2024 Triumph Speed 400 review | Looks like a quality machine, rides like one too

Highlights

  • Quality finish
  • Impressive ride quality
  • Feels like a real, high-capacity Triumph

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 3.5 out of 5 (3.5/5)
Annual servicing cost: £280
Power: 40 bhp
Seat height: Medium (31.1 in / 790 mm)
Weight: Low (375 lbs / 170 kg)

Prices

New £4,995
Used £4,500 - £5,000

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

It’s no secret that Triumph’s new 400 retro bikes have spent a long time in development, but finally the production models are here – and they certainly don’t disappoint. At £4995, the Triumph Speed 400 not only looks like a quality machine, but more importantly it rides like one too.

With a new engine and new chassis, the Speed 400 paves a new era for Triumph, who are not only hoping to sell these by the bucketload in the UK and Europe, but are hoping to break into the Asian market too, where new bike sales absolutely dwarf that of the western world. In India alone, there were almost eighteen million new bikes sold last year.

But the Speed 400 isn’t just a small capacity A2 machine built for a different market; it’s a proper Triumph, that feels like a serious motorcycle. In terms of its dimensions, feel and finish, you could easily be fooled into thinking that it’s something far grander than the price tag suggests.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 right side static

That is echoed in the riding experience too, with a chassis and suspension set-up that 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.

The new 398cc motor is solid too, offering a broad spread of power and torque that covers the whole rev range. However, the throttle is quite sharp, the gearing is short and it’s buzzy at high speeds – but it’s still an incredible bit of kit that will satisfy the sportiest of riders.

Equipped with LED lighting, traction control and a part LCD, part analogue dash, the Speed 400 has an ample amount of technology, especially as the interface is easy to navigate and displays the fuel gauge, gear indicator, and more. There’s also a USB-C socket on board for charging too.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 left side action

Some may turn their nose up when you know that they’re built in India, Thailand, and Brazil, but don’t let that put you off. The Speed 400 truly is a stunning, well put-together bit of kit, and although it is Triumph’s first attempt at a low-capacity machine, it certainly doesn’t feel like it. The Triumph Speed 400 transcends the A2 licence category and its modest 398cc capacity to be a well performing, premium machine, and all for under £5000.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The ride quality of the Speed 400 is absolutely spot on, whether you fancy cruising or even if you fancy pushing on a little bit harder. The new chassis works perfectly in unison with the suspension, which offers an impressive level of poise and support.

It really hits the sweet spot of offering up enough support to be able to get the pegs down through tight and twisty bits, while still having a plush and smooth enough ride over rubbish tarmac without being too harsh. This is all aided by a set of Metzeler M9RR tyres, which deliver an impressive amount of grip and turn-in prowess, with a quick warm-up time too.

For lighter riders it does sit on the firmer side of the spectrum at the rear, but don’t let that put you off as the resulting agility and support of the standard set-up is more than worth it – and the preload is adjustable on the rear if you fancy a change.

The four piston brakes are absolutely incredible too, offering a huge amount of bite and feel through the lever, with ABS intervention that isn’t too aggressive.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 right side on pale background

It feels like a package that is truly premium, and far more than ‘just’ an A2 machine, with a riding position that’s roomy enough to back up the big capacity style. Although a little more compact than the Scrambler 400 X model, the Speed is comfortable and roomy enough thanks to the long seat, large tank and the well-placed bars and pegs, that allow for a multitude of different rider heights and sizes.

Yet perhaps most importantly it also has a low seat height and wet weight, which when combined with the thin chassis and engine, makes the Speed 400 nimble and easy to move or navigate at slow speeds.

For those who plan on heading out on long distance rides, the seat is a little bit stiff, but only after a few hours in the saddle.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 front right action

Engine

Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Overall, the new single cylinder 398cc engine is a solid performer, with a level of performance that is enough to truly have fun with. From 3000rpm upwards it’s punchy in its deliver of power, with a broad spread of torque that allows the Speed 400 to happily pull in the higher gears too. Up to 70mph its plenty fast enough and eager in its delivery with a sweet soundtrack to match, which means that for fast, flowing rides the Speed’s chassis has been crafted for, that single cylinder motor works wonders.

However, being quite a feisty, fruity single-cylinder motor in its nature means that the sharp response from the ride-by-wire throttle connection is quite evident, especially in the lower gears – so much so in fact, that first gear isn’t even needed to pull away.

Although the gearbox is sweet and crisp both up and down the box, with a soft clutch action, the Speed 400 would benefit from longer gearing, as even though that motor is more than capable of cruising, it does get quite vibey at motorway speeds too, sitting at over 6000rpm at 70mph.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 engine

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
5 out of 5 (5/5)

Although we can’t comment on the reliability just yet, with 10,000 mile (or one year) service intervals Triumph are confident in their new platform, while Bajaj have a reputation for building bulletproof machines.

In terms of the build quality, the finish on the Speed 400 is absolutely outstanding, especially when you consider the price point.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 tank decal

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)

At £4995, the Speed 400 is priced well, especially considering the ride quality and level of specification.

In terms of its rivals, it could be compared to the more agricultural Royal Enfield Scram 411 which comes in at £4849, but a closer rival comes in the form of Husqvarna’s new Svartpilen and Vitpilen 401s which will set you back a bit more cash at £5599. However, they are equipped with adjustable suspension, TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity and more power and torque too.

Another thing to consider is that the Speed 400 comes with 10,000 mile service intervals, with Triumph estimating that it will cost £1011 over three years or 15,000 miles – undercutting its rivals.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 from above

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

Although the Speed 400 is built to a (relatively) low price, it does come with a reasonable level of equipment. As standard you get full LED lighting, and a part LCD dash part analogue dash set-up which shows a reasonable amount of information, including a fuel gauge and gear indicator. There’s a USB-C charging port too.

In terms of riding aids there’s switchable traction control (on or off) alongside a basic level of ABS. It’s also nice to have a decent set of tyres too, in the form of Metzeler Sportec M9RR rubber.

There are over 25 official accessories as well, which covers everything from screens and longer mudguards to hard luggage.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 dash with ignition switched on

Specs

Engine size 398cc
Engine type 4v liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Frame type Steel hybrid
Fuel capacity 13 litres
Seat height 790mm
Bike weight 170kg
Front suspension 43mm USD forks, non-adjustable
Rear suspension Monoshock, preload adjustable
Front brake 300mm disc with four-piston radial caliper and ABS
Rear brake 230mm disc with single-piston caliper and ABS
Front tyre size 110/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 140/60 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption -
Annual road tax £55
Annual service cost £280
New price £4,995
Used price £4,500 - £5,000
Insurance group -
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two years

Top speed & performance

Max power 40 bhp
Max torque 27.7 ft-lb
Top speed -
1/4 mile acceleration -
Tank range -

Model history & versions

Model history

Completely new model built on a new platform for 2024.

Other versions

Triumph Scrambler 400 X – A Scrambler style take on the 400 platform from Triumph, with a bigger front wheel, longer suspension travel and a more rugged appearance, among a few other changes.

Owners' reviews for the TRIUMPH SPEED 400 (2024 - on)

8 owners have reviewed their TRIUMPH SPEED 400 (2024 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your TRIUMPH SPEED 400 (2024 - on)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Engine: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Reliability & build quality: 3.5 out of 5 (3.5/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.9 out of 5 (4.9/5)
Equipment: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Annual servicing cost: £280
5 out of 5 Triumph Speed 400 - brilliant bike and excellent value for money
09 September 2024 by Jeff Sayle

Year: 2024

Excellent value for money and highly recommended for anyone plus those getting and looking to downsize their bike.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

A brilliant ride and although not equipped with the best electronic features that are the norm on other, bigger capacity bikes, it is a relatively inexpensive machine.

Buying experience: Bought from Simon at Staffordshire Triumph at the manufacturers price of £5195 but I did get 10% discount on the accessories (sump guard, pannier, etc.).

5 out of 5 Speed 400 A result
03 September 2024 by neil a

Year: 2024

Annual servicing cost: £280

Super all round bike

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great balance of handling and comfort . The brakes are good but not brilliant ..like street triples . The seat is good and has enough room to move about on a longer ride

Engine 5 out of 5

Mid range Toque from 4 thousand to 6 is excellent for every type of road . And myself I have not found it to vibey at duel carriageway speed and I have done 415 miles over a weekend ride . Also the over run sound from the exhaust is nice makes slowing down for villages a joy instead of a chore

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Really nice finish to paint . I have had no problem's at all

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I am riding this bike at the same pace as my last bike which was a 2012 Street triple r and I am getting 86 mpg

Equipment 4 out of 5

Got every thing you need Two trips, rev counter , clock ,fuel gauge and warning light .Tires Metzeler M9 rr have been excellent . Accessories I have are engine bars ,tank pad and radiator guard

Buying experience: My dealer has been very good . I paid £ 4995 plus £ 250 for accessories The salesman has answered any question I have had and even phoned me 5 times to make sure Iwas happy

3 out of 5 Disappointed we
02 September 2024 by The Old Gnome

Year: 2024

Disappointed with the “snatchy “ throttle which makes it hard to ride at slow speeds without slipping the clutch. A lengthy period back at the dealership whilst they were awaiting parts from India following an oil leak.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Comfy to ride.

Engine 4 out of 5

Pretty good for a 400

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Needed a new cylinder head after less than 1000 miles

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
3 out of 5
03 June 2024 by emjast

Year: 2024

Nice looking bike They seem to have a few teething problems

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Gearing a bit on the low side Rear shock could do with more damping

Engine 5 out of 5

Punchy engine

Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5

Oil leak from clutch cable linkage where it goes through the crank case (only 200 miles)

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
3 out of 5
31 May 2024 by Steve

Year: 2024

Great fun to ride

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Handles and brakes superbly

Engine 4 out of 5

Very good low revs pulling power. If anything it's a little undergeared

Reliability & build quality 1 out of 5

My bike has had problems since I picked it up from the dealers The well known immobiliser light issue and two faults which have required a return to the dealer in the first 1k miles. Total battery failure. Total loss of coolant apparently caused by a faulty radiator cap

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Good, grippy Pirelli tyres

5 out of 5 The little gem.
28 May 2024 by Rusty

Year: 2024

Annual servicing cost: £270

Absolutely fantastic bike to ride and very addictive. I have been just doing commuting miles for years now but this little 400 has made me do so many more social miles.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Super handling absolutely corners a dream and it stops really good as well and I'm fairly well set.

Engine 5 out of 5

Very good power wise,sub 40bhp is just that but do you really need 150bhp?? I have and have had faster bikes and this is just super fun and addictive at just 40bhp as you use most of the power and it loves it!

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Lovely in the most part great paint and the fit and finish to most of the bike is excellent I can't give it a 5/5 because the cheap part of the bike is the fasteners they all corrode quickly and are cheaply made.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Estimated major service cost. Day to day running has been very cheap I have mostly seen 80+mpg and over 200 miles to a tank is no problem.

Equipment 4 out of 5

The pirellis that come on the bike are super grippy but at 5k miles the rear is shot already.

Buying experience: I bought from triumph and the experience was very good.

5 out of 5
11 March 2024 by Fatso

Year: 2024

Great beginner, great second bike, great as retiring from bikes as is very forgiving and lightweight.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
3 out of 5
14 February 2024 by Old Chap

Year: 2024

There is nothing as complete as the illusion that all that is beautiful, is good.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Superb until you get into a 20 mph zone. I'm used to cables and carbs so this might just be me, but the throttle is so sensitive I find it snatches very unpleasantly. Above 30 mph, then its a dream.

Engine 4 out of 5

Above 30 mph then its great.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Mostly very well put together. The Chassis, suspension and tyres are excellent. Although I was expecting Metzlers not Pirellis. However, the immobiliser warning light stays on intermittently and the chain started rusting badly after 1 week. I snapped one of the bar end mirrors off accidently and getting a replacement would have been costly even if they were available. Ending up putting a pair of KTM stem mirrors on it. They look better anyway.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Excellent value to buy and run, until you want any spare parts that is.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Shame it's a USBC port as you need an adapter which rattles off after a bit.

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