2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250: Which is the more value-for-money bike?

On paper, the Bajaj Dominar 250 sounds like the better bike of the two 

• The Dominar 250’s liquid-cooled engine makes a solid 27PS and 23.5Nm
• As for the N250, it makes 24.5PS and 21.5Nm from its 249cc engine
• The biggest difference between the two is also in their prices

If you're eyeing a 250cc bike, you've likely heard about the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250, touted as an excellent value-for-money option. However, another contender in this segment, the Bajaj Dominar 250, has also earned a reputation for offering exceptional value. Can the Pulsar N250 outshine the Dominar, or will the Dominar maintain its superiority? In this article, we delve into this comparison to provide some insights.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250: Designs

Bajaj has refreshed the aesthetics of the Pulsar N250 with new paint schemes, including red with maroon and white, as well as white with blue and grey. The existing black and red variant now sports black-coloured front forks, while the new variants feature golden-coloured units, adding a touch of sophistication. Additionally, the bike now boasts a modern fully digital instrument console with smartphone connectivity, offering call, SMS notifications, and turn-by-turn navigation. Safety features have been upgraded, with three ABS modes and switchable traction control, enhancing rider confidence.

Drawing inspiration from its larger sibling, the Dominar 400, the Bajaj Dominar 250 boasts a familiar yet contemporary design. Sporting LED headlamps, LED DRLs, and stylish LED indicators, it exudes modernity. Noteworthy features include a sizable fuel tank, twin-barrel exhausts, and an array of digital instrumentation. The fully digital console provides a wealth of information, while USD front forks and alloy wheels add to its appeal. If you're in the market for a feature-rich ride, the Dominar 250 won't disappoint.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250: Engines

The Pulsar N250 is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder engine producing 24.1bhp and 21.5Nm of torque, mated to a five-speed gearbox. Known for its lively performance, the engine accelerates briskly at lower speeds and maintains a strong mid-range grunt. However, vibrations are noticeable near the fuel tank and handlebar at higher revs, highlighting the need for a sixth gear to improve refinement.

The refined engine of the Dominar 250 sets it apart. With a lower compression ratio compared to its predecessors, it delivers an exceptionally smooth performance. Achieving speeds of 100kmph in 6th gear with minimal effort, the engine operates seamlessly even at higher speeds. Thanks to its transmission ratios, the bike offers excellent usability in the low- to mid-range rpm range, making city rides a breeze. 

Visual imperfections notwithstanding, we find the overall design and build of the D250 quite impressive. The attention to detail is evident in the fit and finish, with well-damped switchgear and consistent panel gaps enhancing its premium feel. The addition of the exclusive fiery red paint adds to its striking appearance. Bajaj has undoubtedly made strides in ensuring their motorcycles exude a premium look, but we can't help but feel disappointed by the lack of features in the LCD instrument console. 

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

In a significant upgrade, the 2024 Pulsar N250 now features USD front forks, complementing its existing monoshock setup. While the suspension is slightly firm, it offers a balanced ride, especially in urban environments with frequent traffic and quick manoeuvres. The inclusion of a wider 140-section rear tire enhances stability and cornering confidence.

Benefiting from Bajaj's collaboration with KTM, the Dominar 250 boasts premium features such as an inverted fork and a preload-adjustable monoshock. Paired with 17-inch rims, it ensures an exhilarating experience in twisty roads. With disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS, the Dominar offers superior braking feedback and safety.

When it comes to absorbing bumps and imperfections on the road, the Dominar 250 excels. Whether it's navigating potholes or traversing uneven terrain, the suspension system effortlessly soaks up the impact, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Even when faced with mid-corner obstacles, the bike maintains its composure, thanks to its well-tuned suspension setup and extended wheelbase, which mirrors that of its larger sibling, the Dominar 400. 

This stability instils confidence, particularly for novice riders, making it a standout feature of the Dominar 250. Braking performance is adequate, with the 300mm disc and Bybre calipers providing ample stopping power. However, the feedback from the brakes feels somewhat lacking, requiring a firm grip on the lever for optimal braking performance.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250: Dimensions

Despite its impressive performance, the Pulsar N250 struggles with vibrations and stress at higher revs due to the absence of a sixth gear. However, it excels in acceleration, reaching speeds of 50-60kmph effortlessly. On the highway, speeds of 90-100kmph are attainable, although the engine feels strained at higher rpm. Despite these limitations, the bike's competitive pricing of Rs 1.51 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) makes it an attractive option in its segment.

Weighing in at 180kg, the Dominar 250 is one of the heaviest bikes in its class. While this weight is manageable at high speeds, it can be noticeable at lower speeds, especially during manoeuvres in parking lots. That said, don't let the numbers fool you. Despite its weight, it's anything but sluggish on the road. With 27hp and 23.5Nm on tap, it holds its own against the competition. Bajaj's decision to stick with the same gearing and final drive ratio as the KTM 250 Duke pays off, evident in its surprising agility. 

Test results speak volumes – the Dominar 250 sprints from 0-60kph in just 3.82 seconds, a mere half-second shy of the lighter, more potent KTM 250 Duke. Even in the 0-100kph dash, it clocks in at under 10 seconds, a commendable 0.8 seconds slower than its Austrian counterpart.

2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs Bajaj Dominar 250: Price

True to Bajaj's tradition, the Dominar 250 comes with an attractive price tag of Rs 1.82 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), making it a compelling option in its segment.

Despite its enhanced features, the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N250 retains an attractive price point of Rs 1.51 lakh, only marginally higher than its predecessor. Positioned competitively against rivals like the Suzuki Gixxer 250, the N250 offers exceptional value for money, making it a compelling choice in the market. Hence with the Bajaj Pulsar N250, Bajaj has once again upheld its excellent pricing strategy and the bike brings a lot of value for the money it charges.

Verdict 

With its latest updates, the 2024 Pulsar N250 offers improved features, performance, and aesthetics, making it a compelling choice in the market. The addition of ABS modes, traction control, and smartphone connectivity enhances both safety and user experience. While minor finishing improvements are warranted, the overall value proposition remains strong. Considering its competitive pricing compared to rivals like the Suzuki Gixxer 250, the Pulsar N250 stands out as a worthy investment in its class.

Despite initial doubts, the Dominar 250 proves its mettle on the road. While it may not match the Dominar 400 in terms of speed and equipment, it offers a commendable performance. Priced competitively at Rs 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom), it provides excellent value for those upgrading from smaller bikes or seeking their first touring machine.