Two 160cc motorcycles manufactured by major motorcycle dealers are creating confusion among buyers. Both brands have a huge fan following. So here is the comparison between Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 and Honda CB Hornet 160R. Hornet has been in this segment for quite some time and is a big seller as Suzuki does not have the reach and TVS Apache is not that famous in the 160cc segment. The new Bajaj motorcycle has already created a buzz in the market and is also garnering a lot of attention.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs Honda CB Hornet 160R Design

Let’s start with the new player first. The Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 looks really stylish and is just like the NS 200. The bikini fairing is exactly the same. The other aspects of the fuel tank are the same. The cuts, lines and even the colour gradation. The only difference is that the fuel tank carries the 160 badge instead of the 200. The rear tyre is thinner than the 200 and if you look closely, it even has a small drum brake. If you have seen or lived with the NS 200, it is very difficult to spot these differences. The bike has a muscular design and this makes it stand out from the crowd.

The Honda CB Hornet 160R, on the other hand, has a sleeker design. It looks aerodynamic and has all the details that make it attractive. It doesn’t have the hips like the Pulsar and has a different approach to styling. The bike doesn’t look as tall as the Pulsar and doesn’t even have the bulges. But there are certain elements that make it look drastic and appealing.

Also read: Bajaj Pulsar 160 NS | Honda CB Hornet 160R | Suzuki Gixxer | Yamaha FZS

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs. Honda CB Hornet 160R Engine and Transmission

Both the bikes are equipped with a 160cc engine. Both have similar performance and there is not much difference in power and torque. Both engines are also equipped with a five-speed gearbox. Well, that’s just the data on paper.

The Honda engine is much more refined and runs like butter. This is one of its biggest USPs. In terms of power delivery, it is very smooth. Honda has a much better engine, there is no doubt about that. At the same time, the power is more than enough to drive in the city. On the highway, you can drive comfortably at 80-90 km/h.

The new Bajaj engine is derived from the existing 150cc engine. We loved the refinement in the new 150cc engine and the same is carried over to the 160cc engine as well. However, it is not as refined as the Honda engine. The performance is a little better in the Hornet. There is more torque for overtaking and even the performance is better on the highway.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs. Honda CB Hornet 160R ride and handling

The Honda CB Hornet 160R handles well, however, there are many moments when the rider feels unsure. This is where the Pulsar NS 160 is the better package. The Honda feels much more nimble when riding in the city. The CB Hornet is a bit stiff, while the Pulsar is smoother.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 vs Honda CB Hornet 160R Price

There is not much difference between the prices of the two bikes. Both are priced the same without the combined brake. The Hornet costs around INR 5,000 more with rear disc brake and combined brake. Pulsar does not offer this in India.