Quick Analysis
Bajaj Dominar 250
18.0 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE SPEEDMASTER
14.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid‑cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 248.77 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4 valve, Twin Spark, FI | 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Power | 19.85 kW (27 PS) @ 8,500 rpm | 78 PS / 76.9 bhp (57.5 kW) @ 6100 rpm |
| Torque | 23.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 106 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 L | 12 L |
| Mileage | 35.03 Kmpl | 22 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 180 | 263 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 705 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc with Abs | Twin Ø310mm disc, Brembo 2-piston sliding axial calipers, ABS |
| Front Suspension | USD telescopic fork, 43 mm | Ø 47 mm Showa cartridge forks |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc with Abs | Single Ø255mm disc, Nissin single piston sliding axial caliper, ABS |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono-shock, 110 mm travel | Mono-shock RSU with linkage and preload adjustment |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80–17 Tubeless | MT 90 B16 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70–17 Tubeless | 150/80 R16 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Full‑LED with AHO | DRLs LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Citrus.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonnevillespeedmasterpacificbluesilverice.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-7.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonnevillespeedmasterjetblack.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/bonneville-speedmaster_my25_icon-edition_rhs_629px.webp |
| Cluster | Digital LCD w/ turn-by-turn navigation | — |
| Color Options | Canyon Red | #B32025 Sparkling Black | #1C1C1C Citrus Rush | #C7D300 | Snowdonia / Cranberry Red | #F4F4F4, #8B1E2D Aluminium Silver Sapphire Black | #C0C0C0, #0F1A2B Jet Black | #0A0A0A Pacific Blue / Silver Ice | #1F3A5F, #D9D9D9 |
| Cons | Heavier Than Most Rivals – The motorcycle's kerb weight is noticeably higher than many competing 250cc motorcycles, which can affect low-speed manoeuvrability. Engine Feels More Relaxed Than Sporty – While refined, the engine focuses on smoothness and usability rather than aggressive acceleration and high-rev excitement. Weight Noticeable in City Traffic – Frequent stop-and-go traffic and tight parking situations may require more effort compared to lighter motorcycles. Limited Fuel Tank Capacity for Touring – Although suitable for highway rides, the 13-litre fuel tank is smaller than what some touring-oriented riders may prefer. Feature Updates Have Been Gradual – Some competitors offer more advanced electronics, riding modes, or traction control systems depending on the price range. Pillion Comfort Could Be Better on Long Trips – The rear seat is adequate for daily use, but some passengers may prefer additional cushioning for extended journeys. Not as Agile as Lightweight Street Bikes – The motorcycle prioritizes stability and comfort, which means it can feel less nimble than lighter sport-oriented alternatives. Maintenance Costs Higher Than Entry-Level Commuters – Routine maintenance and consumables are generally more expensive than those of smaller-capacity commuter motorcycles. | Low ground clearance & limited suspension travel: On bad or uneven surfaces, its cruiser geometry and low clearance can be a drawback, especially in markets with rough roads. Heavy weight / less agility in tight scenarios: While stable at speed, the mass and cruiser chassis make it less nimble than lighter motorcycles, especially in traffic or tighter corners. Suspension setup may feel firm/stiff: Some reviewers mention that the suspension, tuned for style and load, can feel a bit firm or less compliant than ideal for rough surfaces. Premium cost and ownership aspects: As a premium bike in its class, purchase price, maintenance and parts/spares may cost more than simpler alternatives. |
| Detailed Overview | Positioned as a sports tourer in the 250cc motorcycle segment, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to accommodate both daily commuting and long-distance riding requirements. Drawing inspiration from its larger sibling, the Dominar 400, the motorcycle combines touring-oriented ergonomics, premium hardware, and a liquid-cooled engine within a package intended for riders seeking versatility. Its design emphasizes stability, comfort, and practicality while incorporating features commonly associated with larger-capacity touring motorcycles. The Dominar 250 features a muscular and substantial appearance characterized by a sculpted fuel tank, split-seat layout, exposed perimeter frame, and LED lighting system. The front end incorporates a compact windscreen positioned above the LED headlamp, helping direct airflow around the rider during highway journeys. Sharp body panels and minimalistic graphics contribute to a modern design, while the overall proportions create a larger visual presence compared to many motorcycles in the quarter-litre category. The motorcycle’s styling reflects its touring-oriented purpose without adopting the aggressive ergonomics of a dedicated sport bike. Powering the Dominar 250 is a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine produces approximately 27 PS of power and 23.5 Nm of torque. Liquid cooling assists in maintaining stable operating temperatures during prolonged rides and varying weather conditions, while fuel injection helps ensure consistent throttle response and fuel delivery. The engine is tuned to provide a broad spread of usable power, making it suitable for city commuting, highway cruising, and overtaking manoeuvres. A six-speed transmission allows riders to utilize the available performance efficiently across different riding situations. The motorcycle is built around a perimeter frame chassis that contributes to structural rigidity and handling stability. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension setup. This combination is designed to absorb road imperfections while maintaining composure over varying surfaces. The suspension tuning focuses on balancing comfort and control, enabling the motorcycle to manage both urban roads and extended highway journeys. The relatively long wheelbase further contributes to stability, particularly at higher speeds. Braking performance is provided by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS as standard. The anti-lock braking system helps prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking situations and assists riders in maintaining control on different road surfaces. The motorcycle also features an assist and slipper clutch, which reduces clutch lever effort and improves stability during rapid downshifts. The Dominar 250 incorporates several modern features aimed at improving rider convenience. A fully digital instrument cluster displays speed, fuel level, trip information, gear position indication, and other ride-related data. A secondary display mounted near the fuel tank provides additional information and navigation-related functions. Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation support are available on recent versions, allowing smartphone integration for enhanced functionality. LED lighting is used throughout the motorcycle, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators. Rider comfort remains a key aspect of the motorcycle’s design. The upright riding position, wide handlebar, and centrally positioned footpegs create an ergonomic layout suitable for longer journeys. The seat height of approximately 800 mm accommodates a wide range of riders, while the split-seat arrangement provides adequate space for both rider and passenger. A 13-litre fuel tank further supports touring duties by offering a practical riding range between refuelling stops. With its liquid-cooled 248.77cc engine, premium suspension components, dual-channel ABS, navigation features, and touring-friendly ergonomics, the Bajaj Dominar 250 combines performance, comfort, and practicality in a package tailored to riders seeking a versatile 250cc sports tourer. | The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster is the kind of motorcycle that looks like it belongs to an older era, but once you start looking at the specs, you realise it’s built with modern parts underneath. It runs on a 1200 cc parallel-twin engine that makes around 78 PS and 106 Nm. What this means in real life is that the bike feels strong at low speeds. You don’t have to keep changing gears again and again in traffic, and even on highways it moves in a smooth and relaxed way rather than feeling aggressive. The riding position is very different from regular bikes. You sit low, with your legs stretched forward, and your hands on wide handlebars. It feels comfortable when the road is open, but in city traffic it can take some time to get used to, especially when you have to stop and start often. The seat height is quite low, around 705 mm, so most riders can easily place their feet on the ground, which helps when handling such a heavy bike. Talking about the hardware, the Speedmaster uses a steel frame with front telescopic forks and a rear monoshock that is hidden to keep that classic look. The suspension is tuned more for comfort, so it works fine on normal roads, but sharp bumps and bad patches are still clearly felt. The bike rides on a 16-inch front and rear wheel setup, which adds to its low and stretched design. Braking is handled by a disc at the front and rear, along with dual-channel ABS, so braking feels controlled and predictable in normal riding conditions. This is not a light bike by any means. It weighs around 263 kg, so you will notice the weight when moving it around or riding at low speeds. Once the bike is moving, it feels more stable and planted. The fuel tank is about 12 litres, which means you may need to plan fuel stops on longer rides. In real-world conditions, mileage usually stays around 18 to 22 km/l, depending on how you ride. On the feature side, the Speedmaster keeps things simple but modern enough. It gets a semi-digital instrument cluster with an analogue speedometer and a small digital screen for details like gear position, fuel level, and trip info. It also comes with riding modes, traction control, and cruise control, which can be useful on highways. There is no focus on flashy tech or connectivity, and the bike sticks to a straightforward setup. |
| Expert Review | Built around a 248.77cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to balance everyday usability with long-distance touring capability. The engine delivers smooth and predictable performance, with a strong emphasis on refinement and accessible power delivery rather than outright sportiness. Its perimeter frame, upside-down front forks, and rear monoshock contribute to stable handling and confident highway manners, while the upright riding position and well-cushioned seat support rider comfort during extended journeys. Dual-channel ABS, LED lighting, and a digital instrument cluster with navigation support add modern functionality, while the motorcycle's touring-friendly design allows riders to comfortably cover longer distances. The relatively high kerb weight provides stability at speed but can feel noticeable in congested traffic and low-speed manoeuvres. Overall, the Dominar 250 combines touring-oriented comfort, premium hardware, and practical performance within the 250cc sports tourer segment., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | With the Bonneville Speedmaster, the focus is clearly on a calm and steady riding experience rather than speed. The 1200 cc engine feels strong at low speeds, so riding in traffic doesn’t require constant gear changes, and on highways it stays smooth at a relaxed pace. The riding position is stretched out with forward footpegs, which feels natural on open roads but less convenient in crowded areas. Because of its weight, slow-speed handling needs some effort, especially in tight turns or parking. The suspension is set for comfort, but bad roads and sharp bumps are still felt. It gets basic modern features like ride modes and traction control, without too much focus on advanced electronics. In everyday conditions, it feels more suited to easy rides than regular heavy usage., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Bajaj Dominar 250 suitable for touring? A: Yes. The comfortable ergonomics, stable chassis, windshield, and refined engine make it suitable for long-distance highway touring. Q: What mileage does the Dominar 250 deliver? A: Most owners report real-world fuel efficiency between 30–38 kmpl, depending on riding conditions, speed, and maintenance. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle comes with a 13-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard equipment. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The seat height is approximately 800 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Is the Dominar 250 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with some basic riding experience can adapt to it comfortably, although the motorcycle's weight may require some familiarisation for complete beginners. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have Bluetooth connectivity and navigation? A: Yes. Recent versions offer Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation through the digital console. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: Under suitable conditions, the motorcycle can achieve approximately 130–140 km/h, depending on rider weight, weather, and road conditions. Q: How is the Dominar 250 different from the Dominar 400? A: The Dominar 250 uses a smaller engine, produces less power, and is generally more accessible for everyday riding, while the Dominar 400 offers stronger performance and higher touring capability. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have a slipper clutch? A: Yes. The motorcycle features an assist and slipper clutch, which helps reduce clutch effort and improves stability during downshifts. Q: Is the Dominar 250 comfortable for a pillion rider? A: Yes. The spacious rear seat and supportive grab rails provide reasonable comfort for passengers on daily rides and occasional tours. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: It is classified as a sports tourer motorcycle, combining touring comfort with everyday practicality and performance. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's extensive service network across India generally ensures good parts availability and maintenance support. Q: Does the Dominar 250 use the same engine as the KTM 250 Duke? A: The engine is derived from the same KTM-Bajaj platform but is tuned differently to suit the Dominar 250's touring-oriented character and riding dynamics. | Q: What engine does the Bonneville Speedmaster have? A: It uses a 1,200 cc liquid-cooled, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine with a 270° crank, producing around 78 PS at 6,100 rpm and 106 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and wet weight for the Speedmaster in India? A: The seat height is approximately 705 mm and the wet weight is listed at about 263 kg (according to specification data) for the model in India. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and what mileage can one expect? A: The fuel tank capacity is 12 litres. Real-world mileage is around ~18-20 km/l on mixed use in Indian conditions as per reviews. Q: What features and rider aids come with the Speedmaster? A: The Speedmaster comes with dual riding modes (Rain & Road), ABS, switchable traction control, cruise control, LED lighting, ride-by-wire throttle and torque-assist clutch. Q: What is the price of the Speedmaster in India? A: The ex-showroom price starts from around ₹ 13,37,500 for the latest variant in India. Q: What kind of chassis and wheels does the Speedmaster use? A: It uses a tubular steel cradle frame, 16″ wire-spoked wheels (16×2.5″ front and 16×3.5″ rear) with 47 mm Showa front forks and mono-shock at the rear, twin 310 mm front discs and single 255 mm rear disc with ABS. Q: Is the Speedmaster suitable for two-up riding and touring? A: Yes, its comfortable riding position with forward foot-pegs, low seat height and cruiser-style ergonomics make it well-suited for relaxed rides. However, its 12-litre tank and cruiser setup mean it's more for relaxed touring rather than ultra-long highway blasts. Q: What is the service interval for the Speedmaster? A: The service interval is about 16,000 km (10,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 181460 | Standard | 1287500 Icon Edition | 1367500 |
| Pros | Refined and Smooth Engine – The 248.77cc liquid-cooled engine offers smooth power delivery with good refinement levels, making it comfortable for both city rides and long-distance touring. Comfortable Highway Cruising – The motorcycle maintains stability at highway speeds and allows relaxed cruising without feeling strained. Touring-Friendly Riding Position – The upright ergonomics, wide handlebar, and spacious seat provide comfort during extended rides and daily commuting alike. Premium Hardware Package – Features such as upside-down front forks, LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, and a perimeter frame add to the motorcycle's overall equipment list. Confident High-Speed Stability – The chassis and weight distribution help the Dominar 250 remain planted on highways and open roads. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure over rough surfaces. Modern Digital Features – A digital instrument console and secondary tank-mounted display provide access to essential ride information, navigation support, and smartphone connectivity. Suitable for Touring Accessories – The motorcycle's design accommodates luggage mounts and touring accessories more easily than many motorcycles in the segment. | Excellent low-end torque and ride feel: The 1200 cc twin delivers a rich, satisfying pull from low rpm, giving the Speedmaster good real-world usability. Iconic styling & credible build: It carries classic cruiser/modern-classic looks with swept-back bars, forward foot-controls and premium finishes, which many riders find appealing. Comfortable ergonomics (for many): With its low seat height (~705 mm in some markets) and cruiser-style riding position, it’s relatively accessible and suitable for relaxed rides. Modern features included: Despite its retro styling, it integrates modern tech, ride-by-wire throttle, two riding modes, ABS, traction control, cruise control and full LED lighting. |
| Starter | Electric | Self start |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual (w/ slipper clutch) | 6-speed |
