India’s mid-size motorcycle segment just got a massive upgrade, with the launch of the Triumph Speed T4, a motorcycle that many are already referring to as the “Royal Enfield Killer.”
With a host of performance riding features that include 26″ tires, low drag handlebars and 26″ seat, you can see this bike will have no problem cruising down the highway in style. Developed between Bajaj and Triumph, the Speed T4 will take on Royal Enfield’s near monopoly on the retro motorcycle market.
With the Indian two-wheeler market now veering towards performance-oriented motorcycles with classic sensibilities, Triumph has its job cut out – to offer that classic British look, great tech and performance at an accessible price point.
If you ask me to summarize the appeal of this motorcycle in one one-liner, it wouldn’t be a hyperbole to say that the Speed T4 does it all, and then some more – making it an enticing proposition for the young, the touring enthusiast, and those looking to upgrade from their Royal Enfield, too.
A Look That Shouts from the Street
The look of the Triumph Speed T4 is what catches you right at the very beginning, with a muscled, aggressive design. Unlike soft curves like those of some retro bikes, the T4 opts a hard, bold look that looks as ready to ride the city as it does the highway.
The round LED headlight with the Triumph script DRL gives it a high grade British appeal, while the open frame layout and sculpted tank are a testimony to the raw power of the bike.
The abbreviated tail section, ribbed seat, and minimalist side panels all contribute to the flyweight streetfighter look. It also gets bar-end mirrors, up-swept exhaust, and a meaty rear tire that contributes to its bulldog-like profile.
There is not a single thing about its design that doesn’t reek of confidence or attitude, making it the perfect bike for folks who want their bikes to be as loud as they are.
Triumph has also emphasized premium touches. From the anodized aluminum fuel cap to the machined engine parts, the Speed T4 feels like a more expensive bike than the price would lead you to believe. It has a contemporary edge that maintains just the right degree of retro charm.
Crafted for Power and Excitement
Powering the Triumph Speed T4 is a 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces close to 40 PS of power and 37.5 Nm of torque. It lands in direct competition with the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Hunter 350 but significantly ahead in terms of straight-line performance.
It comes with a 6-speed transmission with a slipper clutch that performs well especially during high speed down shift gets easier/more quick. The pocket bike’s light weight and good midrange power deliver a ride experience that feels zippy and snappy.
The T4’s engine is not just about top speed, it’s about useful torque, so whether you’re going city or highway the Speed T4 always feels in control and steady. The throttle response is sharp, never leaving the rider gasping, even when spinning the motor up high.
While the Royal Enfield thumps away with retro-styled roughness, the Triumph Speed T4 feels much softer (vibration-free), is tamer to use and it’s easier to live with on longer cruises. It’s the sort of bike that can transition from traffic to twisties without giving up its soul.
Better Mileage Without Compromising Performance
The real magic of the Triumph Speed T4, though, is that it doesn’t have to choose between fuel efficiency and power. As powerful as it is (if we may say so), it still manages a decent mileage of 30–35 km/l depending on how you ride and the conditions.
That’s more than most riders might hope to expect from a 400cc class motorcycle, and indeed one with performance and racing heritage. This blend of power and range makes the Speed T4 a perfect bike for the weekend as well as daily commuting. The model even for boke upgrade from 150 or 200cc motorcycle; which still offers enough practicality enough for day-to-day usage.
High-Quality Components and Great Ride Dynamics
Dynamics but were carefully lined up when it came to the engine and the Speed Triple riding. Up front it gets the USD (Upside Down) front forks with a monoshock at the back and does provide great comfort along with stability at higher speeds. The suspension configuration is calibrated to soak up road irregularities but to offer corner-carving control.
Braking is done via disc brakes on both ends with dual-channel ABS for the ease of mind stopping power. The Speed T4 rolls on 17-inch wheels with sticky tires that deliver great road feel and grip.
The seat height of the Speed T4 is 790mm, which caters to riders of all statures. The ergos are a nice compromise between a sporty crouch and uprightness, good for longer rides without fatigue. The bike is nimble, stable, and straight-up fun to ride, whether you’re cutting through the city or descending a mountain road.
Retro-Themed Gadgets with Modern Features
Triumph has skillfully combined old-school styling with new-school elements to make the Speed T4 attractive to contemporary riders. The bike gets an all-digital instrument console which is said to provide data such as gear position, fuel gauge, trip meters and a tachometer. It looks simple and it is, but it doesn’t skimp on the bare necessities.
There are also all-LED lighting, USB charging port, ride-by-wire throttle and engine kill switch. It doesn’t overdo the electronics like some of the higher end bikes do, but gives you what you need to stay connected and in control without feeling overly complicated.
A True Royal Enfield Rival
The Triumph Speed T4 has been introduced reportedly to challenge Royal Enfield, possibly the Classic 350 and Hunter 350. Where Royal Enfield has managed to forge a strong emotional connect with Indian riders, Triumph is eyeing for riders who seek that retro vibe, but want it with a blend of modern twist better performance, premium quality and tech-forward features.
For where Royal Enfield draws its appeal from nostalgia and a traditional package, Triumph brings in a more modern and aggressive package which doesn’t feel like it’s lacking in quality or character. Now the Speed T4 is the motorcycle for those who don’t like heads turning, performance on tap, and environmental friendly, performance more.
Triumph Speed T4 Price and Availability
Among the surprises at the Triumph Speed T4’s launch is how reasonable and competitive its price is. The bike has been introduced at a base price of ₹2.23 lakh (ex-showroom), which is a really aggressive pricing for the 350–400cc category of motorcycles.
With the British brand value, attention to detail and performance on offer, the price doesn’t stack up as it would for a big number Jap sports bike, instead, the bike sits exactly where it is supposed to as a premium value for money offering.
The Speed T4 will be offered in options, while it will be sold through Bajaj-Triumph dealerships all over India. Test rides and bookings are now open, and deliveries will take place shortly in larger cities.
Conclusion
The Triumph Speed T4 is no ordinary retro It’s a well thought out high performance motorcycle that’s designed to bring up a modern taste of British biking to the third world a budget, and that’s the reason it exists in this list.
With its aggressive design, potent and refined engine, and premium hardware, plus decent fuel-sipping ability, the Euro5 compliant Classic Racer is a compelling option if you’re not content with the usual Royal Enfield fares.
So, whether you are the daily commuter looking for something exciting, the weekend rider looking to stretch the envelope, or a new rider who wants a roomy-looking but light-footed upgrade for your small bike the Speed T4 is one machine that one should give serious thought to. It doesn’t just rival Royal Enfield it also changes the game for what riders can expect of a mid-size modern classic.
