The Bajaj Dominar 400 has long held its position as the flagship offering in Bajaj’s motorcycle portfolio. First launched in 2016, the Dominar aimed to democratize performance biking in India. It promised a powerful, feature-loaded cruiser at a price that made the ‘big-bike’ feel accessible to the masses.
Over the years, the Dominar 400 received incremental upgrades, including more power, improved touring accessories, and enhanced overall refinement. However, with the two-wheeler market evolving rapidly and competition intensifying in 2025, one must wonder: Is the Dominar 400 still a wise purchase today?
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A Budget-Friendly Power Cruiser
When Bajaj introduced the Dominar 400 back in 2016, it created quite a stir. The motorcycle sported an aggressive, muscular design, an eye-catching LED headlamp, and a potent 373cc liquid-cooled engine, derived from the KTM 390 series. Priced aggressively at just ₹1.36 lakh (ex-showroom), the Dominar made high-speed touring accessible like never before.
It carved out a niche as a motorcycle capable of handling highway blasts, urban commuting, and occasional adventurous detours. Riders looking for an affordable alternative to premium 400cc motorcycles flocked to it. However, the motorcycle landscape in India has evolved dramatically since then, with newer models raising the bar in terms of specialization and performance.
Jack of All Trades, Master of None?
In 2025, the Dominar 400 competes in an extremely crowded and competitive 350cc-450cc motorcycle segment. Unlike earlier, where it stood relatively unchallenged, it now finds itself surrounded by highly specialized motorcycles, each excelling in their respective niches.
Here’s how the competition stacks up:
- Triumph Scrambler 400X:
If you’re seeking a versatile motorcycle for a mix of city riding, mild off-roading, and touring, the Triumph Scrambler 400X is a fantastic choice. It pairs retro charm with real-world ruggedness, offering plush suspension and commendable ride comfort, ideal for rough Indian roads and long-distance journeys. - KTM Duke 390:
For adrenaline junkies who prioritize raw performance and razor-sharp handling, the KTM Duke 390 is the obvious pick. Now in its third generation, it boasts a new chassis and engine, making it lighter, more powerful, and more aggressive than ever. If weekend rides on twisty roads excite you, the Duke 390 is unmatched. - Royal Enfield Himalayan 450:
When it comes to hardcore touring and adventure riding under ₹3 lakh, the Himalayan 450 takes the crown. With ample ground clearance, a fantastic long-travel suspension setup, and an adventure-focused design, it’s a true go-anywhere machine, offering capabilities the Dominar cannot replicate. - Harley-Davidson X440:
For riders who prefer relaxed cruising, the Harley-Davidson X440 is a compelling choice. This neo-retro cruiser offers torquey performance, refined street manners, and a distinct exhaust note that’s signature Harley. It makes for a perfect daily companion for those wanting style, comfort, and road presence.
The Bajaj Dominar 400, unfortunately, tries to straddle all these segments—sporty, touring, city riding—but ends up being slightly outshined by each specialized rival in their strong areas.
Where the Dominar 400 Still Shines
Despite the intense competition, the Dominar 400 remains a highly capable machine for the right rider. Its strengths include:
- High-speed stability: Thanks to its weight and relaxed geometry, the Dominar feels very planted on highways.
- Value for money: Even in 2025, it offers features like upside-down forks, a full-LED lighting setup, dual-channel ABS, and now smartphone connectivity and ride modes at a very competitive price point.
- Touring capabilities: Equipped with touring-friendly accessories like a tall windscreen, backrests, and carrier mounts, the Dominar is ready for long rides straight from the showroom floor.
- Engine performance: Though not as sharp as the Duke 390, the 373cc engine still delivers strong mid-range punch, ideal for comfortable cruising at triple-digit speeds.
Drawbacks to Consider
However, the Dominar isn’t without its flaws:
- Heavy weight: Weighing close to 190 kg (kerb), it feels cumbersome in slow-moving traffic and tight urban spaces.
- Not the best in corners: Enthusiastic corner carving isn’t its forte, unlike lighter, sportier rivals.
- Average off-road ability: Although capable of tackling occasional rough patches, it’s no match for true ADV bikes like the Himalayan 450.
- Aging design: Despite small cosmetic tweaks, the design is beginning to show its age compared to newer, sharper competitors.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Dominar 400 in 2025?
The Bajaj Dominar 400 remains a fantastic choice for riders who want a powerful, feature-loaded, and affordable touring motorcycle. It strikes a solid balance between city use and highway prowess without leaning too heavily in either direction.
However, if you’re very clear about your priorities—be it performance, adventure riding, or pure comfort—you might find more satisfying options among its specialized rivals.
If you’re someone who values a versatile all-rounder at a competitive price, and don’t mind its few compromises, the updated Dominar 400 still makes for a very smart buy in 2025.
FAQs: Bajaj Dominar 400 (2025 Model)
Q1. What’s new in the 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400?
The 2025 Dominar 400 comes with an updated instrument console featuring smartphone connectivity, revised switchgear, and reportedly multiple ride modes, similar to the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z.
Q2. Is the Bajaj Dominar 400 good for touring?
Yes, the Dominar 400 is built with touring in mind. It offers a comfortable seating posture, wind protection, strong mid-range performance, and stable high-speed cruising capabilities.
Q3. How does the Dominar 400 compare to the KTM Duke 390?
While both share similar engine roots, the KTM Duke 390 is lighter, faster, and sportier, making it better for aggressive riders. The Dominar 400, in contrast, focuses on relaxed touring and everyday usability.
Q4. What is the expected mileage of the Bajaj Dominar 400?
In real-world conditions, the Dominar 400 delivers a mileage of around 26-30 km/l, depending on riding style and road conditions.
Q5. Is the Bajaj Dominar 400 heavy for city riding?
Yes, its 190+ kg kerb weight can make it feel heavy and slightly unwieldy during stop-and-go city traffic, especially for newer riders.
