The big bike that thinks it's small

This brand-new model in the Triumph range could be the perfect answer to many rider's needs. And for Triumph, it may just be the most important model in Hinckley's history

- Matt Hull 

Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X

G one are the days of British bike manufacturers chasing ever-increasing engine capacity. Satisfying the American market's insatiable appetite for a larger engine no longer matters - it's smaller bikes that matter today for the 'new' world. And, if Triumph have got it right, the 400cc segment is a huge sales market worldwide for the UK company to benefit from. Should they hit the mark, it could take the Hinckley company to another level but if it misses, it could be a disaster. So, no pressure then...

If you are interested in the new Triumph 400 "T-range, then the facts have been out for a while. The Speed 400 is the road bike and comes in from £5995, the Scrambler 400 X its off-road-styled sibling at £5695. The platform has been in development for five years in conjunction with Bajaj from the start, utilising their small bike, large manufacturing capability skills. Both models have a brand-new 400cc, four-stroke, 4v, liquid-cooled single cylinder, with six gears giving at just under 40bhp. But despite the looks, the similarities get less from there. The frame is different for less compromise of geometry, suspension, wheel, exhaust, brakes, tyres, seat, even the electronics are slightly tailored to suit the two applications. Wet weight is a lithe-like 170kg for the Speed 400 and 179kg for the Scrambler X. So far, it's really quite impressive.

The Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X both have that family resemblance of their 900 and 1200 siblings, but have managed something that their rivals like BMW with their 310 haven't - they've made a 'small bike' look, feel and ride like a big bike. Because it is a big bike, they've just packaged it well - a crucial marketing win. The Scrambler must have been an even larger challenge, trying to keep the size relative to riders, while keeping all the parts relative to each other.