Kawasaki Rouser NS160 or Rouser 200NS: Which one to buy?

It’s an exciting time for motorcycle enthusiasts in the Philippines. Motorcycles from neighbouring countries are making their way here as are prominent players from all over the world. This means that no customer segment is left untouched. There is something for everyone.

The Rouser 200NS and the Rouser NS160 are perfect examples to strengthen this point. Both these bikes are made by Bajaj in India and are sold in the Philippines under their partnership with Kawasaki. Being similar to the Philippines market, these bikes have appealed the riders of both the nations. They fall in the sweet spot of 160-200 cc that delivers reasonably good performance while still holding a relatively cheap tag. Coming from a similar price-oriented market, they also provide exceptional value.

But which one to buy?

The problem is visible from the get-go. Both the Kawasaki Rouser look pretty good in a naked streetfighter way. That wolf-like aggressive headlamp, that beefy chassis, chunky contoured tank, and the hidden underslung exhaust, all make for a very inviting bike. There are clip-on handlebars, digital instruments, split seat, and a tasty European looking number plate. More or less both look the same.
The 200NS sells for Php 99,000 while the NS160 sells for Php 88,000. This small difference in price would suggest that the bikes are indeed very similar. But there are many differences, and all are quite significant.

Aesthetics wise they may appear the same, but there are subtle differences. The 200NS gets an exclusive orange and silver paint scheme, while the NS160 gets some splashes on the wheels. The 200NS gets bigger disc brakes on both wheels along with fatter tires and a little less ground clearance. It is also heavier by 10 kg. The little brother has to do with a kick start that is absent in the 200NS. But most people would still not be able to tell them apart.

Engine wise, however, they are worlds apart. The 200NS gets a KTM derived rev happy, single cylinder, water-cooled 200cc triple spark engine. It produces 24.13 hp at 9750 rpm and a peak torque of 18.24 Nm at 8000 rpm. The engine is mounted on a stiff and beefy looking perimeter frame. There are telescopic forks on the front and a monoshock with Nitrous setup in the rear. Power is delivered through a 6-speed transmission. Both combine to give great handling and sporty riding.

The NS160 gets a 160cc oil cooled engine producing 15.2 hp of power at 8500 rpm and peak torque of 14.6 Nm at 6500 rpm. This difference in power is striking, especially when they are facing each other. The bigger sibling here leaves the younger one in its dust. The bike also has to do with a 5-speed transmission. Add that to the thinner tires, and slightly lighter suspension bits and the differences in performance become even more pronounced. The suspension is also a bit on the softer side. Frankly, they also give it the appearance of someone who missed too many leg days.

These differences should now make the choice easier and it all really comes down to what the rider wants from the bike. Most people who will own them, will use them for commuting, some spirited riding on the highways and probably dash around the town. If your needs are limited to commuting around the city, then the NS160 is the best for you. It is more comfortable, requires less maintenance, is more accessible to ride around in the city and will give better mileage.

Spending a little extra will get you the 200NS. This bike is more focused on performance than its younger brother. The wider tires, better brakes, stiffer suspension, and the boost in power will have you punching confidently through corners and storming through highways on those weekend trips. However, it will be less comfortable and more tiring to ride around town.

These differences may seem inconsequential now but will become more noticeable when you’ve owned them for some time. So, make an informed choice. Good news is that no matter which bike you buy between the two, both will offer a lot of value wrapped in a stylish package.