Bajaj has unleashed its most powerful Pulsar yet – the Bajaj Pulsar RS400Z. Priced at ₹2.20 lakh (ex-showroom), this 373cc sportbike combines KTM-derived performance with signature Pulsar styling, creating a compelling alternative to the KTM RC 390. Here’s why this might be India’s best-value performance bike.
Bajaj Pulsar RS400Z: Key Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 373cc liquid-cooled single |
| Power | 40 BHP @ 8,800 RPM |
| Torque | 35 Nm @ 6,500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 170 kmph (claimed) |
| 0-100 kmph | <6 seconds |
| Mileage | 25-30 kmpl |
| Kerb Weight | 184 kg |
| Price | ₹2.20 lakh |
5 Reasons It Stands Out
1. KTM-Developed Performance
- Shares DNA with Duke 390 engine (detuned for reliability)
- 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch for smooth downshifts
- 160-170 kmph top speed – fastest Pulsar ever
2. Aggressive Full-Faired Design
- Twin-pod LED headlamps with DRLs
- Aero-efficient fairing reduces wind buffeting
- Dual-tone colors (Red/Black, Blue/White)
- Split seat setup with sporty tail section
3. Premium Suspension Setup
- USD forks (first in Pulsar series)
- Rear mono-shock with 7-step adjustability
- Wide tubeless tires (110/70 front, 150/60 rear)
4. Tech-Loaded Features
- Full-digital dash with gear position indicator
- Dual-channel ABS as standard
- LED lighting all-around
5. Practical Sport Riding
- 13L fuel tank (300-350 km range)
- Upright ergonomics (less aggressive than KTM RC 390)
- Bajaj’s widespread service network
Performance Comparison
| Bike | Power | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pulsar RS400Z | 40 BHP | ₹2.20L | Balanced performance |
| KTM RC 390 | 43 BHP | ₹3.10L | Track-focused |
| Yamaha R3 | 41 BHP | ₹4.65L | Highway touring |
RS400Z Advantage: 85% of KTM performance at 70% price
Real-World Riding Experience
- City Riding: Light clutch, manageable 184kg weight
- Highways: Stable at 120-140 kmph cruising
- Corners: Confident lean angles with grippy MRF tires
- Complaint: Vibrations post 6,500 RPM (typical single-cylinder trait)
Who Should Buy It?
- Upgraders from 200cc bikes wanting more power
- Budget-conscious sportbike enthusiasts
- Daily riders who occasionally hit twisties
Not For:
- Hardcore track riders (choose RC 390)
- Premium brand seekers
FAQs
Q1. Service cost comparison with KTM?
30% cheaper (₹2,500 vs ₹3,500 per service).
Q2. Pillion comfort?
Decent for short rides, but seat slopes forward.
Q3. Heat management?
Liquid cooling keeps temps in check (unlike older Pulsars).
Q4. TVS Apache RR 310 alternative?
RR310 has better tech (IMU, ride modes) but costs ₹50k more.
Q5. Waiting period?
2-4 weeks across metros.
Verdict: The Sensible Sportbike
The Bajaj Pulsar RS400Z strikes a perfect balance between KTM’s performance and Pulsar’s practicality. While it doesn’t rewrite the sportbike rulebook, it offers 90% of the thrill at 70% of the cost – making it arguably India’s best-value performance bike today.
Book Now If: You want affordable performance without compromising daily usability.
Wait For: If you’re eyeing used KTM RC 390s in similar price range.
Would you pick this over KTM? Let us know in comments!
