After much anticipation, Triumph’s best kept secret is revealed. Here’s a look at the all-new Triumph 400 lineup, including the Triumph Scrambler 400 X and Speed 400, both slated to launch in 2024
Anyone familiar with Triumph’s usual nomenclature should be able to figure out which one. The Winning Scrambler The 400 X clearly borrows its style from the existing Scrambler 900 and 1200, while the Speed 400 is designed in the style of the Speed Twin 900 and 1200. However, when the ‘400’ notation was introduced applicable, both use the same chassis and 400 cc engine.
Developed in partnership with the giant Indian manufacturer Bajaj, the new 400 cc range is a game from Triumph that aims to give the brand a lower entry point. Triumph has yet to announce any pricing, but they have stated that the bikes will be “competitively priced.”
We expect them to go head-to-head with bikes like the KTM 390 Duke, Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and BMW G 310 R.
The engine is a brand new 398 cc single cylinder, sport fuel injection and liquid cooling. It has four valves, a DOHC head, a weighted and balanced crankshaft, and a finger track valve system with DLC coating that helps reduce friction. All this, and a six-speed gearbox.
Triumph calls it their ‘TR Series’ engine, as a nod to the legendary Triumph trophy. They are claiming an output power of 40 PS [39.45 hp], with a torque of 37.5 Nm. That puts it in the same ballpark as the Husky and KTM, albeit with a slight reduction in horsepower.
The new 400 series also has all the modern electronic features. The platform uses ride-by-wire throttle, with switchable traction control, ABS (switchable on the Scrambler 400 X) and a torque-assist clutch. The lighting is all LED, the fixture is standard, and the control panel is a neat LCD and analog combo.
On the surface, the Triumph 400 engine can’t quite get off the ground of the budget bike, but it still manages to bring some fanfare to the bottom end of the market. There’s a lot to pack—but Triumph and Bajaj have done a great job of decorating it like their larger bikes. The cylinder head wears faux fins and stylish ‘TR Series’ badging; Contrasting blacks and brushed finishes make everything classy.
Speed 400 [above] and the Scrambler 400 X share the same chassis, except for some model-specific differences. It’s a new frame design for the Triumph, complete with a bolted rear subframe and die-cast aluminum swingarm. Seat height is listed as 790 mm (Speed) and 835 mm (Scrambler X), and weights at 170 and 179 kg [375 and 395 lbs].
The Triumph Speed 400 features 43 mm upside-down forks, 17-inch wheels, road-oriented geometry and a wheelbase. Braking system uses braided lines, with radial brake calipers clamping a 300 mm disc up front.
Triumph gave Scrambler 400 CZK [above] longer wheelbase and longer-travel suspension, with larger front wheels (19″). Combined with a wider set of handlebars, it should give the Scrambler X at least a measure of stability on gravel roads. Helping it achieve its desert skiing aspirations are larger brake pedals, sturdy footpegs repositioned for optimal standing, and larger front brake discs (320 mm).
Each model has a unique muffler design, but both exhaust systems are located low; There is no top-mounted exhaust for the Scrambler X. The trim also varies between models. The Speed 400 wears a bar-style rearview mirror, while the Scrambler 400 X opts for a traditional mirror.
The Scrambler X also adds a grille for the headlights, a hand guard, a handlebar crossbar, a two-piece saddle, and a more spacious front fender. And yes, it is customary for Triumph to release a lot of accessories for each bike.
Each bike comes in three different color schemes and they all look pretty eye-catching for a low-end motorcycle. And while we’re still confused about the overall aesthetic of the Triumph 400s, we can’t deny that they look great together. The design of the fuel tank is the highlight, and while the rear is a bit out of the ordinary, the rear fender arrangement is very neat.
The new Triumph Scrambler 400 X and Speed 400 may not look as trendy as their larger stable friends, but again, do they need to? If Triumph launches to attract younger riders on a tighter budget to the brand, these two bikes might just tick the right box.
