The Triumph Thruxton 400 enters the 400cc segment with a design that blends modern updates with nods to classic cafe racer styling. Built on the same platform as Triumph’s other 400 models, it features a slimmer tank, clip-on handlebars, and a distinctive front fairing that sets it apart. While it shares the TR-series engine with the Speed 400, small performance tweaks give it a slight edge in power.
Its compact frame, lower seat height, and ergonomic setup make it accessible for a wide range of riders. Practical features like ride-by-wire throttle, switchable ABS, traction control, and a slip-and-assist clutch add to its usability. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to larger cafe racers, it offers a unique combination of style, performance, and value in its class.
Key Takeaways
- Combines classic cafe racer elements with modern design updates
- Offers slight performance gains over other Triumph 400 models
- Positioned as an affordable option in the cafe racer market
Overview of Triumph Thruxton 400
Launch Details and First Look
The Triumph Thruxton 400 made its debut as part of the brand’s growing 400cc range. Early online leaks created mixed reactions due to its resemblance to the Speed 400, but the official reveal showed a more refined design. In person, the bike appears slimmer and shorter than in photos, with a tank that feels slightly longer and a centrally placed Monza-style fuel cap inspired by the original Thruxton.
Key visual elements include:
- Removable seat cowl – a first for an India-made Triumph
- Iconic front fairing – distinctive within the current market
- Four color options – black, white, yellow, and red
- New stripe graphics – though not universally liked
Collaboration with Bajaj
The Thruxton 400 is built under Triumph’s manufacturing partnership with Bajaj. This collaboration allows for competitive pricing while keeping core Triumph design and engineering standards. The bike shares the TR-series 400cc engine with other models in the lineup, paired with a six-speed gearbox.
Notable mechanical features:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 400cc, liquid-cooled, TR-series |
| Power | 42 PS |
| Torque | 37 Nm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/h (claimed) |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
Role in Triumph’s 400cc Range
Within Triumph’s 400cc family, which includes the Speed 400, Scrambler 400X, and Speed T4, the Thruxton 400 fills the cafe racer niche. It features clip-on handlebars, bar-end mirrors, a slimmer tank, and rear-set foot pegs for a sportier riding position.
Differences from its siblings include:
- Redesigned tail section with a smaller tail lamp
- Black USD forks instead of the gold finish
- Upgraded brake pads for improved stopping power
- Lower seat height at 795 mm, making it more accessible for shorter riders
With a starting price of $3.136 (ex-showroom), it positions itself as a more affordable alternative to the Royal Enfield Continental GT while offering modern electronics like ride-by-wire throttle, switchable ABS and traction control, and a USB-C charging port.
Design and Appearance
First Look and Presence
In person, the Thruxton 400 appears slimmer and shorter than expected from photos. Among Triumph’s 400cc lineup, it stands out with a lean profile that brings to mind the Street Triple RR more than the original Thruxton. The tank is narrow, slightly longer, and features a centrally placed Monza-style fuel cap.
Differences from Early Images
Initial leaked images gave an impression of a less refined design, but the final production model looks more polished. While it shares its base with the Speed 400, several styling tweaks set it apart, including a redesigned midsection, new rear section, and a unique front fairing.
Paint Choices and Decals
The Thruxton 400 is available in four colors:
| Color | Finish Style |
|---|---|
| Black | Stripe graphic |
| White | Stripe graphic |
| Yellow | Stripe graphic |
| Red | Stripe graphic |
The stripe design is new but may not appeal to everyone. The graphics differ from the cleaner look of the original Thruxton.
Fairing and Signature Elements
The front fairing is a key visual feature and likely to become a defining element of the model. Other notable details include:
- Removable seat cowl – uncommon in this segment
- Clip-on handlebars for a café racer stance
- Bar-end mirrors from the Speed 400
- Slim LED tail lamp replacing the larger signature design
- Black upside-down forks instead of gold
- Triumph LED headlamp consistent with the brand’s 400cc range
These elements combine to give the bike a distinct café racer identity while keeping it aligned with Triumph’s modern design language.
Chassis and Construction
Structure and Body Panels
The Thruxton 400 shares its base with other models in Triumph’s 400cc lineup but features several changes. The frame supports a slim, compact profile that appears shorter in person than in photos. Clip-on handlebars, black-finished upside-down forks, and bar-end mirrors give it a cafe racer stance, while the rider foot pegs are set slightly rearward for a sportier position.
Fuel Tank and Cap Layout
The fuel tank is narrower and slightly longer than on the Speed 400. The filler cap sits at the center, designed in a Monza-style format reminiscent of earlier Thruxton models. This differs from other 400cc Triumphs where the cap is offset to one side.
Detachable Seat Cover
A removable seat cowl adds versatility, allowing riders to switch between a single-seat cafe racer look and a two-up configuration. This feature is uncommon in bikes sold in the Indian market, making it a notable addition to the Thruxton 400.
Tail Section and Lighting
The rear end has been redesigned with a slimmer, more compact tail lamp instead of the larger signature unit found on other Triumph 400s. The seat height is 795 mm, making it easier for shorter riders to manage. The tail section complements the lean profile of the bike while maintaining a clean finish.
Engine and Riding Performance
TR-Series 400cc Motor
The Thruxton 400 uses the same TR-Series 400cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine found in Triumph’s other 400 models. It features electronic fuel injection and ride-by-wire throttle for smooth and precise control. The engine design focuses on a balance between everyday usability and highway performance.
Output and Torque Details
This model produces 42 PS of power, which is 2 PS more than the Speed 400. Torque remains at 37 Nm, delivered in a way that supports both quick acceleration and steady cruising. The slight power increase gives it a small edge in high-speed riding.
| Specification | Thruxton 400 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | TR-Series, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 400cc |
| Power | 42 PS |
| Torque | 37 Nm |
Six-Speed Transmission
A six-speed gearbox works with a slip-and-assist clutch to make shifting lighter and more controlled. This setup helps reduce hand fatigue in traffic and keeps gear changes smooth during spirited riding.
Claimed Maximum Speed
Triumph lists the top speed at 161 km/h. The extra power over the Speed 400 is expected to make it slightly quicker at higher speeds, though real-world results may vary based on rider and conditions.
Features and Technology
LED Lighting and Display Panel
The bike uses Triumph’s signature LED headlamp for better visibility and a modern look. It also features the same analog-digital instrument cluster found on other models in the 400cc lineup.
Low-Mount Handlebars and Bar-End Mirrors
It comes with clip-on handlebars that create a classic café racer riding stance. Bar-end mirrors from the Speed 400 add to the streamlined design and improve rear visibility.
Suspension Setup and Brake System
The front uses black upside-down forks, while the rear has a monoshock for balanced handling. Both 17-inch wheels are fitted with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tires, available from Apollo or MRF. The front brake includes upgraded pads for improved stopping power.
Electronic Throttle Control
A ride-by-wire throttle allows smoother and more precise acceleration. This system also supports the bike’s traction control and ABS functions.
Adjustable ABS and Traction Features
The ABS can be switched on or off depending on riding needs. Traction control is also switchable, giving riders flexibility in different road conditions.
Assist and Slipper Clutch
The slip-and-assist clutch reduces lever effort, making it easier to ride in traffic. It also helps prevent wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
USB-C Charging Socket
A USB-C port is included for charging devices on the go. This is placed conveniently for easy access while riding.
Ergonomics and Riding Comfort
Seat Height and Ease of Reach
The seat height measures 795 mm, making it lower than models like the Scrambler 400 and Speed T4.
This height allows shorter riders to place their feet on the ground with confidence.
A removable seat cowl adds flexibility for solo or two-up riding.
Foot Peg Placement and Handlebar Setup
The rider foot pegs sit slightly farther back than on other 400cc Triumph models.
Combined with clip-on handlebars and a slimmer fuel tank, this setup creates a forward-leaning café racer stance.
Bar-end mirrors from the Speed 400 maintain a clean, streamlined look.
| Feature | Specification/Detail |
|---|---|
| Handlebar Type | Clip-on |
| Mirror Type | Bar-end |
| Foot Peg Position | Slightly rear-set |
| Riding Posture | Sporty, café racer style |
Weight Balance and Maneuverability
The bike feels lighter than expected, aided by its lean frame and slim tank design.
A redesigned rear section with a smaller tail lamp reduces bulk at the back.
Both 17-inch wheels and a balanced chassis contribute to stable handling in city and highway conditions.
Comparison with Rivals
Royal Enfield Continental GT
The Continental GT remains the closest alternative in the cafe racer segment. It uses a larger twin-cylinder engine, giving it a different power delivery and feel compared to the single-cylinder 400. Its styling stays closer to the original Thruxton design, with a more traditional look.
| Feature | Thruxton 400 | Continental GT |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder | Twin-cylinder |
| Displacement | 400 cc | Higher cc |
| Styling Influence | Modern with OG-inspired details | Classic cafe racer |
| Price (ex-showroom) | $3.136 | Higher than Thruxton 400 |
While the Continental GT offers more displacement and a classic design, the Thruxton 400 positions itself as a more affordable option with modern features.
Other Triumph 400 Variants
Within Triumph’s own 400 cc range, the Thruxton 400 shares its TR series engine with the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X but delivers 42 PS, slightly higher than the Speed 400’s 40 PS.
Key differences from other Triumph 400s:
- Fuel Cap: Center-mounted Monza style, unlike the offset cap on others.
- Handlebars: Clip-ons for a cafe racer stance.
- Seat Cowl: Removable, a first for an Indian bike in this segment.
- Suspension: Black upside-down forks instead of gold.
- Tail Lamp: Slimmer, redesigned unit.
- Seat Height: 795 mm, lower than other 400s for easier reach.
These changes give the Thruxton 400 a distinct identity while keeping the core mechanicals consistent with the rest of the lineup.
Pricing and Value
Cost Breakdown: Showroom and On-Road
The Thruxton 400 carries an ex-showroom price of $3.136. In cities like Bangalore, the on-road cost reaches about $3,991 once registration, insurance, and other charges are added.
| Location | Ex-Showroom Price | Approx. On-Road Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | $3.136 | $3,991 |
This places it in a competitive spot within Triumph’s 400cc range, while still offering unique styling and features that set it apart from its siblings.
Value in the Modern Cafe Racer Market
In the current market, the Thruxton 400 comes in as a more budget-friendly cafe racer compared to rivals like the Royal Enfield Continental GT. While the GT offers a twin-cylinder engine and a design closer to the original Thruxton, the Thruxton 400 delivers a lighter, more accessible option with modern features such as ride-by-wire, switchable ABS, and traction control.
For riders seeking a cafe racer look with lower ownership costs, it presents an appealing balance between price, performance, and brand reliability.
Early Reactions and Closing Remarks
At first sight, the Thruxton 400 sparked mixed feelings. Leaked images made it appear too similar to the Speed 400, raising doubts about its design. Concerns centered on reused components, especially the frame, and whether the cafe racer styling would feel authentic.
Seeing it in person changed that perception. The bike looked slimmer, shorter, and more refined than expected. The new lean fuel tank with a centered Monza-style cap, removable seat cowl, and unique front fairing gave it a distinct identity.
Notable features include:
- Clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors
- Redesigned tail section with a slimmer lamp
- 795 mm seat height for easier reach
- Ride-by-wire throttle, switchable ABS and traction control
- 42 PS output, slightly higher than the Speed 400
- Four color options: black, white, yellow, red
While some design choices, like the stripe graphics and midsection detailing, may divide opinion, the bike stands out in Triumph’s 400cc lineup. Its blend of cafe racer aesthetics, practical features, and competitive pricing positions it as a strong alternative to the Royal Enfield Continental GT.
