The Bajaj Pulsar NS400, launched in May 2024, is the new flagship motorcycle from Bajaj Auto. This powerful streetfighter takes the legacy of the Pulsar brand to a whole new level, offering exhilarating performance, a feature-packed design, and impressive value for money.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the Pulsar NS400 is a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 39.4 bhp of maximum power at 8,800 rpm and 35 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. This engine is tuned for both performance and refinement, delivering a strong surge of power when needed while remaining smooth and manageable in everyday riding conditions. The engine is paired with a slick-shifting six-speed gearbox that benefits from a slip-and-assist clutch. This clutch system makes gear changes smoother and prevents rear wheel lock-ups during hard downshifts, enhancing overall riding comfort and control.
Ride Modes and Advanced Features
The Pulsar NS400 boasts a segment-first feature with its ride modes. It offers three riding modes – Sport, Rain, and Urban – allowing riders to tailor the bike’s performance to suit the riding conditions. In Sport mode, the engine delivers its full potential, while Rain mode provides a more relaxed power delivery for slippery surfaces. Urban mode offers a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for city commutes.
Complementing the ride modes is a first-in-class connected instrument console. This digital console displays a plethora of information, including speed, RPM, fuel gauge, trip meter, and gear position. It can also be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing riders to access features like turn-by-turn navigation, call and message alerts, and even riding statistics.
Safety and Braking
The Pulsar NS400 prioritizes rider safety with a perimeter frame and disc brakes at both the front and rear. The braking system is further enhanced by a dual-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which prevents wheel lock-ups during hard braking, thus maintaining rider control in emergency situations.
Design and Style
The Pulsar NS400Z boasts a muscular and aggressive design language. The sharp body panels with sculpted lines not only look good but also aid in aerodynamics. The single-piece headlight with signature lightning bolt DRLs adds a distinctive touch to the front fascia. The bike is available in four color options – Ebony Black, Glossy Racing Red, Metallic Pearl White, and Pewter Grey – catering to a variety of tastes.
Verdict
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400 is a significant step forward for the Pulsar brand. It offers a powerful and refined engine, a feature-packed design with ride modes and a connected console, and a strong focus on safety. With its competitive price tag, the Pulsar NS400Z is a compelling option for riders who are looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and value-for-money streetfighter motorcycle.
Additional Points to Consider
- Mileage figures for the Pulsar NS400 are not yet officially confirmed by Bajaj Auto, but based on the engine specifications, it can be expected to deliver around 30-35 kmpl in real-world riding conditions.
- The Pulsar NS400 competes with other streetfighter motorcycles in the 400cc segment, such as the TVS Apache RTR 310.
- Potential buyers may want to consider factors such as after-sales service network and maintenance costs when making a final decision.