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Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs KTM Duke 390: Which 400cc Streetfighter Is The Better Buy?
Bajaj Auto's Pulsar NS400Z is the most powerful Pulsar in its lineup. It is also a good value motorcycle in the mid-premium naked segment, offering excellent performance and racing thrill at an affordable price point. As it competes in the 400cc category, we will now compare the naked motorcycle with the segment's benchmark, the KTM Duke 390, and check which one comes out on top this time.
Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z vs KTM Duke 390
Design Comparison
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z carries a new-age design that aligns with its NS and N series motorcycles. The design is attractive, featuring a new LED headlamp with DRLs, sharp body lines, sculpted tail section, premium naked-bike elements, and USD front forks, and is likely to attract a wide range of buyers.
KTM, on the other hand, offers a sharp and sleek design that follows its global design language, one that has evolved over the years yet still looks fresh and appealing. Features such as the LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, split seats, sharp tail section, aggressive edges, and vibrant colour options come together to give it a sporty, almost supersport-like presence. Overall, while the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z impresses with its bold design, the KTM Duke 390 looks more premium and sets the design benchmark in its segment.
Engine Comparison
| Bikes | Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z | KTM Duke 390 |
| Engine | 373.27cc DOHC | 398.63cc DOHC |
| No of Cylinders | Single | Single |
| Power | 40 PS @ 8800 rpm | 46 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Torque | 35 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| No of Gears | 6-Speed | 6 Speed |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooling | Liquid Cooling |
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z uses the previous-generation engine from the KTM Duke 390, a 373.27cc single-cylinder unit. Its power output is lower compared to the latest Duke 390, which produces a strong 46 PS of power and nearly 40 Nm of torque.
That said, the Pulsar NS400Z remains an engaging motorcycle to ride, especially in city conditions where its strong low- and mid-range torque plays a bigger role. However, when it comes to outright performance and overall capability, the KTM Duke 390 stands out as the ultimate machine in the segment.
Components and Dimensions Comparison
| Bikes | Bajaj Pulsar NS 400Z | KTM Duke 390 |
| Chassis | Perimeter Frame | Split Trellis Frame |
| Front Suspension | 43mm USD forks | WP Apex 43mm USD Forks |
| Rear Suspension | 6-Step adjust Monoshock | Side-mounted 5-step Adjust Monoshock |
| Braking | 320/230mm Disc | 320/240mm Disc |
| Tyres | 110/70-17, 140/70-17 Tubeless | 110/70-17, 150/60-17 Tubeless |
| Wheels | Alloys | Alloys |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 L | 15 L |
| Kerb Weight | 174 Kg | 168.3 kg |
| Seat Height | 807mm | 800-820 mm |
Both motorcycles offer premium suspension and safety setups, but the KTM Duke 390 gets a larger fuel tank, making it a better choice for touring.
Technology and Features Comparison
| Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z | KTM Duke 390 |
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Bajaj and KTM offer several advanced technologies and value-focused features that are well-suited for everyday riding and daily usage.
Price and Verdict
| Bikes | Price (ex-showroom) |
| Bajaj Puslar NS400Z | 1.93 Lakh |
| KTM Duke 390 | 2.99 Lakh |
When comparing these two motorcycles, pricing plays a crucial role in the buying decision. The Pulsar NS400Z clearly stands out as the better value-for-money motorcycle, mainly due to its aggressive starting price of ₹1.93 lakh (ex-showroom). On the other hand, the KTM offers higher performance and a more premium, globally developed package.
For buyers on a tight budget who still want strong performance and modern features, the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is the best choice. However, for those willing to pay a premium for a globally benchmarked motorcycle with superior performance, the KTM Duke 390 remains the segment standard.
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