Bajaj Launches Pulsar NS400Z 350cc With Slight Performance Drop

Bajaj has launched the Pulsar NS400Z with a new 350cc engine, resulting in a marginal drop in performance. The updated engine aims to help buyers benefit from the lower 18% GST rate, compared to the 40% GST on 400cc versions. This move follows similar updates for select Triumph, Dominar, and KTM models.

Key Highlights

• Bajaj launches Pulsar NS400Z with a new 350cc engine and minor performance decrease
• New engine produces 40.6 PS and 33.2 Nm compared to the previous 43 PS and 35 Nm
• Peak power and torque now arrive at higher rpm than the earlier 373cc version
• No price reduction as Bajaj did not pass on the earlier GST hike to customers
• Design and features remain unchanged apart from the engine update

Engine Changes and Performance

The original Pulsar NS400Z featured a 373cc engine producing 43 PS of power and 35 Nm of torque in Sport mode. The new 349.13 cc engine generates 40.6 PS and 33.2 Nm, matching the output of the 350cc Dominar. The engine remains a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder unit. Bajaj reduced the engine's stroke from 60 mm to 56.1 mm, while the bore stays at 89 mm. This approach avoids complex and expensive engine modifications.

The peak power now arrives at 9,000 rpm, up from 8,800 rpm. Peak torque is delivered at 7,500 rpm, compared to 6,500 rpm previously. The higher rev range shifts the engine's character, making it more responsive at higher speeds but possibly less punchy at lower speeds. The larger displacement engine offered more torque and a relaxed riding experience. Fuel efficiency is unlikely to improve significantly and will depend on riding style rather than engine size.

Pricing and Features

The price of the Pulsar NS400Z 350cc remains similar to the 400cc version. Bajaj did not reduce the price, as the company had not passed on the earlier GST hike to customers. Apart from the new engine, there are no other changes to the Pulsar NS400Z.

The bike retains its aggressive and muscular design, including an LED projector headlamp, lightning bolt DRLs, USD front forks, sculpted fuel tank, aerodynamic bodywork, and sporty graphics. Other features include split seats, an underbelly exhaust, and various color options. The Pulsar NS400Z also offers electronic ride-by-wire throttle control, advanced liquid cooling, dual-channel ABS, a digital instrument cluster, traction control, and four ride modes: Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-road.