The 160 cc naked segment just got hotter with the launch of the 2018 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. the motorcycle goes head-to-head with the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160.
The 2018 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V borrows design cues from its 200 cc cousin, the RTR 200 4V. Similarly, the design of the Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 is also based on the NS 200. The single-piece handlebar and the single seat offers an upright and comfortable riding stance in the Apache. The Pulsar has a slightly sporty ergonomics, thanks to its raised clip-ons and split seats. Let’s see how the two motorcycles perform against each other spec-wise.
| Specifications | 2018 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V | Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 |
| Engine | 159.7 cc single cylinder SOHC mill with oil cooling and fuel injection / Carburettor | 160.3 cc SOHC engine with oil cooling and carburettor |
| Peak Power | 16.8 PS at 8,000 rpm / 16.5 PS at 8,000 rpm (Carb) | 15.5 PS at 8,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 14.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm | 14.6 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Showa monoshock | Nitrox monoshock |
| Front Brake | 270 mm petal disc | 240 mm disc |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm drum / 200 mm petal disc | 130 mm drum |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm | 176 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 147 kg (FI) / 145 kg (Carb, disc) | 142 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 litres | 12 litres |
| Front Tyre | 90/90-17 49P Tubeless | 80/100 -17" 46 P Tubeless |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70-17 M/C 62P Tubeless / Drum - 110/80-17 57P Tubeless / Disc - 130/70-17 M/C 62P Tubeless | 110/80 -17" 57 P Tubeless |
| Price, ex-showroom, Delhi | Carburettor with front disc and rear drum (INR 81,490); carburettor with front and rear disc (INR 84,990); and Fuel Injected (FI) variant with both front and rear disc (INR 89,990). | INR 81,626 (one variant only) |
The Apache RTR 160’s engine is marginally more powerful, and features a counterbalancer for optimum refinement as well. There is also a choice to opt for a more powerful fuel-injected variant, which the Pulsar lacks. The Pulsar makes do with a single variant while the Apache is available in three variants.
The Bajaj Pulsar NS 160’s engine is a heavily reworked version of the Pulsar AS 150. It offers enhanced bottom-end torque. The Apache’s engine is based on the RTR 200, but has also been modified extensively to suit the bike. In terms of pricing, the base variant of the Apache undercuts the Pulsar marginally.
