Discussions and Questions Ktm
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
I believe that Bajaj will keep the SS400 one step below RC390 in terms of performance, deliberately. Especially since they profit from the partnership with KTM, they won't be keen to cannibalize KTM sales. The SS400 should be more comfortable and practical for daily use but less track focused than the KTM.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
You're underestimating Bajaj's ambition. They will probably throw the lot at the SS400 to prove they can play at the top table. It could even outdo the RC390 in some aspects such as top speed or comfort. There is no doubt that KTM will have to step up their game.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
I expect a lot of parts sharing between the SS400 and KTM bikes. That is not a bad thing, we might get KTM level components at Bajaj prices. Really, the difference will likely be more 'tuning and ergonomics' as opposed to hardware capabilities outright.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
I believe it could be a great first big bike. Bajaj know their market and will probably dial it for usability rather than pure performance. So it will probably have a linear power delivery and forgiving handling, ideal for learning the ropes of bigger bikes.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
There is no way 400cc is too much for a new rider. Begin on a 150 or 200cc bike, and build up. You might be tempted by the SS400 but it is better to learn proper skills on a smaller bike before moving to something more powerful.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
It varies on the rider. If someone is mature and takes proper training, they can manage a 400cc as their first bike. If it has good brakes and ABS, the SS400 could actually be safer than some smaller bikes.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
It would be a good option for someone moving up from a 150-200cc bike, not as a very first bike. It will be sporty enough to be exciting, but more forgiving than a KTM RC390. Respect the power and don't be overconfident.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
The actual question is about insurance and maintenance costs. Can the bike be maintained, and can new riders afford to keep it running? While Bajaj parts are usually cheap, the 400cc engine will be more expensive to maintain than smaller sized bikes.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
The build quality of the SS400 will not be cheap, I feel Bajaj will surprise us. They understand that this bike needs to be a bit more than what they are used to offering if they are going to be taken seriously. Overall, there will be less leaky panels and better plastics and a more premium feel.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
If you are a realist, it will still be a Bajaj. Some things will improve, but it won’t be Japanese quality. The important bits, i.e. the engine, suspension, brakes, will be the key. If the core is solid, I can live with some cheap plastics.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
I think they will do visible parts and skip hidden parts. You should expect a nice paint job and good looking components, however, pay attention to the wiring harnesses and fastener quality. That's where cost-cutting usually happens.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
The SS400 is likely to be a big step up from other Pulsars, but one notch down from the premium brands. That’s okay; it’ll probably be priced accordingly. It’ll be good enough for most riders as long as it’s durable and it doesn’t rattle apart.
How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?
31 January 2025 10:54
Don't underestimate Bajaj's manufacturing capabilities. After all, they produce KTM bikes. The SS400 will be very close to KTM quality, but with a different design philosophy I think. Some Japanese bike owners may even be surprised.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
In the city traffic, the SS400 is likely to be more forgiving. Being familiar with the Indian market, Bajaj will have a more upright seating position and smoother power delivery compared to the RC 390.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
KTM all the way! The RC 390 is more fun even in the city because of its aggressive nature. After a while, you will not want to ride anything else.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
Aside from that, it really depends on your riding style. The RC 390 is razor sharp if you are into spirited riding. However, the SS400 could be the more relaxed commute.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
Don't underestimate the RC 390's practicality. You can still drive it in the city, but yes, it is sporty. It might be more comfortable in the SS400, but it might be a tad uninspiring next to it.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
The SS400 might have a slight advantage in heat management. Given that Bajaj has more experience with Indian conditions, it is likely to run cooler in traffic than the KTM.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
I don't think so. However, the riding styles of the SS400 and Dominar 400 are different. The SS400 will be the choice for sport bike enthusiasts, but if you want a more versatile machine, then the Dominar will be your pick.
What is the real world rideability of Pulsar SS400 against KTM RC 390?
31 January 2025 10:46
In fact, it could even increase the sales of Dominar. However, the SS400 will help Bajaj get more attention towards its 400 cc lineup and some people who find it to be too sporty can go for the Dominar instead.
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