Triumph has introduced a new entry-level motorcycle, the Speed T4, priced at ₹2.17 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Positioned as a more affordable sibling to the Speed 400, the T4 comes with several mechanical and equipment changes that reflect its cost-effective nature.
At first glance, the Speed T4 closely resembles the Speed 400, but upon closer inspection, key differences emerge. The T4 features a simpler telescopic front fork and traditional mirrors, in contrast to the Speed 400’s more refined bar-end mirrors. Additional cost-cutting measures include an axially mounted front brake caliper, more basic gearshift and rear brake levers, and a handlebar with a less premium finish compared to the sandblasted one found on the Speed 400. The T4 also comes equipped with more budget-friendly MRF Zapper bias-ply tyres and non-adjustable levers, whereas the Speed 400 (now updated for MY25) boasts Vredestein radial tyres and adjustable levers.
While both bikes share the same 399cc TR-series engine, the T4 has undergone significant tuning to deliver a different riding experience. Its power output is reduced to 31hp and 36Nm (from the Speed 400’s 40hp and 37.5Nm), but the T4 shines in the mid-range, delivering more torque than the Speed 400 between 3,500 and 5,500rpm. This tuning, along with a change in the rear sprocket (from 43 to 39 teeth), enhances the bike’s low-end performance, catering to a more relaxed, city-friendly riding style. To further reduce costs, the T4 also omits the Speed 400’s traction control system.
The result is a T4 that is ₹23,000 cheaper than the Speed 400, which now retails for ₹2.40 lakh after its recent update. While there are concerns about the potential for cannibalization between the two models, Bajaj Auto executives remain optimistic. Sumeet Narang, president of ProBiking, acknowledges the possibility of some Speed 400 buyers opting for the T4, but also believes many T4 customers could be persuaded to upgrade to the Speed 400. Rakesh Sharma, Bajaj Auto’s executive director, stated that their primary focus is on expanding the market within this segment, which has seen limited growth in recent years, rather than worrying about competition between the two models.
Only time will reveal how buyers respond to the Speed T4 and Speed 400. When asked about the potential for a more affordable version of the Scrambler 400 X, Narang indicated that for now, their attention remains on street bikes.
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