The All-New Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z Launched at a Competitive Price

Highlights of the Article :

• Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z launched in India, the most powerful Pulsar ever.
• Aggressive design, feature-rich with full LED lights, switchable traction control, ride modes, etc.
• Borrows 373cc engine from Dominar 400, priced competitively at Rs 1.85 lakh.
• Main rivals are the KTM 390 Duke, TVS Apache RTR 310, Suzuki Gixxer 250, and Triumph Speed 400.

Boasting an aggressive design, a feature-rich arsenal, and a disruptive price tag, the NS400Z is poised to inject excitement into the mid-displacement motorcycle segment. Here's a deep dive into everything that makes the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z a potential game-changer for performance-oriented riders in India.

A Striking Evolution in Design

• Evolved NS DNA: The NS400Z carries forward the design language of the NS200 but with a sharper, more mature look.
• Commanding Front: A large, central LED projector headlight grabs attention, flanked by aggressive, thunderbolt-styled Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). Inspired by the NS250's illumination prowess, the NS400Z's headlight promises excellent visibility.
• Muscular Build: The fuel tank is sculpted and muscular, boasting neatly integrated extensions that seamlessly flow over the radiator shrouds. These extensions are further accentuated by stylish carbon fibre stickering, adding a premium touch.
• Sharp & Dynamic: Sharp lines and contours flow throughout the motorcycle, giving the NS400Z a more dynamic profile compared to the NS200. This design shift emphasizes a more aggressive and purposeful stance.
• Tail Light Discussion: While the tail light retains some similarities to the NS200, it has sparked mixed reactions from enthusiasts. Some might have preferred a more distinct design element for Bajaj's flagship Pulsar.

A Feature-Packed Machine for the Gen-Z Riders

As the new crown jewel of the Pulsar range, the NS400Z has features to match its powerful engine. Here's a quick breakdown of the key features:

• Full LED Lighting: Enhance your visibility and add a touch of style with a full suite of LED lights, including the striking headlight, DRLs, taillight, and turn indicators.
• Switchable Traction Control: Maintain control and confidence in various riding conditions with switchable traction control. This system helps prevent rear-wheel slip during acceleration, especially on wet or loose surfaces.
• Multiple Ride Modes: Tailor your riding experience according to the road and weather with four distinct ride modes - Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-road. Each mode alters the throttle response and ABS intervention levels to suit the riding scenario.
• Adjustable Levers: Find your perfect riding posture and maximize comfort with adjustable levers for the clutch and brakes.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Embrace the connected riding experience with a new digital LCD instrument cluster featuring Bluetooth connectivity. Once paired with your smartphone using a dedicated app, the display showcases incoming calls, missed calls, and SMS notifications, along with turn-by-turn navigation information.

Powering Performance: Borrowing Dominar DNA

• Engine: Borrows the proven 373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine from the Bajaj Dominar 400.
• Power: Delivers 39.4bhp of peak power at 8,800rpm and 35Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm.
• Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch for a lighter clutch pull and prevention of rear-wheel lockups during downshifts.
• Chassis: Perimeter frame for rigidity and confident handling.
• Suspension: 43mm USD fork at the front and gas-charged, pre-load adjustable mono-shock at the rear for a balance of comfort and responsiveness.
• Brakes: 320mm disc brake at the front and 230mm disc brake at the rear with dual-channel ABS for optimal stopping power.

Variants

• The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is expected to be available in a single variant. This variant will likely be packed with all the features mentioned earlier, including the 373cc engine, switchable traction control, ride modes, and a colour LCD with Bluetooth connectivity.

Colour Schemes

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is likely to be offered in a range of exciting colour options to cater to diverse rider preferences. Here's a list of the expected colour schemes:

• Brooklyn Black: A classic and sophisticated black paint job that exudes a timeless appeal.
• Pewter Grey: A modern and edgy grey shade that adds a touch of sportiness to the motorcycle.
• Metallic Pearl White: A premium and eye-catching white finish that accentuates the NS400Z's sharp design lines.
• Glossy Racing Red: A vibrant and fiery red colour scheme that reflects the NS400Z's performance-oriented character.

Competitive Pricing and Positioning

• Starting Price: Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) - Most affordable near-400cc street naked motorcycle in India.
• Positioning: Between the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and the Triumph Speed 400.
• Value Proposition:
• More power and features compared to the Gixxer 250 at a slightly higher price.
• Offers an attractive balance between performance, features, and affordability compared to the premium Triumph Speed 400.

Rivals of the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z enters a competitive mid-displacement motorcycle segment in India. Here's a closer look at its key rivals, including the previously mentioned Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Triumph Speed 400, along with two new contenders:

KTM 390 Duke:

• A popular and aggressive street naked motorcycle known for its sharp handling and powerful engine.
• Offers a slightly larger displacement engine of 390cc with comparable power (39.4 bhp for NS400Z vs 43.5 bhp for Duke 390).
• Features a trellis frame, WP suspension, and a more aggressive riding position compared to the NS400Z.
• Generally carries a higher price tag than the NS400Z.

TVS Apache RTR 310:

• A feature-rich and comfortable street naked motorcycle known for its refined engine and comfortable ergonomics.
• Offers a smaller displacement engine of 312cc with a lower power output of 34.7 bhp compared to the NS400Z.
• Focuses on rider comfort with features like a comfortable seat, an upright riding position, and a slipper clutch.
• It is priced competitively against the NS400Z.

Suzuki Gixxer 250:

• A well-established and refined offering in the 250cc segment.
• Offers a smoother engine experience and a slightly lower price tag compared to the NS400Z.
• Less powerful with a 249cc engine producing around 26 bhp and 22 Nm of torque.
• Lacks some features like switchable traction control and ride modes available on the NS400Z.

Triumph Speed 400:

• A premium offering in the 400cc segment with a more refined engine and overall build quality.
• Offers a more powerful engine with a 399cc displacement producing around 47 bhp and 39 Nm of torque.
• Packed with high-end features like a fully digital instrument cluster and sophisticated suspension components.
• Carries a significantly higher price tag compared to the NS400Z.

The NS400Z strategically positions itself within this competitive landscape. It offers a balance between the Gixxer 250's affordability and the premium features of the Speed 400. Compared to the KTM 390 Duke, the NS400Z might be slightly less powerful but could be more affordable. It competes with the TVS Apache RTR 310 by offering similar pricing but potentially more power in a slightly more aggressive package.

Ultimately, the choice between these rivals depends on individual rider preferences for power, features, comfort, and budget.

Also Read :

The Bajaj Pulsar N250 STD: A Comprehensive Review of its Features, Specifications and Performance

Bajaj Pulsar 125 Carbon Single-Seat Review

Conclusion

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z's arrival disrupts the mid-displacement segment. Its muscular design, feature-loaded package, and aggressive pricing undercut the competition. With the Launch of this motorcycle for an insanely competitive price range, Bajaj Auto has certainly placed itself for accelerated growth in the Indian two-wheeler market.

Budget-conscious riders seeking a powerful street-naked motorcycle will find the NS400Z highly attractive. However, establishing itself against the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Triumph Speed 400 will be a challenge.

Real-world performance, fuel efficiency, and user experience will determine its success. The NS400Z has the potential to be a game-changer, offering an exciting biking experience at an unmatched value.