Top Features the Triumph Speed T4 Misses Out On Compared to the Speed 400

Team ALLVOLTAUTO.com
Jul 23
3 min read

Triumph has recently updated its accessible roadster lineup to benefit from new taxation brackets, downsizing the engines in both the Speed 400 and the Speed T4 to 349cc. While the Speed T4 significantly lowers the entry barrier for riders looking to bring home a modern classic—priced at Rs. 2.08 lakh compared to the Speed 400’s Rs. 2.40 lakh—achieving that attractive price tag meant trimming some fat.

If you are on the fence and wondering exactly what corners were cut, here is a comprehensive breakdown of every feature, specification, and hardware component the updated 350cc Speed T4 misses out on compared to the 350cc Speed 400.

1. The Power Deficit and Throttle Response

While both motorcycles now share the new 349cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine architecture, their character on the road is intentionally distinct.

Peak Performance: The Speed 400 gets the more aggressive state of tune, delivering 36.4 bhp (37 PS) at 8,000 rpm and 32 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The Speed T4 is noticeably detuned, producing 28.6 bhp (29 PS) at 7,500 rpm and 31 Nm at 5,500 rpm.
Ride-by-Wire: The Speed 400 features a crisp, electronic ride-by-wire throttle system. The T4 misses out on this entirely, opting for a traditional mechanical throttle cable and a heavier flywheel. This results in a much tamer, less aggressive power delivery meant for relaxed city cruising.
Top Speed: The performance cut naturally impacts the top end. The Speed 400 can push towards 147 kmph, while the T4 runs out of breath around 137 kmph.

2. Suspension, Tyres, and Braking Hardware

The underpinnings are where the price difference becomes highly visible. Handling and cornering confidence take a slight hit on the T4 due to these specific hardware downgrades:

Forks: The Speed 400 flaunts premium 43mm Upside Down (USD) forks finished in a striking gold. The T4 drops these for conventional 43mm telescopic forks, which changes the front-end feedback during spirited riding.
Tyre Specs (Radial vs. Bias-ply): The Speed 400 comes shod with premium radial tyres featuring a wider 150/70-17 rear. The T4 misses out on radials entirely, settling for narrower, bias-ply tyres with a 140/70-17 rear. This difference heavily impacts high-speed cornering stability and grip.
Braking Calipers: While both bikes feature a 300mm front disc, the Speed 400 uses a sharper radial-mounted front brake caliper. The T4 utilizes a simpler axial caliper.

3. Electronics and Safety Tech

Triumph kept the T4 largely analog to keep it budget-friendly, meaning it misses out on some of the modern safety nets found on the Speed 400.

Traction Control: The Speed 400 features switchable traction control, a massive safety bonus in low-grip conditions. The Speed T4 has no traction control system at all.
Engine Immobilizer: The Speed 400 includes an engine immobilizer for anti-theft security, which is skipped on the T4.

4. Hardware, Ergonomics, and Aesthetics

The finer touchpoints on the motorcycle reveal several cost-saving measures on the Speed T4:

Component Materials: The Speed 400 uses lightweight cast aluminum for its handlebar, brake pedal, and gear shifter. The T4 replaces these with heavier, basic tubular steel components.
Levers: The Speed 400 spoils the rider with adjustable clutch and brake levers. The T4 features standard, non-adjustable levers.
Mirrors : The Speed 400’s premium neo-retro look is highlighted by sleek bar-end mirrors. The T4 gets conventional stalk mirrors.
Drivetrain: Power is sent to the rear wheel of the Speed 400 via a highly durable X-ring chain, whereas the T4 steps down to a standard O-ring chain.

The Verdict

The 350cc Triumph Speed 400 commands a premium of roughly Rs. 32,000 over the Speed T4, but it more than justifies the gap with its superior radial tyres, USD forks, extra horsepower, and advanced safety electronics. The Speed T4 is a brilliant, relaxed city commuter, but if you want the definitive, uncompromised modern-classic roadster experience, those missing features on the T4 are hard to ignore.