Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: The Ultimate Streetfighter Review
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z aims to dominate the 300–400cc motorcycle segment by offering a perfect blend of performance, features, and affordability. While it shares similarities with its siblings, the Dominar 400 and Pulsar NS200, it brings its unique appeal. Here’s an in-depth review that addresses shortcomings in existing content and highlights why this motorcycle stands out in its segment.
Performance and Engine
The Pulsar NS400Z is powered by a 373cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, delivering 39.5 bhp and 35 Nm of torque. Paired with a six-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch, this motor offers smooth gear shifts and excellent power delivery. A unique addition is the larger rear sprocket (46 teeth), which ensures quicker acceleration compared to the Dominar 400.
While the mid-range performance is strong, offering effortless overtakes and cruising speeds between 100–120 km/h, vibrations are noticeable at lower RPMs. These vibrations, however, diminish as you climb beyond 5,000 RPM, allowing for a refined and enjoyable highway experience.
Ride and Handling
The NS400Z impresses with its agility. Weighing 174kg, it is significantly lighter than the Dominar 400, enhancing its nimbleness in traffic and around corners. The bike uses a perimeter frame combined with USD front forks and a mono-shock at the rear, resulting in a stable yet slightly sporty ride.
However, areas for improvement include the suspension rebound, which feels overly rapid and can make the ride slightly unsettled on uneven roads. Additionally, the bias-ply front tyre reduces cornering confidence. A switch to a radial front tyre could address this issue, providing a more stable and planted feel during aggressive cornering.
The brakes, comprising a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, deliver decent stopping power. However, stronger front brake bite would significantly enhance performance for spirited riders.
Design and Features
The Pulsar NS400Z retains the familiar silhouette of the NS200 but incorporates fresh design elements such as Z-shaped LED DRLs and a sleeker tail section. Despite its sporty design, some areas lack the premium feel expected at this price point. Notably, the switchgear quality and exhaust design could benefit from an upgrade.
On the features front, the NS400Z is loaded. It boasts a ride-by-wire throttle system with four riding modes: Sport, Road, Rain, and Offroad. These modes adjust throttle response, ABS intervention, and power delivery, making the motorcycle adaptable to different terrains and riding styles. The addition of switchable traction control enhances rider safety.
The instrument cluster is a fully digital, data-rich display with a secondary inset for navigation, trip details, and ride mode selection. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and USB charging makes the NS400Z a tech-savvy choice for modern riders.
Comfort and Practicality
The NS400Z strikes a balance between sporty and comfortable ergonomics. Its upright riding position, wide handlebars, and moderately rear-set footpegs ensure a relaxed posture for city commutes and highway cruising. The seat height of 805mm caters to a wide range of riders, while the firm yet accommodating seat adds to its touring capability.
That said, ground clearance can be a concern, especially when riding with a pillion. Additionally, the suspension may feel too soft when tackling larger speed breakers, requiring riders to adjust the rear preload for improved practicality.
Price and Value for Money
Priced at an introductory ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the NS400Z undercuts most competitors in the segment. It offers an exceptional balance of features, performance, and affordability, making it an attractive option for those upgrading from 150–200cc motorcycles. Competitors like the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and TVS Apache RTR 310 pale in comparison when you consider the sheer value the NS400Z provides.
Verdict
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z lives up to the legacy of the Pulsar line by offering affordable performance without compromising on essential features. While it has room for improvement in refinement and component quality, its impressive value proposition makes it a top contender in the 300–400cc motorcycle category. Whether you’re a city commuter or a highway cruiser, the NS400Z delivers a thrilling riding experience that’s hard to beat at this price point.