We've been waiting with bated breath for Triumph Motorcycles NZ to lock in pricing for its brand-new entry-level models - the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X - and the wait is finally over!
Entering the New Zealand market in January 2024, the new Triumph 400cc range will be priced from as little as $7,995 for the Speed 400 while the Scrambler 400 X will debut at $8,995.
Those prices exclude on-road costs, but even then, the new Triumph 400s are entering the New Zealand market at a far lower price point than we initially expected with our crystal ball gazing putting them closer to the $10,000 mark. With pricing under $9,000, the new Triumphs are sure to be very competitive with their main rivals from KTM and Royal Enfield.
While the new 400s from Triumph were designed from the ground up to be Triumph's most affordable models, that doesn’t mean they are lacking in modern technology and performance despite their size.
At their centre is Triumph's all-new TR-series enginewhich 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 learner-approved modern classic 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.
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.
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.
Triumph initially launched the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X into the Indian market, where they have received rave reviews across the board for their build quality and high spec.
With Triumph's previous LAMS offerings still well into the teens price-wise, the sub-$9,000 Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X are sure to be a hit with Kiwi buyers who want to enter the world of Triumph Motorcycles.