Best 160-cc Bikes in India

Emission norms have reduced the number of contenders in the 160-cc motorcycle segment, particularly in the naked category.

The 160-cc segment in the Indian two-wheeler market comprise motorcycles that offer a good balance between a 150- and 180-cc motorcycle. These motorcycles have developed a segment for themselves and are now rarely spoken of as commuters. If you fancy one, here is all you need to know about the current best 160-cc motorcycles in the market.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160

The BS6 Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 has also been launched at a Rs-10,000 premium over the previous model and now costs Rs 1.03 lakh (ex-showroom). The 160.3-cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine now produces 17.2 hp at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 14.6 Nm at 7,250 rpm and receives fuel-injection as well. The updated NS 160 has received a few minor cosmetic changes but continues to retain the popular styling of the Pulsar NS famiy. Like the NS 200, this motorcycle is also a good performer and does justice to the Pulsar brand and has earned itself a place on this list of best 160-cc motorcycles.

Hero Xtreme 160R

The Hero Xtreme 160R would have been on sale right now had it not been for the COVID-19 pandemic. The manufacturer has decided to postpone the launch until the situation improves. So, this is the only motorcycle in this list of BS6 bikes under Rs 1 lakh that does not have a price yet. Styling-wise, the Xtreme 160R is all set to give a tough time to its peers in this segment including the Yamaha FZ range and the TVS Apache RTR 160 and RTR 160 4V. Motive force comes from a 163-cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that makes 15.23 hp at 8,000 rpm and a peak torque of 14 Nm at 6,000 rpm while mated to a five-speed gearbox. Again, we only see a single-channel ABS in this motorcycle. Pricing will certainly play a crucial role in determining this motorcycle’s outcome against its rivals. To find out how it is to ride, click here for the first ride review.

Suzuki Gixxer

Yes, clearly not a contender in the best 160-cc list if you go by the books but we believe this motorcycle deserves a place here. The new Suzuki Gixxer has received a BS6-compliant engine and a major aesthetic upgrade as well. The 155-cc engine that we are familiar with is now offered only with fuel-injection and it produces 13.6 hp and 13.8 Nm; mated to a five-speed gearbox. The new design is sharp and takes the Gixxer’s popularity up a notch but underneath it all, it continues to be the nimble and peppy naked it has always been. Current pricing is at Rs 1.12 lakh (ex-showroom).

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V

Reworked and refreshed, the new Apache looks stunning in its BS6 avatar and is powered by the potent 159.7-cc, air-cooled fuel-injected mill. TVS claim that the new engine has been developed based on their national-championship-winning experience, and it makes 16.8 hp and a peak torque of 14.8 Nm. The rear monoshock and the front fork have been tuned by Showa in conjunction with TVS. The new motorcycle range is priced from Rs 1.01 lakh (ex-showroom) onward.

Story: Joshua Varghese