Bajaj Dominar 400 Review: Everyday Cruiser for Indian Roads

The Bajaj Dominar 400 has carved a niche for itself as a 400cc sport-tourer that is equally adept at daily commuting and long-distance cruising. Blending muscle-bike aesthetics with touring capabilities, it appeals to riders who want performance without the high maintenance of premium big bikes.

Engine & Performance

At its heart lies a 373.3 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine producing 40 PS at 8,800 rpm and 35 Nm torque at 6,500 rpm, per the official Bajaj specs. The power delivery is linear, making the Dominar flexible for city rides as well as highway runs. A 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch helps in smooth downshifts, while the high torque band reduces the need for frequent gear changes. Experienced owners note some vibration at higher RPMs, but praise its stability and punch on long rides.

Chassis & Handling

Built on a twin-spar perimeter frame, the Dominar 400 is both rigid and balanced. It uses 43 mm USD front forks and a multi-step adjustable Nitrox monoshock at the rear, which absorb road imperfections well. Thanks to its 193 kg kerb weight, the bike feels planted at speed, though maneuvering at slow city pace requires effort. The suspension setup provides a mix of comfort and composure, especially for highway cruising.

Technology & Features

Bajaj has packed the Dominar 400 with a range of modern features. It has four ride modes (Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road) to tailor throttle response and ABS behavior. The bike also gets traction control, dual-channel ABS, and a split reverse-LCD instrument cluster that shows gear position and other trip info. All lighting is LED, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators. For touring, Bajaj offers factory-fitted accessories: a tall visor, hand guards, saddle stay, a carrier with back rest, and USB charging port.

Practicality & Fuel Efficiency

With a 13-litre fuel tank and claimed real-world mileage around 27–30 km/l, the Dominar provides a decent touring range — roughly 300+ km per tank according to ownership reports. Its sturdy build, comfortable ergonomics, and luggage mount options make it reliable for both daily errands and long rides. Maintenance costs are relatively low for a 400cc-class bike, and service coverage is strong thanks to Bajaj’s wide network.

Conclusion

The Bajaj Dominar 400 stands out as a rare 400cc motorcycle that truly bridges the gap between performance and practicality. Its powerful yet manageable engine, touring-friendly ergonomics, and modern safety features make it ideal for riders looking for a daily commuter that doesn’t shy away from highway adventures. While its weight and some vibration may not make it the most nimble city bike, its stability and value for money earn it a strong place for those who ride often and ride far. In short, the Dominar 400 remains one of the most compelling options for an “everyday cruiser” in its segment.