The Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z marks a significant milestone in the Pulsar lineup, symbolizing both a return to performance roots and a bold new chapter for the iconic Indian motorcycle brand. With over two decades of legacy, the Pulsar brand has been synonymous with affordable performance. And now, with the introduction of the NS 400Z, Bajaj delivers its most powerful and technologically advanced Pulsar yet, priced at a competitive Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom). But is it everything that Pulsar fans have been waiting for? Let’s find out in this comprehensive review.

Summary Table: Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z

Design and Styling

The NS 400Z has sparked some controversy regarding its aesthetics, particularly online. However, in person, the bike presents itself as a well-balanced, sporty machine. Being a part of the NS (Naked Sport) family, its sharp and aggressive styling follows the Pulsar DNA.

Highlights:

• LED Lighting: All-around LED lighting, with a standout Z-shaped DRL pattern flanking the projector headlamp.
• Component Sharing: Borrowed elements from Bajaj and KTM lineup, such as mirrors from the Dominar and indicators from KTM bikes.
• 43mm USD Fork: Adds a muscular front stance while enhancing handling.
• Sporty Rear End: Familiar tail from smaller NS bikes with tasteful curves and flow.

While it may resemble smaller Pulsars from afar, up close, the details and refinements truly shine.

Features and Equipment

The NS 400Z is the first Bajaj motorcycle to come equipped with ride-by-wire throttle technology. The bike offers a rich set of features, some of which are rarely seen in this price segment.

Key Features:

• Ride-by-Wire Throttle
• Assist & Slipper Clutch
• Adjustable Brake and Clutch Levers
• Bonded Glass Reverse LCD Display
  • Includes Bluetooth connectivity for calls, music, and turn-by-turn navigation
• Four Ride Modes: Sport, Road, Rain, and Off-road
• Dual-channel ABS: Tied to the riding modes for different intervention levels
• Traction Control: Switchable in select modes
• Wide Handlebar: Hydroformed tube bar instead of clip-ons for stability and comfort

Despite the extensive features, ride mode settings are fixed and cannot be customized, which is a minor letdown.

Performance and Ride Experience

Under the hood (or tank), the NS 400Z houses the proven 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine borrowed from the Dominar 400. However, the performance delivery is notably different.

Performance Specs:

• Power: 40 PS
• Torque: 35 Nm
• 0-60 km/h: 2.8 seconds
• 0-100 km/h: 6.9 seconds

Ride Experience:

• Weight Advantage: At 18kg lighter than the Dominar, the NS 400Z feels more agile and responsive.
• Throttle Response: Linear and predictable in Sport mode, more subdued in other modes.
• City Comfort: Upright ergonomics and light clutch make city commuting stress-free.
• Highway Manners: Cruising at 100 km/h at 5,500 rpm is effortless.
• Cornering Confidence: Improved agility due to reduced wheelbase (20mm shorter than NS200).

However, the front tyre is a weak link. It is not a radial unit like the rear, which can cause instability under hard braking. It’s the one component that deserves an immediate upgrade.

Track Performance and Additional Highlights

Surprisingly, Bajaj has included a lap timer, emphasizing that the NS 400Z isn’t just for the streets. During testing at Bajaj’s Chakan facility, the bike showcased its capabilities on the track, holding lines well and offering plenty of feedback.

Though it feels built to a budget, the entertainment and engagement value it provides for the price is impressive. Changing modes while riding could be more intuitive, as it requires the throttle to be completely closed before switching.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the price of the Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z?

A: The ex-showroom price is Rs 1.85 lakh. On-road pricing may reach up to Rs 2.5 lakh depending on location.

Q2: What engine does the NS 400Z use?

A: It uses a 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine shared with the Bajaj Dominar 400.

Q3: Is the NS 400Z suitable for beginners?

A: Yes, especially for those upgrading from a 150-250cc motorcycle. It offers linear power delivery and rider aids like traction control and ABS.

Q4: Can you switch off ABS on the NS 400Z?

A: No, ABS is always on. However, its intervention level changes depending on the ride mode.

Q5: Is it good for long-distance touring?

A: Absolutely. With a comfortable riding position, light clutch, and capable engine, it’s highway-ready.

Q6: How does it compare to the KTM 390 Duke?

A: The NS 400Z is slightly slower but much more affordable. It’s designed for real-world usability rather than outright track performance.

Q7: What is the biggest drawback of the NS 400Z?

A: The front tyre is not a radial unit, which affects braking performance. An upgrade is recommended.

Conclusion

The Bajaj NS 400Z is an exceptional value proposition in the 400cc motorcycle segment. At a price just under Rs 2.5 lakh on-road, it offers performance, features, and excitement that punches above its weight. More importantly, it upholds the Pulsar legacy of delivering high performance at a budget-friendly cost.

It might not be the fastest 400cc bike available, nor the most refined, but it’s certainly among the most accessible and entertaining. For riders upgrading from smaller capacity motorcycles or entering the performance bike segment for the first time, the NS 400Z is a compelling option.

Its clean design, strong motor, extensive features, and track-friendly nature make it one of the best Pulsars ever built. And the ‘Z’ in the name hints that this may just be the beginning of a new performance chapter in Bajaj’s storied lineup.

For more information, visit the official Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z page.

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