Before the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS160 made its debut a few weeks ago, the 160cc motorcycle market in India had grown very placid. The bikemaker based in Chakan made numerous updates to its 160cc model, making it a better overall value for money. However, how does the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, the 2024 NS160’s former opponent, stack up? This is the response.
1. Design
Bajaj has kept most of the NS160’s design. Despite its age, the design is nonetheless attractive, slender, and muscular. The former headlight unit of the Pulsar NS160 has been replaced with twin thunder-shaped LED DRLs and a high/low beam in between; this means that only the fascia is new. In the meantime, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has a much more angular front profile and a similarly alluring and valuable appearance.
2. Features
The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 has received several significant feature updates. The updated street bike gets a brand-new fully digital instrument console that shows battery levels and other warning indicators in addition to supporting smartphone connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation. Conversely, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V boasts an abundance of amenities as well. It comes with TVS SmartConnect, which has a digital LCD, smartphone connectivity, call and SMS notifications, and other features. Every bike has full LED lighting.
3. Engine
The same 160cc single-cylinder engine powers the new Pulsar NS160. It is mated to a five-speed gearbox and produces 17.03 horsepower and 14.6 Nm. The 159cc, single-cylinder engine that powers the Apache RTR 160 4V then generates 17.31bhp and 14.73Nm. This one also has a five-speed gearbox attached to it. The Apache has somewhat greater power and torque, as can be seen here.
4. Hardware
The NS160, which was also modified by Bajaj Auto last year, has a rear mono-shock and USD front forks. Its brakes, meanwhile, are dual-channel ABS and a 300mm front and 230mm rear disc. 130/70-17 rear tyres and 100/80-17 front tyres are equipped with them. TVS provides the Apache RTR 160 4V with a mono-shock and standard typeface forks. Its brakes consist of two 200mm rear and 270mm front discs connected to a 110/80-17 rear tyre and a 90/90-17 front tyre.
The NS160 has wider tyres, larger brakes, and an advanced suspension system. The latter should increase the bike’s stability at faster speeds by providing more and better contact patches.
5. Price
The 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is priced at ₹ 2,02,247, while the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V price for the Bluetooth model is ₹ 1,48,148 and ₹ 1,57,280 for the Special edition (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi). As you can see, the two bikes differ significantly in price, and on paper, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is a better option.
