2024 Bajaj Pulsar Test Review: Bajaj Pulsar NS400 Z, Biggest Pulsar Ever

In 1999 Hero CBZ showed that there was a demand for performance bikes in the Indian market. But its dominance was short lived when Bajaj Auto entered this space with the Pulsar 150 and Pulsar 180 in 2001. The journey of the Bajaj Pulsar from 150cc to 400cc has shown a lot of improvements across the years. Does the “Biggest Pulsar Ever” give you the same feeling as the original Pulsar did? We’ve ridden the new Pulsar NS400Z and here’s what you need to know.

Highlights

• The most affordable bike in the 400cc pricing at Rs 1.85lakh ex- showroom
• 18kgs lighter than the Dominar which makes it an easier ride for a city commute and for touring or covering longer distance rides.
• 373cc single- cylinder liquid- cooled engine with 6 speed gearbox felt much more powerful with the lighter weight of the bike.
• Affordable after sales and service
• Bookings start at just Rs 5000
• Loaded with a variety of features with good performance.

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: Styling and design

Riding this generation of the Bajaj Pulsar, it’s evident that the NS series DNA is preserved in this model. Embracing the naked sport aesthetic, it commands attention on the road with its muscular tank and striking contrast accents with bold and sharp naked sport look. While the frame and mirrors are that of the Dominar 400, there’s a distinct feel to it that sets it apart. The turn indicators are from KTM while the fuel tank and split seats are from the smaller NS bikes that compliment the new parts. The headlight arrangement features an LED projector surrounded by DRLs shaped like lightning bolt on each side of it which are sporty and eye-catching. Some might observe that unlike the smaller NS200, the NS400Z doesn’t feature clip-on bars. However, its wide hydroform tube bar is designed to provide ample stability without causing fatigue during extended rides. The 17-inch alloy wheels ride on tubeless radial tyres at the front (110/70-17) and rear (140/ 70- R17).

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: Engine

The NS400Z shares the same engine as the Dominor 400 and the KTM RC 390, featuring a 373 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor producing 39.4 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 35 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox and equipped with a slip-and-assist clutch, it’s claimed to reach a top speed of 154 kmph. Additionally, the motorcycle incorporates ride-by-wire technology, a first for Bajaj, which makes way for four riding modes.

 

While some prospective users expressed disappointment over its similarity to the Pulsar NS200 in appearance, Bajaj has admirably risen to the challenge of maintaining cost-effectiveness, ultimately delivering a commendable outcome.

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: Riding experience and agility

The kerb weight of 174 kg inclusive of the 12-litre fuel tank that contributes to the machine’s agility and speed when handling. For beginners looking to transition to the 400cc segment, this bike is undoubtedly a recommended choice. Its lightweight design, with minimal metalwork, aids in keeping it agile. Compared to the bulkier Dominar, it is 18 kg lighter, another advantageous aspect to consider.

 

This naked sport bike proved to be more manageable while riding, thanks to its four distinct riding modes: Road, Sport, Rain, and Off-Road. We tested the modes across diverse terrains, encompassing uphill and downhill stretches, rough terrain, broken traditional tarmac, concrete roads, and the highway.

Considering the road conditions in India, I would suggest utilising the rain mode for its enhanced traction and power, especially during commuting where these aspects are crucial. The Sport mode provides enough power while covering the longer distance and can overtake very easily with the power delivery. The engine is very responsive, and the clutch feels light, perfect for city riding. You can start from as low as 40 kmph in sixth gear, and cruise smoothly at 100 kmph on the highway at around 5,500 rpm with ease.

 

You can switch ride modes while riding, but the process is a bit cumbersome. You can’t access the ride mode and traction control menu unless you fully release the throttle. Once you do, it takes a few seconds to toggle and change the mode.

Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: Features and performance

The bike features various riding aids, including ride modes and dual-channel ABS. It offers four riding modes as mentioned above that adjust how the ABS operates. Additionally, there’s a sleek bonded glass reverse LCD screen with a convenient section for toggling between Bluetooth calls, music controls, and turn-by-turn navigation.

The bold design is enhanced by top-quality elements including a 43 mm Champagne gold USD forks, a six-step preload-adjustable monoshock, and a high-performance braking setup comprising a 320 mm front disc paired with a four-piston Grimeca axial caliper, complemented by a 230 mm rear disc.

 

In conclusion, the Bajaj team have improved and engineered this machine with a very neat design and performance. Overall, it presents an intriguing package. The after sales and service will be affordable with pricing at just Rs 1.85 lakh (ex- showroom) with offered in four different colour variations.

 

I would like to spend more time with the Pulsar NS400Z and we can’t wait to have it in our garage for longer. I am looking forward to sharing my experiences during my commute of over 110 km every day. Is the Pulsar NS400Z up for a challenge? We’ll find out soon.