Pulsar N160 4V Top vs Base
Pulsar N160 4V Top vs Base

Bajaj Auto has just launched the Pulsar N160 4V, which is quite a revolution in terms of tech and equipment when compared to other Pulsars and even Dominars. It is clearly a cut above the model it replaces and offers technology that rivals clearly do not. These tech and features are available only in the top-spec variant.

There are two variants with new Pulsar N160 4V – S and SS. Depending on the variant chosen, features, design, desirability, excitement, technology and safety differs. Walkaround videos by Solo Traveler clearly depict differences between these variants in full detail.

Pulsar N160 4V Variants - Base (Above) vs Top (Below)
Pulsar N160 4V Variants – Base (Above) vs Top (Below)

Pulsar N160 4V Top vs Base – Design Differences

The two variants differ vastly in terms of design. For starters, both models differ in their graphics department. One cannot say which graphics is better as it is personal preference. The primary difference is that S comes with single-piece seat while SS comes with a split seat setup, as denoted by the very name.

Another attribute is that S variant gets a single-piece grab rail, while it is an attractive split setup with SS, which is also painted in Red. For extra zing, the top-spec SS variant gets attractive red highlights in the 3D Pulsar badging on the fuel tank for extra sporty aesthetics. Also, Red wheels with the top-spec SS variant for that added panache. Other than these, both variants share identical design.

Pulsar N160 4V Variants - Base (Above) vs Top (Below)
Pulsar N160 4V Variants – Base (Above) vs Top (Below)

Functionality & Safety

Only top-spec SS variant gets adjustable brake and clutch levers which allows riders to fine tune the levers to their optimum position. Also, top-spec variant comes with a toggle to turn off the headlight and LED DRLs are always on. In the base S variant, headlights and DRLs both stay on all the time and cannot be turned off.

SS variant is the one to get dual channel ABS and Traction Control, while S variant gets a single-channel ABS system that only acts on the front wheel. Both get disc brakes at both ends as standard. Another change is in tyres. While size are similar, SS variant gets a radial tyre for the rear. Both variants get the same USD forks, USB Type-C port, same LED lighting setup with LED blinkers and others.

Pulsar N160 4V Variants - Base (Above) vs Top (Below)
Pulsar N160 4V Variants – Base (Above) vs Top (Below)

Technology

In terms of technology, top-spec SS variant is way ahead when compared to base S variant. SS gets a TFT instrument cluster while the base S variant gets a colour LCD unit. Bluetooth connection with TBT navigation, gear position indicator, Ride Modes, trip computers, four-button switchgear on the left and other attributes are common between both.

SS variant sidelines S variant with features like auto day/night themes, 0-60 km/h acceleration meter, tour info on top of trip computers, lap timer, document storage (RC, Insurance, DL), Google Maps mirroring, quick access, custom homepage, 5th Tour Ride Mode on top of standard (Sport, Road, Rain, Off-Road), switchable Traction Control, electronic throttle with ride-by-wire tech and a few more.

Pulsar N160 4V Variants - Base (Above) vs Top (Below)
Pulsar N160 4V Variants – Base (Above) vs Top (Below)

Both bikes get the same 164.5cc single cylinder oil cooled (recently added) engine with a 4V head. This engine is capable of 18.5 PS of peak power and 14.4 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox and an electronic throttle which only the top-spec SS gets.