The Bajaj Dominar 250 is a standout offering from Bajaj Auto, one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers, known for blending performance, style, and affordability. Launched in March 2020, this motorcycle is positioned as an accessible yet powerful option in the 250cc segment, appealing to riders who crave a balance between sporty dynamics and touring comfort. As the younger sibling of the celebrated Dominar 400, the Dominar 250 inherits much of its elder counterpart’s muscular design and robust engineering but scales it down to suit beginners and budget-conscious enthusiasts. Priced competitively, it targets the growing Indian youth demographic seeking a versatile motorcycle for both urban commuting and long-distance adventures. With its bold aesthetics, advanced features, and a reliable powertrain, the Dominar 250 has carved a niche in the highly competitive Indian motorcycle market.
This bike is engineered to deliver a commanding road presence, thanks to its aggressive styling and premium components like full-LED lighting and a digital instrument cluster. It’s a machine that promises not just practicality but also an exhilarating riding experience, making it a popular choice among riders who want more than just a commuter bike. In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, design elements, variants, pricing across metro cities, and how it stacks up against its close competitors.
Overview of the Bajaj Dominar 250
The Bajaj Dominar 250 is marketed as a sports-tourer, a category that blends the thrill of sporty performance with the comfort required for long rides. Its design philosophy revolves around offering a premium experience at an affordable price point, making it an attractive proposition for riders upgrading from 150cc or 200cc bikes. The motorcycle shares its DNA with the Dominar 400, evident in its muscular stance, twin-barrel exhaust, and split-seat configuration. However, it differentiates itself with a lighter frame, a smaller yet potent engine, and a price tag that broadens its appeal.
Bajaj Auto designed the Dominar 250 to cater to riders who dream of touring India’s highways but are constrained by budget or experience. Its 248.77cc liquid-cooled engine, borrowed from the KTM 250 Duke but tuned for smoother power delivery, ensures it’s approachable for novices while retaining enough grunt for seasoned riders. The bike’s upright riding stance, paired with a well-cushioned seat, makes it ideal for extended journeys, while its dual-channel ABS ensures safety across varied terrains. Available in striking dual-tone color schemes, the Dominar 250 doesn’t just perform—it turns heads wherever it goes.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table detailing the technical specifications of the Bajaj Dominar 250, sourced from reliable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, DOHC, 4-Valve, Liquid-Cooled, Twin Spark, FI |
| Displacement | 248.77 cc |
| Max Power | 27 PS @ 8500 RPM |
| Max Torque | 23.5 Nm @ 6500 RPM |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 35.03 kmpl |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual with Slipper Clutch |
| Cooling System | Liquid-Cooled |
| Front Suspension | 37mm USD (Upside-Down) Telescopic Forks |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Step Adjustable Mono-Shock with Nitrox |
| Front Brake | 300mm Disc with Dual-Channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 230mm Disc with Dual-Channel ABS |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 100/80-17 Tubeless |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 130/70-17 Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy Wheels |
| Frame | Beam-Type Perimeter Frame |
| Length | 2156 mm |
| Width | 836 mm |
| Height | 1112 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1453 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 157 mm |
| Seat Height | 800 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 180 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 Litres |
| Top Speed | 132 kmph (Claimed) |
| Battery | 12V, 8Ah VRLA |
These specifications highlight the Dominar 250’s capability as a well-rounded motorcycle, blending power, efficiency, and safety features.
Design and Exteriors
The Bajaj Dominar 250 boasts a design that’s unmistakably bold and muscular, drawing inspiration from its bigger sibling, the Dominar 400. Its leo stance—a term coined by Bajaj—refers to the bike’s aggressive posture, characterized by a low-slung body, a prominent fuel tank with sharp extensions, and a sculpted silhouette. The front fascia is dominated by a full-LED headlamp with auto-headlamp-on (AHO) functionality, offering excellent visibility in low-light conditions. Flanking the headlamp are LED turn indicators that add a modern touch to its rugged appeal.
The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, recently updated to a black finish in some variants, replacing the earlier white and silver options. These wheels, paired with tubeless tires, ensure durability and grip across diverse road conditions. The twin-barrel exhaust not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also delivers a throaty bass note, amplifying its presence on the road. The rear features an LED tail lamp and a split-seat design, with the pillion seat neatly concealing bungee straps for luggage—a thoughtful addition for touring enthusiasts.
The Dominar 250’s bodywork is adorned with striking graphics and dual-tone color options: Citrus Rush with Matt Silver, Racing Red with Matt Silver, and Sparkling Black with Matt Silver. These schemes lend it a premium, youthful vibe, distinguishing it from competitors. The tank-mounted secondary display and backlit switchgear further elevate its exterior sophistication, making it a motorcycle that looks far more expensive than its price suggests.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Bajaj Dominar 250 offers an ergonomic layout that defines the rider’s experience. The riding position is upright yet commanding, with a wide handlebar that provides excellent control and reduces fatigue on long rides. The seat, at 800mm, is slightly on the higher side, which might challenge shorter riders but offers a perfect perch for taller individuals to enjoy a clear view of the road.
The split-seat configuration ensures comfort for both rider and pillion, with adequate cushioning for hours of riding. The rider’s seat is contoured to lock the knees around the tank, enhancing stability during high-speed cruising. Footpegs are positioned to complement the upright stance, striking a balance between sporty aggression and touring relaxation. The pillion seat, though compact, includes grab rails for safety, making it practical for two-up riding.
The instrument cluster is a highlight of the Dominar 250’s ergonomics. It features a primary LCD display showing speed, RPM, fuel level, and trip details, while a secondary display on the fuel tank provides gear position, odometer readings, and a clock. This split design keeps essential information accessible without cluttering the rider’s view. However, some users note that the console feels slightly dated compared to fully digital setups on newer rivals.
Advanced Features
The Bajaj Dominar 250 comes equipped with a suite of advanced features that enhance its appeal in the 250cc segment. The full-LED lighting system—comprising the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators—ensures superior illumination and a premium look. The headlamp operates in multiple modes, adapting to various riding conditions, while the AHO feature boosts daytime visibility.
Safety is a priority, with dual-channel ABS paired with 300mm front and 230mm rear disc brakes. This system prevents wheel lockup during emergency braking, offering confidence on wet or uneven surfaces. The slipper clutch is another standout feature, reducing rear-wheel chatter during aggressive downshifts and making gear changes smoother—a boon for both city traffic and highway runs.
The liquid-cooled engine maintains consistent performance even after prolonged use, preventing overheating and ensuring reliability on long tours. The 6-speed gearbox, with its tall gearing, aids in relaxed cruising at high speeds, while the perimeter frame and USD forks deliver exceptional stability and handling. Though it lacks modern additions like Bluetooth connectivity or ride-by-wire, Bajaj is reportedly planning updates for 2025, including a refreshed console with navigation support, which could bridge this gap.
Variants
The Dominar 250 is offered in a single variant, keeping things simple for buyers. Below is a table summarizing its variant details:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Dominar 250 STD | Single variant with standard features: ABS, LED lights, slipper clutch, etc. |
Unlike some competitors offering multiple trims, Bajaj focuses on delivering a fully loaded package in one go, ensuring all riders get the same premium experience.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Bajaj Dominar 250 varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Here’s a table with on-road prices as of April 2025, based on data from BikeWale and BikeDekho:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,86,496 | 2,16,176 |
| Mumbai | 1,86,496 | 2,19,000 |
| Kolkata | 1,86,496 | 2,24,523 |
| Chennai | 1,86,496 | 2,17,000 |
| Bangalore | 1,86,496 | 2,43,956 |
These prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealership offers and updates from Bajaj Auto. The bike remains competitively priced, undercutting its elder sibling, the Dominar 400, by a significant margin.
About the Bajaj Dominar 250
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Bajaj Dominar 250 lies a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine, producing 27 PS at 8500 RPM and 23.5 Nm at 6500 RPM. This powertrain, shared with the KTM 250 Duke, is tuned for linear power delivery, making it more forgiving than the KTM’s peaky output. The inclusion of fuel injection and twin-spark technology ensures efficient combustion, translating to a claimed mileage of 35.03 kmpl—impressive for a 250cc bike with touring credentials.
The 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch enhances rideability, allowing seamless shifts and relaxed cruising at speeds of 100-110 kmph. The engine’s refinement shines in its ability to handle low-speed city traffic without strain, while the top speed of 132 kmph (claimed) makes it a capable highway companion. Riders often praise its smooth throttle response and minimal vibrations up to 7000 RPM, though some note mild vibes at higher revs—a trade-off for its accessible performance.
Ride and Handling
The Dominar 250’s beam-type perimeter frame, paired with 37mm USD forks and a multi-step adjustable monoshock, offers a balanced ride. The suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up potholes and speed breakers with ease, yet it remains firm enough for spirited cornering. At 180 kg, the bike’s heft provides stability at high speeds, though it can feel cumbersome in tight urban scenarios.
The dual-channel ABS and disc brakes deliver confident stopping power, with a braking distance of 43 meters from 100 kmph to 0, as per Bajaj’s claims. The 100/80-17 front and 130/70-17 rear tubeless tires offer decent grip, though some riders suggest upgrading to wider rubber for enhanced cornering confidence. With a 157mm ground clearance, it handles rough roads well, but low-slung exhausts might scrape on steep inclines.
Comfort and Practicality
For a 250cc motorcycle, the Dominar 250 excels in comfort. The upright riding posture, combined with a well-padded seat, ensures riders can cover 200-300 km in a day without fatigue. The 13-litre fuel tank provides a theoretical range of over 450 km, making it a practical choice for weekend getaways. Bungee straps under the pillion seat add utility for securing luggage, reinforcing its touring credentials.
However, the 800mm seat height might deter shorter riders, and the pillion seat, while functional, isn’t as spacious as some rivals. The bike’s weight also demands careful handling at low speeds or when parking, but these are minor compromises for its overall package.
Market Positioning and Updates
Bajaj positions the Dominar 250 as an entry-level sports-tourer, bridging the gap between commuter bikes like the Pulsar series and premium offerings like the Dominar 400. Its affordability—starting at INR 1.86 lakh ex-showroom—makes it a stepping stone for riders aspiring to own a big bike without breaking the bank. User reviews often highlight its value-for-money proposition, with many appreciating its premium features at this price point.
In May 2024, Bajaj hinted at a 2025 facelift, potentially including a modern LCD cluster with Bluetooth and navigation, ride-by-wire, and refreshed graphics. These updates could address criticisms about its dated console and lack of connectivity, keeping it competitive in a rapidly evolving segment.
Close Competitors
The Bajaj Dominar 250 faces stiff competition in the 250cc segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
Suzuki Gixxer 250
- Engine: 249cc, air-cooled, 26.5 PS, 22.2 Nm
- Price: INR 1.83 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
- Key Features: LED lights, digital cluster, single-channel ABS
- Comparison: The Gixxer 250 is lighter (156 kg) and more agile, ideal for city use. However, it lacks the Dominar’s touring comfort, liquid cooling, and dual-channel ABS, making the latter a better all-rounder.
Yamaha FZ25
- Engine: 249cc, air-cooled, 20.8 PS, 20.1 Nm
- Price: INR 1.55 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
- Key Features: LED headlamp, LCD cluster, single-channel ABS
- Comparison: The FZ25 is cheaper and fuel-efficient (around 40 kmpl), but its lower power and basic suspension can’t match the Dominar’s highway prowess or premium feel.
KTM 250 Duke
- Engine: 248.8cc, liquid-cooled, 30 PS, 24 Nm
- Price: INR 2.45 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
- Key Features: TFT display, quickshifter, dual-channel ABS
- Comparison: Sharing the same engine base, the 250 Duke offers sharper performance and advanced tech but at a higher cost. The Dominar 250 trades agility for comfort and affordability.
Honda CB200X
- Engine: 184.4cc, air-cooled, 17.26 PS, 15.9 Nm
- Price: INR 1.75 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)
- Key Features: LED lights, digital console, single-channel ABS
- Comparison: The CB200X is a smaller, adventure-styled option with less power. It’s easier to handle but falls short of the Dominar’s performance and touring capability.
The Dominar 250 stands out for its blend of power, comfort, and safety features at a competitive price, making it a strong contender against both sporty nakeds and touring-oriented bikes.
Final Thoughts!
The Bajaj Dominar 250 is a compelling motorcycle that delivers on its promise of being an accessible sports-tourer. Its 248.77cc engine, premium features like dual-channel ABS and LED lighting, and muscular design make it a versatile choice for riders seeking more than just a daily commuter. While it may not match the tech-laden appeal of pricier rivals like the KTM 250 Duke or the agility of the Suzuki Gixxer 250, it excels in offering a balanced package for city rides and highway tours alike.
With a starting price of INR 1.86 lakh (ex-showroom) and on-road costs ranging from INR 2.16 lakh to 2.44 lakh across metro cities, it remains a value-for-money proposition. Anticipated updates in 2025 could further elevate its appeal, addressing minor shortcomings like the lack of connectivity. For riders dreaming of exploring India’s vast roads without stretching their budget, the Dominar 250 is a worthy companion that punches above its weight in the 250cc segment. Whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast, this bike offers a taste of big-bike thrills with small-bike practicality—a true dominator in its class.
