Hero Xtreme 160R 4V vs Bajaj Pulsar N160 vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V – The revamped Hero Xtreme 160R 4V comes loaded with luxury like cruise control and ride-by-wire throttle which makes the bike a direct rival to the two strongest competitors in the 160cc segment, the Bajaj Pulsar N160 and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. In terms of performance, features, design, and price, each of the three motorcycles is different and that makes the comparison quite timely. So, let us take an in-depth view on how these three bikes are compared with each other in terms of their specifications.
Engine
All three bikes are powered by single-cylinder engines, but only the Hero and TVS has 4-valve heads, while Bajaj is still sticking to a basic 2-valve arrangement. The Apache RTR 160 4V though it has the least displacement is the highest in power output with 17.5hp at 9,250rpm and 14.7Nm of torque. The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V gives 16.9hp and 14.6Nm which is not much different since it has the advantage of ride-by-wire throttle that helps in giving smoother response. N160 also has the largest displacement of 164.8cc but gives the least power at 16hp and 14.65Nm. The Apache is obviously the king of performance here, providing the most thrilling engine character.
Weight and Dimensions
Theweight of the Apache when it comes to kerb weight is an advantage as it is at the lightest end of the scale with 146kg. Xtreme is next at 147.5kg and Pulsar is the heaviest at 152kg. The Bajaj bike has a bigger fuel tank of 14 litres, which makes it more practical for long-distance rides. The Apache is another bike that offers more than others when it comes to ground clearance as it provides a ground clearance of 180mm which gives the rider more confidence to ride over speed bumps and rocky areas. Seat height is almost identical for all three motorcycles and this is what makes the bikes beginner-friendly and suitable for daily commuting.
Suspension, Braking and Tyres
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V is a premium motorcycle that highlights its quality by having USD forks even on the base version, which is the only motorcycle with such a feature. The Pulsar and Apache only give USD forks on their highest versions. All three, however, have a mono-shock at the rear. There is a discrepancy in the braking setup among the different variants, especially in the case of the Apache which has provided various rear brake choices according to the model. All three motorcycles, on their top variants, come with a 130-section rear tyre that adds to the stability and cornering feel. The lower variants of the Apache are equipped with narrower rear tyres and drum brakes which are a bit confusing to the customers.
Features and Technology
The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V steals the limelight by being the only bike in the segment to come with cruise control. It also includes ride-by-wire, a color-LCD display, and an LED headlight like the Xtreme 250R. However, the Apache 160 4V still wins the title of the most equipped motorcycle with a 5-inch TFT display, traction control, riding modes, GTT technology, a slip-and-assist clutch, and adjustable levers. It lacks cruise control but compensates with a more sophisticated electronics package. The Pulsar N160 offers the basics with three ABS modes and a digital display making it the most economical motorcycle here that has USD forks on its high variant.
Price Comparison
Pricing is very important in the 160cc segment. The Hero Xtreme 160R 4V has a price tag of Rs 1.30 lakh to Rs 1.34 lakh, thus it is the premium model. The Pulsar N160, on the other hand, has the lowest price at Rs 1.13 lakh to Rs 1.26 lakh. The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V covers the widest range from Rs 1.12 lakh to Rs 1.36 lakh, being both the cheapest and the most expensive based on the variant. The difference between the top-spec Apache and Xtreme is only about Rs 2,000.
Verdict
The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is the segment leader on paper mainly due to its better power, a lot of features, and great daily usability. On the other hand, the Hero Xtreme 160R 4V has a strong attractive in the form of unique features like cruise control and a smooth engine, thus making it a smart pick for the tech-oriented riders. The Bajaj Pulsar N160, in contrast, is an economically priced bike with good quality of mechanics but lack of features and performance when compared to the other two, turns weak in such aspects.
