Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z – Precision Engineering for the Everyday Rider

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is not just another addition to the Pulsar lineup—it represents a refined fusion of engineering precision, street-ready performance, and rider-centric practicality. Developed with a focus on balance, it caters to riders who want a punchy engine, confident handling, and everyday usability without breaking the bank. With insights drawn from Bajaj’s experience in performance biking, especially with the Dominar and previous NS models, the NS400Z aims to bring serious value to the sub-400cc segment while staying approachable to a wide range of riders.

Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z

Engine and Power Delivery

At the heart of the Pulsar NS400Z lies the proven 373.3cc engine, borrowed from the Dominar 400 but optimized for a livelier and more responsive street performance. It delivers 40 PS of power, giving the bike enough grunt to shoot through urban traffic or cruise comfortably on open highways.

The throttle is light, the powerband is linear, and the engine doesn’t hesitate to climb through the revs. What stands out is its flexibility—it feels equally at home in bumper-to-bumper traffic as it does in fast corners or highway sprints.

Design and Styling

The NS400Z carries the Pulsar DNA with a more evolved, aggressive design. The muscular tank extensions, sharp body lines, and LED headlamp unit enhance its road presence. Despite its sporty look, the design is not overly flashy, making it a good fit for professionals and younger riders alike.

The split seat design, compact tail section, and purposeful posture give it a lean, ready-to-pounce attitude. The digital console adds a modern touch, with useful readouts like gear position, distance-to-empty, and smartphone connectivity.

Handling and Chassis Setup

Precision is the theme when it comes to how this bike handles. Built on a perimeter frame, the NS400Z offers excellent rigidity, which translates to confident cornering and high-speed stability. The front USD forks are tuned for feedback without being too stiff, and the rear monoshock offers just the right amount of resistance to absorb uneven roads.

The riding posture is upright yet slightly aggressive, striking a nice balance between comfort and control. The 174 kg curb weight feels manageable in most scenarios, including tight U-turns and urban crawls.

Braking System and Safety Features

Braking on the NS400Z feels progressive and reliable. The 320mm front disc and 230mm rear disc are paired with dual-channel ABS that kicks in precisely when needed. It doesn’t feel intrusive and works well with the different ride modes.

The highlight here is the inclusion of four riding modes—Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-road. These change the behavior of ABS and traction control, offering better adaptability to different riding conditions. For a bike in this price range, this is a standout feature.

Comfort and Daily Usability

For a performance-oriented machine, the NS400Z doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The seat height of 807mm is accessible to most riders, and the cushioning is firm but not harsh. Daily commuting is smooth, with wide handlebars offering good leverage and mirrors that actually show what’s behind you.

There’s no wind protection for touring, but the engine refinement and planted ride allow for longer weekend rides. The 12-liter fuel tank offers a decent range of over 350 km per tank in mixed conditions.

Practical Features and Tech

While not overloaded with features, the NS400Z includes all essentials:

• Bluetooth-enabled digital console with navigation support

• Four distinct riding modes

• Slip and assist clutch for smoother gear transitions

• LED lighting all around
  These additions make it suitable for modern-day riders who expect connectivity and tech without complexity.

Value Proposition

What makes the NS400Z compelling is its ability to deliver high-end features and respectable performance at a price significantly lower than most of its direct competitors. For ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), riders get:

• A powerful and refined 373cc engine

• Modern chassis and suspension setup

• Safety tech like dual-channel ABS and traction modes

• A bold and sharp street-naked design

It gives you KTM Duke 390-level punch but in a more practical, easier-to-live-with package.

Rivals and Positioning

The NS400Z squares off against:

• KTM Duke 390 – more advanced electronics, sharper performance, higher cost

• TVS Apache RTR 310 – tech-loaded and track-focused

• Honda CB300R – refined and lightweight, but less powerful
  Among these, the NS400Z appeals to those who want performance plus practicality at a smart price point.

FAQ

Is the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z beginner-friendly?

Yes, its power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it manageable for new riders with some prior experience.

Does the NS400Z support navigation?

Yes, it features Bluetooth-based turn-by-turn navigation via the digital display.

What are the different riding modes in the NS400Z?

It includes Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-road modes that adjust traction control and ABS settings accordingly.

How is the ride quality on rough roads?

The suspension setup is firm but tuned well for Indian roads, offering a comfortable ride without bottoming out.

Is it good for touring?

While it lacks a windscreen, the refined engine and riding comfort make it decent for short to mid-range touring.

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