Pulsar P150 vs TVS Apache RTR 160: Comparison Test and Review

There are now more options than ever for sub-200cc performance motorcycles. A comparison road test was necessary because recently, the two models are available in the market from this segment. The list carries, TVS owned Apache RTR 160 (2V) and the Pulsar P150. Given their comparable performance and costs, it was a no-brainer. Many performance aficionados have entered the market with the Apache RTR 160. On the other hand loyal buyers have been drawn to the Bajaj Pulsar brand.

However, Bajaj Auto is now releasing motorcycles with a more contemporary look, and its new Pulsar P150 is one of the goods targeted at youthful consumers. Which one should you get, then? In this assessment of a comparison road test, we explain it.

Design and Quality

Since it was first released, the TVS Apache RTR 160 hasn't undergone significant styling alteration. However, a new headlight design and LED illumination will be added to the motorcycle for 2023, putting it on pace with its competitors. Then, the Apache RTR 160's cockpit receives an upgrade, and the 2023 model replaces the console's analogue tachometer with a fully digital one. The motorcycle's most advanced version also gathers more data than the cheaper variations and benefits from Bluetooth connectivity. TVS Apache RTR 160 available in five bright colours with sporty motifs in an effort to draw in younger customers.

On the other hand, the Bajaj Pulsar P150 receives a contemporary design that draws inspiration from the Pulsar N250 and the Pulsar N160. This Pulsar motorcycle has LED DRLs and a projector-style headlight up front. The Pulsar P150 receives a body-coloured headlight cowl and an engine cowl that matches, same like the Apache RTR 160. The Pulsar P150, on the other hand, has a split-style saddle with a much friendlier access mechanism for the under-seat storage.

Both motorcycles have identically high quality components. The TVS Apache RTR 160, on the other hand, strikes one as a more upscale and sporty package thanks to its fully digital module and body panels with a carbon fibre feel. With five paint possibilities for each bike, the colour pallet is broad for both models. Although the aesthetic is very attractive, the Pulsar P150's cutting-edge style edges over its competition in this comparison. Does the department of ergonomics and comfort make the same claims?

Ergonomics and Comfort

The engine output and fuel efficiency of these two motorcycles are very similar. More on that is covered in the review's last section. But what distinguishes these motorcycles is their ergonomics. For my 5'10" height, the Apache RTR 160 feels a little tight because of the footpegs' significantly lofty position. On the other hand, shorter riders could feel more at ease with this rider's triangle. In contrast, the Pulsar P150 has a more natural, roomy, and cosy feel. The common element in terms of comfort is the seat padding, which feels just hard enough without being overly rigid to make lengthy rides more comfortable. To reach the ground with a flat foot is not difficult due to the motorbike seats' modest 790mm height on both models.

Technical Specifications

In addition to lacking the Bluetooth module, the Pulsar P150 displays less detailed data than the Apache RTR 160. However, it features a USB charger that is handily placed close to the handlebar. Even though the LED headlights on both motorcycles operate admirably, the Pulsar P150's projector configuration is far more effective than the Apache RTR 160 in illuminating the road at night. As a result, although the Apache RTR 160 appears to have more functionality, the Pulsar P150 is the more useful of the two items.

Performance and Handling

In terms of performance, the Apache RTR 160 slightly outperforms the Pulsar P150. The 159.7 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine powers the Apache RTR 160. The power and torque outputs are restricted in the Urban and Rain modes to 13.1 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 12.7 Nm at 6,500 rpm, respectively. While the maximum 15.8 bhp at 8,750 rpm and 13.85 Nm at 7,000 rpm are accessible in Sport mode. Now, the character of the engine is unaffected by these modes. 

Instead, the 8,000 rpm limit is imposed by the Urban and Rain modes. As a result, the Apache RTR 160's top speed is constrained in the lower power settings. So, for the majority of the road test, we operated in Sport mode. The Bajaj Pulsar P150 lacks ride modes in the meantime. This Bajaj model has a 149cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motor that produces 13.5 Nm of maximum torque at 6,000 rpm and 14.29 bhp at 8,500 rpm.

Output of both the bikes

Both motorcycles are equally quick, albeit the Apache RTR 160 produces a little more horsepower and torque. On the highway, both vehicles' top speeds were roughly 125 km/h. The character is essentially the same as well, but the Apache RTR 160 has a somewhat spicier feel compared to the Pulsar P150, which delivers power more linearly. Above 3,000 rpm, both motorcycles seem at ease, and after 4,000 rpm, they start to accelerate effortlessly.

They can travel at a comfortable 80 km/h at about 6,000 rpm, but anything over 90 km/h is uncomfortable. During the road test, we had no problems shifting on either of the five-speed gearboxes, and they both felt good. However, the Pulsar P150's clutch is noticeably lighter, which improves comfort, particularly in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Additionally, compared to the Apache RTR 160, it features a sharper gearbox. The braking package also includes disc brakes on both wheels, and it feels progressive on both bikes. They offer single-channel ABS, but TVS refers to it as SuperMoto ABS because it sounds better.

It handles well and is surprisingly simple to manoeuvre through flowing traffic. But because the Pulsar P150 has the aforementioned ergonomic advantage over the Apache RTR 160, it feels more comfortable. Additionally, the Apache RTR 160 seems slightly jittery at identical speed readings, whilst the Pulsar P150 is more stable at greater speeds thanks to its longer wheelbase. The grip then feels inadequate while accelerating strongly, despite the fact that the tyres provide a respectable performance. Last but not least, the turning radius is short enough but not quite as short as a vehicle like the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.

Conclusion

Despite the Apache RTR 160's greater features, the Pulsar P150 has a little edge in the point comparison. The Pulsar P150 does not feel like a more desirable machine among the two, which is also reflected in our experience. It has a fashionable appearance, is cosy to the touch, and offers what a normal consumer in the market, especially an older one, is likely to desire. Further, the Apache RTR 160 would draw in youthful customers who desire contemporary features at a reasonable price.

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