Quick Analysis
Bajaj Dominar 400
24.5 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
TVS Apache RTR 160
6.5 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid‑cooled | Air-cooled (2V) |
| Displacement | 349.13 cc | 159.7 cc |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, DOHC, 4‑valve, Fuel Injected | SI, 4 Stroke, Air Cooled, SOHC, Fuel Injection |
| Power | 40.6 PS @ 9000 rpm | 16.04 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 33.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm | 13.85 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 L | 12 litres |
| Mileage | — | 47 |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 190 | 137 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 790 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual‑channel ABS | Single/Dual-channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc (320 mm) with dual-channel ABS | 270 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic, 43 mm USD Fork, Wheel Travel - 135 mm | Upside Down Forks with 37mm dia |
| Rear Brake | Disc (230 mm) with dual-channel ABS | 130 mm Disc / Drum |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-step Adjustable Mono Shock with Nitrox, Wheel Travel - 110 mm | Monotube Inverted Gas Filled Shox (MIG) With Spring Aid |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/70‑17 tubeless | 90/90 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Rear Tyre | 150/60‑17 tubeless | 110/80 – 17 (Tubeless) |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy wheels |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Full‑LED with Auto Headlamp On (AHO) | Halogen HS1 35/35W with LED DRL |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | 12V, 6Ah MF |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/D400-Green.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/T-Grey.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pearl-White-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Matte-Blue-1.avif |
| Bike Image 4 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Matte-Black-2.avif |
| Bike Image 5 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Glossy-Black.avif |
| Bike Image 6 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Anniversary.avif |
| Cluster | Bonded digital LCD with turn‑by‑turn navigation | Digital |
| Color Options | Aurora Green | #4A5D23 Charcoal Black | #232323 | Matte Black | #1A1A1A Matte Blue | #315C9B Pearl White | #F2F2EE Glossy Black | #111111 T Grey | #6B6F76 Racing Red | #A50000 Anniversary Edition | #2E2E2E, #C89B3C |
| 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. | Some riders still notice vibrations at higher RPMs and highway speeds, especially during longer rides. The riding posture and seat setup can feel slightly tiring on long-distance touring compared to more relaxed commuter motorcycles. Fit-and-finish quality in certain plastic panels and components could feel better when compared to some rivals in the segment. Some owners have reported inconsistent service experiences depending on dealership location. The braking setup on older or lower variants has received mixed feedback from some riders, although newer versions now offer improved ABS equipment. Taller riders may find the riding ergonomics slightly compact during extended rides. |
| 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 TVS Apache RTR 160 is designed as a sporty commuter motorcycle that tries to combine everyday practicality with a more engaging riding experience. Unlike regular commuter bikes that focus mainly on fuel efficiency and comfort, the Apache RTR 160 adds sharper performance and aggressive styling into the package while still remaining usable for daily riding. Its overall design follows the streetfighter approach, with muscular tank extensions, sharp body panels, LED lighting elements, and a sporty riding stance that gives the motorcycle a more performance-oriented appearance. At the centre of the bike is a 159.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces close to 16 bhp of power and around 13.8 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox, and the tuning focuses heavily on strong mid-range performance. This becomes noticeable during overtakes and quick acceleration in city traffic, where the motorcycle feels more responsive than many basic commuter bikes. Power delivery remains smooth at lower speeds, but the engine also feels eager when pushed harder through the mid and upper RPM range. The exhaust note further adds to the sporty feel without becoming excessively loud. The Apache RTR 160 also offers riding modes in newer variants, including Sport, Urban, and Rain mode. These modes adjust throttle response and ABS intervention depending on riding conditions. Sport mode delivers sharper acceleration, while Urban and Rain modes soften throttle response slightly to improve control on slippery roads or during regular commuting. This feature is not commonly seen in many motorcycles within this segment and adds a more modern feel to the riding experience. The chassis and suspension setup play a major role in the motorcycle’s sporty character. The bike uses telescopic front forks along with twin rear shock absorbers that are tuned to balance comfort and handling. The suspension setup handles potholes and uneven roads reasonably well, but it also keeps the motorcycle stable during cornering and quick direction changes. The overall handling feels agile and confidence-inspiring, especially in city traffic where the lightweight chassis and responsive steering help the bike feel easy to maneuver. Braking duties are managed by disc brakes, with newer variants receiving single-channel ABS for added safety during sudden braking. The braking setup provides predictable stopping power for everyday riding as well as more spirited usage. The motorcycle rides on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres that offer decent grip and stability on regular road surfaces. In terms of dimensions, the Apache RTR 160 remains compact enough for urban riding while still offering a slightly sporty riding posture. The seat height is manageable for most riders, and the split-style seat setup adds to the motorcycle’s aggressive appearance. The fuel tank capacity is around 12 litres, which works well with the bike’s fuel efficiency figures that usually stay between 40–50 km/l depending on riding conditions and throttle usage. Feature-wise, the motorcycle includes a fully digital instrument cluster with SmartXonnect connectivity in higher variants. Riders get access to Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, gear position indicator, lap timer, and riding analytics. LED DRLs and modern graphics also help the bike feel updated compared to more traditional commuter motorcycles. |
| 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 TVS Apache RTR 160 has always been known for bringing a sporty feel into the commuter motorcycle segment, and that character is still very noticeable in the way it rides. The engine feels energetic in city traffic, especially in the mid-range, where quick acceleration and overtakes happen without much effort. What makes the bike stand out more is its handling, the chassis feels light and responsive while cornering, and the overall balance gives the rider confidence even at higher speeds. At the same time, the suspension setup manages to keep the ride reasonably comfortable on uneven roads, so the bike does not feel overly stiff during daily commuting. Features like the digital console, Bluetooth connectivity, and riding modes on higher variants help it feel more modern compared to many traditional commuters. However, the sporty tuning also means some vibrations can still be noticed at higher RPMs, and the riding posture may feel slightly tiring on long highway rides. Overall, the Apache RTR 160 balances commuter practicality with sporty performance in a way that makes it feel more engaging than a typical everyday motorcycle., 4.4, 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 capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 160? A: The bike comes with a 159.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. Q: What mileage does the TVS Apache RTR 160 give? A: Real-world mileage generally stays around 40–50 km/l depending on riding style and traffic conditions. Q: What is the top speed of the TVS Apache RTR 160? A: The motorcycle has an approximate top speed of around 110–115 km/h. Q: Does the TVS Apache RTR 160 have riding modes? A: Yes, newer variants offer multiple ride modes including Urban, Rain, and Sport. Q: Does the TVS Apache RTR 160 get Bluetooth connectivity? A: Yes, higher variants support Bluetooth connectivity with navigation and call alerts through TVS SmartXonnect. Q: What type of brakes does the Apache RTR 160 use? A: It comes with disc brake options along with single/Dual channel ABS. Q: Is the TVS Apache RTR 160 suitable for daily commuting? A: Yes, the bike balances sporty performance with everyday practicality for regular commuting. Q: What suspension setup does the TVS Apache RTR 160 use? A: The bike uses telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the TVS Apache RTR 160? A: The motorcycle comes with a fuel tank capacity of around 12 litres. Q: Is the TVS Apache RTR 160 good for highway riding? A: It can handle highway rides comfortably, though some vibrations become noticeable at higher speeds. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 203214 | RM Drum Black Edition | 112190 RM Drum | 113340 RM Disc | 116540 RM Disc BT | 119640 Racing Edition | 120940 Dual Channel ABS | 123990 Limited Edition | 126650 |
| 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. | The engine feels lively and responsive in city riding conditions, especially in the mid-range where quick overtakes and acceleration feel effortless. The throttle response adds a sporty character without making the bike difficult to manage. Handling is one of the strongest areas of the bike. The chassis feels agile in corners, and the motorcycle remains stable while changing directions or filtering through traffic. Ride quality is balanced well for Indian roads. The suspension handles potholes and uneven surfaces reasonably comfortably while still maintaining sporty feedback. The bike manages to combine decent mileage with performance. Many owners report real-world efficiency figures around 40–50 km/l depending on riding style. Features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation support, riding modes (on higher variants), and a fully digital instrument cluster help the bike feel modern within the segment. The aggressive styling, sporty exhaust note, and road presence continue to attract riders looking for a performance-oriented commuter motorcycle. Maintenance costs and spare part availability are generally considered manageable for long-term ownership |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual (with slipper clutch) | 5-speed manual |
