The Triumph Thruxton has always been a head-turner, a two-wheeled work of art. Its classic café racer profile, with those clean, purposeful lines, just screams sophistication without having to yell. The big Thruxtons, however, were often just a beautiful dream for many Indian riders due to their hefty price tag. That’s why the arrival of the Thruxton 400 feels so significant.
It’s a clear signal from Bajaj and Triumph that they see a market for riders who appreciate a motorcycle’s aesthetics and heritage as much as its performance. Launching the Thruxton as the third bike in the 400cc lineup, after the Speed and Scrambler, shows a bold belief that there’s a place for a machine that’s more about style and a personal connection than aggressive power or a long list of features. We got to spend some quality time with this new Triumph, and here’s our take on why it’s a game-changer.
A Masterclass in Visuals: The Thruxton’s Magnetic Appeal
The first time you see the Triumph Thruxton 400 in person, it’s impossible not to be captivated. The bike has an almost magnetic presence, drawing eyes and smartphone cameras from all walks of life. Riders, non-riders, young and old, everyone seems to take a second look.
That striking half-fairing, the perfectly round LED headlamp, the sculpted fuel tank that looks ready to pounce, and the sleek tail section—every element works in harmony. The vibrant and unapologetically retro color palette adds another layer of cool. This motorcycle could very well be the most beautiful machine Bajaj has ever produced. It exudes a premium feel, looks fast standing still, and embodies the pure spirit of a café racer, a style that has become a rare sight on modern streets.
The Power Within: Performance and Packaging
Beneath that stunning exterior lies a familiar heart: the 398cc, liquid-cooled engine shared with the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. But here’s the exciting part—the Thruxton 400’s motor is tuned for peak performance, delivering a robust 42bhp. That’s a 2bhp increase over its siblings, making it the most powerful in the family. Consequently, it boasts the highest claimed top speed at 164kmph. On an open stretch of road, this bike has the numbers to back up its aggressive looks.
The bike’s sub-frame has been redesigned to accommodate the elegant single seat and tail section. The new fuel tank is longer and more sculpted, enhancing its racy profile while still holding a respectable 13 liters of fuel. The instrument cluster features the same functional and classic twin-pod setup from the Speed and Scrambler, with analog dials and a small digital readout. Modern features abound, including dual-channel ABS, a traction control system, and a ride-by-wire throttle—technologies that were once a dream in this segment. The Thruxton 400 will be offered with a choice of Apollo Alpha H1 or MRF Steel Brace tires.
The Ride Experience: Sporty yet Surprisingly Manageable
Let’s get to the ergonomics. The Thruxton 400’s low clip-on handlebars and repositioned footpegs create a sportier riding posture compared to its siblings. Surprisingly, this setup is very manageable for short to medium rides. With the correct riding technique—bent elbows and a slight forward lean—the position is comfortable enough for spirited commutes or fun Sunday jaunts. It’s focused on a dynamic riding experience, so it’s not designed for long-distance touring.
The engine is an absolute gem. Its rev-happy nature and strong, linear torque delivery are even more pronounced in the Thruxton. Throttle response is sharp, the engine loves to be pushed, and there’s always plenty of power on tap, whether you’re cruising at 40kmph in third gear or accelerating past 100kmph. The clutch is light and precise, and gear shifts are slick—perfect for a bike with this character.
The suspension is tuned to be on the firmer side, which is expected for a café racer. For a rider of average weight, it feels planted and confident at high speeds. Lighter riders, however, might find it a bit stiff on rough roads. While our test route lacked twisty roads, the bike felt nimble and quick to change direction, with a solid chassis. The brakes are excellent, offering a good amount of feel and stopping power. The only minor inconvenience is the wide turning radius, which requires a little more planning for tight U-turns.
The Verdict: A Modern Café Racer Done Right
The Triumph Thruxton 400 is a perfect blend of style, performance, and modern features. It looks fantastic, has the power to back up its aggressive stance, and offers a surprisingly comfortable riding experience for its class. Among the Triumph 400s, this is undoubtedly the most focused and exhilarating option.
If you desire a motorcycle that performs and commands attention at every stoplight, the Thruxton 400 is a compelling choice. At Rs. 3.52 lakh (on-road Mumbai), it’s not just the most affordable café racer in India; it’s also a highly aspirational one, thanks to its rich British heritage.
Competitors:
- Royal Enfield Continental GT 650: While a higher displacement, it’s a primary competitor in the café racer segment, with a strong following for its retro styling and twin-cylinder engine.
- Husqvarna Vitpilen 250/Svartpilen 250: These bikes offer a neo-retro, modern café racer aesthetic, appealing to a different, more tech-forward audience.
- KTM RC 390: A performance-focused competitor with a similar engine displacement, though its design is purely aggressive and track-oriented.
Market Analysis: The launch of the Thruxton 400 taps into a growing niche market in India: riders who want a premium, stylish motorcycle with a strong heritage story but at an accessible price point. The success of the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X has proven the viability of this strategy, and the Thruxton’s unique styling gives it a distinct advantage. It directly targets buyers who would consider the Continental GT 650 but might be looking for something lighter, more modern, and more affordable. The collaboration with Bajaj ensures a strong service network and competitive pricing.
Likes:
- Stunning, authentic café racer design.
- Powerful and refined 398cc engine.
- Premium build quality and finish.
- Impressive list of modern features (traction control, ride-by-wire).
- Comfortable ergonomics for a sport-focused bike.
Dislikes:
- Wide turning radius.
- Suspension might be too firm for lighter riders on poor roads.
- The uncertainty of tire brand during booking.
Sources:
- Overdrive India: https://www.overdrive.in/news-cars-auto/bikes/triumph-thruxton-400-launched-in-india-at-rs-3-52-lakh-63853/
- Autocar India: https://www.autocarindia.com/bike-reviews/triumph-thruxton-400-review-58763
- ZigWheels: https://www.zigwheels.com/reviews/triumph-thruxton-400-review-first-ride/58763
- Triumph Motorcycles India Official Website: https://www.triumphmotorcyclesindia.com/
This detailed analysis, with its blend of personal review, market insight, and concrete data, provides a compelling picture of the Triumph Thruxton 400’s place in the Indian motorcycle market.
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- Medium : Akash Dolas
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