Calling all cafe racer enthusiasts! Get ready to be revved up because the iconic British brand, Triumph Motorcycles, in collaboration with Bajaj Auto, is gearing up to launch the much-anticipated Triumph Thruxton 400 in India. This motorcycle promises to be a thrilling blend of classic cafe racer aesthetics and modern performance, carving a distinct niche in the Indian motorcycle market. Let’s delve deeper and explore everything there is to know about this upcoming cafe racer.
A Cafe Racer Legacy Reborn
The Triumph Thruxton 400 pays homage to the golden age of motorcycling, particularly the cafe racer culture that emerged in the 1950s and 60s. Cafe racers were known for their stripped-down design, emphasizing lightweight construction and aerodynamic elements for superior speed and agility. The Thruxton 400 embodies this spirit with its retro-inspired design, featuring a sleek semi-fairing reminiscent of the legendary Speed Triple RR. The low-set clip-on handlebars replace the single-piece handlebar of its siblings, offering a more aggressive and committed riding position that cafe racer fans crave.
Modern Features for a Timeless Ride
While the Thruxton 400 embraces a classic look, it doesn’t compromise on functionality. We expect it to be generously equipped with modern features, similar to its siblings, the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Full LED Lighting: Enhance nighttime visibility and add a touch of modern flair.
- Ride-by-Wire Throttle: Experience smoother power delivery and precise throttle control.
- USB-C Charging Socket: Keep your devices juiced up on the go.
- Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster: Get all the essential ride information in a clear and concise format.
Safety First
Triumph prioritizes rider safety, and the Thruxton 400 will likely be equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features:
- Dual-Channel ABS: This system prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, offering superior control and preventing skids in tricky conditions.
- Switchable Traction Control System (TCS): This system helps maintain traction by regulating engine power when the rear wheel detects a loss of grip. You can choose to turn it off for experienced riders who prefer a more direct feel.
- Assist and Slipper Clutch: This clutch system reduces lever effort for easier gear changes and prevents rear wheel lockup during aggressive downshifts, enhancing overall riding comfort and safety.
Powering the Cafe Racer Spirit
The heart of the Thruxton 400 lies in its tried-and-tested 399cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine. This potent motor, shared with the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X, is known for its refined performance and punchy power delivery. It churns out a healthy 39.5 bhp and 37.5 Nm of torque, promising an exhilarating ride with enough grunt to tackle city streets and open highways with confidence. The engine is paired with a slick-shifting six-speed gearbox for smooth and precise gear changes.
Precision Handling for the Thrill Seeker
The Thruxton 400 promises to be a sharp handler, perfect for carving corners and navigating twisty roads. Here’s a breakdown of the expected cycle parts:
- USD Forks: Up front, expect robust upside-down forks (USD forks) to offer exceptional control and feedback, especially when tackling uneven roads or aggressive riding.
- Preload-Adjustable Monoshock: The rear suspension will likely be a preload-adjustable monoshock, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension settings for their weight and riding style. Given the cafe racer design, we can expect a slightly sportier tuning compared to the Speed 400 for a more dynamic handling experience.
- 17-Inch Wheels and Sporty Tyres: The Thruxton 400 is expected to come equipped with 17-inch wheels, likely shod with stickier tyres compared to its siblings. This combination will provide a good balance between agility and stability, allowing riders to push the limits with confidence.
- Braking System: The braking setup will likely be similar to the Speed 400, featuring disc brakes for both the front and rear wheels.
Launch and Price Expectations
Bajaj Auto has a history of launching new products around the festive season in India. Therefore, we can expect the Triumph Thruxton 400 to hit the showrooms sometime in September-October 2024. Considering its cafe racer heritage and premium positioning, the Thruxton 400 will likely be priced slightly above the
