Triumph has launched a new entry-level motorcycle called the Speed T4, priced at Rs. 217,000 (US$ 2,590), ex-showroom, Delhi. The T4 has several mechanical and equipment differences from the Speed 400, making it a more affordable variant.

At first glance, the T4 resembles the Speed 400, but the most noticeable visual differences include a simpler, more cost-effective telescopic fork up front and conventional mirrors instead of the Speed's neater bar-end units. A closer inspection reveals additional differences: the T4 features a simpler axially mounted front brake caliper, more basic gearshift and rear brake levers, and a handlebar that lacks the sandblasted finish found on the Speed 400. It also comes with cheaper bias-ply MRF Zapper tyres and non-adjustable hand levers, whereas the Speed 400, after its MY25 update, includes Vredestein radial tyres and adjustable levers.

Although the engine is the same 399cc TR-series motor from the Speed 400, it has been significantly revised to give it a different character. The peak output is reduced from 40 PS and 37.5 Nm to 31 PS and 36 Nm. However, from 3,500rpm to 5,500rpm, the T4 actually delivers more torque than the Speed, supporting Bajaj's claims of improved low RPM rideability and a more relaxed nature. To complement this, the rear sprocket has been increased from 43 to 39 teeth. The reduction in engine output has also led Bajaj to omit traction control, further reducing costs.

As a result, the T4 is priced Rs. 23,000 lower than the Speed 400, which now costs Rs. 240,000 after the update. When questioned about potential cannibalisation between the two models, Bajaj Auto's executive director Rakesh Sharma and president (ProBiking) Sumeet Narang remained optimistic. Narang acknowledged that a Speed 400 buyer might find the T4 sufficient and switch their choice, but he also believed there would be T4 prospects who could be upgraded to the Speed 400. Sharma emphasised that their focus was not on competition between the two models but on expanding the overall segment, which he believes has stagnated in recent years.

Only time will tell how the market responds and how sales will be distributed between the two models. When asked about the possibility of a more affordable version of the Scrambler 400 X, Narang mentioned that their current focus is on the street bike segment rather than the Scrambler.