Hero Xtreme 160R 4V vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V vs Bajaj Pulsar N160: Specs Compared

Engine

Between these three, the Pulsar has the largest displacement and the Apache makes the most power despite having the smallest displacement. However, if you were to pit the Xtreme against the Pulsar which are closest in cubic capacity, the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V makes the most power at lower rpms. This could be credited to its new 4-valve cylinder head which allows the engine to remain relatively stress free even at higher speeds.       

Underpinnings

When it comes down to hardware, all three motorcycles feature a telescopic front fork and a monoshock at the back. However, the top-end ‘Pro’ variant of the Xtreme 160R 4V gets a premium KYB upside down fork for a sportier ride and appeal. However, when it comes to brakes, the Pulsar N160 remains the best-in-class with larger disc at work and dual-channel ABS. We only wish that Hero had offered the Xtreme with dual-channel ABS, at least in the ‘Pro’ variant.   

Dimensions

Out in the real world, stuff like seat height, kerb weight and ground clearance matter the most. In that sense, both the Xtreme 160R and Pulsar N160 offer the most accessible seat, but not by a huge margin. When speaking of weight - the Pulsar is the chubbiest of the lot, but the new Xtreme 160R 4V Pro variant is lighter than its competition here. In the ground clearance department, the Apache takes the cake with its impressive 180mm ground clearance. This should allow the Apache to scale over our poor Indian roads better than the rest.    

Features

In this segment, you typically do not find tech laden bikes because beyond their superficial sportiness, these are still utilitarian tools for practical living. And features cost money which rob these bikes off their value for money proposition. Despite that, both the Xtreme and Apache offer Bluetooth connectivity in their top end variants. That said, the Apache pushes the envelope further by introducing rides modes which offer varied power outputs depending on what you need. In that sense, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 feels a bit spartan, but in all honesty, are we missing out on a lot if we do not have basic Bluetooth enabled call and SMS alerts?     

Price & Verdict

(all prices ex-showroom Delhi)

Now this is where the penny drops for most buyers, literally too! These entry-level although a practical purchase require a lot of heart to decide, because they often end up as ‘first bikes’. Hence, no matter how sporty a manufacturer may make their bike, the final call comes down to the asking price and in that sense, it’s a close call between the Xtreme 160R 4V base variant and the Bajaj Pulsar N160. Yes, the Xtreme is roughly Rs 2000 cheaper, but with the extra safety net of dual-channel ABS on offer the Pulsar N160 appears to make the most sense.