Back in June, Hero MotoCorp launched the updated Xtreme 160R 4V in India. The bike was updated on the cosmetic, mechanical, and feature front for 2023. Meanwhile, one of its segment rivals, the Bajaj Pulsar NS160, had received mild updates recently. So, we’ve put the two 160cc bikes against each other on paper.
Design
It’s clear as day that the Xtreme 160R 4V is the much sportier and fresher-looking motorcycle of the two. With the 4V treatment, Hero also gave it minor cosmetic tweaks and the bike now looks much more enticing. Meanwhile, the Pulsar NS160 still carries on the same design that has been around for years. It looks reasonably muscular but the fascia has remained unchanged for a little too long.
Features
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V scores an extra point here as well. It not only comes with LED illumination but Hero also offers a separate variant that features smartphone connectivity with the digital instrument console. On the other hand, the NS160 makes do with bulb illumination and a semi-digital instrument cluster with no Bluetooth compatibility at all.
Engine
Hero has powered the new Xtreme 160R 4V with a 163cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled four-valve motor that develops 16.6bhp and 14.4Nm. It’s linked to a five-speed gearbox. On the other hand, the NS160 gets a 160cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled mill linked to a five-speed gearbox. It produces 17.03bhp and 14.6Nm.
Hardware
While the Xtreme 160R 4V base model rides on conventional telescopic front forks, the top-spec model gets USDs. The rear monoshock remains common. On the other hand, the Pulsar now comes standard with USD front forks and a monoshock. Both bikes get a front and rear disc brake setup with dual-channel ABS.
Price
Hero has priced the new Xtreme 160R 4V base model at Rs. 1,27,300, while the top-spec trim costs Rs. 1,36,500. Meanwhile, the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is priced at Rs. 1,34,675 (all ex-showroom, Delhi). Overall, the Pulsar is priced close to the top spec Xtreme 160R 4V but offers fewer features and has an older design too.
