The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z has long been known for offering the best value for money in the 40hp bike segment in India. The 2025 model has reinforced this principle, and here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals on paper.
In terms of engine and output, the Pulsar NS400Z outshines its peers. It has a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 43hp at 9,500rpm, making it the most powerful bike in its segment. The Triumph Speed T4, on the other hand, has a 398cc engine that produces 31hp at 7,000rpm, while the Hero Xtreme 250R has a 249cc engine that produces 30hp at 9,250rpm. The Pulsar NS400Z also has the best power-to-weight ratio, at 247.12hp per tonne, followed by the Xtreme 250R at 178.57hp per tonne and the Speed T4 at 172.22hp per tonne.
However, the Speed T4 has a more relaxed and torque-rich riding experience, with 36Nm of torque at 5,000rpm. The Pulsar NS400Z, on the other hand, has 35Nm of torque at 7,500rpm, and the Xtreme 250R has 25Nm of torque at 7,250rpm.
In terms of weight and dimensions, the Xtreme 250R is the lightest bike, with a kerb weight of 167.7kg, followed by the Pulsar NS400Z at 174kg and the Speed T4 at 180kg. The seat height of all three bikes is around 800mm, making them accessible to shorter riders.
The Pulsar NS400Z also outshines its rivals in terms of suspension, tyres, and brakes. It has a USD fork and monoshock suspension, along with 320mm disc brakes and 230mm disc brakes at the front and rear respectively. It also gets radial tyres and sintered brake pads, making it the best-equipped bike in its segment.
In terms of features, the Pulsar NS400Z is the most feature-rich, with four riding modes, a bidirectional quickshifter, and a colour LCD display. The Speed T4, on the other hand, has a neo-retro style that is a big plus point, while the Xtreme 250R lags behind in terms of features.
Finally, in terms of price, the Pulsar NS400Z is the most value-for-money proposition, with a price tag of Rs 1.92 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Speed T4 is priced at Rs 1.99 lakh – Rs 2.05 lakh, while the Xtreme 250R is the cheapest at Rs 1.80 lakh. However, the additional Rs 12,000 spent on the Pulsar NS400Z gives you a whole lot more in terms of features and performance.