Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

The Pulsar NS400Z has a similar styling as the other NS series bikes but with a few design tweaks to differentiate itself from the smaller ones. It closely resembles the NS200 but with some changes to the tank extensions and tail section. It is equipped with a new LED projector headlight with cool 'Z' shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lights) on each side. Unlike the NS200, this bike features a flat single-piece handlebar, and the radiator shroud is larger to accommodate the bigger radiator of the 373cc engine. But unless you're looking from the front, it's hard to differentiate it from the NS200, NS160, or even the NS125. The NS400Z is a good-looking bike, it also features new graphics and NS decals on the tank extensions, but still, the bike’s design feels like it’s something we've seen for quite some time.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is powered by the same 373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine found in the Dominar 400, which itself was based on the second-gen KTM Duke 390’s engine. With a peak output of 40PS and 35Nm, it delivers the same performance as the Dominar 400 but is 19kg lighter than the Dominar. Even the six-speed gearbox is the same, with the only difference being a 46 teeth rear sprocket which is one tooth larger than the Dominar 400. This means that the Pulsar NS400Z responds better at lower rpms and handles city traffic very easily. 

You can even start the bike in second gear and ride from a standstill without any issues. However, because of the difference in sprocketing, the NS400Z sacrifices a bit of top-end performance. The naked bike has a claimed top speed of 154kmph (we recorded 153kmph in our tests), and it cruises comfortably on highways. At 100kmph in 6th gear, the engine runs at just under 5,500rpm, feeling smooth. But at 120kmph, the engine runs at around 6,500rpm, leading to some vibrations in the handlebar and foot pegs. These vibrations only get worse as you go faster.

We haven’t yet tested out the mileage, but the claimed Bajaj Pulsar NS40Z mileage is around 28.5kmpl in normal riding conditions. We wouldn’t be surprised if the Pulsar NS400Z real-world mileage turns out to be somewhat similar as we saw 25-25kmpl mileage readings on our instrument cluster during the first ride.

The Pulsar NS400Z shares the same perimeter frame as the Dominar 400, which makes it slightly heavy with a kerb weight of 174kg. However, when you're on the bike, you hardly notice this weight. Moving the bike around in parking lots and filtering through the slow-moving traffic feels quite effortless. The weight becomes noticeable only when changing directions quickly at higher speeds, requiring a bit more effort in sharp turns. The Pulsar NS400Z is quite an enjoyable bike to ride, as long as you're not pushing it too hard. The front tyre is non-radial, unlike the rear radial tyre. Because of this setup, and the short 1343mm wheelbase, things can get a bit tricky if you ride the NS400Z too aggressively, as the front tyre feels somewhat squishy and unpredictable under heavy braking and while cornering. 

Despite the 43mm inverted fork and preload-adjustable monoshock, the ride quality can feel a bit on the firmer side over sharp bumps. The front end feels jittery over mid-corner bumps and even on rumble strips. However, on paved city roads and smooth highways, the ride quality is decent. The NS400Z performs exceptionally well in terms of braking performance. Applying the front brake requires a bit of effort but it provides powerful stopping force, thanks to its large 320mm front disc brake, which is the largest on any Pulsar to date. We were able to bring the bike from 80kmph to a complete stop in just 30.5min our test, which is a full 5m shorter than the Dominar 400.

The Pulsar NS400Z is a comfortable bike for city commutes as well as long highway rides. The seat is well-padded but the suspension setup is on the firmer side, providing a slightly sporty riding experience. The bike provides a comfortable and upright riding position with a slightly forward lean, thanks to the easy-to-grab handlebar and slightly rear-set footpegs. Moreover, the NS400Z is suitable for riders of all heights.

Bajaj hasn’t just crammed the bike with unnecessary features just for the sake of it, but the Pulsar NS400Z comes with a host of usable features that make the bike more practical for everyday use. Instead of a TFT screen, the NS400Z features a clean and nicely organised LCD instrument console with a small dot-matrix LCD inset screen. The LCD inset displays various information such as trip meter, mileage readouts and the menu. The console also has smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth for call/SMS alerts and turn-by-turn navigation.

The Pulsar NS400Z also features ride-by-wire, which means the throttle is controlled electronically with better response and precision. The addition of ride-by-wire has also helped Bajaj to include features like traction control and four ride modes (Road, Rain, Sport and Off-Road) which change how quickly the engine responds to the throttle input and how much the ABS intervenes while braking.

The Pulsar NS400Z gets a new 4-way switchgear on the left side of the handlebar which makes navigating the settings menu easier, but the buttons themselves can be a bit difficult to press, especially when wearing gloves. Additionally, it gets adjustable brake and clutch levers, for riders to tune as per their liking.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is an excellent value-for-money bike. Overall, it is a good motorcycle but does not feel too special. But with the price tag of Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi, introductory), it is the cheapest 400cc performance bike in India. The NS400Z delivers an exciting performance, but it could have been even better if Bajaj had been willing to slightly raise the price and add better components like a radial front tyre, improved suspension tuning, and a more distinct design. You won't get such performance at a lower price in the new bike market.