Bajaj Pulsar NS160 2025: It’s a balmy evening in Mumbai, the sun’s just beginning to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
As you wait at a traffic light, a sleek motorcycle pulls up beside you, its LED headlight cutting through the twilight like a laser.
The rider revs the engine, and a throaty growl emanates from the exhaust. You turn to look, and there it is – the all-new 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS160. In that moment, you realize that the legend of the Pulsar has just entered a new chapter.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Another Pulsar? What’s so special about this one?” Well, my friend, buckle up (or should I say, strap on your helmet?), because
we’re about to take a deep dive into why the 2025 Pulsar NS160 isn’t just another bike – it’s a game-changer in the 160cc segment.
A Legacy Reimagined
Let’s start with a bit of history. The Pulsar name has been synonymous with affordable performance in India since 2001. The NS (Naked Sport) series, introduced in 2012 with the NS200,
brought a new level of sportiness to the Pulsar lineup. The NS160, first launched in 2017, was Bajaj’s answer to the growing demand for a more accessible naked sports bike.
Fast forward to 2025, and Bajaj has completely reimagined the NS160. It’s not just an upgrade; it’s a revolution on two wheels. I had the chance to chat with a Bajaj engineer at the launch event, and he couldn’t contain his excitement. “We didn’t just want to improve the NS160,” he said, a glint in his eye. “We wanted to redefine what a 160cc motorcycle could be.”
Styling: Turn Heads, Break Hearts
The moment you lay eyes on the 2025 NS160, you know you’re looking at something special. Bajaj has taken the aggressive streetfighter design of the original and cranked it up to eleven.
The front end is dominated by a sharp, angular LED headlight that looks like it could cut through the darkness (and probably your soul). Flanking it are sleek DRLs that give the bike a distinctive light signature.
Moving along the side, you’ll notice the more pronounced tank shrouds and sharper lines. The tank itself is muscular, with knee recesses that allow for a more aggressive riding position. The split seat design has been retained, but with a new, more premium texture that screams quality.
But it’s at the rear where things get really interesting. The LED taillights are now slimmer and more integrated into the design, giving the bike a cleaner look. The exhaust has been redesigned, with a stubby end can that adds to the bike’s aggressive stance.
One of my favorite details is the new color scheme. Bajaj offers the 2025 NS160 in four colors: Plasma Blue, Fusion Red, Graphite Black, and a personal favorite, Titanium Grey. Each color is accented with subtle graphics that enhance the bike’s lines without being overly flashy.
I overheard a fellow journalist at the launch muttering, “It’s like they took everything we loved about the old NS160 and made it sexier.” I couldn’t agree more.
Heart of the Beast: Performance Redefined
Now, let’s talk about what really matters – what’s under the tank. The 2025 NS160 is powered by a revised version of Bajaj’s 160.3cc, oil-cooled, 4-valve, SOHC engine. But don’t let the familiar displacement fool you – this is a whole new beast.
Bajaj has bumped up the power to an impressive 17.2 PS at 9000 rpm, while torque now stands at 14.6 Nm at 7250 rpm. These numbers might not seem like a huge leap on paper, but it’s how the power is delivered that makes all the difference.
The engine now features a new combustion chamber design and revised cam profiles. The result? A power delivery that’s smoother than a politician’s promises, but with a kick that’ll make you grin inside your helmet.
I had the chance to take the new NS160 for a spin, and let me tell you, it’s a revelation. The throttle response is crisp, with power building linearly as you rev through the range.
There’s a sweet spot between 5000-8000 rpm where the bike really comes alive, pulling hard enough to make you question if this is really “just” a 160.
But it’s not all about outright performance. Bajaj has worked hard on refining the engine, and it shows. Vibrations, the bane of many small-capacity bikes, are kept well in check.
Even at higher revs, the NS160 remains composed, with only a slight buzz through the pegs to remind you of the fury beneath.
The 5-speed gearbox has also been improved, with shorter throws and a more positive engagement. Clutchless upshifts are a breeze, adding to the sporty feel of the bike.
One area where the NS160 really shines is fuel efficiency. Despite the increase in performance, Bajaj claims a mileage of 45-50 kmpl under real-world conditions.
In my brief test ride, I managed to squeeze out 47 kmpl in mixed riding conditions – impressive for a bike that’s this much fun to wring out.
Handling: Precision on Two Wheels
A great engine deserves a great chassis, and Bajaj has delivered on this front too. The 2025 NS160 retains the perimeter frame of its predecessor, but with some key upgrades that transform the handling.
The suspension setup has been revised, with new 37mm upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The USD forks not only look premium but also provide better stability and feedback.
The rear monoshock now features 5-step adjustable preload, allowing riders to fine-tune the setup based on their weight and riding style.
The result of these changes is a bike that feels incredibly nimble. Flicking the NS160 from side to side is a joy, whether you’re navigating through tight city traffic or attacking a set of twisties on a weekend ride. The bike holds its line well through corners, inspiring confidence even when leaned over.
Braking has also seen a significant upgrade. The front now sports a larger 300mm disc, while the rear retains a 230mm disc. ABS is standard, of course, and it’s a dual-channel system – a rarity in this segment.
The brakes offer excellent bite and progression, allowing for precise modulation whether you’re scrubbing off speed or coming to an emergency stop.
Tyre sizes remain the same at 100/80-17 at the front and 130/70-17 at the rear, but Bajaj has opted for stickier rubber this time around. The new tyres offer excellent grip in both dry and wet conditions, adding to the overall confidence-inspiring nature of the bike.
Tech and Features: Brains to Match the Brawn
In 2025, a bike needs to be more than just a mechanical marvel, and Bajaj has made sure the NS160 is packed with features that’ll make tech enthusiasts drool.
The centerpiece is a new full-color TFT display that’s crisp, bright, and easy to read even in direct sunlight. It offers multiple display modes, including a sport mode that prioritizes the tachometer and gear position indicator.
But the real party trick is the connectivity features. The NS160 now comes with Bluetooth connectivity as standard, allowing you to pair your smartphone to the bike.
Once connected, you can access turn-by-turn navigation, receive call and message notifications, and even control your music – all through the handlebar-mounted controls.
There’s also a new “Ride Mode” feature, a first in this segment. You can choose between Sport, City, and Rain modes, each adjusting the throttle response and ABS intervention to suit different riding conditions.
Safety features have been beefed up too. Apart from the dual-channel ABS, the NS160 now comes with an LED headlight that offers excellent visibility at night. There’s also a new hazard light function – a small but potentially life-saving feature in emergency situations.
One feature that really caught my eye was the new “Find My Bike” function. If you’ve ever forgotten where you parked in a crowded lot, this feature uses your smartphone’s GPS to guide you back to your NS160. It’s the kind of thoughtful touch that shows Bajaj has really considered how people use their bikes in the real world.
Comfort: Not Just for Short Sprints
While the NS160 is undoubtedly a sporty machine, Bajaj hasn’t forgotten about comfort. The riding position is a nice balance between aggressive and comfortable. The clip-on handlebars are set at a height that doesn’t put too much weight on your wrists, while the slightly rear-set footpegs allow for a sporty posture without being cramped.
The seat has been redesigned with better cushioning and a new texture that provides more grip. It’s comfortable enough for longer rides, although you might want to take a break after a couple of hours in the saddle.
Pillion comfort has also been improved. The rear seat is now wider and better padded, and the grab rails have been redesigned to provide a more secure hold. It’s not a tourer, but your better half won’t complain about short to medium-distance rides.
Living with the NS160: The Ownership Experience
Owning a bike is about more than just the ride, and Bajaj seems to have understood this well. The 2025 NS160 has been designed with ease of maintenance in mind. The service intervals have been extended to 12,000 km, reducing the frequency of workshop visits.
Bajaj has also introduced a new “Pulsar Care” app that allows you to schedule service appointments, access your bike’s service history, and even get reminders for routine maintenance tasks. It’s a small touch, but one that makes living with the bike that much easier.
Fuel efficiency, as mentioned earlier, is impressive for a bike of this performance. With a 12-liter fuel tank, you’re looking at a range of over 500 km on a single tank – enough for some serious weekend rides.
The Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The 160cc segment in India is fiercely competitive, with strong contenders like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ-S FI V3, and Honda X-Blade. So how does the 2025 NS160 compare?
In terms of performance, the NS160 is now at the top of its class. The power and torque figures are class-leading, and the refinement levels are on par with, if not better than, its Japanese rivals.
When it comes to features, the NS160 has pulled ahead of the pack. The TFT display, ride modes, and connectivity features are not commonly found in this segment, giving the Bajaj a significant edge.
In terms of handling, the NS160 has always been a strong contender, and the 2025 model only cements its position. The USD forks and improved chassis make it one of the best handling bikes in its class.
The only area where some competitors might have a slight edge is in brand perception. Honda and Yamaha have a strong reputation for reliability. However, Bajaj has made significant strides in this area, and the extended service intervals of the new NS160 show their confidence in the bike’s reliability.
Price and Variants: Value for Money?
Bajaj has always been known for aggressive pricing, and the 2025 NS160 continues this tradition. While official prices haven’t been announced at the time of writing, industry insiders expect it to be priced between Rs. 1.30 lakh to Rs. 1.40 lakh (ex-showroom).
This might seem a bit higher than the outgoing model, but when you consider the upgrades and features on offer, it’s still excellent value for money. It’s priced competitively against its rivals, and in many cases, offers more bang for your buck.
Bajaj is offering the NS160 in two variants:
- Standard: Comes with all the mechanical upgrades, LED lights, and dual-channel ABS.
- Connected: Adds the TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, and ride modes.
Both variants are available in all four color options, allowing buyers to choose based on their budget and feature requirements.
The Verdict: More Than Just an Evolution
As we wrap up our deep dive into the 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS160, one thing is clear – this isn’t just an evolution of a popular model. It’s a revolution, a complete reimagining of what a 160cc motorcycle can be.
It manages to be all things to all people – a sporty thrill machine for enthusiasts, a comfortable daily rider for commuters, and a tech-laden modern bike for those who want the latest features. It’s as at home carving through city traffic as it is attacking mountain twisties on a weekend getaway.
Is it perfect? No bike is. The price might be a bit higher than some were expecting, and die-hard fans of other brands might need some convincing to switch. But these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of things.
What Bajaj has created with the 2025 Pulsar NS160 is more than just a motorcycle – it’s a statement. It’s Bajaj saying, “This is what we think the future of 160cc bikes should look like.” And based on what I’ve seen and experienced, I’m inclined to agree.
So, if you’re in the market for a 160cc bike that doesn’t compromise on performance, features, or style, do yourself a favor and check out the 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS160. Just be warned – you might find yourself planning your next ride sooner than you expected.