Triumph Speed 400 Test - Naked Bike Tip 2024

The Triumph Speed 400 features a 398 cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 40 hp at 8000 rpm and 37.5 Nm at 6500 rpm. Imagine sitting in a cozy English pub, a pint of ale in hand, listening to the tales of an old sea dog. That's how the single-cylinder engine of the Triumph Speed 400 feels. It provides just the right mix of power and smoothness. It's as elastic as a well-made Yorkshire pudding, perfectly expanding in the throttle range, giving you the feeling that every ride is a relaxed afternoon tea session. It's as elastic as chewing gum and offers smooth acceleration that has even made experienced sport riders like Marek and NastyNils happy. The engine is surprisingly refined and quiet, which is remarkable for a single-cylinder. At the same time, it doesn't lack grunt in the lower and mid-range, so you always have enough power at your disposal. However, the engine is not a miracle worker. The composure comes from a relatively high flywheel mass. This takes away a bit of the playful nature and revviness of the single-cylinder. Thus, the Speed 400 presents itself overall more composed and relaxed than a Duke 390 or Vitpilen 401 but also somewhat slower.

To keep a cool head during this test, we relied on the HJC RPHA 71 Carbon. The helmet impressed the 1000PS crew with its pleasantly neutral aerodynamics, which ensure fatigue-free riding even on longer trips. Additionally, the effective ventilation performance and reliable heat dissipation on hot days are noteworthy. The carbon model not only looks incredibly classy but is also noticeably lighter than the base version of the RPHA 71. The visor mechanism with an additional sun visor works flawlessly. The fit is comfortable, and the sizing covers a wide range within the 1000PS editorial team - all our editors felt comfortable! We highly recommend it.

https://hjchelmets.eu/products/rpha-71-carbon-solid

For this test, we were equipped by our clothing partner IXS with products from the current Sport Collection. Our 1000PS editorial team has trusted the Swiss brand for more than 10 years now. In addition to the quality of workmanship, we appreciate IXS for always using high-quality materials and excellent fit. Even editors who do not conform to standard body shapes can always find a well-fitting outfit thanks to the availability of long and short sizes. With advanced features such as airbag systems and electronically controlled membranes, they strive to offer the highest level of safety and comfort. We love it!

https://ixs.com/moto-sports-2024

• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/motocinematica/
• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/jakob.schabsi/
• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/patbpixx/
• Editor: https://www.instagram.com/christophorvath/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/mbbikeperformance/
• Test Rider and YouTube English Host: https://www.instagram.com/adamchadchild/
• Test Rider and YouTube Polish Host: https://www.instagram.com/marek.piechula/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/named.aj/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/turboschaaf/
• YouTube Italian Host: https://www.instagram.com/weeeslyy/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/kurtrubik/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/ewald_baumgartner_fahrtechnik/
• Test Rider and Host for German Videos: http://zonko.at/
• Producer, Host and Test Rider: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nils-mueller-doget-1000ps/
• Editor: Martin "Vauli" Vielhaber: More reports from Vauli

Our Partner for the Naked Bike Test 2024

• Motorcycle care: https://motorex.com/de-at/moto-line--5616
• Less luggage, no stink! 1000PS trusts Bamigo

Motorcycling in the Bucklige Welt offers an exceptionally charming experience, highlighted by the picturesque landscape of this region in Lower Austria. Characterized by gentle hills, expansive meadows, and idyllic small villages, the Bucklige Welt provides the perfect terrain for motorcycle enthusiasts who seek both the beauty of nature and the thrill of twisty roads. The varied routes lead through forested areas and past historical landmarks, making each tour a journey through the culture and history of the country. Riding is particularly appealing in the spring and autumn months when the landscape is bathed in a spectacular play of colors that invigorates the senses and leaves unforgettable impressions. This makes the Bucklige Welt a hidden gem for bikers who seek the authentic and original.

During the test, we rode a total of 10 motorcycles in a direct comparison. The motorcycles were in different displacement classes. Nevertheless, we evaluated the motorcycles using the same evaluation scheme. The categories in the test protocol include aspects such as engine comfort and modulation, engine revviness, torque, engine power, transmission, quickshifter, clutch, traction control regulation, traction control adjustment options, switch quality, and control logic. Additionally, aspects such as stability, handling, precision, suspension quality and adjustment range, brakes, modulation, and effectiveness were evaluated. Each test rider gave their individual rating, which was then averaged for each category and ultimately led to an overall rating. The best motorcycle in each category was rated "1", and the worst motorcycle in the category was rated "10". For our readers, these tables are interesting for two reasons. On the one hand, they can see in which areas individual motorcycles are above average and in which areas they are below average - always considering that the price and displacement classes are very different. On the other hand, you can click through all the reports and results here and directly compare your favorites - regardless of price and displacement class.

In the grand naked bike test by 1000PS, a total of ten different motorcycles were put through their paces. The Triumph Speed 400 fared rather poorly in the points table. But why did all the test riders still have fun in the saddle? The answer lies in the unique combination of character and riding feel of this bike. The single-cylinder engine of the Speed 400 may not be the most powerful in the test field, but its elasticity and smooth acceleration make riding pleasant and straightforward. It may not offer the peak performance of a multi-cylinder engine, but for many riders, the relaxed yet powerful throttle response is exactly what they are looking for. The engine conveys a sense of familiarity and reliability, much like a good friend who never lets you down. The soft suspension and comfortable seating position are ideal for short rides and everyday city traffic. While other bikes in the test may be sportier and more precise, the Speed 400 offers a comfortable and relaxed riding experience that is especially appreciated in everyday life. The Speed 400 scores points with its simplicity and accessibility. The Triumph Speed 400 impresses with its classic design and high-quality finish. It exudes a retro charm that appeals to many riders. The stylish appearance and nostalgic feel evoke emotions and ensure that you feel at home on this bike. The motorcycle may not have received the best ratings in the points table, but it manages to build an emotional connection with its riders, which is often more important than pure technical data.

Transmission and Clutch of the Triumph Speed 400

A precise and easily shiftable transmission significantly contributes to riding pleasure, and the Speed 400 does not disappoint in this regard. The gearbox is as smooth as a freshly buttered slice of toast. The gears engage effortlessly and precisely. The clutch is light, perhaps even too light for some, but this only adds to the relaxed character of the bike. There's no quickshifter, but who needs high-tech gimmicks when you can enjoy gear changes with a simple "click"?

Electronic Assistance Systems of the Triumph Speed 400

Electronic assistance systems are rather scarce on the Speed 400, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The simplicity of this bike is part of its charm. No complicated traction controls or riding modes that only serve to overwhelm you technically and drive up the price. Here, everything is reduced to the essentials, making the riding experience all the purer. A bike that stays true to its roots, like a classic steak without any frills.

Ergonomics and Controls of the Triumph Speed 400

The user-friendliness of the controls and the logic of their arrangement are crucial for intuitive handling. The seating position of the Speed 400 is as comfortable as an old armchair in front of a crackling fireplace. Even for taller riders, it offers enough space, like a spacious country house in the Cotswolds. Only the bar-end mirrors and the non-adjustable brake lever might bother some riders – but hey, even Buckingham Palace has its quirks.

Miscellaneous on the Triumph Speed 400

A few small points noticed by the test riders: The wide tank can press against the thighs on longer rides, and the instruments, a mix of an analog speedometer and a digital tachometer, take some getting used to. But these are minor details in the overall picture of an otherwise excellently executed motorcycle. The design is classic and high-quality, the build quality is great for this class – in short, a real eye-catcher.

Conclusion on the Triumph Speed 400

The Triumph Speed 400 is a motorcycle that doesn't impress with sheer power or technological gimmicks but with character and charm. It's like a good friend – reliable, pleasant, and always ready for an adventure. The Speed 400 might not top the scoreboards, but it manages to put a smile on every rider's face. A true British gem on two wheels that puts the joy of riding at the forefront.

The Triumph Speed 400 is an incredibly charming, heartwarming bike. As soon as you get on, you immediately feel the lightness and the effortless nature of simply enjoying riding a motorcycle. Everything about this bike is straightforward and uncomplicated, making life in the saddle very pleasant. The accessible nature of the motorcycle brings something wonderfully uncomplicated and simple even for experienced riders, which conveys a lot of joy in the saddle. Overall, the Triumph Speed 400 is a great recommendation for anyone who loves riding and wants to enjoy life while riding a bike.

The experienced motorcycle journalist Zonko was completely thrilled by the Triumph Speed 400. The bike's aesthetics are extremely high-quality and beautiful, exactly how you would envision a classic motorcycle. The seating position is insanely pleasant and comfortable. Zonko is particularly impressed by the engine, which is incredibly elastic, especially for a single. The engine allows you to wind out a gear at low speeds and still accelerate smoothly and powerfully – a real sensation for this displacement and design. The only criticism is the chassis, which leans towards the softer, more comfortable side. While this increases riding comfort and makes the bike enjoyable, it can tend to wobble slightly during spirited riding and on uneven roads. Despite this small weakness, Zonko sees the Speed 400 as a bike that overall represents a divine stroke.

Adam Child highlights that the Triumph Speed 400 looks great for its price. The finish is beautiful, and the display is simple and easy to read. However, he does not like the bar-end mirrors and would prefer regular mirrors. Additionally, he misses an adjustable brake lever, which is particularly problematic for riders with small hands, like himself. Since the bike is intended for the A2 market, other riders with small hands might also need this adjustability.