Introduction
The Bajaj-Triumph partnership has brought a fresh wave of excitement to the Indian motorcycle market, offering premium yet affordable mid-capacity motorcycles designed for long rides and adventure touring.
With the launch of the Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X, Bajaj Auto and the British brand Triumph have introduced motorcycles that promise a perfect balance of power, comfort, and versatility—ideal for riders looking for long-distance touring, highway cruising, and off-road adventures.
But what makes the Bajaj-Triumph motorcycles the first choice for long rides? Let’s explore how they stand out in terms of performance, comfort, durability, and affordability.
1. Bajaj-Triumph Partnership: A New Era for Indian Touring Motorcycles
In July 2023, Bajaj Auto and Triumph Motorcycles introduced their first co-developed bikes in India—the Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. The partnership aimed to bring premium motorcycles at competitive prices, making high-quality adventure touring and long-distance riding more accessible to Indian bikers.
Why Is This Partnership Significant?
✔️ Triumph’s British engineering and legacy combined with Bajaj’s affordable production expertise
✔️ Introduction of affordable Triumph motorcycles in India
✔️ Designed for both city riding and long-distance touring
✔️ Competes with Royal Enfield, KTM, and Honda in the touring segment
The first two motorcycles under this collaboration—the Speed 400 (a modern roadster) and the Scrambler 400X (an adventure scrambler)—have quickly gained popularity among long-distance riders.
2. Why Bajaj-Triumph Motorcycles Are the First Choice for Long Rides
A. Powerful & Reliable Engine for Long-Distance Touring
Both the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X come with a 398cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine, delivering:
- Power Output: 39.5 bhp @ 8,000 RPM
- Torque: 37.5 Nm @ 6,500 RPM
- 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch
This engine is perfectly tuned for highway cruising, offering a linear power delivery and excellent mid-range performance—essential for long rides.
✔️ Powerful enough for highways yet manageable in city traffic
✔️ No overheating issues during extended rides due to liquid cooling
✔️ Smooth acceleration and minimal vibrations at cruising speeds
The Scrambler 400X is especially suited for adventure touring, thanks to off-road-friendly tuning, a larger front wheel (19-inch), and longer suspension travel.
B. Comfortable Ergonomics for Long-Distance Riding
Comfort is one of the most critical factors in a touring motorcycle. Bajaj-Triumph motorcycles are designed with a relaxed riding posture, ensuring minimal fatigue during long highway stretches.
1. Upright & Relaxed Riding Position
✔️ Slightly raised handlebars for better control
✔️ Wide, well-padded seat for long hours on the saddle
✔️ Forward-set footpegs for a natural riding posture
2. Seat Comfort & Pillion Support
- The Speed 400 has a low seat height (790mm), ideal for shorter riders.
- The Scrambler 400X has a higher seat (835mm) for better off-road capability.
- Both bikes offer a spacious seat, ensuring comfort for the pillion rider as well.
Whether you’re riding solo or with a pillion, the seat and riding posture make long-distance travel effortless.
C. Touring-Friendly Features: Built for Adventure & Highways
Bajaj-Triumph motorcycles come equipped with essential touring features, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and hassle-free ride.
1. Large Fuel Tank & Mileage
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 liters
- Mileage: 28-30 km/l (Speed 400), 26-28 km/l (Scrambler 400X)
- Riding Range: 350+ km per full tank
This ensures fewer fuel stops, making long-distance rides more enjoyable.
2. Suspension Setup for Different Terrains
- Speed 400: USD front forks (43mm) & monoshock for a smooth highway ride
- Scrambler 400X: Long-travel suspension for off-road stability
Both bikes absorb road bumps effectively, ensuring a plush ride even on rough highways.
3. Dual-Channel ABS for Safety
- The dual-channel ABS ensures stable braking, preventing wheel lock-up on wet roads.
- The Scrambler 400X comes with switchable ABS, allowing better control on off-road trails.
✔️ Ideal for touring in Indian conditions, where road quality varies significantly.
D. Advanced Technology & Modern Instrument Cluster
Bajaj-Triumph motorcycles feature a modern digital-analog instrument cluster, offering:
✔️ Speedometer & tachometer for easy readability
✔️ Gear position indicator & fuel gauge
✔️ Trip meter & mileage indicator for long rides
✔️ Handlebar-mounted USB charging port for mobile/GPS charging
✔️ Perfect for riders who rely on navigation apps during long journeys.
3. Touring & Adventure Capabilities: Can It Compete with Royal Enfield?
The Bajaj-Triumph motorcycles compete directly with Royal Enfield’s Classic 350, Meteor 350, and Himalayan 450—India’s most popular long-distance motorcycles.
How Do They Compare?
| Feature | Bajaj-Triumph Speed 400 | Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler 400X | Royal Enfield Meteor 350 | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 398cc, 39.5 bhp | 398cc, 39.5 bhp | 349cc, 20.2 bhp | 450cc, 39.5 bhp |
| Torque | 37.5 Nm | 37.5 Nm | 27 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Weight | 170 kg | 185 kg | 191 kg | 196 kg |
| Mileage | 28-30 km/l | 26-28 km/l | 30-35 km/l | 25-28 km/l |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 835 mm | 765 mm | 825 mm |
| ABS | Dual-channel | Switchable dual-channel | Dual-channel | Dual-channel |
Advantages of Bajaj-Triumph for Long Rides
✅ Lighter and more powerful than Meteor 350
✅ Better fuel efficiency than Himalayan 450
✅ Premium technology at a competitive price
The Scrambler 400X is an excellent adventure touring option, while the Speed 400 is ideal for smooth highways and city rides.
4. Price & Value for Money: A Premium Touring Bike at an Affordable Price
One of the most attractive aspects of the Bajaj-Triumph motorcycles is their affordable pricing compared to premium touring bikes.
| Model | Ex-Showroom Price (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Speed 400 | ₹2,33,000 |
| Scrambler 400X | ₹2,62,000 |
For a Triumph motorcycle with high-end features, this pricing is extremely competitive, making it an excellent value-for-money touring bike.
5. Conclusion: Is the Bajaj-Triumph the Best Choice for Long Rides?
✅ YES! If you’re looking for a powerful, comfortable, and stylish touring motorcycle at an affordable price, the Bajaj-Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X are excellent choices.
✔️ Modern technology, premium build quality, and long-distance comfort make it ideal for Indian highways and adventure touring.
Would you choose the Bajaj-Triumph over a Royal Enfield for long rides? Let us know in the comments
