Triumph Speed 400 2024: A Personal Review

The Triumph Speed 400 is one of those motorcycles that somehow sneaks under your radar, only to knock your socks off once you give it a proper ride. In 2024, Triumph released the updated version of this little marvel, and as someone who’s always loved a good middleweight naked bike, I couldn’t resist taking it for a spin. What I found is a bike that’s fun, easy-going, and surprisingly capable. Here’s my take on the Triumph Speed 400 2024, with a few personal stories, plenty of humor, and some hard-earned wisdom along the way.

The First Ride: Me, Triumph, and a Bunch of Fun

I’ll be honest—I’m not usually a fan of small-displacement bikes. Give me a big burly machine with an engine that roars like a lion, and I’m happy. But the Triumph Speed 400 2024 is a whole different beast. I hopped on it thinking it’d be a nice, casual ride. Boy, was I wrong.

From the moment I twisted the throttle, I knew this was no ordinary small bike. It pulls with an eagerness that feels way above its class. The Speed 400 is like that scrappy underdog who punches well above its weight. As I zipped around town, it handled like a dream—nimble and light but still confident enough to make me feel like I had total control.

Now, I’m not saying it’s going to set any land-speed records, but for urban riding and weekend jaunts through twisty roads, this bike is a blast. Plus, it’s so approachable, I almost forgot I was riding something with “just” 400cc.

The Engine: Punchy and Playful

Let’s dive into the heart of the Triumph Speed 400. It’s powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled 398cc engine. That might not sound like much, but believe me, it packs quite a punch. With around 40 horsepower, it doesn’t leave you wanting in the lower gears. In fact, it’s perfect for the kind of riding most of us do—city commuting, weekend rides, and the occasional long stretch of highway.

What impressed me most is how smooth the power delivery is. Even if you’re new to motorcycling, this bike is incredibly forgiving. Yet, if you know how to handle a throttle, you can still have loads of fun. It’s got that lovely balance of being accessible to beginners while still being thrilling enough for experienced riders.

Pros of the Triumph Speed 400 2024

Light and Nimble: Weighing in at just under 400 pounds, the Speed 400 is easy to throw around corners and maneuver in tight spaces. It’s a perfect city bike.
Engine Performance: The 398cc engine delivers power in a smooth, predictable manner. It’s not overwhelming, but it’s definitely fun.
Price: For what you get, the Speed 400 is incredibly well-priced. Triumph is giving you premium quality at an entry-level price point.
Fuel Efficiency: This little beast sips fuel. You can expect to get some great mileage, which makes it a practical daily rider.
Looks: Classic Triumph design cues make this bike a head-turner. It’s got that sleek, minimalist vibe that’s hard to resist.

Cons of the Triumph Speed 400 2024

Highway Cruising: While it’s great for city riding, the Speed 400 isn’t exactly a highway champ. It can hold its own on the freeway, but at higher speeds, you’ll feel the limits of that 400cc engine.
No Wind Protection: As a naked bike, there’s no fairing or windscreen to shield you from the elements. On longer rides, especially at higher speeds, you’ll get buffeted by the wind.
Seat Comfort: The seat isn’t the plushest thing in the world. After an hour or two in the saddle, you might start shifting around looking for a comfortable position.

The Riding Experience: A Smooth Operator

Let me tell you about the handling. The Triumph Speed 400 is like that friend who never says no to an adventure. It’s so light and easy to handle that even in dense traffic, I felt like I was gliding through the streets. There’s none of that clunky heaviness you get with bigger bikes. It just goes where you want it to go, and it does it with a smile.

I took it up into the mountains for a weekend ride, and the little Speed 400 handled the twisties like a pro. It’s agile enough to flick from side to side, and with the wide handlebars, I felt like I had total command over the bike. Now, keep in mind—it’s not going to set your hair on fire. But that’s kind of the beauty of it. You can enjoy the ride without feeling like the bike is constantly egging you to go faster and harder. It’s a motorcycle that knows how to have fun without being intimidating.

The Practical Side of the Triumph Speed 400

For all the fun, there’s also a practical side to the Speed 400. This is a bike that won’t break the bank. Not only is the initial purchase price reasonable, but the ongoing maintenance costs are also fairly low. Triumph has built a reliable, well-engineered machine, and with fuel efficiency that rivals a scooter, you’re not going to be spending too much time at the gas station.

As for daily commuting, the Speed 400 excels. It’s small enough to weave through traffic, and parking it is a breeze. I even found myself taking it out for grocery runs just because it’s that easy to ride.

Who Should Buy the Triumph Speed 400 2024?

If you’re a beginner looking for a motorcycle that’s easy to ride, stylish, and reliable, the Triumph Speed 400 2024 should be at the top of your list. It’s also a fantastic choice for seasoned riders who want a second bike for city riding or something a little lighter and more playful than their usual machine.

However, if you’re planning on doing a lot of highway miles or long-distance touring, this might not be the bike for you. It’s built for fun and practicality in urban environments and short weekend rides. It’s not a long-distance cruiser, but that’s not what it’s meant to be.

Final Thoughts: Triumph Speed 400—Small But Mighty

The Triumph Speed 400 2024 is one of those bikes that takes you by surprise. It’s fun, affordable, and beautifully designed. Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying a scenic ride through the countryside, it delivers a riding experience that’s engaging without being overwhelming.

Sure, it’s not going to blow you away with horsepower, and it’s not a bike for long highway hauls. But for what it is—a nimble, city-friendly bike with enough punch to keep you entertained—it hits the mark perfectly.

If you’re in the market for a motorcycle that’s fun, easy to ride, and won’t cost a fortune, the Triumph Speed 400 is a solid choice. I had an absolute blast riding it, and I think you will too.

Before You Head Out…

Before you hit the road on your Triumph Speed 400, make sure to check out some of the reviews on this website for the best motorcycle gear and accessories. After all, the right gear can make a world of difference in your riding experience!