Triumph's first sub-500cc bike since 1983
40+ year gap closed
Modern Hinckley Triumph (1990-onwards) had never made a sub-500cc bike until the 2023 Speed 400. Smallest bike for 33 years was the 800cc parallel-twin Bonneville. The 1983 Triumph Tiger Cub TR7T was the last sub-500. Now Triumph competes in the A1/A2 entry segment for the first time in modern history.
Built in India by Bajaj — partnership model
Cost optimisation, not a 'cheap' Triumph
Triumph and Bajaj announced their partnership in 2017. Speed 400 is the first product. Bajaj manufactures the bikes under Triumph engineering oversight at the Pune plant. Quality control is to Triumph spec. The price advantage comes from Indian labour costs, lower rupee-to-pound costs, and shared platform with the Bajaj Avenger.
Cheapest new Triumph by far
$5,495 vs next-cheapest Bonneville T100 $9,995
Speed 400 at $5,495 is $4,500 cheaper than the next-cheapest Triumph (Bonneville T100). Same 'British heritage' branding, full Triumph dealer support, full warranty. Massive entry-point widening for the brand.
A2-license drop-in fit
Sub-47bhp without restriction
39bhp at 8,000rpm sits well under the 47bhp / 35kW A2 ceiling. No power kit required, no restriction certificate needed. New riders can buy it the day after passing direct access. Power-to-weight 23kW/216kg = 0.21kW/kg, also under the A2 rule.
$250 contribution for new licence holders
'Ticket to Ride' incentive
Triumph offers $250 contribution for new licence holders within 12 months of passing CBT/A2 test. Applies to Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X. Full $500 contribution available on Bonneville T100, Trident 660, Street Triple 765 R, Tiger Sport 660/800, Daytona 660. Real entry-segment investment.
Scrambler 400 X is the platform sister
Same engine, different chassis
The 398cc TR-platform engine powers Speed 400 ($5,495) and Scrambler 400 X ($5,795). Same 39bhp, 170kg wet base, but Scrambler has 19in front wheel, longer-travel suspension, scrambler styling, dual-purpose tyres. Speed is street-focused; Scrambler is light off-road capable.
