“Everyone’s chasing peak power,” motorcycle journalist Sarah King once said, “but the real joy often lives where you don’t expect it.”
I felt that first-hand the day I stepped off the spec-hype train and swung a leg over the Triumph T4. After 3,000 kilometers across Mumbai traffic, winding roads, and weekend escapes, I can say this: the T4 may not win the numbers game, but it wins where it counts.
On paper, the Speed 400 looks irresistible—40 PS, ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, USD forks, and grippy tires. It should be the obvious pick. But that ₹50,000 price gap kept tugging at me. One rider said: “You’re paying extra for toys you rarely touch.” I nearly fell for it. Until I started digging beyond the brochures.
The City Told a Different Story
In stop-go Mumbai traffic, the T4’s 31 PS and torquey lower crank weight deliver effortless roll-on power from 2,500 RPM. No sudden downshifts, no high-rev pull—just smooth ride ahead.
Compared to the Speed 400’s rev-happy engine, I changed gears 20% less on every commute. That meant fewer clutch pulls, less fatigue, and a wider smile when crawling through the traffic gridlocks.
Fuel economy tells a similar story. My daily rides consistently returned 26 kmpl in mixed city conditions—versus Speed 400 owners reporting closer to 20 kmpl on identical routes. That’s a 30% fuel-cost saving, which added up to two extra tank-fuls per month.
Read: 6 Months with My Triumph Speed 400: A Delhi Rider’s Raw Take
Fancy Tech vs Real-Life Use
Traction control and ride-by-wire sound high-tech, but for 90% of urban riders, they’re ornamental. On gravel or monsoon-slick roads, a gentle throttle and steady inputs matter far more than electronic intervention.
T4’s standard forks absorb bumps better than the Speed’s USD setup. Potholes feel like potholes—not punches. Plus, it’s easier (and cheaper) to upgrade tires and brake pads later than to pay upfront for gimmicks you rarely need.
The One Thing Specs Don’t Show
The T4 just feels right. Lower seat height. Upright posture. Flat-foot confidence at every red light. It’s calm and predictable—never twitchy.
Vibrations are almost nil at cruising speeds—That means I can ride longer without my hands going numb. And that kind of comfort builds trust between you and your machine.
But Hey, the Speed Isn’t a Bad Bike
To be clear, the Speed 400 still impresses on open tarmac. It’s snappy throttle and sharper suspension shine on sweeping corners. It’s sharp, eager, and fun—when you can push it. But how often do we get that? Between daily commutes, city chaos, and weekend getaways, the T4’s balance makes it the smarter, more versatile companion.
What I Did With That ₹50K
Instead of splurging on the Speed 400, I invested in premium riding gear. A full-face helmet with Bluetooth comms, CE-rated armor, and weatherproof riding.
If you’re chasing top-end power and track thrills, the Speed 400 is solid. But if you’re looking for comfort, lower running costs, and stress-free rides? The T4 has your back.
I didn’t just pick a motorcycle. I picked a partner for the ride, I actually live. And 3,000 kilometers later, I’d choose the Triumph T4 again—without a second thought.
