Do the recent hardware updates on the Pulsar make it more superior to the Apache?
Do the recent hardware updates on the Pulsar make it more superior to the Apache?
Bajaj introduced a new, feature-packed variant of the popular Pulsar N160, directly challenging its main competitor, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. These two bikes are strong contenders in the 160cc segment, popular for their balance of performance, affordability, and fuel efficiency. Both are well-suited for everyday commuting and occasional highway runs. Let's delve into their specifications to see how they compare across key areas.
Specifications | 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|---|---|---|
Engine | 164.82 cc, air/oil-cooled/ 2-valve | 159.7 cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled, 4-valve |
Power | 15.68 bhp @ 8750 rpm | 17.30 bhp @ 9250 rpm |
Torque | 14.7 Nm @ 6750 rpm | 14.7 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
Gearbox | 5-speed with slip-and-assist-clutch | 5-speed with slip-and-assist-clutch |
The Bajaj Pulsar N160’s peak torque of 14.7 Nm arrives at a lower rpm compared to the Apache, offering a more tractable and predictable power delivery. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has a 4-valve engine design that lets it breathe better for higher performance. It has slightly more power at 17.30 bhp and a higher rev ceiling. This should make it better suited for riders who enjoy pushing the engine a bit harder and exploring open roads.
Specifications | 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|---|---|---|
Front Suspension | 33 mm USD Fork | Telescopic Fork |
Rear Suspension | Monoshock | Monoshock |
Front Brake | 300 mm, Disc | 270 mm, Disc |
Rear Brake | 220 mm, Disc | 200 mm, Disc |
Tyre | Front - 100/80-17 Rear - 130/70-17 | Front - 90/90 - 17 Rear - 130/70 - 17 |
The biggest change on the new Bajaj Pulsar N160 is the new 33mm USD fork replacing the older telescopic fork. The new USD fork on the Pulsar N160 could potentially make handling a closer contest, especially for riders who prioritise a more planted and confidence-inspiring front-end feel. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, on the other hand, sticks with a telescopic fork setup in the front. Not much can be said about the suspension tune at the moment but the Pulsar does boast of better braking hardware and a slightly wider front tyre, which should help keep the bike quite stable in tricky situations.
The biggest addition on the Bajaj Pulsar N160 are the new ABS modes: Road, Rain, and Off-road. These modes allow riders to adjust the level of ABS intervention based on riding conditions . This can be a significant safety benefit, especially for new riders or those riding in challenging conditions. Along with this there is a turn-by-turn navigation system integrated directly into the all-digital instrument console. This is a major convenience feature, especially for navigating unfamiliar roads.
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V offers a wider range of features. It has sport based features like lean angle recording, and even different riding modes (Sport, Normal, and Rain).
Specifications | 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
|---|---|---|
Length x Width x Height (mm) | 1989 x 743 x 1050 | 2035 x 790 x 1050 |
Wheelbase (mm) | 1358 | 1357 |
Seat Height (mm) | 795 | 800 |
Kerb Weight (Kg) | 152 | 146 |
Ground Clearance (mm) | 165 | 180 |
Fuel Tank (Litres) | 14-litre | 12-litre |
Despite the size difference, their wheelbases are nearly identical. The higher ground clearance on the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V makes it slightly better suited for Indian roads, while the Bajaj Pulsar N160’s bigger tank should give it a larger range on a single tank.
Variant | Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | |
|---|---|---|
Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Single-Channel ABS | ₹ 1,32,525 |
Bajaj Pulsar N160 | Dual-Channel ABS | ₹ 1,39,693 |
Traditionally, Bajaj has positioned the Pulsar N160 as a more affordable option compared to the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. However, the new feature-packed variant of the Pulsar N160 does nudge its price slightly above the starting price of the Apache.
Variant | Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | |
|---|---|---|
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Drum Brake | ₹1,24,000 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Disc Brake (Single-Channel ABS) | ₹1,28,000 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Disc Brake (Single-Channel ABS) with SmartXonnect | ₹1,31,000 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Special Edition (Single-Channel ABS) | ₹1,32,000 |
TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Dual-Channel ABS | ₹1,38,000 |
As you can see, the single-channel ABS variant of the new Bajaj Pulsar N160 sits at ₹4,525 above the starting price of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V with a disc brake and single-channel ABS. However, it does come with the additional features of turn-by-turn navigation and switchable ABS modes. The top-end Pulsar N160 with dual-channel ABS remains slightly more expensive than the top-of-the-line Apache variant with the same braking setup. The Bajaj Pulsar N160 remains the most affordable dual channel ABS motorcycle available in the Indian market.
