Motorcycling in India has changed dramatically in the past decade. From being a market dominated by commuters, the Indian motorcycle industry has now evolved into one that embraces performance, touring, and lifestyle machines. Among the brands that have led this transformation, Bajaj Auto holds a strong place with its focus on delivering value-for-money motorcycles that still pack performance. One of their flagship offerings, the Bajaj Dominar 400, is a motorcycle designed for riders who want more than just a daily commuter.
Launched in December 2016, the Dominar 400 was introduced as a “power cruiser” — a blend of muscular styling, comfortable ergonomics, and strong engine performance. Over the years, it has carved out a loyal fan base, especially among riders who love long-distance touring.
But what makes the Bajaj Dominar 400 stand out in a crowded segment? Let’s explore its highlights and see why it has become a cult favorite.
Bajaj Dominar 400 Highlights
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 373.3cc, Single-cylinder, DOHC, Liquid-cooled, Fuel-injected |
| 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 | ~ 7.1 seconds |
| Suspension (Front) | 43mm USD Telescopic Forks |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-step adjustable Monoshock |
| Brakes | Front & Rear Disc with Dual-channel ABS |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 liters |
| Mileage | ~ 27-30 km/l (real world) |
| Kerb Weight | 193 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
| Price (Approx) | ₹2.3 – 2.5 Lakh (Ex-showroom, India) |
Design and Styling
One of the first things that strikes you about the Bajaj Dominar 400 is its bold and muscular stance. Inspired by the silhouette of a power cruiser, the bike has a wide fuel tank, aggressive LED headlamp, and a low-slung profile. The bike’s full-LED lighting setup was among the first in its segment, giving it a futuristic look.
The sculpted fuel tank with extended shrouds adds to its bulk, while the split seat design gives both rider and pillion comfort. Alloy wheels with a unique design further complement its modern appeal. Unlike sports bikes that scream aggression, the Dominar 400 balances brawn with touring elegance, making it appealing to riders who want road presence without compromising on comfort.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Dominar 400 lies a 373.3cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine. Derived from KTM’s 390 Duke platform but tuned differently, the engine produces 40 PS of power and 35 Nm of torque. Bajaj has engineered the Dominar’s motor to focus on mid-range torque delivery, making it ideal for overtaking and cruising at highway speeds.
Mated to a 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch, gear shifts are smooth, and engine braking feels controlled. The Dominar 400 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just over 7 seconds, and it continues to pull strongly till its top speed of around 155 km/h.
What sets the Dominar apart is not just outright performance but its ability to cruise comfortably at 100-120 km/h all day long without stressing the engine — a huge advantage for touring riders.
Ride and Handling
The Dominar 400 sits on a perimeter frame chassis with 43mm USD forks at the front and a multi-step adjustable monoshock at the rear. This suspension setup provides a balance between sporty handling and long-distance comfort.
Weighing in at around 193 kg, the bike feels planted and stable at high speeds. Cornering ability is respectable, though it leans more towards stability than razor-sharp agility. This makes sense, given its power cruiser DNA.
Braking duties are handled by 320mm front disc and 230mm rear disc brakes, assisted by dual-channel ABS. The bite is strong and confidence-inspiring, which is essential when riding on highways or in unpredictable urban traffic.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Touring motorcycles are judged heavily on comfort, and Bajaj has clearly kept this in mind. The 800 mm seat height makes the bike accessible to most riders, while the slightly rear-set footpegs and wide handlebars offer a relaxed yet commanding riding position.
The split seat is well-padded, ensuring comfort for both rider and pillion on long journeys. While the kerb weight of 193 kg may feel heavy for beginners in city traffic, the weight distribution ensures stability on highways.
Features and Technology
Bajaj has equipped the Dominar 400 with a range of modern features. The all-LED lighting system is not only stylish but also functional, offering excellent illumination for night rides.
The bike also comes with a digital instrument cluster, which includes information such as speed, RPM, trip meters, fuel consumption, and gear position indicator. In addition, a secondary display on the fuel tank provides basic readouts like time and trip details.
Another highlight is the slipper clutch, which makes aggressive downshifts smoother and reduces wheel hop — a feature usually seen in higher-end motorcycles.
Touring Capability
Where the Dominar 400 truly shines is in long-distance riding. Its comfortable ergonomics, torquey engine, and stable chassis make it a favorite among touring enthusiasts. Many riders have successfully taken their Dominar 400s to Ladakh, Spiti Valley, and even international road trips across Southeast Asia.
The bike also comes with optional touring accessories like a tall windscreen, saddle stays, engine bash plate, and hand guards — further cementing its touring credentials. With a 13-liter fuel tank and mileage of around 27-30 km/l, it offers a practical range of 300-350 km between refuels.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Muscular and attractive design
- Powerful 373cc engine with strong mid-range
- Comfortable ergonomics for long rides
- Dual-channel ABS with strong braking performance
- Touring-friendly features and accessories
- Value-for-money compared to rivals
Cons
- Heavy kerb weight in city conditions
- Fuel tank capacity could be bigger for touring
- Limited service network for premium motorcycles in some areas
- Vibration levels at higher RPMs (though improved in newer models)
Competitors in the Segment
The Dominar 400 competes with several motorcycles in the 300-500cc segment. Its key rivals include:
- KTM 390 Duke / Adventure – Sportier and more agile, but more expensive.
- Royal Enfield Himalayan / Scram 411 – Better for off-road touring, but slower on highways.
- Royal Enfield Classic 350 / Meteor 350 – More retro appeal, but less performance.
- Honda CB300R – Lightweight and premium, but costlier and less powerful.
In terms of price-to-performance ratio, the Dominar 400 is one of the most affordable ways to enter the 400cc performance segment.
Final Verdict
The Bajaj Dominar 400 is more than just a motorcycle — it is a statement of intent. It shows how Indian manufacturers can create motorcycles that are not only affordable but also capable of competing globally. With its muscular looks, powerful engine, and comfortable touring capabilities, the Dominar 400 offers a well-rounded package for riders who want one bike that can handle city commutes, highway cruising, and even long-distance adventures.
If you are looking for a motorcycle that balances performance, practicality, and value, the Bajaj Dominar 400 deserves serious consideration. It is not perfect, but for its price, it offers one of the most complete motorcycling experiences in India’s mid-capacity segment.
