KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Hero Xtreme 250 R is powered by a 250cc, single-cylinder engine
- The Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 Z is powered by a 373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine
- The Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 Z offers four riding modes: Sport, Road, Rain, Offroad
The Indian motorcycle segment is buzzing with excitement, along with two brands. The Hero and Bajaj go head to head with their most compelling choices: Hero Xtreme 250R and the Bajaj Pulsar NS400 Z. Both bikes have a difference of Rs 6,000 in their ex-showroom prices. In this article, we'll pit them against each other and figure out which deserves your money. However, before moving ahead make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
Design
The Hero Xtreme 250R flaunts a very sharp and aggressive design at first glance. At the front, you'll notice a pointed LED headlamp with USD forks. Moving forward, it has a very muscular fuel tank followed by a split seat setup. The rear end is very neat, with a small taillight and number plate holder. On the other hand, Bajaj Pulsar NS 400 Z offers a very subtle design. At the front, it has a very different headlamp setup. The central projector headlamps are flanked by LED DRLs on the side. The fuel tank is sharp but less than that of the Xtreme 250. Moreover, it boasts a split seat setup along with sleek LED at the rear.
Verdict:- Design is subjective and varies from person to person. However, the Hero Xtreme 250R stands out with its sportier and more modern aesthetics compared to the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z. If striking looks and a sharp, aggressive design are your top priorities, the Xtreme 250R is the better choice for you.
Powertrains
The Hero Xtreme 250 R is powered by a 250cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that belts out 30 hp and 25 Nm of torque. Moreover, it can go up to 0-60kph in just 3.5 seconds. Meanwhile, the Bajaj pulsar is powered by a 373cc, single-cylinder engine, the same as the Dominar. This engine belts out 40 hp and 35 Nm of torque.
| Specification | Hero Xtreme 250R | Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 250cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder | 373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power Output | 30 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 25 Nm | 35 Nm |
| 0-60 km/h | 3.5 seconds | Not specified |
Verdict:- The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z packs a more powerful engine than the Hero Xtreme 250R, with a 10-unit advantage in both power and torque. If performance is your priority, the Pulsar NS400Z is the clear winner.
Features
When it comes to features, the Hero Xtreme 250 R boasts an LCD instrument cluster along with 35+ connectivity features through the Hero Connect 2.0 gambit. This bike also gets dual ABS along with road and race modes. The Bajaj Pulsar NS400 Z offers a colour LCD instrument cluster with navigation data and music playback. Apart from this, It has four ride modes (Sport, Road, Rain Offroad), dual channel ABS and three levels of traction control.
| Feature | Hero Xtreme 250R | Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | LCD display | Color LCD display with navigation & music playback |
| Connectivity | Hero Connect 2.0 with 35+ features | Navigation & music playback support |
| Riding Modes | Road, Race | Sport, Road, Rain, Offroad |
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
| Traction Control | Not available | 3-level traction control |
Verdict:- When it comes to features, the Hero Xtreme 250R takes the lead with a more extensive feature set. However, the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z holds an edge in riding dynamics, offering four ride modes (Sport, Road, Rain, and Off-road), whereas the Xtreme 250R provides only two (Road and Race). While both bikes come equipped with essential features, the Xtreme 250R offers a more tech-packed experience.
Pricing
The Hero Xtreme 250 R is available at a price tag of Rs 1.79 lakh (ex-showroom)and comes in a single variant. On the other hand, the Bajaj Pulsar NS400 Z is available at a price tag of Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom).
| Motorcycle Model | Ex-showroom Price (Delhi) | Variants Available | Colors Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Xtreme 250R | Rs 1,79,900 | 1 | 3 (Firestorm Red, Stealth Black, Neon Shooting Star) |
| Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z | Rs 1,85,000 | 1 | 4 (Glossy Racing Red, Brooklyn Black, Pewter Grey, Pearl Metallic White) |
Which One To Choose?
Both bikes come at a similar price, with a difference of just Rs 6,000. For this additional amount, the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z offers a more compelling package featuring a more powerful engine, advanced riding modes, and traction control. While the Hero Xtreme 250R is equipped with a 250cc engine, the Pulsar NS400Z boasts a significantly more powerful 373cc unit. Given its superior features and enhanced performance, the Pulsar NS400Z justifies the Rs 6,000 price difference.
Read More: Bookings for Fastest 250cc Motorcycle Are Open - At Rs 10,000
Verdict
Both bikes offer compelling choices in the segment. The Hero Xtreme 250 R offers a better set of features along with performance. So, if you're looking for a feature-rich with better performance, the Pulsar NS 400 Z is for you. However, if you're a little on a tight budget, you can stick to the Hero Xtreme 250R. It solely depends upon your choice and personal preferences.
