The sub-500cc segment is getting hotter with the updated Triumph Speed 400, which sees minor tweaks but retains all the good stuff, including its engine and pricing. This is a compelling choice in the segment, but if one can look a little deeper, there is the TVS Apache RTR 310, a street naked that is sure to turn heads.
So, if you’re in the market looking for a motorcycle in this category, the TVS Apache RTR 310 and the Triumph Speed 400 both make good choices. However, which of the two makes better sense in terms of the specifications and equipment they offer? Here’s a comparison.
TVS Apache RTR 310 vs new Triumph Speed 400 — Engine specifications
Let’s get straight to the engine. The TVS Apache RTR 310 is powered by a 313cc, single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that makes 35bhp and 29Nm of torque with the help of a 6-speed gearbox. The Triumph Speed 400 gets a larger displacement single-cylinder engine which helps develop 40bhp and 38Nm of torque from a 6-speed gearbox. On paper, the Triumph clearly has the advantage here.
| Specifications | Apache RTR 310 | Speed 400 |
| Displacement | 313 cc | 399 cc |
| Power | 35 bhp | 40 bhp |
| Torque | 29 Nm | 38 Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed | 6-Speed |
TVS Apache RTR 310 vs new Triumph Speed 400 — Equipment and electronics
Both motorcycles get USD forks, a monoshock at the rear, 17-inch wheels, disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS, traction control, LED lighting, and more. However, the RTR 310 gets an edge over the Speed 400 with its electronics suite, which consists of cornering cruise control, lean-sensitive ABS, wheelie control, rear wheel lift control, ride modes, TFT dash, quickshifter, adjustable forks (BTO) and climate-controlled seats.
When comparing both motorcycles, both have their advantages and disadvantages. The Apache RTR 310’s Achilles’ heel is its pricing, costing a little more than the Speed 400. However, the Speed 400 does not appeal to many as much as a big bike, which the RTR does. That said, the RTR does offer more in terms of equipment and electronics and the quickshifter does a brilliant job.
Both motorcycles have plenty of power and it depends on what one’s looking for. Personally, I don’t mind the extra money the RTR costs, because it looks good, handles great, and the quickshifter works without a flaw. However, the Speed 400 is also appealing for the extra power on offer and its simple electronics. I do not mind the lack of its big bike appearance, since the performance is what matters.
