autoX Awards 2024: Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z Performance, Quality and Value for Money Ranked

autoX Awards 2024: The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is one of the latest entrants in the 400cc sports bike segment in India and, arguably, offers the best value for money. Launched at a price of ₹1.83 lakh (ex-showroom), the Pulsar NS400Z is a powerful, feature-packed motorcycle for the masses. During our first ride, we were impressed by its grunt, design, and features. However, it doesn’t have a standout quality that sets it apart, giving it the feel of a jack of all trades, with its price being its most compelling highlight. Our jury round at the Buddh International Circuit provided the perfect setting to see how the NS400Z measured up against its direct competitors. So, how did it fare against the competition?

To be honest, with so many big-name, high-performance bikes available to test at the BIC, the Pulsar NS400Z was one of the last bikes I picked up the keys for. However, once I did, I discovered that the Pulsar is a surprisingly capable machine for sports riding, despite the modest numbers on its spec sheet. It’s powered by a 373cc single-cylinder engine derived from the Dominar, which in the NS400Z produces 40bhp and 35Nm of peak torque. What truly sets it apart, though, is its ability to deliver 85% of its torque (roughly 35Nm) from as low as 3,500rpm. This translates to strong off-the-line performance and a torque curve that remains flat across the rev range, providing a progressive and predictable surge of power and acceleration.

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Compared to the Dominar, the NS400Z features a shorter overall length and a sharper rake angle, resulting in a light and nimble feel, which makes it comfortable to ride in various scenarios. While it doesn’t offer the track-focused sharpness of its KTM cousins, it can just about manage to keep pace with other naked motorcycles in this segment. But the main drawback of the NS400Z on the track is its softer suspension setup, but this what makes it a much more comfortable machine for everyday riding.

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