As the motorcycle market evolves, the middleweight segment emerges as a promising arena for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) to drive their growth. Notable global brands like Triumph and Harley-Davidson have recently ventured into this space signaling increased activity in the years ahead. Following suit, Bajaj is gearing up to launch its largest Pulsar model yet.
Bajaj Pulsar 400 Teaser – What Can We Expect?
With its next flagship Pulsar model, Bajaj wants to build itself a certain position by giving it a truly unique personality. When contemplating its first 400cc bike, Bajaj had the option to leverage the Pulsar brand. The Dominar 400 was finally given the benefit of the doubt, nevertheless. Even with sales targets in place the Dominar 400 has not lived up to expectations.
However, things have drastically changed in the last few years. Bajaj may have a foundation to succeed in the middleweight motorcycle market with the upcoming Pulsar 400. Bajaj has made it known that it intends to release the largest Pulsar model shortly. They have produced a new teaser for the Pulsar in advance of this launch which has people talking about the Pulsar 400.
It is anticipated that the largest Pulsar will utilize a modified version of the perimeter chassis found in the Pulsar NS200. The NS200 known for its sporty design and robust performance appears to be a fitting candidate for the foundation of the flagship Pulsar.
The chassis used in the NS200 is capable of accommodating engines of higher capacities. For the Pulsar NS400, the chassis will undergo further reinforcement while maintaining a similar size and dimensions. Leveraging the NS200 chassis, the upcoming Pulsar can achieve a lightweight construction, potentially weighing less than the Dominar 400, which boasts a kerb weight of 193 kg. Assuming a lighter weight for the Pulsar NS400, it could offer a higher power-to-weight ratio.
The Pulsar NS400 will feature an athletic design, consistent with other bikes in the NS lineup. Bajaj plans to introduce distinctive features and enhancements to ensure a unique identity for the bike. Key highlights will include an aggressive front fascia, USD forks, sporty rear-view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank, split seats, sharp paneling, dynamic graphics, underbelly exhaust, and rear tire hugger and the bike will be available in a variety of vibrant color options.
Bajaj Pulsar NS400 Performance
In the 400cc segment, Bajaj has been producing the 373cc engine used in the Dominar 400. Additionally, Bajaj manufactures a 399cc unit for the third-generation KTM 390 Duke and another engine of the same capacity for the new Triumph 400. For the upcoming Pulsar NS400, Bajaj will adopt the engine from the Dominar 400, delivering 40 PS of maximum power and 35 Nm of peak torque. While the power output matches that of the Speed 400, the KTM 390 Duke boasts higher figures at 46 PS and 39 Nm.
Utilizing the Dominar's engine for the largest Pulsar model aligns with Bajaj's cost-effective approach. Fans of Pulsar bikes are known for receiving outstanding value and the flagship Pulsar is expected to carry on this legacy. Bajaj may introduce the Pulsar NS400 at an initial price point of around Rs 2 lakh, making it potentially the most affordable 400cc, 40 hp motorcycle in the country. It will also compete with the soon-to-be-launched Hero Mavrick 440.