Imagine getting the raw power of a Duke-derived engine, the comfort of a streetfighter, and a price tag that makes your wallet smile. Sounds impossible? Well, Bajaj just made it happen.
If you have been scrolling through Instagram or YouTube looking for your next big bike upgrade, stop right there. The 2026 Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is here, and it is arguably the most “value-for-money” performance motorcycle in India right now.
Here is a simple, no-nonsense breakdown of why this bike is turning heads and whether you should bring one home.
The “Whoa” Factor: Performance on a Budget
Let’s talk numbers because they are impressive. The NS400Z is powered by a 373cc liquid-cooled engine (yes, the same DNA found in the Dominar 400 and the older KTM 390 Duke).
- Power: A massive 40 PS (approx 39.5 BHP).
- Speed: It rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds.
- Top Speed: It can hit around 157 km/h.
For a price tag of ₹1.92 Lakh (ex-showroom), there is simply no other bike in India that gives you this much speed per rupee.
What’s New in the 2026 Update? (The Good Stuff)
Bajaj listened to the riders! The initial models had some complaints, but the 2026 update has fixed the biggest gripes with a modest price bump of just ₹7,000.
1. Sticky Tyres for Corner Carving The old tyres were slippery. The 2026 model now comes with Apollo Alpha H1 radial tyres (110 front / 150 rear). These are trusted track-level tyres that offer massive confidence in corners and wet roads.
2. Brakes That Actually Bite Bajaj has upgraded to sintered brake pads. The braking “bite” is now fierce and stops the bike instantly, addressing the “soft” feel of the previous version.
3. The “Sport Shift” Magic It now gets a bi-directional quickshifter (Bajaj calls it ‘Sport Shift’). This lets you shift gears without using the clutch.
Tech That Feels Premium
Despite the budget price, you aren’t riding a dinosaur. The bike is loaded with:
- 4 Ride Modes: Road, Rain, Sport, and Offroad.
- Traction Control: Keeps you safe if you accelerate too hard on slippery surfaces.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth with turn-by-turn navigation and music controls.
- Adjustable Levers: Customize the brake and clutch reach to fit your hands.
The “Real Talk” (Cons You Should Know)
No bike is perfect. Before you sign the cheque, here are a few things to consider:
- Stiff Suspension: You will feel the potholes. The suspension is tuned for handling, not plush comfort. It can feel jerky at slow speeds in the city.
- Tiny Fuel Tank: It only holds 12 litres. With a real-world mileage of roughly 30-33 kmpl (highway/mixed), you will be visiting fuel pumps often (approx range 300 km).
- Looks Familiar: It looks very similar to the smaller NS200. It doesn’t scream “big bike” until you twist the throttle.
- Console Glitches: Some owners have reported minor glitches with the digital console requiring a restart.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
If you want the adrenaline rush of a KTM but don’t want to spend ₹3 Lakh+, the Pulsar NS400Z is a no-brainer. It is fast, engaging, and now handles beautifully with the new tyres.
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