Triumph's long-awaited new entry-level bikes have finally been revealed!
It’s been a long time coming, but Triumph Motorcycles' new line of 400cc LAMS bikes have finally broken cover, and they not only look pretty classy, they've got great specifications to boot!
Set to join the wider Triumph lineup from 2024, the new bikes, dubbed the Scrambler 400 X and Speed 400 (hopefully that's not an oxymoron), are both designed in the UK by Triumph but built by Triumph’s Indian partner Bajaj Auto in India. This should result in some pretty sharp pricing which will be announced closer to the local launch of the bikes in early 2024.
While the new 400s from Triumph are designed to act as a more affordable entry-point to the brand than the existing Trident and Tiger Sport 660s, that doesn’t mean they are lacking in modern technology and performance despite their size.
The all-new TR-series engine at the centre of both bikes measures in at 398cc and puts down a very healthy 40hp and 37.5Nm of peak torque. That’s much higher than the bikes Triumph will be immediately competing against in the segment (i.e. Royal Enfield’s 350 and 411 lineups) thanks to a thoroughly modern design that includes a four-valve head with dual overhead cams and water cooling.
The engine transfers its power to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox and chain drive. The clutch is of the torque-assist variety, meaning that while it has a light action at the lever it is very learner friendly and won’t lock up the rear wheel on fast downshifts.
Also helping keep the new 400s on the sprightly side of the LAMS class is a low weight, with the Speed 400 tipping the scales at just 170kg wet while the Scrambler 400 weighs in at 9 kilos heavier.
Triumph has worked to ensure they are still approachable despite their relatively strong performance with low seat heights of 790mm for the Speed 400 and 835mm for the Scrambler respectively.
While they may represent the new entry point to the Triumph brand, it’s hard to call either 400 a non-premium affair.
Suspension for both comes in the form of 43mm big-piston USD forks with a monoshock rear with an external reservoir (the Scrambler gets longer travel versions) while braking comes in the form of a 300mm disc with a four-piston caliper on the Speed 400 and a 320mm disc and four-piston caliper on the Scrambler. Both are backed by both ABS braking and traction control. The ABS on the Scrambler is also switchable for riding off-road, which is a nice touch by Triumph.
Both bikes also ship with a switchable traction control system with a simple on or off selection. That means riders can be assured of maximum safety or maximum fun with the new bikes.
Rolling stock is a set of 17-inch cast alloys for the Speed 400 while the Scrambler adds a little off-road capability with a 19-inch front.
Instrumentation is a stylish analogue speed with an integrated LCD screen with all the expected features including a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, and a digital tachometer.
Triumph has also included a USB-C charging socket that allows for on-the-move charging of handlebar-mounted devices, such as smartphones and navigation systems.
Since these bikes are likely to end up as commuters, Triumph has included a factory immobiliser into the bikes as standard. The keys feature a transponder chip to ensure only the owner can start the engine.
This is all topped off with Triumph’s iconic modern classic styling with full LED lighting and a range of accessories ready for launch.
The Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 will first launch in India in mid-2023, with the world market set to receive the bikes in 2024.
We can’t wait!