The Bajaj Pulsar N160 is styled aggressively, sharing much of its design DNA with the Pulsar N250. The front of the bike features a projector headlamp flanked by LED DRLs, providing it with a futuristic and bold look. The fuel tank extensions, combined with a split seat and belly pan, give the bike an overall muscular appearance. The semi-digital instrument console, though not as advanced as full-digital displays seen in other competitors, provides necessary information such as gear position and distance to empty​.

The N160 offers excellent build quality and attention to detail, with four color options available: Brooklyn Black, Racing Red, Caribbean Blue, and Techno Grey. While it doesn’t stand out with innovative design elements, the familiar, yet aggressive styling will appeal to Pulsar loyalists​.

Powering the Bajaj Pulsar N160 is a 165 cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine that produces 15.8 bhp at 8,750 rpm and 14.7 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. This engine offers a bass-heavy exhaust note and is one of the most refined units seen in the Pulsar lineup. The 5-speed gearbox is slick and precise, complementing the engine’s low- to mid-range grunt. Acceleration from 30-70 km/h in third to fifth gear is impressive, making it one of the fastest motorcycles in the 160cc segment in terms of roll-on acceleration​.

The bike can comfortably hold speeds up to 75-80 km/h, with refinement at these speeds remaining one of its key highlights. However, top-end performance leaves something to be desired, as it tends to become lethargic past 100 km/h. The torque delivery is smooth, making the bike ideal for both city commutes and short highway trips

The Bajaj Pulsar N160 boasts a well-balanced chassis and suspension setup, with 37 mm telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The dual-channel ABS variant features a 300 mm front disc and 280 mm front disc for the single-channel variant, ensuring excellent braking performance. This, combined with wide 130 mm rear tires and 100 mm front tires, offers solid grip, even in wet conditions​.

The N160 handles bumps, potholes, and rough patches with ease, thanks to its robust suspension setup. The bike feels light and nimble, with a kerb weight of 154 kg, which allows for easy maneuverability in traffic. The only downside is its slightly wide turning radius, which may feel cumbersome in tight spots

The Pulsar N160 offers a relatively upright riding position with slightly rear-set footpegs, providing a comfortable stance for both city and long-distance rides. The split seat is well-padded, making it comfortable for both the rider and pillion. Its 790 mm seat height ensures that it is accessible for shorter riders as well​.

The suspension’s ability to absorb bumps and imperfections on the road further enhances the comfort factor, allowing for smooth rides across varied road conditions​