The Triumph Speed 400 is perhaps the most significant new motorcycle launched in India in recent years — and not just for its performance credentials. Produced in a landmark partnership with Bajaj Auto in Pune and priced at just over ₹2.3 lakh ex-showroom, the Speed 400 democratises the Triumph ownership experience in a way the brand could never have done on its own. For 2026, it continues to offer one of the most remarkable value propositions in the Indian motorcycle market: genuine British heritage, liquid-cooled performance, premium build quality, and accessible pricing. We test if it lives up to the remarkable hype.
Quick Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 398.15cc, Single-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled, DOHC |
| Power | 39.5 bhp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 37.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed with Slipper Clutch |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| ARAI Mileage | 34 km/l |
| Kerb Weight | 176 kg |
| Fuel Tank | 13 litres |
| Ex-showroom Price (Delhi) | ₹2,33,358 – ₹2,46,358 |
Design & Styling
The Speed 400 is unmistakably a Triumph. The classic roadster proportions — round headlamp, teardrop tank, upswept exhaust — are timeless and handsome. It draws inspiration from the legendary Triumph Bonneville family without being a slavish replica. The fit and finish, driven significantly by Bajaj’s manufacturing expertise, is exceptional — panel gaps are tight, chrome is lustrous, and the paint depth is premium. Available in Carnival Red, Silver Ice, and Carnival Red/Silver Ice, all three colour combinations are attractive. Nothing about the Speed 400 looks or feels like it costs under ₹2.5 lakh.
Engine & Performance
The liquid-cooled 398cc DOHC single produces 39.5 bhp and 37.5 Nm of torque — numbers that place it at the very top of the single-cylinder 400cc performance hierarchy in India. Power delivery is linear and strong, with excellent mid-range pull and a free-revving top end that keeps things interesting. The slipper clutch aids smooth downshifts, and the 6-speed gearbox is precise. 0-100 km/h takes approximately 7.4 seconds. Highway cruising is confident and relaxed at 100–120 km/h, with the engine feeling unstressed. The exhaust note is a deep, satisfying thrum — a premium detail in a world of shrill small-displacement singles.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Real-world city economy of 27–30 km/l and highway figures of 31–35 km/l are expected from a 39.5 bhp liquid-cooled unit. The 13-litre tank provides approximately 370–430 km of range. These are acceptable figures for the performance offered. Annual fuel costs for a typical 15,000 km rider will be roughly ₹55,000–65,000 at current petrol prices — moderate for a bike in this performance class.
Ride Quality & Handling
Showa inverted forks (41 mm) up front and a Showa preload-adjustable rear monoshock deliver a suspension tune that is among the best balanced in the segment. Comfortable over rough urban surfaces yet precise and responsive on sweeping mountain roads — it strikes a better balance than many of its immediate rivals. Braking from Bybre callipers with 300 mm front and 230 mm rear discs is strong and linear. Dual-channel ABS is standard. The Metzeler Roadtec 01 tyres are an excellent choice that suits the Speed 400’s balanced character.
Features & Technology
The semi-digital instrument cluster (analogue rev counter, digital LCD for speed/MID) is clear and functional. Triumph Connect Bluetooth app compatibility enables navigation, call alerts, and vehicle data. All-LED lighting is standard. The Speed 400 does not chase maximum technology — there are no riding modes, no quickshifter, no TFT screen — but everything present is executed with premium quality. The focus is on analogue riding pleasure, which suits the motorcycle’s character entirely.
Comfort & Ergonomics
Classic roadster ergonomics: upright riding position, wide handlebar, low seat. Seat height at 790 mm is accessible even for shorter riders. The wide, plush seat accommodates two riders comfortably for distances up to 150 km. Footpegs are mid-positioned — not aggressive, not lazy. The Speed 400 is genuinely comfortable for daily commuting, weekend touring, and everything between. It is one of the most ergonomically accommodating performance motorcycles in its class.
Price & Variants
| Variant | Ex-showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|
| Speed 400 Standard | ₹2,33,358 |
| Speed 400 Special Edition | ₹2,46,358 |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Triumph badge at unprecedented affordability | No riding modes or advanced electronics |
| Excellent engine refinement and character | No quickshifter or TFT display |
| Premium build quality via Bajaj partnership | Service centres fewer than Bajaj/RE |
| Well-balanced chassis and suspension | Modest fuel economy vs 250cc bikes |
| Comfortable ergonomics for all-day riding | Rear suspension non-adjustable on base |
Verdict
The Triumph Speed 400 is one of the most significant motorcycles to be built in India in decades. It brings genuine Triumph DNA, 39.5 bhp performance, premium build quality, and one of the best riding experiences in the sub-₹2.5 lakh segment. It is not the most technologically advanced motorcycle at its price, but it is arguably the most emotionally satisfying. Buy it for the engine character, the ride quality, the brand, and the experience. One of our top picks in the segment.
