Bajaj Dominar 350cc to be launched at Rs 1.99 Lakhs: Rs 40,000 Cheaper Than Dominar 400
Bajaj will soon launch the Dominar 400 with a 349cc engine to ensure buyers benefit from the lower 18% GST rate. Ahead of the new Dominar 400’s launch, dispatches to dealerships have commenced. This strategic move brings a highly capable touring machine to a far more accessible price bracket without sacrificing the hardware and equipment that made the original motorcycle popular.
Pricing and Massive GST Benefits
The most significant talking point of this new launch is the revised pricing structure. The current Dominar 400 model is quoted at a starting price of Rs 2.40 lakh (ex-showroom). In comparison, dealer sources indicate that the new 350cc version is priced at Rs 1,99,998 (ex-showroom).
This means buyers can save Rs 40,000, which translates to a highly significant 17% drop in the ex-showroom price. The primary reason for this major price correction is the Indian taxation structure. This price reduction is largely due to the lower 18% GST rate applicable on bikes under 350cc. In its current format, the older Dominar 400 utilizes a 373.3 cc engine. Due to this higher displacement, the applicable GST rate is much higher at 40%.
Engine Specifications and Real-World Performance
Despite the reduction in engine capacity, the manufacturer is retaining the motorcycle’s original identity. While a lower displacement engine has been used, there is no change in the name of Dominar 400, an approach that will help preserve the brand value and avoid any unnecessary confusion among potential buyers. Continuing with the same name is highly justifiable since the performance of the 350cc Dominar is largely the same as the current 373cc version.
To achieve this lower displacement, it is reported that the stroke length has been reduced from 60 mm to 56.1 mm. The bore stays the same as earlier at 89 mm. This engineering approach helps avoid making any complex and expensive tweaks to the engine.
While official specifications are yet to be fully announced, leaked info reveals approximately 39 PS and 33.2 Nm for the new 350cc Dominar. In comparison, the existing model generates 40 PS and 35 Nm of torque. As is evident from these numbers, the power output is largely the same as earlier. Even the slight drop in torque output is marginal and unlikely to have any major difference in performance in real-world conditions. Furthermore, even the exhaust note of the new 350cc Dominar is largely identical to that of the current model.
Premium Hardware and Features Retained
Motorcycle enthusiasts will be pleased to know that cost-cutting has strictly been limited to the tax benefits of the engine displacement. Apart from the engine tweak, there are no other changes to the new 350cc Dominar 400, and all the essential and premium features have been carried over.
Here is a detailed look at the equipment that buyers will continue to enjoy on the new model:
- The motorcycle utilizes a sturdy beam type perimeter frame.
- It comes integrated with premium 43 mm USD forks at the front.
- The rear suspension consists of a multistep adjustable monoshock unit with Nitrox.
- The suspension setup offers a front and rear travel of 135 mm and 110 mm, respectively.
- The new 350cc Dominar 400 boasts 17-inch wheels at both ends.
- These wheels are wrapped in 110/R70 front and 150/R60 rear tubeless tyres.
- The braking setup comprises a large 320 mm disc at the front and a 230 mm disc at the rear.
- Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard equipment for enhanced safety.
- The Dominar 400 features a modern LED headlamp.
- Electronic rider aids include traction control.
- Riders can switch between 4 ride modes consisting of Road, Rain, Sport and Off-road.
- The cockpit features a bonded colour digital instrument console, which displays a wide range of vital information.
Expansion of the 350cc Strategy
Bajaj’s strategy to leverage the sub-350cc tax bracket extends beyond just the Dominar lineup. Along with the new Dominar 400, Bajaj will also introduce the 350cc version of the Pulsar NS400Z. Furthermore, 350cc versions of KTM 390 bikes will also be launched soon. Demonstrating the success of this strategy, Bajaj has already introduced the 350cc versions of the Triumph 400 range.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the exact price of the new Bajaj Dominar 350cc? The new 350cc version is priced at Rs 1,99,998 (ex-showroom), according to dealer sources. This represents a significant saving of Rs 40,000 over the older model.
Why was the price of the Dominar reduced by Rs 40,000? The massive price drop is largely due to the lower 18% GST rate applicable on bikes under 350cc. The older 373.3 cc engine attracted a much higher GST rate of 40%.
Has the power or performance dropped significantly? No, the performance is largely the same as the current 373cc version. Leaked figures suggest 39 PS and 33.2 Nm for the new engine, meaning the power output is largely the same as earlier and the torque drop is marginal.
Are there any missing features on the new Rs 1.99 lakh Dominar? No, apart from the lower displacement engine, there are no other changes to the new Dominar 400. All the essential and premium features have been completely carried over to the new model.
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