The Dominar 400 BS6 is Bajaj’s long-distance-friendly power cruiser: a muscular single-cylinder motorcycle designed to cover more ground than a typical street bike while remaining accessible to Indian riders. This is an archive review of the BS6-era model, so confirm current pricing, colours, and equipment before making a purchase.
Powerful engine
The Dominar 400 BS6 uses a 373.2cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that the original article listed at 39.4 bhp at 8,800 rpm and 35 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Its highway-focused character is the main attraction: there is enough performance for relaxed overtakes and sustained open-road riding.
The motor shares its basic family with KTM’s 373cc platform, but Bajaj tuned the Dominar for a different brief. It is a heavier, more relaxed motorcycle rather than a direct substitute for a Duke 390 or RC 390. In town, that mass is more noticeable, especially in dense traffic and during low-speed manoeuvres.
Exhaust note and touring character
The BS6-era Dominar’s dual-barrel exhaust gave it a deeper note than many single-cylinder motorcycles. That sound, together with the bike’s muscular styling, is a large part of its appeal.
The same character suits touring. The motorcycle is stable at highway speeds and has a chassis that can be adapted with a tank bag, a top box, panniers, or auxiliary luggage racks. Any luggage installation should use secure, purpose-made mounting hardware and stay within the manufacturer’s load guidance.
Ergonomics
The upright control position is one of the Dominar’s strongest touring traits. It offers a more natural posture than a committed sport bike, and the pillion seat is more practical for longer rides than many motorcycles in this class.
The trade-off is weight. Riders who spend most of their time in slow city traffic should test the bike carefully, including full-lock turns, parking, and stop-start riding. It works best when its regular use includes open roads.
Paint, lighting and practicality
The original review highlighted Aurora Green and Vine Black as the two contemporary colour options. Those colours are historic BS6-era references, not a promise of present-day availability.
Its LED headlamp was also a notable touring feature in the original review. Good lighting is useful after dark, but riders should still set speed for visibility, weather, and road conditions rather than relying on the headlamp alone.
Bajaj Dominar 400 BS6 specifications
Engine
| Specification | BS6-era figure |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 373.2cc |
| Power | 39.42 bhp at 8,800 rpm |
| Torque | 35 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Fuel system | Fuel injection |
| Transmission | Six-speed manual, chain drive |
| Emissions standard | BS6 |
Performance and fuel use
| Specification | BS6-era figure |
|---|---|
| Claimed top speed in the original review | 165 km/h |
| Fuel-tank capacity | 13 litres |
| Reported range | Approximately 280-320 km |
| Reported mileage | Approximately 25-30 km/l |
Real-world fuel economy, range, and top speed depend on riding style, traffic, load, tyre pressure, maintenance, and conditions.
Chassis, tyres and suspension
| Specification | BS6-era figure |
|---|---|
| Front tyre | 110/70-R17 |
| Rear tyre | 150/60-R17 |
| Wheels | 17-inch alloy wheels, tubeless tyres |
| Front suspension | 43mm upside-down fork |
| Rear suspension | Multi-step adjustable monoshock |
| Frame | Beam-type perimeter frame |
| Seat height | 800 mm |
| Ground clearance | 157 mm |
Brakes and electrical equipment
| Specification | BS6-era figure |
|---|---|
| Front brake | 320mm disc |
| Rear brake | 230mm disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
| Headlamp | LED with AHO |
| Tail lamp | LED |
| Instrument display | Digital |
Dominar 400 BS6 pros
- Strong highway performance for its class.
- Comfortable, upright riding position for longer days in the saddle.
- Practical pillion accommodation and good potential for touring luggage.
- Dual-channel ABS, USD fork, and LED lighting on the BS6-era model.
- Substantial road presence and a distinctive exhaust note.
Dominar 400 BS6 cons
- Its weight can make traffic, parking, and tight turns tiring.
- Fuel economy is modest compared with smaller commuter motorcycles.
- The styling and bulky proportions will not suit every rider.
- A used example needs close checks of tyres, chain and sprockets, brake wear, service history, and electronics.
Conclusion
The Dominar 400 BS6 remains a sensible used-bike option for riders who want a powerful single-cylinder motorcycle with an upright touring stance and the ability to carry luggage. It is most rewarding on highways and longer weekend rides, rather than as a city-only commuter.
Before buying, inspect the individual motorcycle, confirm its service record, and compare current alternatives in your budget. Prices, colours, and specifications in this article refer to the original BS6-era review and should be treated as historical context.
FAQs
What colours were available on the Dominar 400 BS6?
The original article listed Aurora Green and Vine Black. Availability differs by model year and market.
What mileage did the original review report?
It reported roughly 24-28 km/l in city use and 28-32 km/l on highways. Actual figures vary substantially with riding style and maintenance.
Is the Dominar 400 BS6 good for touring?
Yes. Its engine, upright ergonomics, stability, pillion space, and luggage potential suit touring. Its weight is the main compromise in slow traffic.
Is it worth buying used?
It can be, provided the individual motorcycle is well maintained and fits your intended use. Check condition, consumables, service history, and current ownership costs before committing.
