Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

The Pulsar NS400Z is Bajaj’s flagship streetfighter, using the trusted 373cc engine from the Dominar. It’s built to offer a combination of performance and everyday usability, aiming to bring back the excitement of the NS series. Moreover, it takes on rivals from KTM, TVS, and Honda with an aggressive price.

The NS400Z sticks to the familiar Pulsar NS look with sharp lines, a muscular tank, and an aggressive streetfighter vibe. Furthermore, it features an underbelly exhaust and an LED projector headlamp. The bike keeps things sporty but not drastically new.

While the design is bold, it feels more like a refresh than a big change. Fit and finish are decent, but rivals like the Apache RTR 310 and Duke 390 look more modern. Still, new colours and LED lighting help it stay current.
 

The NS400Z has a 373.27cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 39.45 bhp at 8,800 rpm and 35 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Moreover, it’s mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch. The motor is derived from the Dominar 400 but is tuned for a livelier throttle response and mid-range punch.

The acceleration is brisk, and the power delivery is linear. The engine is refined with minimal vibrations at lower RPMs, though some buzz creeps in beyond 7,000 rpm. Apart from this, the fuel efficiency figures hover between 28 and 32 kmpl in mixed riding conditions, which is acceptable for a bike of this performance class.

While it doesn’t feel as high-strung or aggressive as a Duke 390, the NS400Z offers a usable powerband ideal for both city and highway riding.

The NS400Z shines in the handling department. Built on a perimeter frame, it offers excellent chassis rigidity and balance. The bike is agile in corners, stable at high speeds, and responsive during quick direction changes. The 17-inch alloys and 110/150-section tyres provide ample grip, though stickier rubber could further enhance confidence under aggressive riding.

A USD front fork and a Nitrox monoshock at the rear handle suspension duties. The setup is on the firmer side, which aids handling but may feel stiff over broken surfaces. The brakes are solid, with 320 mm front discs and 230 mm rear discs, and are supported by dual-channel ABS and four ABS modes (including Supermoto).

Riding posture is upright yet sporty. The seat height of 805 mm is manageable, though shorter riders may find it slightly tall. The seat is wide and decently cushioned for solo rides; pillion comfort is average.

The NS400Z offers a mixed bag of features. It gets a fully digital LCD console with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and call/SMS alerts. There are four riding modes: Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-road, which alter ABS sensitivity. The motorcycle also includes ride-by-wire and a quickshifter (up only), which is rare in this price range.

However, the lack of a TFT display, bi-directional quickshifter, traction control, or smartphone app support puts it behind more tech-savvy rivals like the TVS Apache RTR 310 or KTM 390 Duke. The switchgear feels functional but could be more premium.

Bajaj has an extensive service network across India, and the NS series has historically been associated with reliable performance. The 373cc engine has proven durability from its use in the Dominar, which gives confidence in long-term ownership.

Routine maintenance is expected to be more affordable than KTM or Yamaha counterparts. However, as this is a new platform, long-term reliability specifics will only become clear with time.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is a well-rounded motorcycle that blends performance, practicality, and value. It’s not the most feature-rich or cutting-edge bike in its segment, but it excels in offering spirited performance, confident handling, and everyday usability at a competitive price point.

Who should buy it? Riders seeking a performance-oriented naked bike for daily use and weekend rides, without breaking the bank. If you prioritise top-end features, flashy design, or track-focused agility, rivals like the Apache RTR 310 or Duke 390 might serve you better. But for the real-world rider who values bang for the buck, the NS400Z hits the sweet spot.