TRIUMPH SPEED 400
FORGET ABOUT NUMBERS on a spec sheet for just one minute. In fact, forget everything you thought you knew about A2-compliant machinery because, although the Speed 400 may be classed as a ‘budget’ 398cc single, it is a proper, serious motorcycle. And, indeed, a proper Triumph.
When it comes to its dimensions, its feel and its quality of finish, you could easily be fooled into thinking that it’s something far grander than its ludicrously low asking price suggests. I don’t mind admitting that I honestly have no idea how they’ve achieved such impressive build quality for a machine that’s under £5k and that you can get on PCP for under £68 a month. From the etched Triumph logo on the engine casing to the Scrambler 1200-esque fuel tank and cap, the 400 really looks the part. And the wide handlebars, long seat and roomy cockpit combine to make it feel the part too. Best of all, it handles like a true Triumph: its chassis and suspension set-up is utterly sublime. At only 170kg wet, the Speed 400 is agile and feels Street Triple-esque in its ability to carve through corners, with an impressive level of poise and precision that are allowed to flourish by the premium-quality Metzeler M9RR tyres. Think Speed Twin 900 that has been on a serious diet.
And because of the low weight, the new 398cc motor never feels laboured or underpowered. From 3000rpm upwards it feels delightfully punchy, with a broad spread of torque that means the little 400 carries on pulling happily in the higher gears too.
Up to 70mph the bike feels plenty fast enough, and the eager power delivery and great soundtrack from the ex
