Triumph has introduced a new entry-level motorcycle, the Triumph Speed T4, priced at ₹2.17 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Positioned as a more affordable variant of the Speed 400, the Speed T4 features several mechanical and equipment differences that distinguish it from its higher-priced counterpart.
Design and Features: What Sets the Speed T4 Apart
At first glance, the Triumph Speed T4 may look quite similar to the Triumph Speed 400. However, key visual differences include:
- Front Suspension: The T4 is equipped with a simpler, cost-effective telescopic fork.
- Mirrors: It features conventional mirrors instead of the Speed 400’s stylish bar-end units.
A closer inspection reveals additional cost-saving measures:
- Braking System: The Triumph Speed T4 comes with a more basic axially mounted front brake caliper.
- Controls: It has simpler gearshift and rear brake levers, and a less premium handlebar without the sandblasted finish found on the Speed 400.
- Tyres and Levers: The T4 sports more affordable bias-ply MRF Zapper tyres and non-adjustable hand levers, whereas the Speed 400 now features Vredestein radial tyres and adjustable levers following its MY25 update.
Engine and Performance: The T4’s Revised Powertrain
Although the Triumph Speed T4 uses the same 399cc TR-series engine as the Triumph Speed 400, it has been significantly revised to offer a different riding experience:
- Power Output: The T4’s engine produces 31hp and 36Nm, reduced from the Speed 400’s 40hp and 37.5Nm.
- Torque: Between 3,500rpm and 5,500rpm, the T4 actually generates more torque than the Speed 400, aligning with Bajaj’s focus on low RPM rideability and a more relaxed riding nature.
- Sprocketing: The rear sprocket size has increased from 43 to 39 teeth to enhance performance at lower speeds.
- Cost-Cutting Features: The Triumph Speed T4 omits traction control to further reduce costs.
Pricing and Market Position: How the Triumph Speed T4 Compares
With a price tag ₹23,000 lower than the Speed 400, the Speed T4 offers a more budget-friendly option. The Speed 400, after its recent update, now costs ₹2.40 lakh. Despite potential concerns about model overlap, Bajaj Auto’s executive director Rakesh Sharma and ProBiking president Sumeet Narang are optimistic. Narang acknowledges the possibility of Speed 400 buyers switching to the T4 but also believes that the T4 could attract new customers who might be upsold to the Triumph Speed 400.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans for Triumph’s Motorcycle Lineup
While the Triumph Speed T4 aims to capture a larger market share, Narang indicated that Triumph’s current focus remains on the street bike segment. There are no immediate plans to develop a more affordable version of the Scrambler 400 X.