Bajaj Auto’s portfolio realignment under 350cc is progressing rapidly to leverage the new GST benefits, with official confirmation from company executives. Here’s an expanded version of the article without references, incorporating the latest verified details on tax changes, engine specs, timelines, and market context.
Bajaj Auto Accelerates Sub-350cc Push for KTM, Triumph Amid GST Shift
Bajaj Auto is fast-tracking a portfolio overhaul across its Bajaj, Triumph, and KTM brands to position key models under the 350cc threshold, capitalizing on India’s revised GST rates effective September 22, 2025. Bikes up to 350cc now attract an 18% GST rate (down from 28%), while those above face 40% — prompting Bajaj to downsize engines without fully sacrificing performance.
During the Q2 FY26 analyst call, Executive Director Rakesh Sharma confirmed the effort: “We are working along with our partners KTM and Triumph on reshaping our portfolio… at a feverish pace,” noting launches could surprise with speed. Triumph leads with sub-350cc versions of its Speed 400 lineup (including Speed T4, Scrambler 400X), while Bajaj preps Pulsar 350 and Dominar 350 variants.
Engine Details and Performance Tweaks
The new 350cc unit derives from the proven 373cc/399cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC engine shared across Dominar 400, Pulsar NS400Z, KTM 390 Duke, and Triumph Speed 400. Bajaj reduces bore while keeping stroke, dropping displacement just under 350cc; expect a 3-5hp dip (e.g., Speed 400 from 40hp/37.5Nm).
This preserves mid-range punch for streetfighter and cruiser duties, with 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, and BS6 compliance intact. Expected outputs hover around 35-40PS and 35Nm, paired with dual-channel ABS and digital clusters.
Timeline, Pricing, and Market Edge
No firm dates yet, but “due course” hints at early 2026 launches in India, boosting Bajaj’s Pro-Biking division after its record Q2 sales of 30,000+ units (up 30% YoY). Pricing stays competitive — think Rs 2.3-2.4 lakh ex-showroom for Pulsar/Dominar 350s — undercutting rivals like Royal Enfield while targeting premium buyers.
| Model Line | Current (cc/hp) | New 350cc Expectation | GST Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Triumph Speed 400 | 398/40 | ~350/37hp | 18% vs 40% |
| Bajaj Pulsar 350 | N/A (373 planned) | ~350/40PS | 18% |
| Bajaj Dominar 350 | N/A (373 base) | ~350/35Nm | 18% |
Bajaj absorbed prior GST hikes on 400cc models to hold prices, but this realignment cements its mid-capacity dominance against RE, Honda, and Yezdi.
This tax-driven pivot could flood the market with affordable powerhouses, reshaping India’s premium two-wheeler scene by mid-2026.
