Have you been eyeing the “Black Beast” on the road? You know, the one with the mosaic LED headlamps that look like they could light up a stadium? The Bajaj Dominar 400 has evolved from a confused youngster into a mature touring machine. But is it the right bike for you? Let’s cut through the noise and look at what owning this machine is really like.
1. Why Call It a “Beast”?
It’s not just a marketing nickname; owners genuinely feel it. With a 373.3cc liquid-cooled engine churning out 40 PS of power, this bike doesn’t just run; it roars.
- Highway Star: It stays “planted like a rock” at triple-digit speeds. The heavy weight (193 kg) which might annoy you in parking, becomes your best friend on the highway, keeping you stable against crosswinds.
- The “Mosaic” Lights: The full LED headlamp is stunning. Owners report it provides bright illumination for both city and highway rides, making you visible from 1.5 km away.
2. The “best” (Mileage) Truth
Let’s be honest—you don’t buy a 400cc bike to save the planet, but it helps to know the cost.
- Official Stats: ARAI claims 30 kmpl.
- Real World: Owners report getting between 27 to 32 kmpl on highways if ridden sensibly.
- The Catch: If you are purely looking for high mileage, this might not be the bike for you. As one owner put it, “Mileage? Well who cares when you are crazy for power”.
3. The “Not-So-Good” Bits (Real Talk)
Every beast has a temper. Here are the common grumbles from long-term owners:
- It’s Heavy: At 193 kg, moving it backward in a tight parking spot requires a gym membership. The turning radius is wide, making U-turns tricky.
- Vibrations: While the engine is refined, some riders feel vibrations creeping in through the handlebars and footpegs between 4500 and 5500 RPM—which is, unfortunately, a common cruising speed range.
- Stiff Ride: The suspension is tuned for stability, which means you might feel the bumps on bad city roads.
4. Is It Maintenance Heavy?
Surprisingly, no. Owners describe it as “low maintenance” for its class.
- General Care: You need to keep the chain cleaned and lubed every 500 km (especially because it’s an O-ring chain).
- Service Interval: The first service is early, but after that, oil changes are generally every 5,000 km.
- Watch Out For: Coolant levels. If the engine heats up in traffic (which can happen), the ECU might cut power to protect the engine if temperatures hit 115°C.
Verdict:
The Dominar 400 is a “grown-up” motorcycle. It offers raw power, factory-fitted touring accessories like a tall visor and engine bash plate, and solid road presence. If you can handle the weight, it promises to be a loyal companion for years.
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes