Bajaj Dominar 250: In a move that has surprised enthusiasts and industry watchers alike, Bajaj Auto has rolled out a comprehensively updated version of its quarter-liter sports tourer, the Dominar 250. The refresh comes at a time when the 250cc segment is witnessing unprecedented competition, with rivals constantly upping the ante in terms of features and performance. With sharper styling, enhanced mechanicals, and thoughtful touring-oriented additions, the 2025 Dominar 250 makes a compelling case for itself as the most versatile machine in its class.
Visual Overhaul: Muscular Yet Sophisticated
The 2025 Dominar 250 retains its muscular stance but introduces several design elements that give it a more premium appearance. The front end now sports a sleeker LED headlamp with integrated DRLs that create a distinctive light signature. The fuel tank has been resculpted with sharper knee recesses that improve ergonomics while adding visual drama.
“We wanted to evolve the design language without losing the Dominar’s imposing road presence,” explains Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto. “The new aesthetic is more sophisticated but still unmistakably a Dominar.”
New color options include a striking Aurora Green with copper accents, Stealth Black with red highlights, and Titanium Grey with neon yellow detailing. The twin-barrel exhaust has been redesigned with a brushed metal finish that develops a beautiful patina over time – a thoughtful touch that acknowledges the motorcycle’s touring aspirations.
Perhaps the most eye-catching change is the new split-seat design with contrast stitching and a more sculpted profile. The pillion seat, previously criticized for being too firm, now features improved padding and a subtle increase in size that makes two-up riding considerably more comfortable.
Performance Enhancements: Not Just About Numbers
Under the familiar skin lies a significantly refined powertrain. The 248.8cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine has been reworked to deliver 30PS (up from 27PS) and 25Nm of torque. More impressive than the modest power increase is how the power is delivered – the torque curve has been flattened to provide better mid-range grunt, addressing a common criticism of the previous model.
“Raw numbers don’t tell the whole story,” insists Abhishek Sharma, Head of Product Development. “We’ve focused on real-world rideability rather than specification sheet bragging rights. The engine now pulls more cleanly from low revs, making city riding less taxing and highway overtakes more confident.”
The six-speed gearbox receives attention too, with revised ratios for the first three gears providing better acceleration, while the tall sixth gear enhances cruising efficiency. Bajaj claims the new Dominar 250 can return 35km/l under standard test conditions, an impressive figure for a performance-oriented machine.
Complementing the powertrain changes is a reworked suspension setup. The 37mm upside-down fork remains but features revised damping characteristics, while the rear monoshock now offers 10-step preload adjustability. The chassis geometry has been subtly altered with a 5mm longer swingarm that enhances stability during high-speed cruising without compromising agility in urban environments.
Touring Credentials: Ready for the Long Haul
Recognizing that many Dominar owners use their machines for extended touring, Bajaj has incorporated several features that enhance long-distance usability. A height-adjustable windscreen now comes standard, offering two positions that can be changed without tools. The handlebar is slightly taller and wider, creating a more relaxed riding position without compromising control.
“We’ve been closely monitoring owner communities and studying how they use their motorcycles,” reveals Sumit Narang, Head of Marketing. “The touring capability of the Dominar has clearly resonated with buyers, so we’ve doubled down on features that enhance that aspect of its personality.”
The instrument cluster has been completely redesigned, now featuring a TFT display that offers Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation when paired with a smartphone. A USB-C charging port is conveniently located near the tank, allowing riders to keep devices powered during long journeys.
Perhaps most significantly, the fuel tank capacity has been increased to 17 liters (up from 13 liters), extending the theoretical range to over 500 kilometers on a single fill – a game-changer for those who enjoy exploring remote areas where fuel stations are few and far between.
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Bajaj Dominar 250: Market Positioning: Value Proposition Strengthened
With a starting price of ₹1.97 lakh (ex-showroom), the refreshed Dominar 250 positions itself as an attractive proposition in the quarter-liter segment. This represents a marginal increase of ₹7,000 over the outgoing model – a figure that seems more than justified given the comprehensive nature of the updates.
“We’ve always believed in offering exceptional value,” states Sarang Kanade, President of Motorcycle Business. “The 2025 Dominar 250 continues that tradition by delivering a premium experience without the premium price tag.”
The refreshed model will be available at Bajaj dealerships nationwide from the first week of July, with the company already reporting strong pre-launch interest based on teaser campaigns run over the past fortnight.