Bajaj Auto is preparing a massive product offensive for the Indian market, with plans to launch eight new motorcycles by mid-2026. While the company has already refreshed models like the Pulsar 125 and Pulsar 150, the core focus of this expansion lies in the premium segment with the highly anticipated 2026 Bajaj Pulsar 350 and 2026 Bajaj Dominar 350.
These new 350cc entrants are strategically designed to navigate India’s revised taxation landscape while offering more “usable” performance for daily riding.
The Strategic Shift: Why a 350cc Platform?
The primary driver behind these upcoming launches is the GST 2.0 framework implemented in late 2025.
- Taxation Benefits: Motorcycles with engine capacities above 350cc now attract a steep 40% tax rate, whereas those at or below 350cc fall into a much lower 18% bracket.
- Reclaiming Affordability: By downsizing from the current 373cc engine found in the Dominar 400 and Pulsar NS400Z, Bajaj aims to significantly reduce retail prices and improve market competitiveness.
- Engine Re-engineering: The new 350cc motor is expected to be a derivative of the existing 373cc unit, likely utilizing a reduced bore size while retaining the original stroke.
2026 Bajaj Pulsar 350: What to Expect
The 2026 Pulsar 350 is expected to be a more accessible alternative to the flagship NS400Z.
- Performance: While the outright power will be lower than the 373cc version, it is expected to offer a friendlier power delivery suited for urban environments.
- Design and Features: The Pulsar 350 will likely carry forward the aggressive streetfighter styling of the NS series, potentially retaining the existing chassis and suspension setup to keep development costs low.
- Expected Price: Industry estimates suggest a starting price of approximately Rs 1.70 lakh (ex-showroom).
2026 Bajaj Dominar 350: Long-Overdue Updates
Unlike the Pulsar, the Dominar platform has remained largely unchanged for nearly a decade. The launch of the 2026 Dominar 350 serves as a catalyst for potential comprehensive upgrades.
- Electronics and Weight: There are expectations for Bajaj to equip the Dominar 350 with modern electronic rider aids and work on reducing the overall kerb weight to improve agility.
- Positioning: The bike will likely continue its role as a “Long Distance Sports Tourer,” but with a smoother and more accessible torque delivery.
- Expected Price: The Dominar 350 is anticipated to be priced around Rs 2 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a formidable rival to the Royal Enfield 350cc range.
Launch Timeline and Market Outlook
Bajaj is targeting a launch window of May 2026 for these 350cc models. This aggressive rollout of eight bikes is part of a broader strategy to regain market share in the 125cc-plus and premium segments, where competition from brands like Triumph and Royal Enfield has intensified.
| Model | Expected Launch | Expected Price (Ex-Showroom) |
| 2026 Bajaj Pulsar 350 | May 2026 | ~Rs 1.70 Lakh |
| 2026 Bajaj Dominar 350 | May 2026 | ~Rs 2.00 Lakh |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Bajaj launching 350cc versions of the Pulsar and Dominar? The shift is primarily due to GST norms where bikes above 350cc are taxed at 40%, while those 350cc and below attract only 18% GST. This allows Bajaj to price the bikes much more aggressively.
Will the 350cc engine be all-new? No, Bajaj is reportedly reworking the existing 373cc liquid-cooled engine by reducing the bore size to bring the displacement just under the 350cc threshold.
How many new Pulsar models are coming in 2026? Bajaj Executive Director Rakesh Sharma confirmed that eight new Pulsar models (including refreshes and new variants) are planned for launch by mid-2026.
What will be the price of the 2026 Dominar 350? The Dominar 350 is expected to be priced around Rs 2 lakh, significantly lower than the current Dominar 400 due to the reduced tax slab.
Will the performance of the Pulsar 350 be lower than the NS400Z? Yes, the outright power output will be lower, but the engine character is expected to be smoother and more usable for daily commuting.
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