OVERVIEW
PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE
The Bajaj Dominar 400 uses a 373.3 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that delivers 40 PS at 8,800 rpm and 35 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. While its engine is based on the KTM 390, it’s tuned for smoother low-end power and better endurance, which helps on long rides. The bike also features a ride-by-wire throttle with four ride modes: Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-road. These modes adjust engine response and ABS settings to suit different riding conditions, making the ride safer and more adaptable.
The Dominar 400’s strong perimeter frame provides stable handling at high speeds, which is crucial for long trips. Its 43 mm USD front fork and Nitrox monoshock rear suspension help keep the ride comfortable and reduce fatigue. At 193 kg, the bike remains steady on highways and in corners, enhancing safety. Dual-disc brakes with dual-channel ABS provide reliable stopping power, adding to the rider’s confidence.
Equipped with a 6-speed gearbox and an assist and slipper clutch, gear shifts are smooth. The clutch reduces lever effort in city riding and prevents wheel hop during aggressive downshifting, enhancing safety. The gear pattern is 1-down, 5-up, typical for sport-touring bikes. The Dominar’s transmission, combined with fuel injection and chain drive, ensures precise throttle response and efficient gearing for touring.
The Bajaj Dominar 400 can reach a top speed of around 155 kmph, maintaining a smooth performance even at high speeds. Its weight contributes to stability during long rides on highways.
MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
The Bajaj Dominar 400 has an ARAI-certified mileage of 27 kmpl under standard conditions. Even with its 400cc engine, it remains fuel-efficient thanks to optimised engine mapping and fuel injection. Its 13-litre fuel tank lets you travel over 300 km on one fill, which is excellent for longer trips without many stops and is a big plus for touring fans.
Real-world mileage reported by Indian riders generally ranges from 25 to 32 kmpl, depending on riding habits and prevailing conditions. Highway cruising at 90–110 km/h typically yields about 30 kmpl, while city riding delivers 25–27 kmpl. Riders on various platforms highlight the Dominar’s combination of power and practicality, citing its stability, comfort, and dependable performance during long journeys.
FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY
Below is a detailed breakdown of the Bajaj Dominar 400’s features.
- Ride-by-Wire Throttle System: The traditional mechanical throttle has been replaced with an electronic ride-by-wire setup that ensures precise throttle input. This technology allows smoother power delivery and integrates with the new riding modes for a more controlled experience.
- Four Riding Modes: The Dominar now features four riding modes: Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-Road. Each mode adjusts engine mapping and ABS sensitivity to optimise traction and safety across conditions, offering versatility for commuters and tourers alike.
- Traction Control System (TCS): A first for the Dominar 400, this system prevents rear wheel slip during acceleration on wet or loose surfaces. Riders can switch it off in Sport and Off-road modes for full control during advanced riding scenarios.
- New LCD Instrument Console: The model features an all-digital, single-screen LCD cluster borrowed from the Pulsar NS400Z. The console offers crisp visibility and now supports Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone pairing.
- Bluetooth Connectivity with Navigation: By connecting your smartphone, you can get turn-by-turn navigation, call and SMS alerts, and ride statistics right on the digital cluster. This is useful for both city rides and more extended tours.
- USB Charging Port: Bajaj has added a USB charging port, allowing riders to conveniently charge devices on the go, thereby enhancing the bike’s long-distance touring capabilities.
- Enhanced Ergonomics and Comfort: The handlebar design and rider seat padding have been refined to minimise fatigue during extended rides, supporting the demands of touring. The repositioned handlebar enables a more upright posture and relaxed wrist angles, directly boosting long-distance comfort and reducing rider fatigue—a key consideration for commuters and tourers.
- Integrated Rear Luggage Carrier with GPS Mount: Bajaj has added a built-in rear carrier that can hold luggage and GPS devices. This highlights the Dominar’s focus on touring, making it ready for travel as soon as you purchase it.
- Full-LED Lighting Setup: The Dominar 400 continues with its LED headlamp, DRLs, and taillamp setup. The unique white LED cluster offers high illumination for safe night rides and contributes to its signature aggressive look.
- Digital Split LCD Display: The updated reverse LCD display provides dual-screen data, including gear position, distance-to-empty, real-time and average mileage, and service reminder indicators, all in clear, high-contrast lighting.
- Assist and Slipper Clutch: The standard wet, multi-plate assist and slipper clutch makes the lever easier to use and prevents the wheel from locking during quick downshifts. This is especially beneficial for riders seeking strong performance.
- Dual-Channel ABS with Large Disc Brakes: The Dominar features a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, equipped with dual-channel ABS for enhanced braking stability and shorter stopping distances in emergency situations.
- USD Front Forks and Nitrox Monoshock Rear Suspension: Equipped with 43 mm USD forks at the front and a Nitrox monoshock at the rear, the motorcycle ensures excellent bump absorption and cornering confidence for Indian road conditions.
- Reverse LCD Display Information Suite: Riders receive essential ride data on a reverse-lit LCD cluster that remains readable in all lighting conditions. It includes trip meters, fuel level, tachometer, average fuel consumption, and service indicators.
- All-new Colours: The latest lineup now offers a striking new Canyon Red colour alongside the existing Aurora Green and Charcoal Black shades, providing a refreshed aesthetic appeal.
BUILD QUALITY
The Bajaj Dominar 400’s build quality remains a highlight in its class. Its perimeter frame is renowned for being strong and stable, which is crucial for safe, long-distance rides. The large 43 mm USD front forks and Nitrox monoshock rear suspension work in conjunction with the solid chassis to enhance durability and rider confidence on rough Indian roads. These are essential benefits for touring.
The Dominar’s body panels feature a premium matte finish with metallic colours like Canyon Red and Aurora Green, showcasing a focus on quality and weather resistance. Its aluminium swingarm helps keep the bike stable at high speeds and stays aligned even after prolonged use, which many experienced riders appreciate. The dual-barrel exhaust produces a deep sound and utilises corrosion-resistant parts for long-lasting performance in various weather conditions.
Overall, Bajaj’s meticulous construction standards ensure that the Dominar 400 feels solid whether it’s parked or pushed to its limits on Indian highways.
HANDLING
Handling has always been a strong point for the Dominar series, and the latest model keeps that tradition. With Bajaj’s perimeter frame and a 193 kg kerb weight, the bike stays stable in a straight line, which is excellent for long roads and expressways.
For city manoeuvring, riders have noted that while the Dominar’s weight feels substantial at lower speeds, once in motion, it offers a smooth, grounded feel. The 43 mm USD forks provide 135 mm of travel for confident cornering. At the same time, the rear monoshock suspension offers excellent balance even on broken tarmac and undulating rural roads. On highways, the Dominar excels.
With wide handlebars, a long wheelbase, and dual-disc brakes with dual-channel ABS, the Dominar provides riders with confidence when accelerating or braking. The bike remains steady at high speeds, and the suspension offers a good balance of sporty handling and comfort for extended rides. While it’s not as nimble as a KTM Duke, it still provides excellent control and stability, which is essential for Indian roads.
COMFORT
In terms of comfort, the Bajaj Dominar 400 has become a real touring bike. Its split seat features thick foam padding designed for long rides, providing both the rider and passenger with ample space and firm support. This makes long highway trips less tiring and more enjoyable.
The upright riding posture and raised handlebar design reduce strain on the shoulders and wrists during marathon rides. Footpeg placement has been optimised to offer a natural knee angle, making it suitable for taller riders as well. Bajaj has also improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, thanks to rubber-mounted components and refined engine tuning, which reduces engine buzz at cruising speeds.
Touring-oriented details, such as the factory-fitted rear carrier, tall windshield, and optional saddle stays, further enhance long-distance comfort. Riders across India regularly note that the Dominar maintains composure on highways and delivers endurance without fatigue even during extended rides.
STYLING
The Bajaj Dominar 400 keeps its signature power cruiser look, with a low, muscular, and bold presence on the road. Its design takes cues from naked street fighters and touring bikes, focusing on strength and stability. The lion-like stance lends it a strong visual appeal, featuring a wide tank, tall visor, side panels, and a sculpted tail that complement its sporty shape.
Factory-fitted touring accessories, such as handguards, an engine bash plate, a tall windshield, and a rear luggage carrier, enhance both style and functionality, making the bike appear ready for any journey straight from the showroom. The full-LED setup, including DRLs, headlamps, and taillights, further refines its contemporary appearance and improves nighttime visibility, giving the bike a futuristic look.
The Dominar’s dual-exhaust system adds to its strong look. The contrast alloy wheels and simple decals strike a balance between aggressive style and a touch of class. Riders appreciate its upright riding position and street-ready stance, which make it both visually appealing and comfortable for extended rides.
COLOR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is available in two vibrant colours in India.
- Aurora Green
- Charcoal Black
Each colour highlights the bike’s bold design, with blacked-out exhaust and frame parts adding a touch of balance. Simple decals and a glossy tank finish give it a premium look, whether you’re riding in the city or on the highway.
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is offered in a single, fully loaded variant in India: the Dominar 400 STD. This unified variant incorporates all the advanced features Bajaj has integrated into the updated model, including traction control, dual-channel ABS, a Bluetooth-enabled LCD console, and multiple riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-road).
Each colour highlights the bike’s bold design, with blacked-out exhaust and frame parts adding a touch of balance. Simple decals and a glossy tank finish give it a premium look, whether you’re riding in the city or on the highway.
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is offered in a single, fully loaded variant in India: the Dominar 400 STD. This unified variant incorporates all the advanced features Bajaj has integrated into the updated model, including traction control, dual-channel ABS, a Bluetooth-enabled LCD console, and multiple riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-road).
VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is priced at Rs ₹ 2,39,176 (ex-showroom Delhi), positioning it competitively within the mid-capacity motorcycle segment in India. This price point includes all key updates such as the LED console with Bluetooth connectivity, riding modes, traction control, and dual-channel ABS. Despite modest price increases compared to previous models, it remains an affordable option given the features and specifications on offer.
The Dominar 400’s value primarily comes from its balanced feature set, combined with performance tailored for Indian roads. The 373.3 cc liquid-cooled engine, producing 40 PS, offers spirited performance that rivals many premium motorcycles costing significantly more. Its extensive touring features include four riding modes, traction control, and a connected, fully digital console, which are often reserved for higher-priced models in this segment.
In terms of maintenance and fuel efficiency, the Dominar performs well, with real-world mileage averaging 25-32 kmpl, making it an economical choice for long-distance riders. Bajaj’s vast service network and parts availability further augment its ownership attractiveness. For buyers seeking a sport-tourer that combines high-speed capabilities with urban usability, the Dominar offers a compelling value proposition against its rivals.
The Bajaj Dominar 400 competes with some of India’s popular motorcycles in the midsize and premium commuter categories:
- TVS Apache RTR 310
- KTM Duke 200
- KTM Duke 390
- Honda CB300R
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
- TVS Apache RR 310
- Yamaha R15 V4
Compared to these bikes, the Dominar 400 stands out as a power cruiser with advanced electronics and touring comfort, all at a price that rivals sportbikes in its class. Its balance of power and weight gives it highway stability that some lighter competitors don’t offer.
Bikes like the TVS Apache RTR 310 and the KTM Duke 390 are sportier but cost more or are less practical for touring. The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda CB350RS are primarily designed for touring. Still, they typically come with higher prices and may lack features such as traction control or multiple riding modes.
