Bajaj Auto unveiled a new motorbike, the Pulsar NS 160, targeting those who want their Pulsars to be even more like a sports bike.
It will be different from the regular Pulsar range, which is a mix of the sporty and the practical.
The NS series, said Bajaj Auto, will be tilted more towards the pure sports feel.
“While the classic Pulsar blends performance with the practicalities of daily city riding, the new generation Pulsar NS 160 caters to the fast-growing segment of customers who seek premium quality, cutting edge international style and world-class performance,” the company said.
Sports bikes typically give faster acceleration, and are designed for control at high speeds rather than comfort.
“The NS160 offers performance and handling dynamics that set a new benchmark in the 150-160cc sport biking category,” the company said.
The Indian market has seen an explosion of sports bikes, such as those from Bajaj’s own KTM brand, and from the likes of Yamaha.
Among the highlights of the Pulsar NS 160 will be a pressed steel rigid perimeter frame that the company says provides significantly superior handling dynamics vs regular framed bikes.
Unlike most sports bikes in India, which are priced in the Rs 2-5 lakh range, this one will not try to be a monster on the road — either in terms of pricing or power.
The engine capacity will be 160cc — modest for sports bikes — which helps keep the pricing and the fuel economy within the range of most buyers.
“The NS160 will target a fast growing segment of customers who want to stay in the 150-160 cc band but need the best in technology and performance,” said Eric Vas, who is the president for the Motorcycle business at Bajaj Auto.
The engine will deliver 15.5 PS @ 8500 rpm and maximum torque of 14.6 NM @ 6500 rpm.
The bike comes in Saffire Blue, Passion Red and Glossy Pewter Grey color schemes and will be available across all Bajaj Auto dealerships in India.