The entry of the new Triumph Speed 400 has stirred up the existing pecking order and in this specification comparison review, we pit it against its established rivals to find out whether you should bet your money on it or not.
Engine and Gearbox: RE INT650 is the only bike in this comparison that features a parallel-twin engine and unsurprisingly offers the highest performance figures. Triumph Speed 400 is the torquiest (37.5Nm) among the rest three single-cylinder bikes though it stacks in the middle with 40hp of max power on offer. Given the fact that Triumph is a roadster, this much power should be good enough for riders to enjoy their experience in most circumstances. Bajaj Dominar continues to be formidable in this segment with its touring capability and 400cc refind motor!
Dimensions and Weight: Speed 400 is very much manageable thanks to its curb weight of 170 kg and 790mm of seat height. The wheelbase stands at 1377mm and the fuel tank is capable to hold 13 litres to the fullest. KTM is the lightest bike in this comparison and also with its shortest seat height, it should be the most convenient bike for the majority of riders. Dominar is the heaviest motorcycle of the lot just before INT 650.
Suspension and Braking Hardware: Except for RE INT 650, all other bikes in this comparison feature USD forks up front and monoshock suspension systems at the rear. Speed 400 features 17-inch rims at both ends and for the stopping power, Triumph has equipped the bike with 300mm and 230mm discs at the front and the rear respectively. RE is the only manufacturer here that offers 18-inch rims on INT 650 while all others make do with 17-inch rims at both the front and rear.
Features and Equipment: Triumph Speed 400 boasts an impressive list of features including switchable traction control, heated grips (optional), and engine immobiliser. The bike also gets fully LED lighting, type-C charging, and ride-by-wire throttle technology. KTM 390 Duke, on the other hand, has an edge as it is the only bike in this comparison that offers Bluetooth connectivity and colour TFT Dash features to prospective riders. INT 650 misses out on everything possible seen here with rivals. Dominar is a step ahead with a LCD screen a lot of parameters on offer.
Price and Value for Money: Triumph Speed 400 is aggressively priced at Rs 2.33 lakh but this price would be applicable only for the first 10,000 bookings and will get revised later. In comparison, all other bikes are steeply-priced, thereby making the Speed 400 a wonderful value-for-money product. While it’s true that Triumph is not the most powerful bike nor it is the lightest one here but it certainly offers a striking combination of looks, features, and performance which is really hard to ignore.
KTM is truly bonkus is back with such a big bang, it has shaken and stirred the market. The INT 650 is a classic, old school easy going bike with charm. INT 650 won’t wow you, it will keep you happy in a primordial way. The Dominar is for serious touring with luggage plus pillion which it has proven over time, a lot of time! Dominar has been accepted into the Indian market finally after years of its launch and its doing well for the brand too.
