The iconic Bajaj Dominar 400 has just received its 2025 update, and the motorcycle community is buzzing! Known for its “Born to Sprint, Built to Tour” mantra, the Dominar 400 has always offered a compelling package of power, features, and value. But with fresh updates and fierce competition, the big question is: Should you buy the newly launched 2025 Dominar 400, or are there better alternatives for your hard-earned money?
Let’s break down the recent changes, compare it with its key rivals, and help you make an informed decision.
The New & Improved 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400: What’s Fresh?
Bajaj has focused on enhancing the Dominar 400’s touring prowess and bringing its tech up to date with the latest market trends.
Key Updates:
- Bonded Glass Colour LCD Speedometer: This is the most significant visual and functional upgrade. Borrowed from the Pulsar NS400Z, this new display replaces the older dual-screen setup. It offers superior visibility, reduced glare, and a modern aesthetic.
- Smartphone Connectivity: Get turn-by-turn navigation directly on the screen, along with call and SMS alerts.
- Ride-by-Wire Technology: A major leap forward! This electronic throttle system provides more precise and refined throttle response.
- Four Selectable Riding Modes: Thanks to Ride-by-Wire, you now get:
- Road Mode: Balanced for everyday riding.
- Rain Mode: Softer throttle response and increased ABS intervention for slippery conditions.
- Sport Mode: Sharper throttle and reduced rider aids for spirited riding.
- Off-Road Mode: Likely with more relaxed ABS and TCS intervention for mild off-roading.
- Traction Control System (TCS): A crucial safety addition, especially with the Dominar’s power. It can be switched off in Sport and Off-Road modes for experienced riders.
- Redesigned Handlebar: Ergonomically revised for improved comfort during long-distance rides.
- Integrated GPS Mount: A smart addition to the rear carrier, making it easier to mount your navigation device or smartphone.
- Updated Switchgear: New, more intuitive controls for easy navigation through the display menus and features.
- Factory-Fitted Touring Accessories: While specific details might vary, the intent is to offer a more “tour-ready” package straight from the showroom.
- OBD-2B Compliant Engine: The 373.3cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine is now fully compliant with the latest emission norms. Power and torque figures (40 PS and 35 Nm) remain consistent.
- Canyon Red Colour Reintroduced: A popular shade makes a comeback.
Price: The 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400 is priced at ₹2,38,682 (ex-showroom, Delhi), a modest increase of about ₹6,000 over the outgoing model.
2025 Bajaj Dominar 400: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Feature-Packed: Ride-by-Wire, multiple riding modes, traction control, and connected LCD display are big upgrades.
- Comfortable Touring Ergonomics: The redesigned handlebar and inherent Dominar comfort make it excellent for long rides.
- Proven Engine: The 373.3cc engine is a workhorse, offering ample power and torque for highway cruising.
- Strong Value Proposition: Even with the price hike, it offers a lot of motorcycle for the money, especially with the new tech.
- Refined Riding Experience: Ride-by-Wire contributes to smoother power delivery.
- Factory-fitted touring bits: Ready to hit the highways.
Cons:
- Design Unchanged: While it’s a distinctive design, some might have hoped for a visual refresh.
- Weight: At 193 kg (kerb), it’s on the heavier side compared to some rivals, which can affect agility in city traffic.
- Vibrations: While Bajaj has worked on refinement, some Dominar owners still report minor vibrations at higher RPMs.
- Mileage: While decent for its segment, it’s not a mileage champion.
USP: The 2025 Dominar 400’s unique selling proposition lies in its blend of powerful performance and comprehensive touring-focused features at a highly competitive price point, now further enhanced with advanced electronics like Ride-by-Wire and Traction Control. It’s designed to be a comfortable, long-distance mile-muncher without breaking the bank.
Competition Check: Should You Look Elsewhere?
The 300-400cc segment is bustling with diverse motorcycles. Let’s see how the 2025 Dominar 400 stacks up against some of its key competitors:
1. KTM 390 Duke (The Street Scrapper)
Price: Approx. ₹2,97,000 (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
Variants: Single variant.
Mileage (Claimed): ~28.9 kmpl
Key Specs:
- Engine: 398.63cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 46 PS @ 8500 rpm (Significantly higher than Dominar)
- Max Torque: 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm
- Weight: 168.3 kg (Much lighter than Dominar)
- Features: Ride-by-Wire, Cornering ABS, Traction Control, Quickshifter+, Launch Control, 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable suspension.
Pros:
- Explosive Performance: The undisputed king of acceleration in this segment.
- Razor-Sharp Handling: Lightweight and agile, excellent for carving corners.
- Feature-Loaded: Offers premium features like Quickshifter+, cornering ABS, and fully adjustable suspension.
- Aggressive Styling: “Ready to Race” DNA.
Cons:
- Higher Price: Commands a significant premium over the Dominar.
- Stiffer Ride: Suspension is set up for sportiness, which can be harsh on bad roads.
- Less Touring-Focused: While capable, it’s less comfortable for long tours compared to Dominar due to aggressive ergonomics.
- Heat Management: Known to run hot in city traffic.
Who should buy it? If raw performance, track days, and aggressive street riding are your priority, and you don’t mind paying the premium, the 390 Duke is the default choice.
2. Royal Enfield Classic 350 (The Retro Icon)
Price: Approx. ₹1,95,000 – ₹2,33,000 (Ex-showroom, Delhi, depending on variant)
Variants: Multiple (Halcyon, Signals, Dark, Chrome)
Mileage (Claimed): ~41.55 kmpl (Excellent)
Key Specs:
- Engine: 349.34cc, air-oil cooled, single-cylinder, J-series
- Max Power: 20.21 PS @ 6100 rpm (Lower than Dominar)
- Max Torque: 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm (Good low-end torque)
- Weight: 195 kg (Similar to Dominar)
- Features: Tripper navigation (on some variants), analogue-digital instrument cluster, single/dual-channel ABS.
Pros:
- Classic Styling: Unmistakable retro appeal that never goes out of style.
- Refined & Torquey Engine: The J-series engine is smooth and offers strong low-end grunt for relaxed city riding and highway cruising.
- Comfortable Ride: Plush suspension and relaxed ergonomics make it great for long distances and bad roads.
- High Resale Value & Brand Image: Royal Enfield enjoys a loyal following.
- Superior Mileage: Significantly better fuel efficiency.
Cons:
- Lower Power Output: Falls short on outright power compared to the Dominar, especially on highways.
- Fewer Modern Features: Lacks advanced electronics like ride modes, traction control, and a full digital display.
- Vibrations: While improved, still present at higher speeds.
- Traditional Feel: Not for those seeking cutting-edge technology or aggressive performance.
Who should buy it? If you prioritize classic looks, relaxed cruising, robust build, and excellent mileage over outright performance and modern tech, the Classic 350 is a strong contender.
3. Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 (The Sporty Tourer)
Price: Approx. ₹2,09,054 (Ex-showroom, Delhi)
Variants: Standard, Special Edition, Flex Fuel
Mileage (Claimed): ~35 kmpl
Key Specs:
- Engine: 249cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder
- Max Power: 26.13 bhp @ 9300 rpm (Lower than Dominar)
- Max Torque: 22.2 Nm @ 7300 rpm
- Weight: 161 kg (Lighter than Dominar)
- Features: Full-fairing design, digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity (on some variants), dual-channel ABS.
Pros:
- Slick and Refined Engine: Suzuki’s 250cc engine is known for its smooth power delivery and refinement.
- Sporty yet Comfortable Ergonomics: Offers a good balance between a sporty riding posture and touring comfort due to its clip-on handlebars and fairing.
- Good Mileage: Decent fuel efficiency for a quarter-litre sports tourer.
- Excellent Build Quality: Suzuki’s reputation for fit and finish.
Cons:
- Lower Power: Compared to the Dominar 400, it feels less powerful for highway overtakes and high-speed cruising.
- Lacks Advanced Electronics: No ride-by-wire, ride modes, or traction control.
- Pricing: While cheaper than Dominar 400, it’s a 250cc, so some might find it a bit pricey for the segment.
Who should buy it? If you prefer a full-faired motorcycle with sporty aesthetics, a refined engine, good mileage, and a comfortable riding posture for occasional touring, the Gixxer SF 250 is a great choice.
Compariosn based on their latest known specifications:
| Feature | Bajaj Dominar 400 | KTM 390 Duke | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 |
| Bike Type | Sports Tourer | Naked Sport / Streetfighter | Cruiser / Retro Classic | Fully Faired Sport |
| Engine Capacity | 373.3 cc | 398.63 cc | 349.34 cc | 249 cc |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, Liquid Cooled, Triple Spark, FI | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI | 4 Stroke, Air-Oil Cooled Engine, Single Cylinder | 4-Cycle, 1-Cylinder, Oil Cooled |
| Max Power | 40 PS @ 8800 rpm (approx. 39.42 bhp) | 46 PS @ 8500 rpm (approx. 45.3 bhp) | 20.21 PS @ 6100 rpm (approx. 20.7 bhp) | 27.9 PS @ 9300 rpm (approx. 27.5 bhp) |
| Max Torque | 35 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm | 22.5 Nm @ 7500 rpm (approx. 22.2 Nm) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed Manual | 6-speed Manual | 5-speed Manual | 6-speed Manual |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 27 kmpl – 30 kmpl | 28.9 kmpl – 30 kmpl | 35 kmpl – 41.55 kmpl | 35 kmpl – 38 kmpl |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 L | 15 L | 13 L | 12 L |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, 43 mm USD Fork | WP APEX USD forks, 43mm (Adjustable) | Telescopic, 41 mm Forks | Telescopic |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-step adjustable Mono shock with Nitrox | Adjustable WP APEX Monoshock | Twin Tube Emulsion Shock Absorbers | Monoshock |
| Front Brake | Disc (320 mm) | Disc (320 mm) | Disc (300 mm) | Disc |
| Rear Brake | Disc (230 mm) | Disc (240 mm) | Disc (270 mm on some variants) / Drum | Disc |
| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel (with Supermoto ABS) | Single Channel / Dual Channel (variant dependent) | Dual Channel |
| Kerb Weight | 193 kg | 168.3 kg | 195 kg | 161 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm – 820 mm (variant dependent) | 805 mm | 800 mm |
| Approx. Ex-showroom Price (Delhi) | ₹ 2.33 Lakh – ₹ 2.39 Lakh | ₹ 2.95 Lakh – ₹ 2.97 Lakh | ₹ 1.95 Lakh – ₹ 2.33 Lakh | ₹ 2.07 Lakh – ₹ 2.17 Lakh |
Key Differences & Considerations:
- Performance: The KTM 390 Duke is the clear winner in terms of raw power and performance, followed closely by the Dominar 400. The Gixxer SF 250 offers sporty performance in its segment, while the Classic 350 prioritizes a relaxed, torquey ride.
- Riding Style:
- Dominar 400: Designed for comfortable touring with a slightly forward-leaning but upright posture.
- KTM 390 Duke: Aggressive, sporty riding posture, agile for city and track.
- Royal Enfield Classic 350: Upright, comfortable cruiser style, ideal for relaxed rides and city commuting.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: Sporty, committed riding posture, suitable for spirited riding and occasional touring.
- Features:
- The KTM 390 Duke is the most feature-rich with adjustable suspension, quickshifter, riding modes, and a comprehensive TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity.
- The Dominar 400 also offers good features like USD forks, slipper clutch, and a digital instrument cluster with turn-by-turn navigation on some variants.
- The Gixxer SF 250 comes with LED lighting and a digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity.
- The Classic 350 focuses on its classic appeal, with a more traditional analog-digital instrument cluster and basic features.
- Price: The Royal Enfield Classic 350 is generally the most affordable, while the KTM 390 Duke is at the higher end of this comparison.
- Target Audience:
- Dominar 400: Riders looking for a powerful and comfortable touring bike.
- KTM 390 Duke: Enthusiasts who prioritize performance, agility, and cutting-edge features.
- Royal Enfield Classic 350: Riders who appreciate classic aesthetics, a relaxed ride, and the Royal Enfield heritage.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: Riders looking for a sporty, fully-faired motorcycle with good performance for city and highway.
The Verdict: Is the 2025 Dominar 400 for You?
The 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400 has significantly upped its game. With the addition of Ride-by-Wire, multiple riding modes, traction control, and the new connected LCD display, it becomes an even more compelling package for its price.
- Buy the 2025 Dominar 400 if:
- You are looking for a powerful, feature-rich touring motorcycle that won’t break the bank.
- You prioritize comfort and stability for long highway rides.
- You appreciate modern electronic rider aids like ride modes and traction control.
- You want a motorcycle that offers great value for money in the 400cc segment.
- The updated digital display and connectivity are appealing to you.
- Look for something else if:
- Outright raw, aggressive performance and razor-sharp handling are your absolute top priorities (consider KTM 390 Duke).
- You prefer a classic, retro appeal and relaxed cruising with superior mileage (Royal Enfield Classic 350).
- You need a lighter, more agile machine for primarily city use or prefer a full-faired sporty look without needing peak power (Suzuki Gixxer SF 250).
- You’re on a very tight budget and every rupee counts (consider lower displacement bikes or used options).
[Image: Bajaj Dominar 400 on a highway with the “Born to Sprint, Built to Tour” tagline subtly incorporated]
Ultimately, the 2025 Dominar 400 solidifies its position as an unbeatable value proposition for sports-touring in India. It’s more refined, safer, and technologically advanced than ever before. For many riders seeking a capable, comfortable, and connected motorcycle for both daily commutes and epic road trips, the new Dominar 400 is a very strong contender. Take a test ride, compare it against your specific needs, and then make the call!
Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below! Which bike would you choose and why?
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