Bajaj Dominar 400 launched at Rs 1.36 lakh

The Dominar 400, Bajaj Auto’s big-bike project that has been in the pipeline since 2013 has finally completed with the motorcycle’s launch today. Bajaj has completely changed the pricing dynamics of the motorcycle market with the Dominar’s launch as the rear disc variant of the 373cc tourer is priced at Rs 1.36 lakh while the ABS variant is expensive by just Rs 14,000 at Rs 1.5 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Although we have not ridden the motorcycle yet, looking at the spec-sheet as well as the architecture, it is expected to be a relaxed tourer, unlike its sporty cousins from the KTM stable. The styling has been derived heavily from Ducati’s sports cruiser, the Diavel. Even the tell-tale light indicators are placed on the tank a la Diavel. The instrumentation is all digital now, with the tachometer, speedometer and fuel gauge on board. Auto headlamp feature is standard too, a first for this segment.

The perimeter frame houses the same 373cc engine which also powers the RC 390 and 390 Duke but is tuned in a slightly relaxed manner. The power output is rated at 34.5bhp with a healthy 35Nm of torque at a leisurely 8,500rpm. The same engine on the KTMs makes 44bhp with the same amount of torque but at 7,250rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox that comes with a slipper clutch. Bajaj has not mentioned the claimed 0-60kmph figures yet, but with a 0-100kmph timing of 8.23 seconds (claimed), we expect it to be quick. The top speed figure is great for a cruiser at 148kmph.

The Dominar 400 is going up against the likes of the biggies, such as the Royal Enfield Classic, KTM 200 Duke, Mahindra Mojo and even the Benelli TNT25. The Mahindra Mojo is the closest competitor to the Dominar 400 and has carved a niche for itself in the sports tourer market already, but has not garnered sales yet. As Rajiv Bajaj mentioned at the launch event, the Dominar 400 is capable of riding to Ladakh with an operating altitude of 0-18,380 feet, summing up the target audience for the big-Bajaj.

Interestingly, the bookings will be accepted online only and the test rides are expected to begin from tomorrow, starting in 22 cities across the country. With such a great package, we expect the motorcycle market scenario to change for the better, from here.