Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z launched at Rs 1.85 lakh

-Powered by a 373cc engine that makes 40bhp and 35Nm

-Gets four ride modes

-Has a digital display with Bluetooth connectivity

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 1.85 lakh, ex-showroom. As the 400 moniker suggests, this is the biggest, most powerful Bajaj Pulsar ever, and here is what makes it stand out from the rest of the Pulsar range

Design

The design of the Pulsar NS400Z is like an evolution of the NS200’s design. The headlight looks striking with its large, thunderbolt-style DRLs and the LED projector light. Going by the intensity and spread of the Pulsar N250’s headlight, expect this headlight to be equally good, if not better. Move to the side and you have a large tank with neatly integrated tank extensions. There’s good attention to detail and we like how the said extensions overlap the radiator shroud. Also, don’t miss the carbon fibre stickering on these shrouds.

The side and tail sections of the Pulsar NS400Z are reminiscent of the NS200’s, although, these have a sharper profile. The tail light, however, is similar to the NS200’s, and some enthusiasts were hoping that the NS400Z would’ve looked a lot more distinct than the NS200.

Features

Being the new flagship Pulsar means the NS400Z is loaded with features. You’ve got all LED lights, switchable traction control, and four ride modes- Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-road. These modes alter the throttle response and the ABS intervention levels as well. It also has adjustable levers.

The instrument cluster is a new digital, LCD unit with Bluetooth connectivity. Once paired to a smartphone using a dedicated app, the display shows incoming calls, missed calls and SMS notifications as well as turn-by-turn navigation information.

Engine and chassis

The NS400Z is powered by the engine you see in the Dominar 400. It is a 373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 39.4bhp at 8,800rpm and 35Nm at 6,5000rpm. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox and an assist and slipper clutch.

As for the chassis, the NS400Z utilises a perimeter frame that is suspended by a 43mm, USD fork at the front and a gas-charged, preload adjustable monoshock at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 320mm disc at the front and a 230mm disc at the back. Dual-channel ABS is standard.

Price and rivals

With prices starting at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) as an introductory offer, the Pulsar NS400Z offers great value for money. There’s never been a near 400cc, street naked motorcycle at this price point ever. In terms of rivals, the NS400Z sits between the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and the Triumph Speed 400.