The outspoken MD of Bajaj Auto, Rajiv Bajaj has always had some interesting statements to make. The latest statement he has made is quite interesting. In an interview with Money Control recently, when Mr Bajaj was asked about the upcoming Pulsar 400 cc motorcycle, he had an interesting statement to make. Below is what he said.
“It will be an interesting launch because it will not be in all probability a Pulsar. For now, let me just say that a 400 cc Pulsar makes as much sense as a 150 cc Royal Enfield. So, when we are getting into a different category, it would be wise to look at a new brand. So, that is a big move that I am happy to share with you today.”
The decision to not name the new 400 cc motorcycle under the Pulsar brand seems to be a last minute one. The reason being, in the month of August, when the Bajaj team was shooting TVC, enthusiasts had managed to click their motorcycle completely undisguised. At that time, the bikes were wearing the Pulsar nameplate on fuel tank and a VS400 badge near the rear seat. (see image above)
However, the bike remains same. The new Bajaj 400 cc motorcycle which we have seen in spy shots, ever since it was showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo, will be same in design even though it now gets a new brand name. Mr Bajaj has confirmed that it will be launched by the month of November this year.
The new Bajaj 400 cc motorcycle aims to be a long distance tourer with a relaxed riding posture, comfortable seats and a big-bike like styling. Unlike the concept, it ditches the USD front fork in favor of a regular telescopic unit. Other highlights of the new Bajaj 400 are LED headlamp cluster with integrated pilot lamps, LED blinkers, LED taillights, meaty tyres, front and rear disc brakes (with optional ABS), digital instrument console with an auxiliary fuel-tank mounted display, etc.
The powertrain is expected to be closely related to the KTM’s 373.2 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine but the Pulsar CS 400 would employ Bajaj’s patented triple-spark technology. The motor will be mated to a 6-speed transmission. Aboard the Bajaj 400, this motor is expected to deliver 35 PS. Expected to be priced at INR 1.5 lakh, ex-showroom, New Delhi, it will be a viable alternative to the Mahindra Mojo and Royal Enfield Himalayan.
via moneycontrol
