Quick Analysis
Bajaj Dominar 400
17.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 450 SX-F
15.0 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid‑cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 349.13 cc | 449.9 cc |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, DOHC, 4‑valve, Fuel Injected | 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine |
| Power | 40.6 PS @ 9000 rpm | 62.96 PS @ 9500 rpm |
| Torque | 33.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm | 74 Nm @ 9500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 L | 7.2 L |
| Mileage | — | 15.33 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 190 | 107 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 958 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual‑channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc (320 mm) with dual-channel ABS | Disc 260 mm |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, 43 mm USD Fork, Wheel Travel - 135 mm | WP XACT-USD (AER), Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc (230 mm) with dual-channel ABS | Disc 220 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-step Adjustable Mono Shock with Nitrox, Wheel Travel - 110 mm | WP XACT Monoshock with linkage |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/70‑17 tubeless | 80/100 - 21 |
| Rear Tyre | 150/60‑17 tubeless | 110/90 - 19 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Spoke |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Full‑LED with Auto Headlamp On (AHO) | — |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | 12.8V / 2AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/D400-Green.avif | — |
| Cluster | Bonded digital LCD with turn‑by‑turn navigation | — |
| Color Options | Aurora Green | #4A5D23 Charcoal Black | #232323 | Orange | #FF5F00 |
| Cons | Heavy Kerb Weight – The motorcycle remains noticeably heavier than many rivals, especially during parking manoeuvres, low-speed riding, and congested city traffic. Heat Felt in Slow Traffic – The larger liquid-cooled engine can generate noticeable heat around the rider's legs during prolonged stop-and-go conditions. Fuel Efficiency Lower Than Smaller Motorcycles – Compared to 250cc and commuter-oriented motorcycles, fuel consumption is relatively higher, particularly during aggressive riding. Less Agile in Urban Conditions – While highly stable on highways, the motorcycle can feel less nimble than lighter street bikes in tight traffic situations. 13-Litre Fuel Tank Could Be Larger for Touring – Riders covering long highway distances may prefer a larger fuel tank to reduce the frequency of refuelling stops. Weight May Challenge New Riders – The motorcycle's size, power output, and kerb weight can take time to get used to for inexperienced riders. Premium Maintenance Costs – Tyres, brake components, and routine servicing generally cost more than those of smaller-capacity motorcycles. Advanced Electronics Still Limited – Some competitors now offer ride-by-wire throttles, TFT displays, multiple riding modes, and traction control systems that are absent on the Dominar 400. Suspension Setup Prioritizes Stability Over Agility – The motorcycle focuses more on highway comfort and stability than sharp cornering responsiveness. | Very Tall Seat: At ~958 mm, it’s difficult to handle for shorter riders, especially off-road. Small Fuel Tank: The 7.2-liter tank limits how far you can ride — built more for racing than touring. Harsh Power Delivery: The high-revving engine is race-tuned, which may be too aggressive for casual use or beginners. Vibrations: The single-cylinder engine can vibrate strongly, especially at higher RPMs. High Maintenance Cost: Premium motocross parts and servicing (suspension, clutch, engine) can be expensive. Limited Street Usability: Not ideal for daily commuting due to track-focused ergonomics and setup. Reliability Trade-offs: Some riders report issues under hard race-type use, like stripped screws or wear on high-stress parts. |
| Detailed Overview | Long highway stretches are where the Bajaj Dominar 400 feels most at home. Unlike motorcycles that focus primarily on urban commuting or outright sport riding, the Dominar 400 is built around the idea of covering distance while maintaining comfort and stability. Its substantial dimensions, muscular fuel tank, upright riding posture, and touring-oriented equipment create a motorcycle that is equally capable of handling daily travel and extended weekend rides. At the heart of the motorcycle is a 349cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that produces around 40 PS of power and 33.2 Nm of torque. Paired with a six-speed gearbox, the engine delivers performance across a broad rev range, allowing riders to accelerate confidently, maintain highway cruising speeds, and overtake slower traffic without frequent downshifts. The liquid-cooling system helps regulate engine temperatures during demanding riding conditions, while fuel injection contributes to smooth throttle response and consistent power delivery. The motorcycle’s overall design reflects its touring-focused nature. A compact windscreen sits above the LED headlamp, helping reduce wind pressure on the rider during highway travel. The sculpted fuel tank, split-seat arrangement, and exposed perimeter frame give the motorcycle a muscular appearance, while LED lighting throughout the motorcycle adds a modern touch. The bodywork remains functional rather than overly aggressive, prioritizing rider comfort and practicality over track-inspired styling. Supporting the engine is a perimeter frame chassis combined with upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension system. This setup is designed to provide stability at higher speeds while maintaining comfort across varying road conditions. Whether travelling on smooth highways or encountering uneven road surfaces, the suspension works to absorb impacts and maintain composure. The motorcycle’s relatively long wheelbase further contributes to its planted feel during long-distance riding. Stopping power comes from disc brakes at both ends, assisted by dual-channel ABS. The braking system is intended to provide controlled deceleration while reducing the chances of wheel lock-up under hard braking conditions. An assist-and-slipper clutch is also included, helping reduce clutch effort in everyday riding and improving stability during rapid downshifts. Technology and convenience features form another important part of the package. The digital instrument cluster displays essential riding information, including speed, fuel level, trip readings, gear position, and navigation-related data. Bluetooth connectivity allows integration with compatible smartphones for call alerts, message notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation. These features are aimed at riders who spend extended periods on the road and require easy access to travel information. Comfort remains central to the riding experience. A wide handlebar, upright seating position, and spacious seat help reduce fatigue during longer journeys. The 800 mm seat height accommodates a broad range of riders, while the 13-litre fuel tank provides a practical riding range between fuel stops. Together, these elements create a motorcycle that combines touring capability, modern technology, and everyday usability within the premium sports tourer segment. | The KTM 450 SX-F is a high-performance motocross machine built to compete at the highest level; it’s engineered for speed, agility, and race track domination rather than casual cruising. At its core lies a 449.9 cc four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, tuned to generate strong and immediate power with a broad rev range. This powertrain is designed to make explosive bursts out of corners, offer consistent throttle response, and deliver a raw racing feeling. The engine’s lightweight construction contributes significantly to the bike’s competitive edge, keeping the overall weight low and enabling sharp acceleration. KTM has optimized the 450 SX-F’s handling through a sophisticated chassis and suspension setup. The bike features WP XACT 48 mm inverted front forks and a matching WP XACT rear shock which combine to offer generous travel (around 310 mm front and 300 mm rear), excellent damping, and great control during jumps or uneven terrain. This suspension system provides riders with a stable and predictable ride, whether they’re launching off a tabletop or navigating whoops on a technical track. The frame itself, likely a high-grade steel trellis design, balances rigidity and flexibility to help maintain stability under heavy loads while allowing for sharp and responsive feedback when pushed aggressively. Electronics on the 450 SX-F reflect its competitive nature. It comes equipped with launch control, enabling better starts during drag-style races. Additionally, the bike offers selectable engine mappings and traction control, giving riders the flexibility to choose different levels of assistance based on track conditions. These systems help control wheel spin, optimize torque delivery, and enhance safety at high RPMs. The inclusion of a quickshifter goes a long way in making aggressive riding smoother, while the engine maps help tailor performance for dry, dusty tracks or slippery surfaces. Though a serious racewheel, KTM hasn’t compromised on user convenience: the 450 SX-F includes an electric starter, so riders don’t need to rely on kick-starting, a welcome feature for modern motocross users. The ergonomics are built for competition: a high seat height (~958 mm) and tall, wide handlebars give the rider a commanding posture, facilitating balance and control over big jumps and landings. Despite being built for off-road prowess, the rider’s triangle provides a decent balance—standing up or sitting down remains natural and feels intentional, rather than an afterthought. The bike’s weight is impressively kept in check, making it lighter than many of its peers. This low weight improves not only maneuverability but also helps reduce rider fatigue during extended sessions on the track. At the same time, the drivetrain is engineered with a 5-speed gearbox, making gear changes efficient and suited to the demands of motocross. The clutch is performance-oriented, ensuring durability and precise engagement under racing stress. Fuel capacity is modest (around 7.2 liters), which is typical for a motocross bike but restricts the 450 SX-F to race or track use rather than long-distance adventures. Maintenance is regular and can be demanding: high-revving competition engines demand careful attention to oil changes, suspension settings, and component wear. Still, many motocross riders consider this a fair trade-off given the bike’s competitive performance. In summary, the KTM 450 SX-F is a race-bred motocross machine that delivers raw power, high agility, and top-tier handling. It’s not designed for comfort cruising or commuting—it’s built for serious track work and competitive environments. For riders who live for the thrill of racing, who demand the sharpest throttle response, and who don’t shy away from the maintenance demands of four-stroke competition bikes, the 450 SX-F is a standout performer. |
| Expert Review | Built around an updated 349cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine, the Bajaj Dominar 400 continues to focus on long-distance touring capability while balancing everyday usability. The engine delivers strong mid-range performance and relaxed highway cruising characteristics, supported by a 6-speed gearbox and assist-and-slipper clutch. Its perimeter frame, upside-down front forks, and well-balanced chassis contribute to stable high-speed behaviour, while the upright riding position and spacious seating arrangement enhance rider comfort during extended journeys. Touring-oriented elements such as the windshield, wide handlebar, and luggage compatibility further reinforce its highway-focused nature. Modern features including LED lighting, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, and digital instrumentation add practicality for daily riding and touring alike. The motorcycle's heavier kerb weight improves stability at speed but can feel noticeable during low-speed manoeuvres and dense traffic conditions. Overall, the Dominar 400 combines strong touring ability, refined performance, premium hardware, and everyday practicality within the sports tourer motorcycle segment., 4.5, MotoAutiv Team | The KTM 450 SX-F is a purpose-built motocross machine centered around a 449.9cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing close to 62–63 bhp and 74 Nm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine delivers strong, immediate power across the rev range, with selectable engine maps and traction control allowing slight variation in throttle response depending on conditions. It is built on a lightweight chassis with a kerb weight of around 107 kg, supported by fully adjustable WP XACT suspension offering long travel, which keeps the bike responsive over jumps and uneven terrain while maintaining stability at speed. The riding ergonomics are aggressive and track-focused, with a high seat height of around 958 mm and a narrow body that allows easier movement while riding off-road. Braking is handled by disc brakes at both ends, supported by ABS and lightweight spoke wheels with off-road tyres, while features like launch control and quickshifter add to its race-oriented setup. With a small 7.2-litre fuel tank and high ground clearance of over 300 mm, the overall design remains focused on track performance rather than everyday usability., 4.6, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Dominar 400? A: The latest Dominar 400 is powered by a 349cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Bajaj Dominar 400 suitable for touring? A: Yes. The motorcycle is designed with touring in mind and offers comfortable ergonomics, stable highway manners, a windshield, and support for touring accessories. Q: What mileage does the Dominar 400 deliver? A: Most owners can expect a real-world fuel efficiency of approximately 28–35 kmpl, depending on riding style, speed, and road conditions. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Dominar 400? A: The motorcycle comes with a 13-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Dominar 400 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard equipment. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Dominar 400? A: The seat height is approximately 800 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Does the Dominar 400 have Bluetooth connectivity and navigation? A: Yes. Recent versions include Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation through the digital instrument console. Q: What is the top speed of the Dominar 400? A: Under suitable conditions, the motorcycle can achieve approximately 150–160 km/h, depending on rider weight, weather, and road conditions. Q: Is the Dominar 400 comfortable for long highway rides? A: Yes. The upright riding position, spacious seat, windscreen, and stable chassis make it suitable for covering long distances. Q: Does the Dominar 400 have a slipper clutch? A: Yes. An assist-and-slipper clutch is provided to reduce clutch effort and improve stability during downshifts. Q: Is the Dominar 400 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with some experience can adapt to it comfortably, but its weight and performance may require a learning period for complete beginners. Q: How does the Dominar 400 differ from the Dominar 250? A: The Dominar 400 offers a larger and more powerful engine, stronger acceleration, and enhanced highway performance, while sharing a similar touring-focused design philosophy. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Bajaj Dominar 400? A: It is classified as a sports tourer motorcycle, combining long-distance comfort, highway stability, and everyday usability. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's widespread dealership and service network across India generally ensures convenient maintenance and spare parts availability. Q: Does the Dominar 400 support luggage and touring accessories? A: Yes. The motorcycle is commonly fitted with saddle stays, top racks, luggage carriers, tank bags, and other touring accessories, making it suitable for long-distance travel. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM 450 SX-F? A: The bike is powered by a 449.9 cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke liquid-cooled engine. Q: What is the power and torque output? A: According to specs, the 450 SX-F produces about 62.96 PS and approximately 74 Nm of torque. Q: What kind of transmission does KTM 450 SX-F have? A: It uses a 5-speed gearbox. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of KTM 450 SX-F? A: The fuel tank capacity is around 7.2 litres. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance of KTM 450 SX-F? A: The seat height is 958 mm, and ground clearance is very high at 343 mm. Q: What suspension setup is used on the 450 SX-F? A: It comes with WP XACT 48 mm USD front forks and a WP XACT monoshock with linkage. Q: What brakes does KTM 450 SX-F have? A: The 450 SX-F is equipped with a 260 mm front disc and a 220 mm rear disc. Q: What electronic / rider-aid features does KTM 450 SX-F include? A: It comes with launch control, quickshifter, selectable engine maps + traction control (TC), and a connectivity unit for off-road use. Q: What is the weight of the 450 SX-F? A: The kerb weight is approximately 107 kg for the standard model. Q: Does KTM 450 SX-F have an electric starter? A: Yes, it has a self-starter (electric), so you don’t need to kick-start it. Q: How reliable is the 450 SX-F? A: While KTM 450s are high-performance machines, many owners report good longevity with regular maintenance. Some have raised concerns about top-end rebuilds, but others say healthy use with regular oil changes can bring 180+ hours before any major work. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | — |
| Price Variants | STD | 203214 | STD | 1025100 |
| Pros | Strong Touring Performance – The updated 349cc liquid-cooled engine delivers strong acceleration and highway cruising ability, making long-distance riding more effortless. Improved Mid-Range Power Delivery – The engine offers better tractability and stronger mid-range performance, helping with overtakes and relaxed highway riding. Excellent Highway Stability – The motorcycle feels planted at higher speeds due to its weight, chassis setup, and long wheelbase, contributing to rider confidence during touring. Comfortable Riding Ergonomics – The upright seating posture, wide handlebars, and spacious seat help reduce fatigue on extended rides. Premium Touring-Oriented Hardware – Upside-down front forks, perimeter frame, dual-channel ABS, assist and slipper clutch, and LED lighting contribute to the motorcycle's equipment package. Refined Engine Character – The liquid-cooled DOHC engine delivers smoother power delivery and better refinement across varying riding conditions. Touring-Friendly Design – The windshield, luggage mounting capability, and stable chassis make the motorcycle suitable for highway travel and touring accessories. Feature-Rich Instrumentation – Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, digital consoles, and ride information displays add convenience for touring and everyday riding. Good High-Speed Cruising Comfort – The engine remains relaxed at cruising speeds, helping riders cover long distances with less strain. | Very High Performance: The 449.9 cc single-cylinder engine delivers strong, race-ready power for motocross. Light and Agile: With its low weight (around 107 kg) and compact frame, it’s extremely maneuverable on tracks. Top-Tier Suspension: Equipped with WP XACT 48 mm USD forks and a high-travel rear shock, making it very capable over jumps and rough terrain. Modern Electronics: Includes launch control, selectable engine maps, quickshifter, and traction control for improved control. Electric Start: Convenient and practical - no need for kick-starting. Strong Chassis: The trellis frame offers a good mix of stiffness and flexibility, ideal for aggressive riding. Serviceability: Easy access to key components like the air filter and suspension for maintenance. |
| Starter | Electric | Self |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual (with slipper clutch) | 5 Speed Manual |
