Since its debut, the Bajaj Dominar has carved out a niche in the Indian motorcycle market as a sport-touring machine offering solid performance, comfortable long-distance capability, and value for money. With the 2025 updates to the Dominar 250 and 400, the big question is: in a market getting more crowded and tech-forward, does the Dominar still hold its own? Here’s a detailed look.
What’s New in 2025
Bajaj has given both the Dominar 250 and 400 meaningful updates this year Key upgrades include:
- Ride-by-wire & Ride Modes (Dominar 400): The 400 now gets ride-by-wire throttle, with four ride modes—Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-road—that adjust throttle response and ABS intervention.
- ABS Modes (Dominar 250): While it retains a mechanical throttle, the 250 gets four ABS modes for varying conditions.
- Instrument Cluster & Visibility: Both bikes now feature a bonded-glass colour LCD speedometer borrowed from the Pulsar NS400Z. A visor atop the cluster improves visibility in harsh sunlight or glare.
- Ergonomics & Touring Equipment: Handlebar redesign for a more relaxed posture, addition of a GPS mount on the rear carrier, new switchgear, better visibility in display, etc.
- Price: The ex-showroom Delhi price for the Dominar 250 is about ₹1.91–1.92 lakh, and the Dominar 400 is about ₹2.38–2.39 lakh.
Mechanically, though, both models remain largely unchanged: same displacement, same power outputs (Dominar 400 ~40 bhp / 35 Nm; Dominar 250 ~27 bhp / 23.5 Nm), same 6-speed gearboxes with slipper clutches.
Strengths: Where the Dominar Still Shines
Given the updates, the Dominar retains many of its strong points—and these are why it remains relevant:
- Touring Comfort: The seating posture, handlebar geometry, and overall build still favour long rides. The added GPS mount and better visibility in displays are nice touches for both regular touring and long highway stretches.
- Feature Additions Without Overpricing: The ride modes, ABS modes, ride-by-wire in the 400, bonded-glass dash—all these are premium-ish features that make the bike feel fresh without pushing its price into rival territory.
- Proven Power and Reliability: Since the engines remain largely the same, the Dominar brings a known quantity. Riders already familiar with its performance curve won’t be surprised.
- Value Proposition: Compared to many challenger bikes, Dominar still offers a lot of bike for the price—good torque, reasonable fuel efficiency (for its class), decent maintenance costs, and good service network.
Weaknesses & Challenges
However, the Dominar update isn’t without its compromises. The question becomes whether these are dealbreakers for some buyers:
- Weight & Handling in Traffic: The Dominar 400 is still heavy compared to lighter performance bikes or ADV-style machines. In stop-and-go urban traffic, that weight, along with a long wheelbase, can reduce maneuverability.
- Throttle Feel (in 250): Since the 250 keeps a mechanical throttle rather than ride-by-wire, some of the “smart” control over power delivery is less refined. ABS modes help, but the tactile cue vs. modern electronic throttles is still lagging.
- Competition Is Getting Strong: Other manufacturers are introducing bikes with more modern electronics, lighter chassis, stronger power-to-weight ratios, or more adventure-tourer styling. The expectations of buyers are shifting.
- No Major Mechanical Leap: For some enthusiasts, just tweaking ergonomics or adding ride modes isn’t enough. They may want more displacement, more power, or lighter weight, which Dominar hasn’t addressed.
Is It Still Relevant?
Putting it all together, yes—the 2025 Dominar remains relevant, especially if you fall into one or more of these categories:
- You’re a rider who values highway comfort, reliability, and long rides more than extreme acceleration or lightweight sportiness.
- You want modern riding aids (ride modes, ABS modes) without spending top-dollar.
- You appreciate refined touring accessories right from the factory.
- You’re looking for a motorcycle with a strong service network and proven parts reliability.
However, if your priorities are sportier performance, light weight, or latest-in-segment electronic wizardry, then there are other bikes worth considering. For example, bikes with fully adjustable suspension, TFT displays, better power-to-weight ratios, or more aggressive styling might pull ahead for those buyers.
Verdict
The 2025 update of the Dominar 250 and 400 doesn’t revolutionize the model, but it successfully modernizes it. Bajaj has wisely added features that matter on the road—visibility, ride modes, ABS control, ergonomics—while keeping the core strengths intact. For many riders, this update will be enough to justify a purchase or an upgrade.
If you’re choosing whether to buy a 2025 Dominar or go for something else, here’s how to decide:
- Test-ride the 400 if you often ride highways or want stronger performance with modern throttle control.
- Check the 250 if your budget is tighter and you’re okay with less electronics but want solid torque and value.
- Compare rivals: see what else is in the same price bracket and whether they offer things you care about more than what Dominar provides.
All told, the Dominar still has a place in 2025. It may not be the top choice for thrill-seekers who want edge-cutting tech, but for the large chunk of riders who want capable, comfortable, value-for-money touring machines, it remains a very strong contender.