Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z

The 350cc Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is essentially the smaller-engined version of the earlier 373cc model. It has been introduced to comply with the new GST 2.0 regulations. Despite the reduction in displacement, Bajaj has not made any changes to the design, features, or underpinnings. The 350cc Pulsar NS400Z is priced at Rs 1,93,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi), which remains unchanged from the earlier version. More importantly in the current scheme of things, all of Bajaj’s bikes are E20 compatible, and have been since the last ten years or so.

Visually, the 350cc Pulsar NS400 looks exactly the same as the earlier 373cc model. It continues with an aggressive streetfighter design: sharp fuel tank, sporty body panels, split-seat setup, and bold graphics. The bike is available in the same four colours as before: Brooklyn Black, Pearl Metallic White, Glossy Racing Red, and Pewter Grey; which are explained in detail here.

This Bajaj Pulsar bike features an LCD instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, phone alerts, and music controls. It also gets a bidirectional quickshifter, slip-and-assist clutch, multiple ride modes: Road, Rain, Sport, Off-road – which alter throttle response and ABS intervention.

The NS400Z comes equipped with dual-channel ABS and traction control –  both switchable.

This Bajaj bike offers a slightly sporty riding posture, thanks to its upright handlebar and mildly rear-set footpegs. While the 807mm seat height looks high on paper, the seat is narrow, making it accessible to most riders. The seat cushioning is slightly firm, but is comfortable enough for daily commutes as well as long tours.

The split-seat setup means the pillion seat is positioned slightly higher than the rider’s. While it is decently spacious, the firm cushioning may make it less comfortable on longer rides.

Powering the NS400Z is a 349.13cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing 40.6PS at 9,000rpm and 33.2Nm at 7,500rpm. Compared to the earlier 373cc version, this is a reduction of 2.4PS and 1.8Nm.

In the city, the NS400 should feel quick and responsive, making it suitable for everyday riding. The drop in performance is unlikely to be very noticeable in urban conditions. On the highway, while it may not feel as strong as the older version, it should still be capable of cruising comfortably at triple-digit speeds.

The bike comes with a 6-speed gearbox paired to a slip-and-assist clutch. Additionally, the bidirectional quickshifter allows for clutchless upshifts and downshifts.

The bike continues to use a perimeter frame, suspended by a 43mm USD fork and pre-load adjustable monoshock. The setup offers a good balance between handling and stability. It feels agile in city traffic and remains stable at higher speeds. However, the rear suspension may feel slightly stiff over rough roads. With a kerb weight of 174kg, 168mm ground clearance, and a 12-litre fuel tank, the NS400Z remains practical for everyday use.

The NS400Z uses a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, offering strong stopping power, especially with the sintered pads. The dual-channel ABS ensures controlled braking performance on low-grip surfaces too.

The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z directly rivals the TVS Apache RTR 310 and the 350cc KTM 390 Duke. If you’re looking for alternatives at a similar price, you can also consider the Bajaj Dominar 400, Triumph Speed T4, or Hero Karizma XMR 210.