Triumph currently offers three models in the 400cc lineup: Speed 400, Scrambler 400X, and Speed T4. The iconic British bikemaker is now gearing up to launch the fourth model in this range which will be a cafe racer. Rumoured to be called Thruxton 400, this motorcycle has been spotted testing on a number of occasions in recent months.
A test mule of the cafe racer has been caught on camera yet again around Bajaj Auto’s Chakan-based production facility where the 400cc Triumphs are manufactured. The latest images are courtesy of noted automotive journalist Rohit Paradkar, a.k.a, The Fat Biker. Like the previous spy shots, the latest test mule is also wrapped completely in a black paint.
Triumph Thruxton 400: Design
The motorcycle’s design is defined by its distinctive front fairing, which seamlessly integrates a front apron and windscreen. While not visible in the latest spy shots, a round headlamp appears to be housed within the apron. This front section evokes the classic café racers of the 1960s, which drew inspiration from fighter jets of that era. Beyond this, the rest of the bike closely resembles the Speed 400.
The design features a floating tail section with a ribbed-pattern single-piece seat, a sturdy grab rail, an upswept exhaust muffler, and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank. True to a classic café racer, the clip-on handlebars are set low, and the foot pegs are positioned slightly rearward to create a sporty and aggressive riding posture.
Triumph Thruxton 400: Hardware
As anticipated, the Thruxton 400 is expected to share its underpinnings with the Speed 400. These include a black-finished upside-down front fork, a rear monoshock, and single disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS. Based on its appearance, the bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, which were fitted with Pirelli Rosso tires on the international test mule. However, the India-spec model is likely to come equipped with locally sourced MRF or Apollo tires.
Triumph Thruxton 400: Powertrain
Powering the Thruxton 400 will be the same 398cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which propels the rest of the 400cc Triumph lineup. In Speed 400, this engine dishes out 39.5 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 37.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Transmission duties will be carried out by a six-speed gearbox via a slip and assist clutch.
