Bajaj Auto has once again pushed the boundaries of the 160cc streetfighter motorcycle segment by launching its brand new Pulsar N160 4V. Making its first appearance in August 2026, the new N160 comes with an improved 4-valve engine, ride modes and many more features, which put it on par with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Yamaha FZ-S FI V4 models. Is it really setting new standards? Let us see.
Design and Ergonomics:
Familiar but sharper
With a familiar look, the Pulsar N160 4V gets subtle refinements like split LED headlamps, a more sculpted fuel tank, and a sharper tail section. New paint colours – Atlantic Blue, Pearl Metallic White, and Brooklyn Black – have been added to the list.
As far as ergonomics are concerned, Bajaj has played with the seating position and the handlebars so that a more relaxed riding posture can be achieved. The bike weighs in at 151kg, which is a little heavy compared to its rivals like the TVS Apache 160 which clocks in at 147kg.
Engine and Performance:
Most powerful Pulsar N160 ever
In the most significant development, Bajaj introduces a completely new 164.5 cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-valve engine. It produces 18.24 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 14.65 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, making it the most powerful 160cc Pulsar ever. It outshines both the TVS Apache 160 and Yamaha FZ-S FI V4 which produce 17.55 bhp and 12.4 bhp respectively.
According to Bajaj, the Pulsar N160 4V takes just 4.5 seconds to reach 0-60 kmph, making it the quickest in its segment. In the real world, the bike feels quick from 3,000 rpm and gives strong acceleration until you reach the redline. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth enough, but an additional 6th gear would have been a welcome addition.
Ride Modes and Electronic Features: Game-changer in this segment
One of the most exciting additions to the Pulsar N160 4V is the inclusion of 4 ride modes – Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-road – courtesy of the Electronic Throttle Body (ETB) system. Bajaj’s ETB system provides a segment-first feature in an affordable package.
• Rain Mode – Limits power delivery and throttle response
• Road Mode – Best ride mode for daily commuting.
• Sport Mode – Delivers maximum power with sharpened throttle response.
• Off-road Mode – Made for loose terrain with relaxed traction control interventions.
The most expensive variant (SS variant) even includes a switchable traction control system which is not seen in bikes in this price range before.
Read this- Mahindra Racing Stuns the World! Historic 3rd Place in 2026 Formula E Teams’ Championship
Features & Technology: 5-inch TFT, Connected Suite
The Bajaj Pulsar N160 4V comes with a 5-inch full-colour TFT display that enables Bluetooth connectivity, call/SMS alerts, and Google Maps integration through the Bajaj Ride Connect app. The navigation cues are intuitive and easy to decipher even on the move, which will prove to be handy for urban commuters.
Some other notable features include:
LED Headlamp and Tail Lamp
All-Digital Instrument Cluster with Multiple Display Themes
USB Type-C Charging Port
Side-stand Engine Cut-Off
The SS variant comes with a larger 300mm front disc (against the 276mm of the standard variant) and USD forks.
Chassis, Suspension & Braking
The motorcycle has a twin-spar frame, and the front wheel uses 37mm telescopic forks. There’s a monoshock in the rear for smooth suspension action. The overall tuning makes the bike capable of absorbing the city bumps well and riding composed on highways.
The braking department gets a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc on the SS variant, along with dual-channel ABS. The bite of the brakes is impressive, providing decent feedback when you brake hard.
Mileage & Efficiency
The claimed ARAI mileage of the motorcycle is 51.6 kmpl for the N160 4V. In actual use, you can expect a figure in the range of 45-48 kmpl on a mixed city-highway route, which is comparable to the Apache (41 kmpl) and FZ-S FI V4 (46 kmpl).
Price & Variants
Here are the prices of the variants of the Bajaj Pulsar N160 4V:
Pulsar N160 4V S: ₹1,33,511 (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Pulsar N160 4V SS: ₹1,42,585 (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Depending upon the city you live in, the on-road price will be anywhere between ₹1.55 lakh and ₹1.58 lakh.
Verdict: New Benchmark?
With its most powerful engine, ride modes that have never been seen before in the segment, traction control, and connected TFT display, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 4V is one step ahead of all its peers.
Although the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is also a tough competitor because of its lighter body and reliability, the technological advancement of the N160 4V makes it a better option for those who want the best features from their motorcycle.
So, if you’re looking for a 160cc motorcycle, the Pulsar N160 4V must definitely be there on your list.
Watch this-
