The demand for lightweight, small-displacement motorcycles continues to surge worldwide, and Triumph Motorcycles has taken notice. Following the global success of the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400, Triumph—through its partnership with Bajaj—has introduced an even more affordable option: the Triumph Speed T4, which has just launched in India with an eye-catching Baja Orange color scheme.
Currently exclusive to the Indian market, the Speed T4 is positioned as a more accessible, no-frills alternative to the Speed 400, and early impressions suggest it has serious global potential.
Small motorcycles, once dismissed as mere beginner bikes or budget commuters, are now celebrated for their nimble handling, lightweight construction, and real-world practicality. The sub-500cc segment, particularly models in the 400 to 500cc range, has seen explosive growth, and Triumph’s latest move is aimed at capitalizing on that trend.
Visually, the Speed T4 makes an immediate impression. The two-tone fuel tank, matte black components, and minimalist graphics create a clean, custom-ready look. Riders can easily imagine this model kitted out with fork gaiters, a fly-screen, bar-end mirrors, and a slip-on exhaust—making it an ideal city brawler straight from the showroom.
Mechanically, the T4 shares its DNA with the Speed 400, running the same 398cc single-cylinder engine, but in a slightly detuned state. The bike delivers approximately 31 horsepower and 36Nm of torque (around 27 lb-ft), tuned to prioritize low-end performance—perfect for daily urban riding.
To keep the Speed T4 more affordable, Triumph has made sensible component choices. The inverted forks and traction control system from the Speed 400 have been swapped for traditional telescopic front forks, while simplifying the electronics package. It’s a deliberate move to create a stripped-down, budget-friendly version without sacrificing everyday usability.
This strategy follows Triumph’s recent sales success, with the Speed 400 helping the British brand achieve a record 134,000+ global sales in 2024, including nearly 30,000 units produced in India alone. The T4 builds on this momentum, offering a slightly simplified version for riders who want the Triumph badge without the premium price tag.
Could the T4 cannibalize Speed 400 sales? Possibly—but that seems to be part of Triumph and Bajaj’s broader strategy: two bikes, one platform, appealing to different segments of riders.
For now, the Speed T4 remains exclusive to India, but considering the growing appetite for affordable, classically styled motorcycles in markets like Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, the global rollout seems like a logical next step.
The T4 delivers retro styling, commuter-friendly power, and just enough character to feel special—making it a tempting option for riders looking for simplicity, affordability, and the timeless appeal of Triumph.
