Triumph has sent us an invitation for the launch of a new motorcycle on July 5, and we suspect it is for the new 400cc Bajaj-built bikes. This will be just over a week after the global debut on June 27 of both these bikes which is when their names and more details should start trickling in. Prices for both these bikes will also be revealed on July 5.
Bajaj-Triumph 400cc bikes: details
The launch of these new single-cylinder bikes will mark Triumph’s first foray into the highly competitive entry-level, mid-capacity segment where Royal Enfield has enjoyed largely unfettered success. From the spy shots we have seen, the bike will have a neo-retro design, much like the larger Bonneville family. There have also been frequent sightings of the bikes with a range of accessories, which indicates that like most Triumphs, there will be a vast array of OEM aftermarket bits available.
Given the larger capacity and clear presence of liquid-cooling, this engine will be significantly more advanced and powerful than the 350cc J-platform engine from Royal Enfield. Nevertheless, Bajaj and Triumph will surely be looking at Royal Enfield as a key rival in the Indian market. How the companies choose to price these bikes will play a big role in their success, but it's reasonable to expect tempting pricing, especially since Bajaj has been eager to break into this space for years without much success. To cater to these new, more affordable Triumph models, the company’s dealer network will also be expanded exponentially over the next two years from its current reach of 15 cities to 120 cities.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
