In the world of motorcycles, very few bikes manage to strike the perfect balance between performance, style, touring capabilities, and affordability. The Bajaj Dominar 400 is one such machine. When it was first launched, it created a new segment in India – the power cruiser. Designed to challenge norms and offer a thrilling ride experience, the Dominar 400 has evolved significantly over the years and remains one of the most value-packed offerings in the 400cc segment.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of Bajaj Dominar 400
The Bajaj Dominar 400 was launched with the intention of offering a premium motorcycle that caters to touring enthusiasts, performance seekers, and city riders alike. With its muscular stance, LED lighting, powerful engine, and tech-rich features, the Dominar created a strong impression from day one.
Originally introduced in 2016, the bike has received multiple updates over the years, including power enhancements, improved suspension, and better touring accessories – making it more refined and practical.
2. Engine and Performance
The heart of the Dominar 400 is a 373.3cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. This is the same engine that powers the KTM Duke 390, although it’s been tuned differently to suit the Dominar’s power cruiser character.
- Max Power: 40 PS @ 8,800 rpm
- Max Torque: 35 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
- Top Speed: ~155 km/h
- 0-100 km/h Acceleration: Around 7.1 seconds
The engine offers a meaty mid-range and top-end performance, ideal for both spirited rides and long highway cruising. The slipper clutch makes downshifts smoother, and the fuel injection system ensures crisp throttle response.
3. Ride and Handling
The Dominar 400 may look bulky, but it is surprisingly nimble. Thanks to its beam-type perimeter frame, the bike feels planted at high speeds and stable through corners.
- Front Suspension: 43mm USD (upside-down) forks
- Rear Suspension: Multi-step adjustable monoshock
- Front Brake: 320 mm disc with dual-channel ABS
- Rear Brake: 230 mm disc with dual-channel ABS
The dual-channel ABS is standard, ensuring safety under hard braking. The suspension setup absorbs most road undulations with ease and offers a plush ride, especially on long tours.
4. Design and Aesthetics
The Dominar 400 is often described as muscular, aggressive, and futuristic. The design cues are inspired by big cruisers, but it carries a modern flair.
Design Highlights:
- Full LED headlamp with auto headlamp on (AHO)
- Aggressive tank shrouds and sculpted fuel tank
- Split reverse LCD instrument cluster (one on tank, one on handlebar)
- LED turn signals and tail lamp
- Stylish diamond-cut alloy wheels
With a low-slung stance and upright riding posture, the bike commands attention on the road and offers comfort for both rider and pillion.
5. Touring Capabilities
One of the strongest selling points of the Dominar 400 is its touring ability. Riders across India have clocked thousands of kilometers on this bike, from Ladakh to Kanyakumari.
Touring-Friendly Features:
- Wide and cushioned seat – Comfort for long hours
- Relaxed riding ergonomics – Upright handlebar, rear-set footpegs
- Sturdy build – Good for carrying luggage
- LED lighting – Better night visibility
- Large 13-liter fuel tank – Offers 300+ km range
- Bajaj Touring Kit (optional): Windscreen, handguards, backrest, saddle stay, etc.
The Dominar also performs well on highways, offering good wind protection (with accessories) and minimal engine stress at cruising speeds of 100–120 km/h.
6. Features and Technology
While not overloaded with electronics like some premium rivals, the Bajaj Dominar 400 offers all essential modern features:
- Dual-channel ABS
- Full LED lighting system
- Slipper clutch
- Digital speedometer + gear position indicator
- Engine kill switch
- Backlit switchgear
- Side-stand engine cut-off
- Reverse LCD secondary console on tank
While it doesn’t get riding modes or traction control, it delivers a refined mechanical experience that appeals to purists.
7. Mileage and Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency has always been a talking point for Indian buyers. The Dominar strikes a decent balance between power and efficiency.
- City Mileage: ~25–28 km/l
- Highway Mileage: ~30–35 km/l
- Combined Average: ~30 km/l
With a 13-liter fuel tank, it can comfortably deliver a range of 350–400 km on a full tank, making it well-suited for weekend getaways and longer expeditions.
8. Pricing and Variants
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is currently available in a single variant.
- Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi): ₹2.30 lakh (approx.)
- On-Road Price: ₹2.60–2.75 lakh (varies by city)
This price includes premium components like USD forks, LED lighting, powerful engine, dual-channel ABS, and stylish design – making it a value-for-money powerhouse in the 400cc segment.
9. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful 373cc engine
- Touring-friendly ergonomics
- Stylish and premium design
- Dual-channel ABS and slipper clutch
- LED headlamp and tail lamp
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Slightly heavy (~193 kg kerb weight)
- No TFT display or ride modes
- Limited color options
- Vibration at higher RPMs (older models)
10. Bajaj Dominar 400 vs Rivals: How It Stacks Up
Let’s break down how the Bajaj Dominar 400 compares with other popular motorcycles in India’s 350cc–450cc segment:
Bajaj Dominar 400
- Engine: 373cc
- Power: 40 PS
- Price (Ex-Showroom): ₹2.30 lakh
- USP: Power cruiser with great value for money. Known for its touring capability and muscular styling.
KTM Duke 390
- Engine: 373cc
- Power: 43.5 PS
- Price (Ex-Showroom): ₹3.10 lakh
- USP: Lightweight, aggressive styling, and packed with tech like TFT display, ride-by-wire, and Quickshifter+.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
- Engine: 450cc
- Power: 40 PS
- Price (Ex-Showroom): ₹2.95 lakh
- USP: True-blue adventure bike designed for off-roading and long-distance touring. Features new liquid-cooled engine and Tripper navigation.
Royal Enfield Classic 350
- Engine: 349cc
- Power: 20.2 PS
- Price (Ex-Showroom): ₹1.95 lakh
- USP: Timeless retro design with modern mechanicals. Best for relaxed, comfortable city or highway cruising.
Yezdi Roadster
USP: A classic-looking cruiser with modern appeal. Great for city and highway rides with a slightly rugged edge.
Engine: 334cc
Power: 29.7 PS
Price (Ex-Showroom): ₹2.09 lakh
11. User Reviews and Feedback
Riders have praised the Dominar 400 for:
- Excellent highway performance
- Confident handling and braking
- Comfortable seating for long rides
- Reliable build quality
However, some users reported slight heating issues in traffic and vibrations at high RPMs, which were improved in later updates.
12. Verdict – Who Should Buy Dominar 400?
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is not just a bike – it’s a lifestyle companion. Whether you are:
- A weekend tourer
- A highway rider
- A college student who wants a powerful, head-turning bike
- A daily commuter who values performance
- A beginner in long-distance motorcycle travel
The Dominar ticks all boxes. With aggressive pricing, loaded features, a muscular design, and proven reliability, it’s one of the best all-rounders under ₹3 lakh in India today.
13. Final Thoughts
In a country obsessed with mileage, the Bajaj Dominar 400 brought performance and touring into focus – and succeeded. It’s a motorcycle that has grown maturely with each iteration and now stands tall among rivals.
If you’re planning to buy a powerful, stylish, and practical bike that can take on city traffic, highway curves, and mountain passes with equal grace, the Dominar 400 deserves to be on your shortlist.
