Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs Dominar 400 – What to Buy?

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z has finally been launched in our market and will sell alongside the established Dominar 400. Here’s how the two compare.

The much-awaited Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z has been launched in India after the anticipation of the last few years. The bookings are underway with a token amount of Rs 5,000. The Dominar 400 has been the only Bajaj product in this space for the longest time. This is the first time the Pulsar moniker has appeared in this segment. That makes things quite interesting. The NS400Z borrows a lot of elements from the NS200. As a result, Bajaj has been successful in keeping the price mega-attractive. That will be the major reason why people could opt for it in contrast to the other rivals. For now, let us take a look at the details of these two motorcycles from the same company.

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Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs Dominar 400 Price Comparison

As mentioned previously, the fact that Bajaj has sourced a lot of elements from the NS200, the NS400Z comes with a price tag of an attractive Rs 1.85 lakh, ex-showroom. On the other hand, the Dominar 400 retails for Rs 2.31 lakh, ex-showroom. Hence, the Pulsar NS400Z offers a significant advantage over the Dominar in arguably the most crucial criteria.

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs Dominar 400 – Specs & Mileage

Interestingly, the Pulsar NS400Z borrows the powertrain from the Dominar 400. Hence, both these bikes get the same 373-cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine which generates a decent 40 PS @8,000 RPM and 35 Nm @6,500 RPM of peak power and torque. The transmission duties are carried out by a 6-speed manual gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. The NS400Z possesses the ride-by-wire electronic throttle and four ride modes (Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road). Apart from that, both these bikes get 43 mm Champagne Gold USD front forks, Monoshock with Nitrox 6-step adjustable rear suspension, Switchable Electronic Traction Control (ETC) and dual-channel ABS with Combined ABS technology.

The NS400Z also gets adjustable levers (5-step), 320 mm front disc brake and 230 mm rear disc brake. Similarly, the front has a 17-inch 110/70 tyre, while the rear has a 17-inch 140/70 tyre. The wheelbase is a decent 1,344 mm and the hydroformed tubular Streetfighter handlebar reduces the vibration (NVH) and increases stiffness. The ground clearance is 168 mm and the rider seat height is 807 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 12 litre and the kerb weight is 174 kg.

In comparison, the Dominar 400 has a fuel tank capacity of 13 litres, while the ground clearance is 157 mm. It has a beam-type perimeter frame. It has a wheelbase of 1,453 mm and a kerb weight of 193 kg. Hence, there are clear differences in the appearance, body tyres and application of the two bikes despite carrying the same engine.

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Design

The two motorcycles might be a lot similar in terms of the mechanicals, but they are poles apart when it comes to design and styling. On one hand, the new Pulsar NS400Z borrows design cues from the NS400Z. Hence, it is a sporty bike with an aggressive demeanour. People would generally use it for the city, as well as performance applications. It gets a Bi-functional Sealed LED projector headlamp with ‘Z’ Signature DRLs, a sporty underbelly exhaust, floating panels, an LED taillamp, and LED turn indicators, and comes in 4 colours – Glossy Racing Red, Brooklyn Black, Pearl Metallic White and Pewter Grey.

On the other hand, even the Dominar 400 comes with an LED headlight, an LED taillamp, LED turn indicators and more. There are 2 colour options to choose from – Aurora Green and Charcoal Black. Now, both these have their distinct appearances. The Dominar 400 looks a bit bulky and gives those highway tourer bike vibes. That becomes clear from its ground clearance and kerb weight as well. It is meant to create an impression on the road and offer a relaxed experience on long journeys. On the other hand, the Pulsar NS400Z is more for the city and driving dynamics. Essentially, everyone will find what they are looking for from their bikes between these two.

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Features

Being the flagship models, both these motorcycles come with exciting features to pamper the riders. The new Pulsar NS400Z’s top amenities include:

• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Carbon Fibre Graphics
• Colour LCD Speedometer
• Turn-by-Turn Navigation
• Music Control
• Lap Timer
• Traction Control
• Call Accept and Reject
• Missed Call and Message (SMS) Notification
• Brightness Control
• Mobile Battery Charge Status
• Mobile Network Strength Status
• USB Socket Charger
• Hazard Lamp Switch

On the other hand, even the Dominar 400 possesses some top functionalities including:

• USB Charging Port
• Digital Speedometer, Odometer, Tachometer and Tripmeter
• Gear Indicator
• Hand Guard
• Leg Guard
• Saddle Stay
• Passenger Footrest
• Pass Switch
• Adjustable Windscreen

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Our View

Both these motorcycles are mighty capable but serve two completely different purposes. The Dominar 400 will continue to attract buyers who are looking for a tourer bike from Bajaj. While that is not completely the case, its demeanour, road presence and application indicate this. That has always been its core strength. On the other hand, the Pulsar moniker will benefit the NS400Z going forward. People looking for a more affordable 400cc segment motorcycle for daily commute and highway rides will opt for the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z. In fact, it might just be the most value-for-money proposition in this category. Only the sales charts will reveal how well people embrace it.