The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is the new benchmark for value for money. How else can one explain the features and performance you get for Rs 1.85 lakh, ex-showroom? In fact, at this price, it undercuts what was previously the best VFM, 400cc-segment motorcycle, the Hero Mavrick 440. Here is how the two stack up against each other on paper.
Design
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is a good-looking motorcycle and looks far better than what the images suggest. Sure, the design bears resemblance to the over-a-decade-old Pulsar NS200, and enthusiasts were unhappy about it, but, in the flesh, the bike looks different. That’s evident in the new LED headlight cluster and the flared tank extensions that overlap with the carbon finish radiator shroud. Even the sharp-looking tail section of the bike pays homage to the NS200 whilst looking distinct. On the whole, the NS400Z looks like a proper streetfighter with the right mix of aggression thrown in.
The Mavrick 440 is based on the Harley-Davidson X440, however, the Hero bears unique design elements to set it apart from the Harley. The round headlight, the muscular fuel tank, and the relatively slim tail section are neatly executed, giving the bike a modern-retro look. It is quite in contrast with the more youthful design of the Pulsar NS400Z. Ultimately, choosing between the two bikes based on design is going to be a matter of personal preference.
Features
Both motorcycles are decently equipped when it comes to features. They’ve got all LED lights, LCDs with Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. The Bajaj one-ups the Hero, however, by offering a colour LCD as opposed to the Mavrick’s negative LCD. They get dual-channel ABS as well but beyond this point the Bajaj is the one that offers a longer features list.
The NS400Z gets switchable traction control and four ride modes- Road, Rain, Sport and Off-road. The power delivery and ABS intervention changes with each mode. The Bajaj beats the Hero when it comes to the length of their features list.
Engine
The engines in the Pulsar NS400Z and the Mavrick 440 are as different as chalk and cheese. The Pulsar has a 373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 39.5bhp at 8,800rpm and 35Nm at 6,500rpm. In contrast, the Mavrick’s 440cc, air and oil-cooled single makes 27bhp at 6,000rpm and 36Nm at 4,000rpm only.
It is clear on paper that the Pulsar has the sportier, higher revving engine, befitting its sportsbike character. The Mavrick 440s’ engine is all about a wide spread of torque and high-gear low-speed riding where fewer gearshifts are required to keep up the momentum, say while riding in the city. That said, it has a decent top end as well, however, the Pulsar NS400Z’s engine is capable of taking the bike to a higher top speed of 154kmph.
Hardware
The NS400Z has a perimeter frame that is suspended by a 43mm USD fork and a gas-charged, preload adjustable monoshock. The Hero employs a trellis frame, with a conventional, telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers at the rear.
Both bikes have a 320mm disc at the front. As for the wheelbase, the Mavrick’s is longer by 40mm which should translate to good stability, especially mid-corner. The Pulsar, on the other hand should feel more flickable during quick direction changes.
Also, the Pulsar is much lighter at 174kg versus the Mavrick’s 191kg, which will make it much easier to handle.
Price
The Pulsar NS400Z ‘s price at Rs 1.85 lakh is introductory and likely to go up over some time. The Hero Maverick 440’s price starts at Rs 1.99 lakh and goes up to Rs 2.24 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. For the amount of features and the engine performance of the NS400Z, it offers immense value. However, the Mavrick 440 will appeal to those who want a more laid back riding experience and a bike that doesn’t look as bold and aggressive as the Pulsar.