Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X 2024 Review

There is no better time to be a learner rider and Triumph’s new pair of LAMS-approved roadsters are the proof in the pudding.

With so many quality options now available, the LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) segment has become super competitive. In particular, the 350-400cc segment has become a battleground for manufacturers looking to break into rapidly expanding markets like India and China.

Royal Enfield has long been a dominant force in this small-to-mid capacity arena, but it is now facing strong competition from the likes of KTM, Husqvarna, and Harley-Davidson. It could be Triumph, however, that blows them all out of the water.  

The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X are not the British firm’s first foray into the learner market, but they might be its most successful.

Designed by Triumph in the UK and built in India by Bajaj Auto, these pair of 398cc single-cylinder machines arrive in Australia with price tags under $10k and each offer a surprising level of quality and performance. Some people might associate Indian manufacturing with a lack of build quality, but that is certainly not the case here.

Interestingly, the Triumph 400 models are built in the same factory as the brilliant KTM 390 platform, but both brands have assured us that the only components shared are the ByBre brakes. Still, it is pleasing to see that Bajaj is capable of consistently producing high quality motorcycles for affordable prices.

It is very likely that the Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X will become the brand’s best-selling models on local shores (and let’s not even think about how many they might sell in India). So, why are they so good? Well, the price tags are a good start.

The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 is priced from $8990 ride away, while the 2024 Triumph Scrambler 400 X checks in at $9990 ride away.

Those prices are not the cheapest in the category, with the KTM 390 Duke, the Harley-Davidson X350, and all of Royal Enfield’s 350 and 411 models checking in between $7890 and $8890 ride away.

But the Triumph 400s are still priced very well, all things considered. With the exception of KTM/Husqvarna, none of its competition has the same level of build quality and technology. And not even the Austrian giant can match Triumph’s elegant British style.

Both Triumph 400 models come standard with switchable traction control, switchable ABS on the Scrambler, full LED lighting with daytime running lights, a USB port, and LCD display with key rider information. The bikes are also pre-wired for heated grips, which can be purchased as an option, while standard tyres are Pirelli Rosso 3s for the Speed and Metzeler Karoo 4s for the Scrambler.  

And why is the Scrambler $1k more expensive? Well, that model comes standard with longer suspension travel, a bigger front brake disc, a bigger 19-inch front wheel, dual exhaust silencers, a headlight grill, handguards, tank pads, and a two-piece seat.

It is also worth considering that Triumph’s other learner models – the Trident 660, Tiger Sport 660, and Daytona 660 – are all priced above $14k. And yes, those models are bigger and better, but if you’re a new rider, the 400s offer genuine value for money.

In fact, it will be interesting to see what becomes of the LAMS Trident 660. The Speed 400 occupies a very similar space in terms of style and purpose, and the idea of saving over $5k might be too enticing for many first-time bike buyers.

The liquid-cooled 398cc single-cylinder engine with Bosch EFI is an absolute beauty. It puts out a respectable 29kW at 8000rpm and 37.5Nm at 6500rpm, which easily beats all its competitors except KTM/Husqvarna.  

Offering quick acceleration, and a fairly strong mid-range, the 400 powerplant is completely satisfactory for learner riders, and maybe even enough for experienced daily commuters. And the bikes are easily capable of sitting on 100km/h comfortably, so freeways are not an issue either.

Both bikes are incredibly easy to ride, and the ergonomics and geometry contribute to a familiar feeling for previous Triumph riders. I felt at home straight away on both models, and there was no real adaption period needed. And don’t let the 389cc single fool you – these are not small bikes. They are full-size machines that even a larger-than-average rider like me can feel comfortable on.

But the bikes are not heavy either. In fact, the lightweight nature of both models contributes to surprisingly fun handling dynamic, particularly with the agile and sporty Speed 400. When rocketing through tight twisty roads, the Speed reminded me of a video game as it flicked from side to side.

Despite sharing the same platform, the small differences on the spec sheet result in two very different bikes that will each have their own audience. As I just mentioned, the Speed 400 is very sporty and has more urgency when rolling on the throttle, while the Scrambler 400 X takes on a taller, adventure-like persona. With some luggage and some dirt-friendly tyres, the Scrambler could easily double as a lightweight dual-sport machine.

The suspension presented no issues. My philosophy is that if you don’t think about the suspension while riding, then it’s doing its job. And that was largely the case here. Same goes for the brakes. And good quality tyres on both bikes is a huge bonus.

What don’t we like about the 2024 Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X?

The overall build quality of these two machines is impressive, but they are still built to a price point. Some of the components, like the switch gear, feel a little cheap compared to Triumph’s usual standard, and the fit and finish is a little rough around the edges.  

And while the engine is great for the segment, it still doesn’t feel hugely refined when compared to its 660cc three-cylinder cousin. In particular, the fuelling felt a little jerky at times, while there were some noticeable vibrations at higher revs (not exactly uncommon for a single). But I’m being picky – it is still very good, price tag considered.

I was also a bit bemused by the footpegs, particularly on the Scrambler, which felt a bit flimsy and like they could break at any moment.

And I wasn’t impressed by the instrument cluster. Once again, I get the bikes are built to a price point, but surely something a bit more modern wouldn’t break the budget. The KTM 390 Duke is built in the same factory, yet it is cheaper and comes with a full TFT display with ride modes, cornering ABS, and optional launch control.

Should I buy the 2024 Triumph Speed 400 or Scrambler 400 X?

Learner riders truly are spoilt for choice these days, and the Triumph 400 models are just the latest in a frenzy of affordable and capable LAMS-approved models hitting our shores in recent times.

Price is one of the key factors when choosing a first bike, but safety, performance, and quality should be taken into account too. And the Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X both tick all of those boxes.

There aren’t many other bikes that match the Triumph 400s in these areas, but there are a couple. It will really come down to personal preference on shape and style. And who doesn’t love a bit of classic British elegance?

ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder
Capacity: 398.15cc
Bore x stroke: 89mm x 64mm
Engine management: Bosch EFI with electronic throttle control

PERFORMANCE
Claimed maximum power: 39.5hp (29.4kW) at 8000rpm
Claimed maximum torque: 37.5Nm at 6500rpm

TRANSMISSION
Type: Six-speed
Final drive: X-ring chain
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate, slip

CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame: Hybrid spine/perimeter, tubular steel, bolt-on rear subframe
Front suspension: 43mm upside down Big Piston fork, 140mm travel (Speed), 150mm travel (Scrambler)
Rear suspension: Gas monoshock RSU with external reservoir and pre-load adjustment, 130mm travel (Speed), 150mm travel (Scrambler)
Front brakes: 300mm discs (Speed), 320mm discs (Scrambler), with four-piston radial caliper, ABS
Rear brake: 230mm disc with ByBreTM single-piston floating caliper, ABS
Tyres: 17/17-inch wheels with Pirelli Rosso 3 (Speed), 19/17-inch wheels with Metzeler Karoo 4 (Scrambler)

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Claimed wet weight: 170kg (Speed), 179kg (Scrambler)
Seat height: 790mm (Speed), 835mm (Scrambler)
Wheelbase: 1377mm (Speed), 1418 (Scrambler)
Fuel capacity: 13 litres

OTHER STUFF
Price: $8990 ride away (Speed), $9990 ride way (Scrambler)
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres