Explosive update of new Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z: Now launched with 43hp, quickshifter and radial tires

Table of Contents

Introduction: The New Pulsar NS400Z

On July 8, 2025, Bajaj Auto launched the updated version of its popular Pulsar NS400Z in India. Priced at ₹1.92 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s ₹7,000 higher than the previous model. With this price hike, Bajaj has significantly enhanced power, control, and the overall riding experience .

Engine & Power Enhancements

The unchanged 373 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine now generates 43 hp (up from 40 hp) and 35 Nm torque .
The redline extends to 10,700 rpm in Sport mode (previously 9,700 rpm), while other modes now go up to 10,300 rpm .
The 0–60 km/h time drops to 2.7 s (0.5 s faster), and 0–100 km/h now takes 6.4 s (0.9 s quicker) .
Top speed has climbed to 157 km/h, up from around 150 km/h before .

These improvements aim to deliver a faster, more powerful, and balanced ride.

Transmission & Quickshifter

The updated model introduces a bidirectional quickshifter, a first for any Bajaj bike—allowing clutchless shifts in both directions, especially effective in Sport mode .
The quickshifter works seamlessly with the 6-speed gearbox, enabling smooth, near-instant 50 ms gear transitions—ideal for sporty riding .

The Pulsar NS400Z now features a bi‑directional quickshifter, which eliminates the need for clutch or throttle use when shifting gears. This quickshifter employs a sensor that detects the movement of the gear lever and momentarily cuts engine power for a few milliseconds, allowing seamless, clutch-free gear changes—even without rolling off the throttle.

This technology enables ultra-fast gear shifts—in under 50 milliseconds—making it ideal for racing and sporty riding.

The quickshifter works with the NS400Z’s 6-speed gearbox, offering smooth, reliable upshifts and downshifts. It is especially effective in Sport mode, where gear changes become completely clutchless and ultra-smooth. However, at lower RPMs—particularly during 1→2 shifts—a clutch may still be needed, as many riders have noted:

Most quickshifters should have a minimum suggested rpm … my bike lists 4k rpm … tends to be clunky”

Some users have also reported slight jerks during downshifts, but performance generally improves notably between gears 3 to 6. Overall, this feature delivers a more dynamic and competitive ride—ideal for those seeking clutch-free shifting and speed.

🛞 Tyres & Braking Improvements

The older bias-ply MRF tyres have been replaced with Apollo Alpha H1 radial tyres (110/70-ZR17 front and 150/60-ZR17 rear), with a wider rear tyre for enhanced grip .
Sintered front brake pads replace the previous organic ones, improving braking performance by approximately 7% .

Riding Modes

The NS400Z features four distinct riding modes—Sport, Road, Off‑Road, and Rain—each tailored to different riding scenarios using ride‑by‑wire throttle control and ABS calibration .

Sport mode delivers the sharpest throttle response and minimal ABS intervention, unlocking the full 43 hp for spirited riding. It’s the go‑to choice for enthusiasts who crave instant acceleration and live throttle twists .

Road mode offers a balanced ride by dialing down the aggression slightly—mid-level power delivery with moderate ABS support ensures confidence on daily commutes and highway rides .

Off‑Road mode is tuned to boost low‑end torque with minimal ABS interference while proactively engaging traction control. It’s meant for rougher surfaces, though actual off‑road use may be limited given the bike’s lack of a sump guard and limited ground clearance .

Rain mode offers the gentlest throttle curve and the highest ABS intervention, reducing output to approximately 33 hp. This ensures safer, more controlled rides in wet conditions .

Real‑world feedback indicates that:

In Road mode, throttle response is composed and suitable for city traffic, with many riders preferring it over Sport mode due to its calmer demeanor .
Sport mode, while the most thrilling, still provides linear control suitable for highway speeds .

Together, these modes enhance versatility—whether navigating traffic, cruising highways, tackling light off‑road paths, or riding in rain—making the NS400Z adaptable to a range of riding environments and preferences.

Chassis, Suspension & Specs

Kerb Weight: 174 kg
Seat Height: 805 mm
Ground Clearance: 165 mm
Front Suspension: 43 mm upside-down forks; Rear: preload-adjustable monoshock
Brakes: 320 mm front and 230 mm rear discs with dual-channel ABS
Instrument Cluster: Colour LCD with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and lap timer

Graphics & Color Options

Available in four colours—Brooklyn Black, Glossy Racing Red, Pearl Metallic White, and Pewter Grey—with fresh sticker designs
Suspension components now feature a distinctive champagne-gold finish

Price & Variants

Ex-showroom (Delhi): ₹1,92,328
This is approximately ₹7,000–11,000 more than the previous generation but justified by the upgrades .

Competition

Rivals include KTM 390 Duke, TVS Apache RTR 310, and Triumph Speed 400 .
The NS400Z offers strong VFM (value for money) thanks to its aggressive pricing and feature set.