Triumph has dominated the roost when it comes to café racers. With the Triumph Thruxton 400, the venerable British brand is entering the low-end retro market—but without sacrificing its heritage. Sharply styled, aggressive, and stylish, the Thruxton 400 marries the charm of old-school British bikes with the agility required for urban highways today.
Why Everyone’s Talking About the Thruxton 400
From its unexpected release in July 2025 to teaser shots that are leaving fans salivating, Triumph has raised genuine interest. The Thruxton 400 isn’t merely another small-capacity retro; it’s a lifestyle bike for those with a passion for the appearance of yesterday with the performance of today.
A Brief Glance at the Heritage
Thruxton Line History
The origin of the Thruxton dates back to the 1960s racing days. Then, it was made for speed—unbridled, raw, and powerful. Through the years, Triumph carried that DNA with bikes such as the Thruxton 900 and 1200. The new 400 carries on with that legacy but in a more accessible form.
Transition from Big Bore to Lightweight
Unlike its heavier predecessors, the Thruxton 400 introduces a lighter, easier-to-handle engine—perfect for new riders and those seeking café racer looks without the frightening weight and cost.
What’s New in the Triumph Thruxton 400
Launch Date and Market Regions
The Thruxton 400 was launched formally in July 2025 and should reach Indian and Southeast Asian dealerships in October 2025. It’s available in select European countries already and will soon be available in others.
Target Audience
Triumph is targeting this model at:
Young urban riders
Café racer fans
Affordable motorcyclists looking for a premium brand
Engine and Performance
Engine Specs at a Glance
Engine: 398cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder (same engine as Speed 400)
Power: ~40 PS
Torque: ~37.5 Nm
6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
How It Rides in the Real World
With the same platform as the Speed 400, the Thruxton 400 is quick to respond, agile, and off the line in an instant. Smooth mid-range torque and a sporting yet manageable riding experience awaits. Ideal for city travel and weekend excursions down twisty roads.
Design and Styling
Retro Feeling with Modern Zest
You can’t miss the:
Clip-on handlebars
Bar-end mirrors
Classic round LED headlamp
Sculpted fuel tank
Minimalist rear cowl
It bellows retro from all sides, but nothing is outdated.
Café Racer Posture and Ergonomics
The low-handlebars and softly rear-set pegs create that nostalgic racer stance—but not so outrageous that it’s painful for commuting rides.
Features and Tech
Instrument Cluster
Semi-digital with analog tachometer
LCD digital display with gear indicator, fuel gauge, trip meter, and more
Safety and Electronics
dual-channel ABS
Ride-by-wire throttle
Switchable traction control
Build Quality and Frame
Chassis Details
Framed on a tubular steel perimeter frame, it’s tough but light. Look for signature Triumph level of refinement in every curve and weld.
Expected Price and Launch in India
Global vs Indian Pricing
Expected price in India: ₹2.8 – ₹3.2 lakh (ex-showroom)
In global markets, it’s around £4,500 to £4,800 depending upon the variant.
Competition in the Indian Market
Royal Enfield Continental GT 650
Honda CB350 RS
Jawa 42 Bobber
Though the RE GT 650 is more powerful, the Thruxton 400 should underprice it and be lighter.
How the Thruxton 400 Excels
Over Royal Enfield Continental GT
The GT 650 does have heritage, yes—but it is heavier, pricier, and not for newbies. The Thruxton 400, on the other hand, gets that sweet spot between form and function just right.
A Perfect Entry Point for Café Racer Enthusiasts
This is likely the ideal novice-friendly café racer to hit the market in recent times. Lightweight, economical, but oozing with attitude—just what new riders are looking for.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
trendy retro looks
reliable Triumph engineering
lightweight and accessible
modern stuff in a vintage package
Cons:
not as potent as GT 650
no pillion comfort
no windscreen (yet)
Should You Wait for It or Go for Other Options?
If you’re looking at a modern-classic machine that gets the price, design, and rideability just right, wait for the Thruxton 400. It’ll be worth it. But if you’re looking for outright power and touring on the miles, a GT 650 could still be more sensible.
Final Verdict
The Triumph Thruxton 400 is not just a bike—it’s a statement. For the retro enthusiasts who don’t need to spend an arm and a leg, it’s a dream bike. Light as a feather, peppy enough, and with design that knocks it out of the park—it gets all the right notes right. Café racer culture, beware. There’s a new (and very British) kid in town.
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