Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z 5 Pros and 3 Cons To Know Before Buying

Bajaj has recently introduced its biggest Pulsar bike ever in India. The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z was launched at Rs 1.85 lakh; hence, drawing a lot of attention among entry-level sports bike buyers. Before you make your decision to book this Pulsar, read our list of 5 pros and 3 cons of the NS400Z. This will help you to make a wise decision. Also, you can join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group for such interesting automotive knowledge.

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Pro 1: Punchy Engine and Quick Performance

While the NS400Z is based on the Dominar 400's platform and uses the same engine as well; it is a completely different machine. The 373cc liquid-cooled engine is a punchy unit and we all know that. Producing 40 PS and 35 Nm of peak torque, the lightweight of the NS400Z generates an effortless performance. While it is not very fast, the NS400Z will not feel slow also. It is 18 kg lighter than the Dominar and that helps a lot in gaining pace quickly. For reference, the claimed top speed is 154 kmph but we managed to achieve 162 kmph on Bajaj's Chakan test track during our ride. Can't believe it? Then see our detailed test ride video below.

Pro 2: Superb Chassis Balance and Agile Handling

Bajaj has managed to make the NS400Z one of the most user-friendly yet sporty Pulsar ever. How so? It's because of the chassis balance and its superbly agile handling. While the chassis is nearly similar to the Dominar 400, the subframe is different and so is the swingarm. Moreover, the rake angle is set at 26.2 degrees; the sharpest ever on any Pulsar. The light kerb weight and steep steering geometry combo make it a very precise tool for fast riding. You can easily take corners at higher speeds with utmost confidence. New riders in the 400cc category will definitely feel the friendly nature of the NS400Z.

Pro 3: Stable and Clam Ride Quality

The hardware of the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is also very supportive and sturdy. The front suspension is a 43mm USD unit, while the rear gets a 7-step preload adjustable monoshock. This combination provides a very gentle ride quality on the road. The low-speed ride quality is comfortable and most of the undulations and bumps are not felt on the handlebar. Moreover, at high speeds, the bike feels confident and supportive enough to push the limits of the rider. It is only during the sharp bumps that the front feels a bit stiff while the rear tends to pitch more. But, overall, it is a very comfortable setup.

Pro 4: Easy Riding Position and Good Build Quality

The overall riding position is semi-sporty. This means it is a good commuter bike and your back will not hurt using it on long trips as well. While we wish that the seat had better cushioning, it is the riding geometry that feels relaxing. The tubular handlebar is set in a relaxed position while the rider footpegs do not feel very sporty. Also, the build quality of the NS400Z is among the best in Bajaj's portfolio. Plastic used is of high quality and you can not easily spot cost-cutting on the bike.

Pro 5: Pricing and Value-For-Money Factor

While the Rs 1.85 lakh is introductory, the pricing in itself is unimaginable. There is no other bike that can offer a 400cc setup under this price tag. Even rivals like the TVS Apache RTR 310 and the Triumph Speed 400 are very steeply-priced. And it is not just the price but the part sharing with other Pulsar and Dominar bikes; which in turn will reduce the maintenance costs for the owners in the long run. Not to mention the widespread Bajaj dealership and service network is a boon in itself. So, yes, it is the best value-for-money sub-400cc bike in India currently.

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Con 1: Vibrations

Yes, it is a single-cylinder engine and there will always be some amount of vibrations. But, on the NS400Z, these turn irritating post 3,500 rpm. As you rev out the bike, the vibrations in the mid-range; especially between the 3,500-5,500 rpm, the most usable and practical rpm range; are on the higher side. A strong buzz travels via the fuel tank, handlebar, and footpegs. And this is not a very nice experience for a sub-400cc bike. But, post 6,000 rpm the bike again gains a composed manner and the vibrations reduce to a large extent.

Con 2: Soggy Brakes

Bajaj offers a 320mm front disc rotor and a 230mm rear disc rotor with a dual-channel ABS on the NS400Z. While the setup is promising on paper, the initial bit is something that you'll not feel happy about. During our test ride, we found that the brakes felt a bit less confident initially. Once you learn the curve, the catch is that you've to press the brakes a bit harder to get the results that you would be getting on rivals with less brake force. On the highway or on triple-digit speeds, the braking is confident but not very sporty or encouraging to go fast.

Con 3: Long-Term Reliability

Questioning the long-term reliability of the NS400Z might not feel very apt currently but during our test ride the coolant went down up to 25 percent. In fact, not just on ours but other media bikes also faced issues like errors on the display including engine overheat signs. So, is it a good sign? While we know that the media bikes were pre-production units; it is the Dominar 400 that has been a bitter bite for the first batch buyers due to its multiple issues. Does it mean that the NS400Z will also face issues? Well, we can't comment on that for now but we're hopeful that it doesn't. We would suggest you take a test ride before you make your buying decision.

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