The Indian performance motorcycle scene is set to heat up once again as Bajaj Auto prepares to launch the 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400—a name that has become synonymous with accessible performance, muscular design, and long-distance touring prowess. First introduced in 2016, the Dominar 400 quickly gained a cult following for being a power cruiser that blended KTM DNA with Bajaj’s affordability and reliability.
Now, nearly a decade later, Bajaj is ready to refresh the Dominar 400 for 2025 with subtle enhancements, feature upgrades, and possibly even a performance boost. The upcoming model aims to maintain its segment-leading position while catering to new-generation riders who demand a balance of power, comfort, and modern technology.
Here’s everything we know—and can expect—from the 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400.
Design Evolution: Boldness Refined
The Dominar 400 has always been known for its aggressive, muscular stance, and Bajaj is unlikely to tamper too much with this winning formula. However, spy shots and design leaks suggest that the 2025 model will feature minor aesthetic revisions aimed at enhancing its road presence and aerodynamic efficiency.
Expected visual changes:
- Redesigned LED headlamp cluster with improved throw and a sharper DRL signature
- New alloy wheel designs with potential dual-tone finish
- Revised graphics and color schemes (possibly matte variants and special editions)
- Sleeker rear tail section for a more premium look
- Improved aero shrouds and tank cladding for better heat management
While the core silhouette remains intact, these refinements will give the Dominar a more modern and mature visual identity, appealing to both young and experienced riders.
Engine and Performance: KTM Roots, Bajaj Soul
Under the hood, the 2025 Dominar 400 is expected to retain its 373.3cc single-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine—borrowed from the KTM 390 series—but refined for better rideability and compliance with BS6 Phase 2 emission norms (and possibly ready for OBD-2 standards).
Expected specs:
- Power: 40 PS @ 8,800 rpm
- Torque: 35 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch
- Top Speed: Around 160 km/h
- 0–100 km/h: Under 8 seconds
Bajaj might tweak the ECU mapping and throttle response to offer better low- and mid-range torque, improving city commuting without compromising highway cruising abilities. There’s also speculation around Ride-by-Wire technology, though this has not been officially confirmed.
New Features & Technology Upgrades
One area where the Dominar 400 has always had an edge is value-for-money features, and Bajaj is likely to double down on that with the 2025 version.
Potential upgrades include:
- Fully digital TFT instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity (navigation, music, calls)
- Updated turn-by-turn navigation system
- USB Type-C charging port for modern gadgets
- Backlit switchgear for better night visibility
- Improved LED lighting across indicators and taillight
- Possibly a quick shifter in top-end variants
These additions will enhance both the touring comfort and urban usability of the bike, making it even more compelling for solo riders and adventurers alike.
Suspension and Ride Quality
The current Dominar 400 already boasts a USD fork setup at the front and a multi-step adjustable monoshock at the rear. For 2025, Bajaj may retune the suspension to offer better damping for Indian road conditions, particularly for long-distance travel.
Suspension highlights:
- 43mm USD forks from Endurance (inspired by KTM)
- Nitrox monoshock with preload adjustment
- Enhanced chassis tuning for better straight-line stability and cornering grip
Expect improved ride comfort, especially on broken roads, while still maintaining sharp handling dynamics that touring riders crave.
Braking and Safety Features
Braking duties will continue to be handled by a 320mm front disc and 230mm rear disc setup, paired with dual-channel ABS. Given the growing focus on safety, Bajaj might upgrade the ABS module for better modulation and quicker intervention, especially under emergency braking.
Additionally, we could see:
- Traction control system (optional on higher trims)
- Wider rear tyre for better grip and aesthetics
- Enhanced brake pads for superior stopping power
These updates would significantly improve confidence and safety for both novice and seasoned riders.
Touring-Ready DNA
One of the biggest USPs of the Dominar 400 is its touring-readiness right out of the showroom. The 2025 model is expected to continue this trend, possibly with factory-fitted accessories such as:
- Tall windscreen
- Bash plate / engine guard
- Hand guards
- Rear luggage rack
- Integrated smartphone mount
The bike’s comfortable split seats, upright riding posture, and large 13-liter fuel tank already make it a superb choice for long rides, and these additions will further enhance its credibility as a true Indian tourer.
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
The current Dominar 400 is priced at around ₹2.30 lakh (ex-showroom), and with the expected upgrades, the 2025 version may see a marginal increase, placing it in the range of ₹2.45–2.55 lakh.
Launch Timeline:
- Expected unveiling: August–September 2025
- Bookings start: Within a month of launch
- Deliveries: By festive season (Diwali 2025)
The timing is perfect to capitalize on the growing demand for mid-capacity motorcycles with strong value offerings.
Rivals in the Segment
The 2025 Dominar 400 will continue to go head-to-head with:
| Competitor | Key Highlight |
|---|---|
| KTM Duke 390 | Lighter and more aggressive, but costlier |
| BMW G 310 R | Premium badge and refinement |
| TVS Apache RR 310 | Sportier styling and race features |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | Strong touring capability, ADV DNA |
| Yamaha R3 / MT-03 | Superior Japanese refinement, but pricey |
Despite the competition, the Dominar continues to dominate with its price-to-performance ratio and practical touring ability.
Who Should Buy the 2025 Dominar 400?
This bike is ideal for:
✅ Young professionals looking for a sporty yet mature machine
✅ Touring enthusiasts needing a reliable long-distance companion
✅ City riders who want a powerful daily commuter with a muscular presence
✅ First-time big bike buyers upgrading from 150cc or 200cc segments
Its versatility, strong engine, and everyday usability make it a complete package in the sub-500cc space.
Conclusion: Dominar’s Legacy Grows Stronger
The 2025 Bajaj Dominar 400 isn’t just a facelift—it’s an evolution of a bike that pioneered India’s performance cruiser segment. With the right mix of design updates, feature enhancements, and mechanical refinements, Bajaj is set to once again raise the benchmark for value-packed motorcycles in the country.
As more riders seek machines that can do-it-all—from weekend rides to cross-country tours—the Dominar 400 remains a trusted companion that continues to live up to its name.
Stay tuned, because this powerhouse is all set to dominate once again.
