Bajaj Pulsar NS400 vs KTM Duke 390 : The Bajaj Pulsar NS400 has made the street biking scene very interesting in India, but can it hold its own against the more established KTM Duke 390? Both motorcycles have their share of power, looks, and features. So, if you are interested in a performance street bike under ₹3 lakh, this comparison will help differentiate which is more suited to your taste.
Design and Road Presence
The Pulsar NS400 is a design stronger than all that has gone before in all of the NS series, but sharper and much more aggressive. An all-LED lighting set, split seat, and sporty stance leave the pulsar NS400 obviously with a very strong road presence. The KTM Duke 390, on the other hand, with its sharp tank extensions, exposed frame, and aggressive headlamp design, is edgy and futuristic. The Duke 390 comes off as more premium and race-inspired, while the NS400 is, indeed, more muscular.
Engine and Performance
The engine on the Pulsar NS400 is a 373cc liquid-cooled engine, borrowed from the Dominar400, that makes around 40PS of power. It gives good mid-range performance and is highway cruiser friendly. The Duke 390, on the other hand, uses a newer 399cc engine that makes an exhilarating 44PS, giving it more power and performance focus. It tends to be on the lighter side of the two, which accounts for a faster 0-60 and a much more agile handling. If standing outright power and sporty ride appeal to you, the Duke390 takes the cake.
Features and Technology
Onboard features of the NS400 include a digital instrument cluster, multiple ride modes, dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch, and traction control, which is a first on the Pulsar line-up. The KTM Duke 390 brings one step ahead with a full-color TFT display, smartphone connectivity, quickshifter functionality, cornering ABS, and ride-by-wire throttle. From a tech perspective, the Duke 390 is evidently far more equipped.
Price and Value for Money
Expected to range ₹1.85 lakh – ₹2 lakh (ex-showroom), the Bajaj Pulsar NS400 becomes very flexible for prospective buyers balancing budget with power and style. The Duke 390 is much more expensive, priced at ₹3.11 lakh, but provides some advanced features along with better performance.
The Pulsar NS400 is the bike to go for if you are looking for something fun, fast, and packed with features at an affordable price; it is a good bargain. However, if it is super-refined performance, cornering, and high-end features you are after, the KTM Duke 390 wins in terms of value for serious riders.