BAJAJ PULSAR N160 FIRST-RIDE REVIEW

Bajaj has launched the Pulsar N160 and we flew down to Pune to check it out. Here's our review.

- KARAN SINGH BANSATTA

MONSOON season is in full swing in India and after a recent rain ride in Goa, we were ready for another one. But this time, the venue was going to be Pune, where we had an orange alert because of the heavy rains. More importantly, the motorcycle this time was going to be the Bajaj Pulsar N160. As we reached the venue, there it was; a fleet of more than 20 Pulsar N160s, ready to go and take on the rain!

As we got done with the briefing, I took the chance to look at the N160 in a bit more detail. We are already aware of the new Pulsar platform, introduced with the 250 twins and the N160 is based on the N250, which is clear. I really like the new design language. Especially, the way it stares at you with its Bi-Functional LED projector and LED DRLs. Reminds you of the good old ‘wolf-eyed-headlamp’ days of the older Pulsars.

The keys had already been handed out so I slotted it in and with a twist, the infinity console came to life. The digital console is well-complemented by an analogue tachometer. I could already tell that the console provides some nifty information like battery indication, fuel indication, and also, a side-stand removal warning. Then there is other telltale stuff; neutral indicator, gear position indicator, speed indicator, and very, very crucially, time.

I also liked the way Bajaj went about with the graphics. All black with a dash of red streaks made the already handsome Pulsar N160 look even dapper. The face, the tank, and the lines emphasize the Definitely Male tagline that Bajaj is so fond of. And being a girl, it seemed like a fun thing to do to get to thrash around a motorcycle that is Definitely Male.