Triumph’s foray into the sub-500cc category with the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X is nothing short of a game-changer. The 400 twins prove that great things come in compact packages. These models are significant for Triumph, not only because they open up the brand to a broader audience, but also because they are the first to be designed in the UK and manufactured in India through Triumph’s partnership with Bajaj Auto.

This collaboration combines world-class engineering with competitive pricing, making premium motorcycling more accessible than ever. In markets like ours, the 400 twins fill an important gap. Whether you're upgrading from a premium commuter, looking for your first "big bike," or after a secondary ride with personality, these bikes strike the right balance of affordability, usability, and, of course, that coveted Triumph badge—because, let’s face it, heritage matters.

In this review of the Speed 400, we’ll dive into this entry-level roadster. But can it live up to all the hype? Let’s take a closer look.

Design: A Retro-Modern Appeal

Amidst a sea of sharp edges, loud colors, and unconventional designs, the Triumph Speed 400 stands out with its retro-modern styling—a perfect blend of British charm wrapped in a package that’s both accessible and effortlessly cool. One glance at the Speed 400, and it’s clear that Triumph has nailed the balance between classic and contemporary design.

The sculpted fuel tank, premium finishes, and clean proportions give it a bold yet sophisticated stance. While drawing inspiration from its bigger sibling, the Speed Twin 900, the Speed 400 carries a fresh, youthful vibe. Its round LED headlamp, bar-end mirrors, compact bodywork, and seamlessly integrated exhaust add to its sporty character, making it a certified head-turner from every angle.

Triumph’s meticulous attention to detail shines through with brushed aluminum accents, premium paint quality, and intricate design elements like the machined engine fins and throttle body covers. The overall fit and finish are top-notch, giving the bike a distinctly premium feel.

The dash combines a classic analog-style speedometer with a modern LCD inset that displays gear position, fuel level, range, and more. The Speed 400 also includes a USB-C charging port for convenience. While it lacks smartphone connectivity and navigation—a feature some may miss—it’s hardly a drawback.

Motorcycles, after all, should be simple. Triumph has nailed that with the Speed 400. There are no complicated ride modes or smartphone integrations—just hop on, fire it up, and go.

Engine & Performance: Punchy, Engaging, and Just Right

At the heart of the Speed 400 is a lively 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing 40 PS at 8,000 rpm and 37.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Fire it up, and you’re welcomed by a deep, throaty exhaust note—sporty but not obnoxious, refined yet full of character.

The Speed 400 truly shines in the midrange, where the engine feels most alive. It doesn’t hesitate to rev beyond 8,000 rpm, giving you the thrill of riding a sporty roadster. Quick overtakes are a breeze with just a flick of the wrist, and even at high speeds, the bike remains composed with minimal vibrations.

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The short-stroke engine loves to rev, offering strong low-end grunt for city riding and an impressive mid-range for highway cruising. Its free-revving nature makes acceleration feel lively, while the ride-by-wire system ensures precise throttle inputs.

Triumph claims a 0-100 km/h time of about 7 seconds. It’s not about jaw-dropping numbers, but the real joy lies in how effortlessly this bike carries its speed.

Ride & Handling: Effortless Agility and Stability

Triumph has managed to strike a near-perfect balance between agility and stability, making the Speed 400 a joy to ride in all scenarios. A well-balanced chassis and neutral riding position make the bike easy to get comfortable with—ideal for both new riders and experienced motorcyclists. Even the pillion seat is adequately spacious with decent cushioning.

The bike features 43mm upside-down front forks (non-adjustable) and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear, offering a plush yet sporty ride. It soaks up potholes and bumps with ease while maintaining composure during spirited riding. Its 176 kg kerb weight and a rider-friendly 790mm seat height make it easy to handle, even for shorter riders.

Rolling on 17-inch wheels wrapped in grippy Apollo Alpha H1 tires, the Speed 400 delivers composed handling on a variety of surfaces. It may not be an out-and-out sports bike, but through winding roads and sweeping corners, it provides a confidence-inspiring riding experience.

Braking is handled by a 300mm front disc with a radial-mounted ByBre caliper and a 230mm rear disc, both supported by dual-channel ABS. The braking response is progressive rather than aggressive, which suits the Speed 400’s friendly nature. It also comes with switchable traction control and a side-stand engine cut-off for added safety.

Verdict: Your Next Big Bike Without the Big Price Tag

At Rs 6.39 lakh, the Triumph Speed 400 hasn’t just set a new benchmark—it offers a high-quality product at a very attractive price. In a category where many bikes feel either too basic or too complex, the Speed 400 stands out as a well-rounded roadster that’s easy to use, fun to ride, and makes you feel like part of something bigger.

This is the kind of bike that makes you look forward to every ride. Whether you're upgrading from a commuter bike, looking for your first “big bike,” or seeking a secondary ride that exudes personality, the Speed 400 checks all the right boxes.

Its retro-modern design stands out in a crowded market, offering a sophisticated yet sporty stance that’s sure to turn heads. The lively 398cc engine provides smooth, engaging performance, making riding feel effortless. It’s not just fun to ride; it’s easy to live with. The bike is lightweight, well-balanced, and incredibly comfortable, offering a confident ride through city streets or winding backroads.

The attention to detail in its build quality and finish further reinforces the bike’s premium feel. Plus, with a 16,000 km service interval, it brings peace of mind to ownership. And even though it lacks smartphone connectivity or navigation, Triumph has created a bike that remains uncluttered and simple—just start it up and ride. No distractions, just pure motorcycling joy.