New Delhi
2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V vs Bajaj Pulsar NS160: Which is More Powerful?
by | 18 Sep 2025
In the fiercely competitive 160cc naked/sport commuter segment in India, two names stand out—TVS Apache RTR 160 4V (2025) and Bajaj Pulsar NS160. Both promise spirited rides, modern tech, and strong performance, but which one edges out the other in power and overall value? This article pits the RTR 160 4V against the NS160, breaking down their engine specs, chassis, handling, and features to see which delivers more where it matters most.
Key Specifications Comparison
| Feature | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Bajaj Pulsar NS160 |
| Engine Type | 159.7cc, Oil-Cooled, 4-Valve, SOHC, FI | 160.3cc, Oil-Cooled, 4-Valve, DTS-i FI |
| Max Power | 17.55 PS @ 9,250 rpm | 17.2 PS @ 9,000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 14.73 Nm @ 7,500 rpm | 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm |
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual | 5-Speed Manual |
| Kerb Weight | 145 kg | 152 kg |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 47.61 kmpl | 40.36 kmpl |
| Brakes | Dual-Channel ABS, 270 mm Front, 200 mm Rear | Dual-Channel ABS, 300 mm Front, 230 mm Rear |
| Starting Price | ₹1.26 Lakh (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) | ₹1.49 Lakh (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) |
Engine & Performance
- The Apache RTR 160 4V is powered by a 159.7 cc single‑cylinder air‑oil cooled 4‑valve engine, producing about 17.55 PS @ 9,250 rpm and 14.73 Nm @ 7,500 rpm.
- The Pulsar NS160 has a 160.3 cc air‑oil cooled 4‑valve single cylinder engine that makes around 17.2 PS @ 9,000 rpm and 14.6 Nm @ 7,250 rpm.
- On pure numbers, the Apache offers slightly higher peak power and torque, and revs a little higher. What makes Apache stand out more is its inclusion of riding modes (Rain, Urban, Sport), which let you restrict output in adverse conditions or ride more conservatively. Pulsar NS160 lacks riding modes.
Chassis & Handling
- Both bikes come with 37mm inverted (USD) front forks, helping with front‑end rigidity and better feedback. Rear suspension on both is through a monoshock (Pulsar’s is gas‑charged/Nitrox in certain trims).
- Braking: Apache uses petal disc brakes both front and rear (better heat dissipation). Pulsar NS160 gets larger front disc (300 mm vs Apache’s 270 mm) which gives slightly more stopping power under hard braking, though Apache’s setup is more balanced.
- Weight & Ground Clearance: Apache is lighter (~145 kg) and offers more ground clearance (~180 mm) compared to Pulsar (~152 kg, ~170 mm). These help with agility, especially in city riding and over imperfect road surfaces.
Technology & Features
- Apache RTR 160 4V offers a TFT console (borrowed from higher Apache RTR models), traction control, ride‑telemetry (including acceleration, top speed readouts), detailed displays, and multiple riding modes.
- Pulsar NS160 has modern features too—dual‑channel ABS, turn‑by‑turn navigation, negative LCD console—but lacks riding modes and traction control.
- Mileage: Apache claims higher fuel economy (around 45 kmpl) versus NS160 (around 40.36 kmpl in some reports). Depending on trim and riding style, these may vary.
Conclusion
If raw performance is your benchmark, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V barely nudges ahead: slightly more power and torque, lighter weight, better ground clearance, and more premium tech (riding modes, traction control). The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 still holds strong—as a no‑nonsense, rugged, simpler machine with its strengths in braking, established trust, and perhaps slightly lower maintenance complexity.
For a rider who values tech, sharper riding dynamics, and wants the most powerful 160cc naked bike with modern features, the Apache RTR 160 4V is the superior choice. If your priority is reliability, simplicity, and you can forego the extras, the Pulsar NS160 still offers solid value.
