How will the Pulsar SS400 compare against KTM's product line?

Question

Many Indian young riders dream of owning a full faired sports bike and Pulsar SS400 can be positioned as an entry level affordable sports bike for riders upgrading from small bikes. But there is also worry that a 400cc bike is too much for inexperienced riders to ride safely. Newer riders will have to rely on the SS400's power output, weight and handling characteristics to determine its suitability for them. Maintenance costs and reliability are also a question, and can be quite important for budgeted young buyers. While some feel that a smaller bike is safer and easier to do that on, others believe the SS400 to be the ideal big bike learning platform. Ergonomics and riding position are also topics of debate, as comfort is a major issue for riders new to sporty postures.

Saket · Accepted Answer

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.

Harsh · Answer

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.

Kunal · Answer

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.

Sakshi · Answer

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.

Aditi · Answer

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.

Rahul · Answer

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.

Shinde · Answer

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.

Ashish · Answer

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.

Rahul · Answer

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.

Pramod · Answer

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.

Kuldeep · Answer

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.

Rahul · Answer

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.

Deepak · Answer

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?

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