Triumph’s New 350cc : Range to Launch in India on April 6, Still Wearing the ‘400’ Badge

Triumph’s New 350cc : The Indian mid-size motorcycle segment is bracing for a significant shake-up. Triumph Motorcycles, in collaboration with Bajaj Auto, is all set to officially launch its new, smaller-capacity iterations of the 400 range on April 6, 2026. In a move that has sparked intense discussion among enthusiasts, these new motorcycles—powered by a 350cc engine—will continue to be marketed and badged as ‘400s’.

Scrambler 400 XC Triumph motorcycle atmospheric image with riders.

 

Units have already begun arriving at dealerships across the country, and the strategy is clear: maintain the premium “400” brand identity while optimizing for Indian tax regulations and accessibility.


Quick Reference: Triumph 350cc (Badged as 400) Price & Launch Toolbar

ModelExpected Ex-Showroom PriceLaunch DateBooking Amount
Triumph Speed 350₹ 2,20,000 – ₹ 2,29,999April 6, 2026₹ 5,000 (Unofficial)
Triumph Speed T4 350₹ 1,70,000 – ₹ 1,80,000April 6, 2026₹ 5,000 (Unofficial)
Scrambler 350 X₹ 2,45,000 – ₹ 2,55,000April 6, 2026₹ 5,000 (Unofficial)
Thruxton 350₹ 2,50,000 – ₹ 2,60,000April 6, 2026₹ 5,000 (Unofficial)

Triumph’s New 350cc: Why the Downsizing?

The most significant change lies beneath the fuel tank. While the current Speed 400 and scrambler 400X utilize a 398.15cc liquid-cooled engine, the new 2026 range features a downsized 349cc motor.

The GST Factor

The primary driver for this shift is India’s GST 2.0 regulations. Motorcycles with engine capacities above 350cc are slapped with a hefty 40% tax, whereas those below the 350cc threshold enjoy a much lower 18% tax bracket. By shaving off roughly 50cc, Bajaj-Triumph can significantly reduce the on-road price for the end consumer, potentially making the bikes ₹ 20,000 to ₹ 30,000 cheaper.

Left hand side close up of Thruxton 400

Engineering the Change

Technical reports suggest that the 350cc engine is a derivative of the existing TR-series platform. Instead of a complete overhaul, engineers have likely shortened the stroke while maintaining the bore. This results in:

  • Refined Power Delivery: A more tractable low-end and mid-range, suited for Indian city traffic.

  • Performance Figures: Expected power is estimated at 35–40 bhp with torque around 32–33 Nm.

  • Efficiency: The smaller displacement is expected to improve fuel economy, with users anticipating a mileage of 35–40 kmpl.


Design and Aesthetics: If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It

Right hand side of a man sat on a Thruxton 400 parked on a road in a forest

Spy shots from dealerships confirm that the Triumph Speed 350 (badged as 400) looks identical to its 400cc sibling. The brand is sticking to its iconic neo-retro design language:

  • Signature Styling: The sculpted fuel tank, round LED headlamps, and premium gold-anodized USD forks remain.

  • Untouched Branding: Despite the engine change, the side panels still proudly display the “Speed 400” or “Scrambler 400X” decals.

  • Premium Finish: The brushed aluminum elements, high-quality switchgear, and signature Triumph badges ensure the “entry-level” tag doesn’t feel “cheap.”


Features & Hardware

Triumph isn’t skimping on the equipment list. The 350cc range is expected to carry forward the high-spec hardware that made the 400 series a hit:

Back right view of a rider on Thruxton 400 on a road in a forest

  1. Safety: Dual-channel ABS will be standard across all variants.

  2. Tech: A semi-digital or fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and call alerts.

  3. Rider Aids: Ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, and an assist & slipper clutch.

  4. Suspension: Big-piston USD front forks and a gas-charged monoshock at the rear.

Expert Insight: Sticking to the ‘400’ badge helps maintain the aspirational value. In a market where numbers drive buying decisions, explaining a “downsize” to 350cc can be a tough sell at the dealership level, even if the bike performs nearly as well.


Market Competition: The Royal Enfield Rivalry

With a price point starting around ₹ 2.20 Lakh, the Triumph 350 range takes a direct shot at the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Meteor 350, and the Honda CB350.

While Royal Enfield dominates the “lifestyle” and “thump” segment, Triumph offers a more modern, liquid-cooled, and performance-oriented alternative. The lower price tag of the 350cc version removes the biggest barrier for many young buyers who found the 400cc pricing just out of reach.


What to Expect on April 6?

As we approach the launch date, the excitement is palpable. Select dealers have already opened unofficial bookings for a refundable amount of ₹ 5,000.

Rajiv Bajaj, CEO of Bajaj Auto, has previously confirmed that these bikes are “ready for the market.” The April 6 event will likely reveal the final power figures, exact variant pricing, and perhaps a surprise addition like the Thruxton 350 or a more affordable Speed T4 350.

We will be riding these new machines soon to answer the big question: Can you feel the missing 50cc? Stay tuned for our full first-ride review.


Specifications at a Glance (Projected)
  • Engine: 349cc, Single-cylinder, Liquid-cooled, DOHC

  • Max Power: ~36 PS @ 9,000 rpm

  • Max Torque: ~32 Nm @ 7,500 rpm

  • Gearbox: 6-speed with Slipper Clutch

  • Weight: ~175 kg (Kerb)

  • Fuel Tank: 13 Liters

  • Brakes: Disc (Front & Rear) with Dual-Channel ABS

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