Hero Xtreme 160R vs Bajaj Pulsar N160: Clash of Performance & Practicality

In the dynamic landscape of the 160cc bike segment in India, where excitement meets competition, Bajaj leads the charge with the Bajaj Pulsar N160. The Pulsar N160 has captured the spotlight, prompting its rivals to respond. One amongst them, Hero MotoCorp, has stepped up to the challenge with the updated Xtreme 160R 4V, riddled with hardware and performance upgrades. In this review, we dive deeper into finding out if the upgraded Xtreme 160R has what it takes to dethrone the current 160cc king.

Performance: Engines Unleashed

Integral to the Pulsar N160's rule is its exceptionally smooth engine full of peppiness and excitement. The Xtreme 160R, to match up to its rival, comes bearing a bunch of changes to its powerplant, resulting in a power increase. Sadly, these performance updates don't quite help the Xtreme match the Pulsar's quickness. Moreover, the addition of a 4-valve head and an oil-cooler has somehow translated into a less livelier riding experience, as compared to its older 2V engine.

Even on the highway, the Pulsar has an edge over its competitor as it can easily cruise at 90kmph, whereas the Xtreme can sit comfortably only between 75-80kmph. And if you do push the Xtreme harder, then that will result in a compromised fuel efficiency.

City Commuting: Urban Realities

In the urban jungle, where traffic is the first concern, the Pulsar's engine shines even brighter. It can effortlessly glide through traffic at low speeds, thanks to its smoother power delivery and precise gear ratios. On the other hand, the Xtreme requires frequent gear shifts to tackle the same scenario, which dampens the ride experience because of the clunky and notchy gearbox. 

Sure, the Xtreme's handling may be stable for the most part, but it isn’t as nimble or sporty anymore. Especially when you compare it with the more agile Pulsar. Additionally, the Pulsar makes the rider feel more connected with the bike, amplifying the overall commuting experience.

Comfort and Suspension: Soaking Up the Road

Interestingly, when it comes to suspension, the Xtreme boasts a commendable setup, just like the 2V model. Even the new USD fork can effectively absorb bumps and maintain rider comfort quite well. In contrast, the Pulsar's firmer rear suspension can make rough surfaces a bit more unsettling. This is an area where the Xtreme holds its ground.

Braking: Bite and Precision

Differences in braking performance are also stark between the two contenders. The Pulsar N160's brakes offer a fierce bite and precise progression, which enhances confidence. In contrast, the Xtreme 160R's braking lacks the sharpness of its predecessor, which results in a compromised riding experience. And of course, the Pulsar N160's dual-channel ABS system adds to its braking superiority.

Features and Practicality: Clarity in Simplicity

While the Xtreme 160R boasts more premium features on paper, including a fully digital console and connected features, the practical usability is less impressive. The console's visibility in daylight conditions is compromised, particularly in harsh sunlight. On the other hand, the Pulsar N160's semi-digital console, although less advanced on paper, offers a cleaner setup with readily accessible information. Both bikes include a conveniently placed USB charger near the handlebar for easy device charging.

Verdict: The Unyielding Champion

Hero's efforts to topple the king fall short in this contest. The Bajaj Pulsar N160 maintains its stature as our preferred choice in the 160cc segment. What's striking, however, is just how one sided the competition is. The Xtreme's updates, rather than enhancing its appeal, appear to have taken a modest step backward. Coupled with a higher price point, the Xtreme becomes a hard sell against the Pulsar's comprehensive package. In this battle, the Pulsar N160 continues to reign supreme.