It’s a market that ‘new’ Triumph (when do you think we can stop calling them ‘new’?) has never tackled but one that is assuming increasing importance not just in Asia but around the world. The market is the sub-500cc market and Triumph has finally committed to it after a couple of false starts over the past ten years.
The new Speed 400 roadster and Scrambler 400 X models fit into Triumph’s ‘modern classic’ range and are, in effect, ‘baby’ versions of the Speed Twin 900 and the Scrambler 900.
They are powered by a brand new DOHC, four-valve, fuel injection 398cc, liquid-cooled single cylinder engine, called the TR-Series, developing 39.5bhp and 37Nm of torque, figures that put it on a par with KTM’s 390 models. Wet weight is 170 – 179kg, depending on the model chosen. Service intervals are an impressive 16,000km.
The Speed 400 features large 43mm big-piston upside-down front forks, mono-shock rear suspension with an external reservoir, lightweight 17-inch wheels and roadster-specific geometry and wheelbase. Four-piston radial front brakes with a 300mm front disc handle stopping duties up front.
The Scrambler 400 X features a longer wheelbase, longer travel suspension, a larger 19-inch front wheel, a larger cast steel brake pedal and high-grip foot pegs that are positioned lower and wider also make for a more natural standing riding position when riding off-road, with a larger 320mm front brake disc.
Electronically, there is a ride-by-wire throttle, traction control and ABS: TC is switchable on both models, while the ABS can be turned off at the rear on the Scrambler. The dash is a combined analogue/digital affair, while all lighting is LED.
They look exactly like their larger stablemates and, if previous practice is adhered to, quality promises to be at the premium end of the market, with little concession to budget constraints. Having said that, expect the two models to be competitively priced.
This class of motorcycle is largely aimed at the Indian and Asian markets but should find ready acceptance in other territories. They have been developed as part of Triumph’s partnership with Indian giant Bajaj, but they will be built in Triumph’s factories in Thailand and Brazil, while Bajaj will build the bikes that will go on sale in India later this year. The rest of the world will get them in early 2024.
