cost
Winner for most buyers: NS160 offers best balance of power, mileage, features & price
Is the 2026 model different from the older one?
Minor updates only:
Refreshed colour options (new Matte Blue & updated graphics)
Slightly improved instrument cluster readability
Better quality switchgear & plastics in some batches
Engine & chassis same as previous - still the same fun, torqued character
Should you buy it in 2026?
Yes - if you want:
Sporty looks + good performance in 160cc class
Reliable daily commuter with low running cost
Strong service network & affordable parts
Value-for-money package under 1.5 lakh on-road
Wait if:
You want more features (TFT screen, quickshifter) - look at Apache RTR 200 or NS200
You need better pillion comfort - consider FZ-X or Raider 160
Test ride one at your nearest Bajaj showroom - the mid-range punch and handling feel completely different from regular commuters.