Bajaj Pulsar 150 vs TVS Apache RTR 160 2025 – Detailed Comparison for Indian Riders
When it comes to sporty-looking commuter bikes, two names dominate Indian roads – the Bajaj Pulsar 150 and the TVS Apache RTR 160 . Both motorcycles are popular among students, young professionals, and enthusiasts who want a mix of power, mileage, and affordable prices.
In this detailed comparison, we will analyze both bikes based on price, mileage, engine specifications, features, comfort, maintenance and resale value to help you choose the right bike in 2025.
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Price in India – affordable yet sporty
Price plays an important role for Indian buyers, especially students and middle-class riders.
Bajaj Pulsar 150 2025 – Starting Price ₹1.15 Lakh (Ex-Showroom)
TVS Apache RTR 160 2025 – Starting Price ₹1.23 Lakh (Ex-Showroom)
👉 Conclusion: Pulsar 150 is more economical, saving around ₹8,000. If the budget is tight, Pulsar is the better choice.
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Mileage and fuel efficiency – who saves more?
Mileage is one of the biggest deciding factors in India.
Bajaj Pulsar 150 – 47 to 50 kmph (in real conditions)
TVS Apache RTR 160 – 42 to 45 kmpl (in real conditions)
👉 Summary: The Pulsar 150 offers better range, making it a practical choice for daily commuters.
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Engine and Performance – Power vs Practicality
Performance is the specialty of Apache.
Pulsar 150 – 149.5 cc, 13.8 bhp, 13.4 Nm torque, 5-speed gearbox
Apache RTR 160 – 159.7 cc, 15.3 bhp, 13.9 Nm torque, 5-speed gearbox
👉 Conclusion: Apache RTR 160 has more power and faster acceleration. Pulsar is smooth but less aggressive.
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Design and Styling – Classic vs Sporty
Indian riders also consider style to be an important factor.
Pulsar 150 – Muscular tank, iconic design, simple graphics.
Apache RTR 160 – Aggressive styling, LED headlamps, sporty decals.
👉 Conclusion: The Apache RTR 160 looks more modern and premium, while the Pulsar appeals to riders who prefer a classic muscular look.
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Features and Technology – Modern vs Basic
Features are what determine how premium a bike will seem.
Features of Pulsar 150: Analog-digital console, single-channel ABS, halogen headlamps.
Features of Apache RTR 160: SmartXonnect Bluetooth, fully digital console, LED headlamps, Glide Through Technology (GTT).
👉 Conclusion: Apache RTR 160 clearly has advanced features, while Pulsar only has basic features.
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Comfort and Ride Quality – City vs. Adventure
Comfort is essential to Indian road conditions.
Pulsar 150 – Upright seating ability, soft suspension, extremely comfortable for long city trips.
Apache RTR 160 – Sporty seating position, firm suspension, exciting for short trips but less comfortable for longer trips.
👉 Conclusion: Pulsar is better for comfort, Apache is better for sporty handling.
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Maintainability and Reliability – Affordable Options
Service costs and parts availability influence purchase decisions.
Pulsar 150 – Affordable Service, Bajaj has one of the largest service networks in India.
Apache RTR 160 – Slightly higher service cost, but TVS reliability is strong.
👉 Conclusion: Pulsar is ahead in terms of lower cost of ownership, while Apache is more sophisticated, but more expensive to maintain.
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Resale Value – Future Profit
Resale value matters for Indian riders while upgrading.
Pulsar 150 – Excellent resale demand especially in small towns and rural areas.
Apache RTR 160 – Strong resale in cities due to stylish design and performance reputation.
👉 Conclusion: Both have good resale value, but Pulsar is in higher demand.
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Which bike should you buy in 2025?
Here is the ultimate buying guide:
Buy Bajaj Pulsar 150 if:
You want better mileage.
The budget is limited.
You want a comfortable ride in the city.
You prefer low maintenance and robust resale.
Buy TVS Apache RTR 160 if:
You want more power and sporty handling.
You like modern features like Bluetooth and LED lights.
Style and speed matter more than mileage.
You mostly ride cities and short distance bikes.
Final verdict – Pulsar or Apache?
Both the motorcycles are excellent choices in the 150-160 cc class.
Pulsar 150 – Reliable, fuel-efficient, comfortable and budget-friendly.
Apache RTR 160 – Stylish, powerful, feature rich and exciting to drive.
👉 In a nutshell:
Pulsar 150 saved money.
The Apache RTR 160 thrills.
The right choice depends on whether you value mileage and comfort or performance and style.
Read more blog:
Honda Shine vs Splendor Plus 2025 – Which Bike Rules Indian Roads?