Triumph Motorcycles India has made a significant addition to its lineup with the launch of the Speed T4, a new 400cc neo-retro roadster that aims to capture the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic style and modern performance. Priced at an introductory INR 2.17 lakh (ex-showroom), the Speed T4 enters a fiercely competitive segment dominated by established players and emerging contenders.
The Speed T4 represents Triumph's latest effort to strengthen its position in the burgeoning 350-500cc category, a segment that has seen increasing interest from Indian consumers looking for versatile, stylish, and powerful motorcycles. This new model follows the successful introduction of the Speed 400, building upon its foundation while introducing fresh design elements to appeal to a broader audience.
Visually, the Speed T4 distinguishes itself with a striking neo-retro aesthetic. Available in three eye-catching colors - white, red, and black - the motorcycle showcases Triumph's attention to detail in crafting a machine that pays homage to classic designs while incorporating modern touches. The redesigned fuel tank features attractive graphics, complemented by a revised seat design and new bar-end mirrors, all contributing to its distinctive appearance.
While the Speed T4 shares its core architecture with the Speed 400, it brings its own character to the table. At the heart of this roadster lies a 398cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, capable of producing a robust 30.6 bhp and 36Nm of torque. This powerplant is mated to a 6-speed transmission, designed to deliver smooth power delivery across the rev range. Notably, the engine has been tuned to provide enhanced low-end torque, with 85% of its peak torque available at just 2500 rpm, ensuring responsive performance in urban riding conditions.
Triumph has equipped the Speed T4 with a host of modern features to enhance its appeal and functionality. The motorcycle boasts full LED lighting for improved visibility, 17-inch alloy wheels for stability and style, and a semi-digital instrument panel that provides riders with essential information at a glance. The suspension setup includes 43mm telescopic forks at the front and a rear monoshock, promising a comfortable ride across various road conditions.
Safety has not been overlooked, with the Speed T4 featuring a robust braking system comprising a 300mm disc at the front and a 230mm disc at the rear. The inclusion of dual-channel ABS further enhances the motorcycle's safety credentials, providing riders with confidence-inspiring stopping power.
In the competitive landscape of the 350-500cc segment, the Speed T4 will face stiff competition from established models such as the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450, RE Scram 411, Honda CB350RS, and the recently launched Harley-Davidson X440. Each of these motorcycles brings its own unique proposition to the table, making the segment one of the most dynamic in the Indian motorcycle market.
Triumph's decision to enter this segment with the Speed T4 is a strategic move aimed at capturing a share of the growing market for mid-capacity motorcycles in India. The combination of retro styling, modern performance, and competitive pricing positions the Speed T4 as an attractive option for riders looking to upgrade from smaller capacity bikes or those seeking a versatile machine for both city commuting and weekend rides.
The launch of the Speed T4 also underscores Triumph's commitment to the Indian market, where the brand has been steadily expanding its presence. By offering a motorcycle that caters to a wider range of customers in terms of both price point and performance, Triumph aims to strengthen its foothold and appeal to a broader demographic of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Bookings for the Triumph Speed T4 have already commenced through the company's official website, with deliveries expected to begin in the coming days. The timely delivery of these motorcycles will be crucial for Triumph to capitalize on the initial buzz and establish the Speed T4 as a formidable contender in its segment.
As the Indian motorcycle market continues to evolve, with consumers showing increasing interest in higher capacity and premium segment motorcycles, the introduction of models like the Triumph Speed T4 represents a significant trend. It reflects the industry's response to changing consumer preferences and the growing sophistication of the Indian rider. The success of the Speed T4 could pave the way for more such offerings in the future, further enriching the choices available to motorcycle enthusiasts in India.