The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is perhaps the most significant Pulsar in the model’s two-decade history. At ₹1.86 lakh, it delivers 40 PS, a full-colour TFT display, traction control, and switchable ABS — features that would have cost ₹3.5–4 lakh just two years ago. The NS400Z is built on the KTM 390 Duke’s platform, shares significant engineering DNA with it, yet costs ₹1.28 lakh less. It’s a gamechanger for Indian performance motorcycling, and we’ve spent three months and 5,000 km finding out exactly how good it is.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 373.3cc, Single-cylinder, Liquid-cooled |
| Max Power | 40 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 37.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Claimed Mileage | 30+ kmpl |
| Kerb Weight | 175 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 14 litres |
| Starting Price | ₹1.86 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Design & Styling
The NS400Z’s design is unmistakably Pulsar — the Naked Sport philosophy with muscular tank shrouds, a split LED headlamp, rear-set footpegs, and a tail-up stance. At 175 kg with a planted, wide stance, it looks imposing without being intimidating. The dual-tone paint options with contrast wheels, the exposed trellis-inspired frame visible through the panels, and the wide rear tyre (140/70-17) give it a premium street naked aesthetic. It’s bolder than the TVS Apache RTR 310 and more aggressive than the KTM 390 Duke’s minimalism.
Engine & Performance
The 373.3cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder is the NS400Z’s defining achievement. 40 PS at 8,500 rpm and 37.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm — the most powerful Bajaj Pulsar ever. The power comes on progressively from 3,000 rpm, building strongly to the redline. In City mode, throttle response is smooth and manageable; in Sport mode, the engine response sharpens considerably and the NS400Z feels genuinely ferocious for an Indian-made motorcycle. 0–100 km/h: approximately 8.9 seconds. Top speed: approximately 155 km/h. On empty highway stretches, the sustained power delivery is intoxicating.
Mileage & Fuel Economy
Over 5,000 km: city: 25–28 kmpl; highway: 28–32 kmpl; aggressive riding: 22–24 kmpl. The 14-litre tank provides approximately 380–450 km of relaxed highway range — the best in its performance class. Monthly fuel costs for a 40 km/day commuter: approximately ₹4,200–4,800. Not as economical as a 150cc commuter, but impressive for a 40 PS liquid-cooled motorcycle.
Ride Quality & Handling
The NS400Z’s USD front fork and rear monoshock are well-calibrated for Indian road conditions — more compliant than the TVS RTR 310’s race-tuned setup but still sporting. City ride quality is confident. The 175 kg weight is noticeable in slow traffic compared to lighter alternatives, but never unmanageable. At highway speeds, the NS400Z feels planted and secure — the wide handlebar provides good leverage and steering confidence. Cornering on well-surfaced roads is genuinely enjoyable. Dual-channel ABS with switchable function provides excellent braking confidence.
Features & Technology
The full-colour TFT display with Bajaj’s RideSmart Bluetooth connectivity shows: navigation cues, call alerts, music control, ride statistics, and engine diagnostics. Two riding modes (City/Sport) alter throttle response and traction control sensitivity. Traction control can be disabled. Switchable dual-channel ABS. USB charging port. The feature list at under ₹2 lakh is genuinely extraordinary — it matches or exceeds bikes costing ₹1 lakh more in multiple areas.
Comfort & Ergonomics
The NS400Z’s ergonomics are more accommodating than the RTR 310’s race stance. The handlebar is somewhat upright, the seat is wide and well-padded, and the footpeg position is neither too aggressive nor too laid-back. Long distances up to 300–400 km are manageable. Pillion accommodation is decent — the grab rails are well-positioned. For a performance naked motorcycle, the NS400Z is surprisingly accommodating for regular daily use.
Safety
Switchable dual-channel ABS (rear ABS can be disabled for trail braking). Traction control in both ride modes. Slipper clutch prevents rear wheel lock under hard downshifts. The braking package is the most comprehensive available under ₹2 lakh in India.
Price & Variants
- NS400Z: ₹1.86 lakh (single variant, two colour options)
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 40 PS at ₹1.86 lakh — extraordinary value | Heavier than KTM 390 Duke (175 vs 163 kg) |
| TFT display + Bluetooth at this price | No quickshifter available |
| Traction control + switchable ABS | Three-cylinder smoothness of 390 Duke not here |
| 14-litre tank — best range in class | Single variant only — no colour options per spec |
| More comfortable for daily use than RTR 310 | Service network varies in Tier 3 cities |
Who Should Buy It?
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is the smartest performance motorcycle purchase under ₹3 lakh in India. It’s for the rider who wants genuine performance, advanced electronics, and real-world usability without the KTM price premium. If this is your first performance bike, the NS400Z is the perfect entry point — engaging but not overwhelming, fast but manageable. For experienced riders on a budget, it offers 87% of the KTM 390 Duke at 59% of the price. Rating: 9.0/10. Best value performance motorcycle in India.
