Bajaj Auto has started producing its all-new 400cc power cruiser motorcycle which is likely to be in showrooms in December. Bajaj has not revealed the official name of this bike as of now. Sources close to the company have revealed that this bike may be called Kratos. Going by the recent rumours, Bajaj may name the model Dominar. The first batch of the 400cc motorcycle was apparently rolled out today by an all-women assembly crew.
The 400cc model will be powered by the same engine used in the KTM Duke 390. Bajaj, however, is sure to have incorporated tuning changes to this 373cc motor to suit the cruiser's touring-oriented nature. The engine, which makes around 35hp should get Bajaj’s signature triple-spark technology and come mated to a six-speed gearbox.
Bajaj is also readying a refresh for its existing Pulsar line-up with revised 150, 180 and 220 models expected to hit showrooms by the end of this year.
Kratos/Dominar engine, gearbox details
Bajaj will use a derivative of the KTM 390’s 373cc single-cylinder engine to power the new 400cc bike. Featuring fuel injection, liquid-cooling and Bajaj’s patented triple-spark plug technology.
Bajaj Kratos/Dominar equipment
The split instrument cluster with a digital readout on the fuel tank, as showcased in the concept during the 2014 Auto Expo will be carried over to the production bike. This will be the first time that a Bajaj bike will feature an all-digital instrument console.
Unlike the upside-down front forks on the concept, the production model will feature conventional telescopic front suspension, while the rear will get a mono-shock setup. Stopping power will come from disc brakes, both up front and at the rear. Also, there’s news that Bajaj will equip the bike with a single-channel ABS as standard, while a dual-channel ABS is likely to be optional.
This new 400cc model is Bajaj's take on a muscle cruiser, though it leaves out and out touring duties to the Avenger platform. We are likely to see a sportsbike with the same engine, carrying an RS moniker sometime later in 2017.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
