Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs KTM Duke 390 – What to Buy?

Bajaj has just launched the all-new Pulsar 400Z as we compare it to one of the most popular motorcycles in the segment.

We bring you a thorough comparison between the new Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z and KTM Duke 390 on the basis of specs, prices, features, etc. This is the first time a 400cc segment bike from Bajaj bears a Pulsar tag. Hence, it is a huge moment in the company’s history. Now, the Pulsar ranges from 125 to 400cc categories, making it one of the biggest monikers in the Indian two wheeler industry. On the other hand, KTM is a preferred choice for all those who love enthusiastic riding. The Austrian two-wheeler giant makes compelling performance motorcycles. Let us see which one offers the better amenities to the owners depending on their needs.

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Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs KTM Duke 390 Specs Comparison

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

Let us commence this section by talking about the specifications of the newest entrant in the market. Pulsar 400Z borrows powertrain from the existing Dominar 400. Therefore, it gets a familiar 373-cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine which outputs a healthy 40 PS @8,000 RPM and 35 Nm @6,500 RPM of peak power and torque. This engine pairs with a 6-speed manual transmission with assist and slipper clutch. The new bike has the ride-by-wire electronic throttle and four ride modes (Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road). At the front, it gets 43 mm Champagne Gold USD front forks, while at the rear, there is a monoshock absorber with Nitrox 6-step adjustable suspension. Other prominent components include Switchable Electronic Traction Control (ETC) and dual-channel ABS with Combined ABS technology.

Additionally, there are 5-step adjustable levers, 320 mm front and 230 mm rear disc brakes, 17-inch 110/70-section front tyre, 17-inch 140/70-section rear tyre, a wheelbase of 1,344 mm and a ground clearance of 168 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 12 litre, the kerb weight is a decent 174 kg and the ride seat height is 807 mm. The bikes uses a hydroformed tubular Streetfighter handlebar to reduce vibrations and increase stiffness.

KTM Duke 390

Even the KTM Duke 390 has some incredible specifications which ensure a spirited performance. It gets a 398.63-cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder FI engine which is capable of producing a respectable 46 PS @8,500 RPM and 39 Nm @6,500 RPM of peak power and torque. This motorcycle also gets a 6-speed manual transmission with assist and slipper clutch. It gets a fully electronic ignition system with Digital Ignition Timing Adjustment. Even it gets the ride-by-wire technology. The front brake disc is 320 mm, while the rear is 240 mm.

Apart from that, there is a 43 mm WP APEX USD fork with an open cartridge with 5-click compression and rebound adjustment at the front and an adjustable WP APEX 10-step preload adjustable monoshock absorber with a 5-step rebound damping rear suspension. It gets a 17-inch 110/70-section tyre at the front and a 17-inch 150/60-section tyre at the rear. The fuel tank capacity is 15 litre, the saddle height is 820 mm, the wheelbase is 1,354 mm, the kerb weight is 168.3 kg and the ground clearance is 183 mm.

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Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs KTM Duke 390 Price Comparison

Bajaj has ensured that it prices its Pulsar NS400Z competitively. It comes in a single fully-loaded trim which costs Rs 1.85 lakh, ex-showroom. Note that these are introductory prices and will go up after a specific period. On the other hand, the KTM Duke 390 retails for a whopping Rs 3.11 lakh, ex-showroom. Hence, there is an enormous difference between the two with the Pulsar having a distinct advantage.

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Features Comparison

Finally, let us glance at the features both these motorcycles offer. Being 400cc segment bikes, it is understandable that both these have some modern tech amenities to pamper the owners. The new Pulsar 400Z offers:

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

On the other hand, the KTM Duke 390 offers:

• Digital Instrument Console
• 5-inch TFT Display
• USB Charging Port
• Digital Speedo, Tacho, Trip and Odometer
• Riding Modes
• Launch Control
• LED Headlamp and Taillamp
• Seat with Optional Height Adjustment (800 mm to 820 mm)

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Our View

This is a typical case of what you want to use your motorcycle for. Both these bikes offer distinct applications. On one hand, the Bajaj Pulsar 400Z comes with an all-rounded package with a sporty appearance, tons of features, a peppy engine which is suitable for city and highway runs and unbeatable affordability. On the other hand, the Duke 390 has all of that along with the addition of exhilarating performance. In fact, that is the highlight of the Duke. However, for that, you need to pay a hefty premium.

Therefore, if you are on a strict budget but still want to own a 400cc motorbike, opting for the new Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z makes perfect sense. You get a balance of everything. On the other hand, if budget is not a constraint and you are looking for a hardcore performance motorcycle, the KTM Duke 390 should be on your radar. Like mentioned previously, both these bikes have their distinct use-cases.