The Return of a Budget Performance Icon
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z has long been regarded as a benchmark for affordable performance. When it first arrived, it promised a taste of high-performance motorcycling under Rs 2 lakh, making it the go-to option for enthusiasts on a budget. However, the first-generation NS400Z, while impressive on paper, felt like an unfinished product. It offered strong numbers but left riders wanting a more cohesive experience. Bajaj clearly listened to that feedback. Barely a year and a half later, they have rolled out the updated NS400Z, and this version addresses many of the shortcomings of its predecessor.
“If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” seems to have been Bajaj’s design mantra. Visually, the motorcycle remains nearly identical to the outgoing model. You do not even get new graphics to flaunt your upgraded machine. That said, the NS400Z still carries a muscular stance, golden USD forks, and its signature lightning-shaped DRLs paired with a mono projector headlamp. These elements continue to give the bike a distinctive road presence, even if the overall design is starting to feel a little dated. The rear design, with its box-section swingarm and tail lamp borrowed from the NS200, still leaves room for future modernisation.
At the heart of the new NS400Z lies the familiar 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. While the block remains the same, Bajaj has reworked key internals — including valve timing, cam profiles, a redesigned intake, and a forged piston — allowing it to produce 42.5bhp, up from the previous 39.5bhp. Torque remains a healthy 35Nm at 7500 rpm.
The redline has been raised by 1000rpm, now peaking at 10,700 rpm. Below 5000rpm, the engine feels calm and controlled, ideal for city riding. Open it up, however, and the character transforms. It pulls cleanly through the mid-range and comes alive in the higher revs with minimal vibrations throughout the band. This results in a powertrain that is both approachable and thrilling, delivering strong performance without being intimidating to experienced riders.
The NS400Z continues to offer four riding modes — Road, Rain, Off-road, and Sport. Each mode alters throttle response and intervention from traction control and ABS. Sport mode is where the bike truly shines, unlocking the full 42.5 bhp, sharper throttle mapping, and the exclusive use of its new quickshifter.
In Rain and Road modes, power delivery is gentler, which is useful for city commutes or slippery conditions. Off-road mode relaxes the traction control to allow some wheel slip on loose surfaces. This electronics package may not be as impressive as some high-end motorcycles, but at this price point, we can’t complain much.
Perhaps the most unexpected upgrade is the addition of a bi-directional quickshifter. Instead of using a traditional sensor-based system, Bajaj has implemented a software-driven setup that interprets shift intent through the gear-position sensor. While it is restricted to Sport mode and feels jerky at low revs, it works impressively well when ridden hard — delivering clean, clutchless upshifts and rev-matched downshifts. This is a feature rarely seen in this segment and enhances the NS400Z’s performance-oriented character.
One of the most significant improvements comes through the new Apollo H1 radial tyres. The rear has grown to a 150-section, substantially enhancing grip levels, high-speed stability and visual presence. These tyres inspire genuine confidence across all conditions, including wet surfaces, making the motorcycle feel planted and predictable through corners.
Complementing this improved grip are new sintered brake pads, replacing the previous organic units. This upgrade dramatically improves braking feel and outright stopping power, allowing riders to depend less heavily on electronic intervention. The synergy between these tyres and brakes transforms the riding experience, creating a motorcycle that feels significantly more controlled and predictable than its predecessor.
The NS400Z continues to use a 43mm USD fork and a monoshock at the rear. The suspension strikes a reasonable balance between comfort and control, but over a series of bumps, the rear can feel a bit harsh. The front remains composed but still exhibits noticeable dive under hard braking. That said, the chassis feels taut, corners with confidence, and rewards aggressive riders with stability and feedback.
Despite all these updates, the kerb weight remains at 174kg, making it manageable in traffic and spirited riding. The seat height of 805mm is accessible for most riders, while the 12-litre fuel tank provides adequate range.
The Bajaj NS400Z is a machine that thrives in the hands of someone who knows what they’re doing. While it is not unreasonably difficult to ride, its 42.5 bhp output, sharp handling, and responsive throttle mean that it can quickly overwhelm a new rider. It’s not that the bike is unfriendly — in fact, its electronics and ride modes make it approachable — but it is a motorcycle that truly makes sense as an upgrade.
If you are stepping up from a 150cc or 200cc commuter or even a smaller Pulsar, this bike will feel like a massive leap in performance. It rewards skill and confidence, and that is why it’s better suited as a second motorcycle rather than your very first.
Under Rs 2 lakh, the 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is an absolute weapon of a motorcycle. It offers best-in-class performance, a well-rounded ride quality, the novelty of a quickshifter, and now — with upgraded tyres and brakes — a level of control and feedback that its predecessor lacked.
This is a motorcycle that dominates its segment not only on paper but also on the road. It’s not just a value-for-money choice; it’s a proper enthusiast’s machine. For experienced riders looking to upgrade, the NS400Z makes a compelling case. With these updates, Bajaj has not just improved the NS400Z — they have finally completed it.
For: Best in class performance
Against: The Quick shifter could be better
Specs:
373cc liquid-cooled engine
Power: 42.5 bhp
Torque: 35 Nm
