Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: The Indian motorcycle market is buzzing with excitement as Bajaj Auto unveils its eagerly awaited Pulsar NS 400.
This latest addition to the iconic Pulsar lineup is not merely an update; it represents a bold initiative from Bajaj to reshape the performance motorcycle landscape in India.
Featuring a robust engine and an aggressive ‘ghatak’ (fierce) design, the NS 400 aims to win over both biking enthusiasts and everyday riders.
The Pulsar series has been a fundamental part of Bajaj’s identity since its debut in 2001. Over the years, it has transformed from a modest 150cc entry into a comprehensive range, each model enhancing performance and delivering value.
The NS 400 embodies this evolution, presenting 400cc power to a broader audience while maintaining the unmistakable Pulsar essence.
Officially launched in early 2025, the NS 400 builds upon the success of its smaller counterparts, especially the beloved NS 200.
However, this model is more than just a bigger engine fitted to an existing frame. Bajaj has meticulously redesigned the bike to honor its past while boldly embracing the future.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Heart of the Beast – The Powerplant
At the heart of the NS 400 is its impressive engine – a 373.27cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder unit that showcases modern engineering excellence.
This powerplant is well-known among Bajaj fans, as it is an enhanced version of the engine found in the Dominar 400. In the NS 400, it has been recalibrated for a more aggressive throttle response, aligning perfectly with its sporty character.
The engine delivers a potent 40 PS of peak power at 8800 rpm and a robust torque of 35 Nm at 6500 rpm.
This means it performs excellently in both bustling city traffic and on the open highway.
Bajaj has also focused on refining the engine, addressing previous concerns over vibration levels in earlier models. The resulting motor provides a smooth power delivery, with minimal vibrations even at higher speeds.
This quality makes the NS 400 an appealing choice for riders interested in long-distance touring—an area Bajaj has been keen to explore.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Chassis and Handling – Taming the Power
With great power comes the need for great stability, and Bajaj has ensured that the NS 400’s chassis can effectively manage its robust engine.
The bike features a perimeter frame, a first for the NS lineup, which grants the perfect blend of rigidity and flexibility for thrilling rides.
The suspension system is equally impressive, boasting substantial 43mm upside-down forks at the front and a Nitrox monoshock at the rear, allowing for six levels of adjustability.
This combination strikes a delicate balance, providing a firm yet comfortable ride that can handle India’s challenging road conditions.
Braking is managed by a sizeable 320mm disc at the front and a 230mm disc at the rear, both equipped with radial calipers. Standard dual-channel ABS provides crucial safety, given the bike’s performance capabilities.
The brakes deliver solid stopping power with good feedback, instilling confidence even when the bike is pushed to its limits.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Design – The Ghatak Look
The term ‘ghatak’ translates to fierce in Hindi, and it aptly describes the NS 400’s aesthetic appeal. Bajaj has amplified the muscular design language of the NS series to create a bike that looks exhilarating even when stationary.
The aggressive LED headlight cluster at the front is complemented by sharp daytime running lights (DRLs), giving the bike an assertive presence.
The sculpted fuel tank offers excellent knee support during cornering while maintaining the signature profile of the NS series. A split seat design and a compact exhaust further enhance the sporty appearance.
A standout feature is the new digital instrument cluster—a full-color TFT display that’s both informative and customizable, allowing riders to personalize the information they see.
This high-tech detail adds a premium touch to the cockpit, making the NS 400 a step above its rivals.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Features and Technology – Punching Above Its Weight
Bajaj has equipped the NS 400 with a plethora of features that would make more expensive motorcycles envious. In addition to the TFT display, the bike supports smartphone connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation and call notifications.
A conveniently located USB charging port near the handlebars addresses the needs of today’s connected riders.
Notably, the lighting system is entirely LED, including turn indicators that feature an auto-cancel function. While this might seem minor, it reflects Bajaj’s attention to user experience.
Other highlights include a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts and multiple riding modes that adjust power delivery to suit various conditions.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Performance on the Road
Initial reviews of the NS 400 have been overwhelmingly positive, with test riders praising its quick acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in under six seconds. However, it’s not solely about speed; the NS 400 has proven itself as a competent handler as well. The combination of a rigid frame, well-tuned suspension, and gripping tires ensures confident cornering—making even winding roads a delight to navigate.
The riding posture strikes an ideal balance between sporty and comfortable, being relaxed enough for daily commutes while still offering an engaging ride when the occasion calls for it. This adaptability is undoubtedly one of the NS 400’s major selling points.
Despite the concerns often associated with larger engines, fuel efficiency is surprisingly commendable. Though official figures are forthcoming, early estimates suggest that the NS 400 can achieve around 34 kmpl with mixed riding conditions. Coupling this with a 12-liter fuel tank grants the bike respectable range, making it a solid option for touring aficionados.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Market Positioning and Competition
With a price tag of Rs. 1.85 Lakh (ex-showroom), the NS 400 offers outstanding value within the 400cc segment. It significantly undercuts many competitors while delivering performance and features that far exceed its weight class.
Its closest rival may well be the KTM 390 Duke, which shares some characteristics due to the Bajaj-KTM partnership. Yet, the NS 400 is aimed at those seeking an option that is both accessible in cost and practical for everyday use.
The motorcycle also contends with the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and the newly launched Hero Mavrick 440—though these cater to a different type of rider with their retro-inspired aesthetics and more relaxed riding approaches.
Blending performance, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the NS 400 finds itself in a distinctive position, offering an entry point to big-bike performance without hefty price tags, a concept sure to attract a diverse array of riders.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: Variants and Availability
Bajaj has streamlined the NS 400 offering with a single, well-equipped variant. However, there are hints that additional variants may arrive in the future, possibly including one focused on touring with features like a windscreen and luggage options.
The bike showcases four striking colors: Plasma Blue, Lunar White, Graphite Black, and Crimson Red. Each color is deliberately chosen to highlight the muscular lines and assertive stance of the NS 400.
Bajaj aims to make the NS 400 accessible by distributing it through its extensive dealership network across India, enabling prospective buyers to easily access and test ride the motorcycle.
Additionally, plans are in place to export the NS 400 to select international markets, further enhancing Bajaj’s position as a global motorcycle brand.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400: After-Sales Support and Warranty
Recognizing that performance bikes require specialized care, Bajaj has unveiled a comprehensive after-sales support program for the NS 400, including:
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A standard warranty of 3-years/30,000 km, extendable up to 5 years
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24/7 roadside assistance during the first year of ownership
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Specialized training for technicians to handle the NS 400’s advanced features
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A dedicated mobile app that facilitates service bookings, vehicle information access, and connection with fellow NS 400 owners
These initiatives highlight Bajaj’s commitment to ensuring a positive ownership experience, a critical aspect for the bike’s long-term success.
The Future of the Pulsar Lineup
The advent of the NS 400 signifies a crucial moment for the Pulsar brand, but Bajaj is not slowing down. The company has hinted at further expansion plans for the Pulsar lineup that could include:
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A fully-faired iteration of the NS 400, resurrecting the RS (Race Sport) brand
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Smaller capacity NS models that integrate technology from the NS 400
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Potential adventure and touring versions to cater to various riding preferences
These ambitions suggest that Bajaj envisions the NS 400 not merely as a standalone model but as a foundation for future innovation and growth within the Pulsar lineup.
Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 Conclusion: A New Benchmark in Indian Motorcycling
The Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 isn’t just another motorcycle; it is an emphatic declaration from one of India’s most forward-thinking motorcycle manufacturers.
It symbolizes the maturation of the Pulsar brand, demonstrating that Bajaj can indeed hold its ground among the premier performance motorcycle manufacturers.
With a powerful engine, competent chassis, aggressive styling, and a feature-laden package, the NS 400 is positioned to become a transformative force in the Indian motorcycle market.
It offers a taste of big-bike excitement at a price that feels achievable for a broader audience, possibly carving out a new segment in the market.
As it becomes available across India, it’s evident that Bajaj has struck gold with the NS 400. The bike not only embodies the promised ‘ghatak’ design but also delivers a remarkably thrilling riding experience.
This motorcycle appeals to both pragmatic and passionate riders, providing performance, versatility, and value in an enticing package.
For those looking to upgrade from smaller bikes or seeking a robust machine capable of both daily commuting and weekend escapades, the Pulsar NS 400 is an enticing choice.
This bike showcases that experiencing the thrill of a powerful, well-crafted motorcycle doesn’t need to mean overspending.
Bajaj continues to challenge the status quo in the Indian motorcycle market, and the NS 400 stands as proof of the company’s engineering expertise and understanding of rider preferences.
It’s not just a fresh addition to the lineup; it represents a new standard—one that will undoubtedly keep competitors alert and riders exhilarated.
The Pulsar NS 400 emerges as more than just a motorcycle; it embodies the evolution of the Indian rider, who increasingly demands performance, technology, and affordability in equal measure.
As this bike hits the roads, it carries with it the aspirations of a new wave of riders, ready to embrace the challenges of the world with a machine as fierce and driven as they are. The ghatak has arrived, forever changing the landscape of Indian motorcycling.