Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 Z: The Ultimate Affordable 400cc Motorcycle in India.

 Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 Z: The Ultimate Affordable 400cc Motorcycle

Bajaj has finally unveiled the Pulsar NS 400 Z, a bike that Pulsar enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating for years. Not only does it bring excitement to the lineup, but it also stakes its claim as India’s most affordable 400cc motorcycle. As the newest and most prominent member of the Pulsar NS series—which includes the NS 125, NS 160, and NS 200—the NS 400 Z stands out as a flagship model. The "Z" in its name hints at the potential for future variants, promising even more options for riders.

Striking Design and Bold Appearance

The Pulsar NS 400 Z boasts an aggressive naked street fighter aesthetic. At the front, it features a headlamp unit reminiscent of the Pulsar N250, complete with new lightning bolt-shaped DRLs and the same projector headlamp. The rear gets the familiar NS 200 tail lights, and the tank design also mirrors that of the NS 200, enhanced with newly designed shrouds.

Powerful Engine and Performance

The Pulsar NS 400 Z is powered by a retuned version of the Dominar 400’s engine—a 373.27 cc powerhouse that delivers 40 PS of power and 35 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Thanks to the new lightweight alloys and reduced fairing, the NS 400 Z is significantly lighter than the Dominar, offering a performance edge that riders will appreciate.

Features

The Pulsar NS 400 Z is packed with modern features to enhance the riding experience. It gets a new digital meter same as other Pulsars and a small square display that supports Bluetooth connectivity for navigation control, music control, and call management. Other notable features include:

- Ride-by-wire technology

- Assist and slipper clutch

- Multiple riding modes: Road, Rain, Sport, and Offroad

- Traction control

- Adjustable levers

Suspension and Chassis

The bike is equipped with 43mm USD forks at the front and a 6-step adjustable Nitrox mono suspension setup at the rear. It also gets a single-piece handlebar, no clip-on handlebars this time. While it retains the Dominar chassis, it incorporates a new subframe and swingarm, resulting in a shorter wheelbase of 1344mm. Weighing in at just 174 kg, the Pulsar NS 400 Z is 13 kg lighter than the Dominar, enhancing its agility and handling.

Unbeatable Pricing

One of the most compelling aspects of the Pulsar NS 400 Z is its price. Launched at an introductory price of Rs 1.85 lakh ex-showroom, it sets a new standard for affordability in the 400cc segment.

Personal Impressions

The design of the Pulsar NS 400 Z has sparked varied reactions. While some were initially unimpressed by leaked images, seeing the bike in person reveals a different story. It may not be a universal crowd-pleaser, but it certainly has its own appeal. The chassis is exceptional, though the engine's power delivery feels somewhat subdued for a Pulsar, carrying over some of the Dominar 400’s characteristics, including its vibrations.

Comparison with the KTM Duke 390

When compared to the KTM Duke 390, the Pulsar NS 400 Z falls short in terms of premium feel, performance, and technology. However, its lower price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Prospective buyers should take test rides of both models to determine their preference, with the Pulsar NS 400 Z’s affordability serving as a significant advantage.

Share Your Thoughts
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