I was blown away when Triumph launched the Speed 400 back in 2023, and it instantly became my dream first bike! So, 2 years and lots of savings later, I finally achieved my goal as I rode off on this beautiful bike. And now, more than a year, 20,000km, 2 services and one accident later, the question arises – was this bike the right choice? Here’s my ownership review of the Triumph Speed 400.Attention Readers! Join us on the WhatsApp Community for daily auto news updates
Triumph Speed 400 Review – 20,000 Km Up!
When Triumph launched the Speed 400 in 2023, I was in absolute awe, and I couldn’t help but obsess over it. So, 2 years later, I bought myself this beauty, and it seemed like the best day of my life. I still tried out multiple bikes like a sensible buyer, but nothing made me feel as content as the Speed 400. Bear in mind, this was going to be my first-ever bike, and I had many people convincing me that this bike was expensive, too powerful, and much more. Nevertheless, the heart wants what it wants, right? So, here I am, 20,000km later, and I have honestly had the time of my life with this motorcycle.
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What’s Good?
The performance the bike has to offer is linear, and it is a lot of fun even if you’re just puttering around at city speeds. Even though this was my first-ever bike, the learning curve was fairly easy and beginner-friendly. I was able to practice without the fear of messing up, as the bike responded perfectly to my inputs. In city traffic, highway runs, or touring, the Speed 400 never disappointed me. No breakdowns, no major issues, and no leaving me stranded in the middle of the road. Initially, the Speed 400 offered mileage figures like 20-22kmpl, which wasn’t the best – but what do you expect out of a powerful 400cc bike?
But, every now and then, the bike surprised me with mileage figures like 40-50kmpl. A few reviews suggested that this bike isn’t the most characterful bike. But let me tell you something – this bike is like water! It will fit in anywhere you want it to be and do everything you need it to do! Want to ride hard and fast? It does it with ease. Want to sit back, chill and just enjoy the view? It will glide along with you. Want to do a Mumbai-Goa trip? It will handle all the rough patches, sharp corners and climb the Ghats like it’s a piece of cake. I always wanted a do-it-all motorcycle, and the market led me to believe that only ADVs could do that, but now, I believe otherwise!
Throughout these 20,000km, the Speed 400 has been more than what I have asked for, and riding the bike makes me feel free as a bird. I have been on many trips with the bike, with and without a pillion, and it has always been a pleasant and comfortable experience – the supple ride, smooth performance and nimble handling were the highlights of every ride. But life isn’t all rainbows and butterflies, and the Speed 400 also showed me the harsher side, too! Here’s how.
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Triumph Speed 400 Review – What’s Not So Good
Triumph, along with Bajaj, did an astounding job with the bikes, but the after-sales service has been quite unpleasant. The most disappointing part about the after-sales service is that the service centres are closed on Sundays – the only day owners can get work done on the bike. And there is only one service centre in Mumbai. And the service quality is frankly mediocre.
The most annoying part of the Speed 400 is its indicators – they seem deliberately built weak! And yes, my chain sprocket gave way in just 10,000km, which was an unpleasant experience. I had to change the front brake pads of the motorcycle thrice in just 10,000 km, and the service advisors suggested I change the brake disc altogether. However, I decided to put aftermarket brake pads, and they have now lasted for more than 10,000 km, and the brake disc is still intact with no brake fade or issues in braking performance. During the second service, the service advisor suggested changing the coolant, while the owner’s manual mentions that the coolant only needs to be changed every 4 years, and my bike had only completed 9 months.
A few months ago, I met with an accident and had to give the bike to the service centre for repair. A month later, when I went to collect the bike, the handlebars were not replaced. The handlebars were supposed to be replaced as part of the insurance claim, but even though the service centre ordered the part, they were not replaced. All of these issues clearly show that Triumph’s after-sales service has been below par, and the brand should improve it, as Indian buyers are very particular about the after-sales service.
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Verdict
There will always be goods and bads in an ownership experience. For some, it could be after-sales service, while for others it could simply be mileage or performance. What I can vouch for is that this is one of the best bikes you can get, and while the after-sales service might not be satisfying, it still might just be worth it. The performance, comfort, design and riding experience are something you’ll enjoy very much.
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