The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, with its amazing price tag of ₹ 1.85 lakh, has redefined the term value for money, or VFM. Amazingly, a nearly 400cc, 40bhp motorcycle can still be purchased for this much in 2024, especially considering the KTM 390 Duke was introduced more than ten years ago for just ₹ 1.8 lakh.
This is where the NS400Z’s use of an existing components bin and economies of scale have been beneficial. The NS400Z is well-equipped. Its 373cc liquid-cooled engine produces 35Nm and 40bhp. Traction control, four ride modes, and a computerized instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity are some of its features. These are some substitutes for the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z that you may consider.
YAMAHA R15
One of the most popular bikes in India is the Yamaha R15, which enjoys a sizable fan base. Given its appearance, the engine’s performance, and the amenities it comes with, it’s easy to understand why. The engine is our favorite because of its VVA technology, refinement, and ability to run at high revs all day without exhibiting any signs of fatigue.
The bike’s chassis is also the best in the business when it comes to responsiveness, agility, and providing enough forgiveness for novice riders to advance in their riding abilities. The sturdy construction and Yamaha’s standing as a company that offers a hassle-free ownership experience are the icing on the cake.
However, some people may find the R15’s highly committed riding position uncomfortable. Furthermore, the pillion seat needs to be cozy enough for lengthy rides.
| ENGINE | 155 cc |
| POWER | 18.1 bhp @10000 rpm |
| TORQUE | 14.2 Nm @7500 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | 6 Speed Manual |
| TOP SPEED | 136 kmph |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 11L |
| PRICE (IN RS.) | 1,93,384/- |
KTM 200 DUKE
For those looking for a cheap, fun, and exciting street-naked ride, the KTM 200 Duke is the bike for them. Because of its short gearing, its 199.5cc, 24.67bhp engine is renowned for its powerful acceleration. Overall, it’s quite the pocket rocket, with the chassis more than able to match the engine’s capability. However, after being around for a while, it needs the NS400Z’s level of equipment. Still, it’s the starting point for anybody who wants to purchase a KTM in India.
| ENGINE | 199.5 cc |
| POWER | 24.67bhp @10000 rpm |
| TORQUE | 19.3Nm @8000 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | 6 Speed Manual |
| TOP SPEED | 142 kmph |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 13.4L |
| PRICE (IN RS.) | 2,29,138/- |
SUZUKI GIXXER 250
The other adorable Japanese motorcycle on this list is the Gixxer 250. Its 249cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine is its main attraction. It boasts a good high-end, a powerful midrange, and is tractable. The engine’s levels of finesse across the rpm range are even more charming. It is also among the easiest motorcycles to ride because of how well it handles and rides.
The bike’s high price is the problem, though, and Suzuki is powerless to address it given the strict quality standards it must meet—this is the same specification that is also exported.
| ENGINE | 249 cc |
| POWER | 26.13 bhp @9300 rpm |
| TORQUE | 22.2 Nm @7300 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | 6 Speed Manual |
| TOP SPEED | 130 kmph |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 12L |
| PRICE (IN RS.) | 2,09,173/- |
HERO KARIZMA XMR
Last year, Hero brought back the renowned “Karizma” name and, with it, great hopes for the motorcycle. The Karizma XMR has a nice appearance, and its striking hues give it more visibility on the road. Aside from its sleek appearance, the bike’s chassis is excellent. One of the bike’s greatest advantages is the superb balance it provides between handling and riding. The engine is a mixed bag. Although the engine has good power and torque, to fully utilize its capabilities, it must be revived to the top of the range. Additionally, when you are canning it, the engine doesn’t have the happiest sound.
Nevertheless, the trip is enjoyable overall. Since the Karizma XMR is positioned as a premium motorbike, we wish Hero had given the bike more thought to its quality and finish.
| ENGINE | 210 cc |
| POWER | 25.15 bhp @9250 rpm |
| TORQUE | 20.4 Nm @7250 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | 6 Speed Manual |
| TOP SPEED | 130 kmph |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 11L |
| PRICE (IN RS.) | 2,09,678/- |
HERO MAVRICK 440
Hero’s main product, the Mavrick 440, is similar to the flagship Pulsar NS400Z. Its maker developed it concurrently with the Harley-Davidson X440. The flagship Hero has a much more relaxed rider triangle and a much calmer engine tuning than the Pulsar NS400Z. The Hero Mavrick 440 is a cruiser at best, with a roadster-like design. It can be had with all the bells and whistles, but that will cost you ₹2,40,168/- lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
| ENGINE | 440 cc |
| POWER | 27 bhp @ 6000 rpm |
| TORQUE | 36 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| TRANSMISSION | 6 Speed Manual |
| TOP SPEED | – |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 13.5L |
| PRICE (IN RS.) | 2,40,168/- |
