The buzz in Kathmandu’s motorcycle corridors shifted on 6 July 2025 when Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. rolled out the updated Dominar 400. The rollout followed a seven‑day booking window that saw a queue of enthusiasts at the dealer’s flagship outlet. The launch isn’t just a new paint job – it’s a statement that Bajaj is willing to invest in genuine tech upgrades for the Nepali market.
Bajaj has taken the 2024 platform and added a suite of electronics that were previously reserved for its higher‑end NS 400 Z‑M. Key upgrades include:
These changes matter because they bring the Dominar into the same technology bracket as many imported sport‑tourers, yet it retains a price that is still digestible for local riders.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 373 cc, single‑cylinder, liquid‑cooled, DOHC, 4‑valve |
| Power | 39 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 35 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual |
| Frame | Solid stamped perimeter |
| Suspension | USD fork, multi‑step adjustable mono‑shock |
| Brakes | Dual disc front, single disc rear, dual‑channel ABS |
| Weight | 190 kg (kerb) |
The new digital console does more than display speed. It hosts a menu for the four riding modes, lets the rider toggle Smart Connect, and shows real‑time fuel consumption. The USB port means a phone can stay alive on a long hill climb without a separate power bank.
Riders who have tested the bike report a smoother throttle response thanks to the Electronic Throttle Body. The Ride‑by‑Wire system also feeds data to the traction control unit, which now intervenes earlier on slippery surfaces – a crucial advantage during Nepal’s monsoon‑season road conditions.
The LED lighting not only looks modern but also cuts power draw, extending the already respectable fuel range of about 35 km per litre. Combined with the dual‑channel ABS, the Dominar feels safer on the winding mountain roads that dominate the country’s highway network.
Bajaj has priced the base model at 6,34,900 NPR. No higher‑spec trim has been announced yet, but the company hinted at a premium variant with additional chrome and a quick‑shifter later in the year.
| Trim | Price (NPR) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Base | 6,34,900 | Digital console, USB, LED lights, 4 riding modes |
| Premium (rumoured) | — | Quick‑shifter, full‑color TFT, additional chrome |
In the Nepali market, the Dominar 400 now sits squarely against the Honda CB500 (priced around 7 lakh NPR) and the KTM 390 (around 7.2 lakh NPR). While the CB500 offers a smoother inline‑twin, the Dominar’s single‑cylinder torque curve and rugged chassis give it an edge on rough terrain. The added electronics narrow the gap with the KTM, which has long been the tech‑leader in this segment.
Bajaj’s rollout strategy suggests a phased approach. The first batch focuses on the Kathmandu valley, but dealerships in Pokhara, Biratnagar and Dharan have already placed orders. A dealer‑wide promotional campaign promises free first‑service for six months, a move that could accelerate adoption among younger riders.
The company also hinted at an upcoming Dominar 400 ABS‑plus variant that will feature a larger front disc and a semi‑active suspension. If that materialises, the model could become the benchmark for affordable, tech‑rich middleweight bikes in Nepal.
That matters because the 400 cc class is where most riders upgrade from commuter scooters. A well‑equipped, locally‑supported bike can shift buying patterns away from imports, strengthening the domestic supply chain.
Q: What is the exact launch price of the 2025 Dominar 400 in Nepal? A: The base model is priced at 6,34,900 NPR. No official price has been released for any future premium trim.
Q: When can buyers expect deliveries after booking? A: Pre‑orders opened on 29 June 2025. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early August 2025, subject to dealer allocation.
Q: How does the new digital console differ from the previous model? A: The old analog cluster is replaced by a full‑color LCD that shows speed, gear position, fuel level, riding mode, and Bluetooth connectivity status.
Q: Does the bike come with a warranty in Nepal? A: Yes, Bajaj offers a two‑year or 20,000 km warranty, whichever comes first, covering engine and major components.
Q: How does the Dominar 400 compare to the Honda CB500 in terms of power? A: The Dominar produces 39 PS at 8,500 rpm, while the CB500 delivers around 47 PS. However, the Dominar’s torque peaks lower at 35 Nm, giving it strong pull on steep climbs.
Q: Are there any financing options available? A: Several Nepali banks have partnered with Bajaj dealers to provide low‑interest loans, typically starting at 1.5 % per month, with ten‑year repayment terms.