Introduction
If you are a fan of the Triumph motorcycle brand and its retro-styled bikes, you might want to check out the Triumph Speed 400. It is the most affordable bike from the British manufacturer in India, and it offers good performance, comfort, and features. It competes in the sub-500cc segment that is dominated by Royal Enfield, along with another rival, the Harley-Davidson X440. The X440 is also a retro-styled bike that is the most affordable offering from the American brand in India. But how do these two bikes compare with each other? Let’s find out.
Design and Features
Both the Speed 400 and the X440 draw inspiration from their bigger siblings, the Speed Twin and the Iron 883 respectively. They have a classic look with round headlights, curvy fuel tanks, step-up seats, and side-slung exhausts. They also feature some modern touches like LED lights, semi-digital instrument clusters, and ride-by-wire throttles.
The Speed 400 has a more refined and elegant design, with three dual-tone color options and chrome accents. The X440 has a more rugged and muscular look, with four single-tone color options and blacked-out parts. The top variant of the X440 also gets diamond-cut alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, and 3D logos.
Both bikes come with disc brakes on both ends and dual-channel ABS as standard. The Speed 400 also gets a switchable traction control system and an anti-theft immobilizer. The X440 gets a side-stand engine cut-off function.
Engine and Performance
The 398.15cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that powers the Speed 400 cranks out 39.5bhp at 8,000 rpm and 37.5Nm at 6,500 rpm. A 440cc, one-cylinder, oil- and air-cooled engine powers the X440. It produces 27 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 38 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Both engines are coupled to six-speed transmissions that have assist and slipper clutches.
With approximately 50% more horsepower than the X440, the Speed 400 has a definite advantage in terms of power output. Additionally, the Speed 400 features a smoother engine character and a wider rpm range. Although the X440 produces somewhat more torque, it does so at a lower rpm. Additionally, the X440 sounds more thumpy and raw.
Both bikes have good fuel efficiency figures, with the Speed 400 claiming an ARAI-certified mileage of 35kmpl and the X440 claiming an average of 30kmpl.
Ride and Handling
The Speed 400 is built on a hybrid spine/perimeter tubular steel frame that is bolted to the rear subframe and a twin-sided cast aluminum swingarm. The X440 uses a trellis frame that is similar to the one used by KTM bikes. Both bikes use upside-down front forks and gas-charged rear shocks for suspension.
The Speed 400 has a lighter kerb weight of 176kg, compared to the X440’s 190.5kg. The Speed 400 also has a lower seat height of 790mm, while the X440 has an 805mm seat height. Both bikes have similar fuel tank capacities of 13 litres (Speed 400) and 13.5 litres (X440).
The Speed 400 offers better handling and agility than the X440, thanks to its lighter weight, lower seat height, and more powerful engine. The Speed 400 also has a longer service interval of 16,000km, which reduces the maintenance cost. The X440 offers more comfort and stability than the Speed 400, thanks to its higher seat height, larger wheels (19-inch front and 16-inch rear), and lower center of gravity.
Verdict
The Triumph Speed 400 and the Harley-Davidson X440 are both appealing options for shoppers looking for a retro-styled motorcycle with current amenities and performance. They do, however, accommodate various interests and inclinations.
For those looking for a more sophisticated, stylish, and powerful motorcycle that handles well in city traffic and on highways, there is the Speed 400. The X440 is for riders who desire a more robust, bulky, and thumpy bike that can provide better stability and comfort during extended rides.
The price difference between the two bikes is not very significant, as the base variant of the Speed 400 costs Rs.2,23,000 (ex-showroom) while the base variant of the X440 costs Rs.2,29,000 (ex-showroom). The top variant of the Speed 400 costs Rs.2,43,000 (ex-showroom) while the top variant of the X440 costs Rs.2,69,000 (ex-showroom).
Ultimately, the choice between the two bikes depends on your personal preference and riding style. You can also take a test ride of both bikes to get a better feel of them before making a decision.