Triumph Scrambler 400 X vs Speed 400

Design, dimensions, underpinnings--the Scrambler and Speed have several differences all around

After years of dominating with its inline-triple prowess, Triumph Motorcycles is ready to embark on a new journey. A journey that will take it through the crowded streets of the sub-500cc motorcycle segment, filled with celebrated Japanese bikemakers. Luckily, the British giant has whipped up two capable motorcycles - the Speed 400 and the Scrambler 400 X - to take on the challenge.

Both are joint products with India’s Bajaj Auto and share plenty of componentry. At the same time, they also have some key differences which could be crucial for you as a potential buyer. So if you’re considering these baby Triumphs, check out the differences between them first.

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The Scrambler 400 X and Speed 400 fall under Triumph’s modern-classic range. And the neo-retro design is a clear giveaway of the fact. It comprises a round LED headlight, an indented fuel tank, and retro panels with faux air vents (below the seat). Also common are the golden forks and sleek turn signals. But there are a handful of differences too (mostly based on their purposes).

Given its scrambler nature, Triumph has equipped the 400 X with a headlight grille up top, flanked by a longer fender with sturdier reinforcements. This is topped by handguards and conventional mirrors (unlike the Speed’s bar-end units). A one-into-two exhaust at the rear, different 10-spoke alloy wheels, and a circular number plate on the left side (like vintage scramblers) round off its design.

Aside from these, the Scrambler comes in its own three colors—Khaki Green, Carnival Red, and Phantom Black–all with contrast stripes on the tank. Whereas, the Speed 400 is offered in Carnival Red, Caspian Blue, and Phantom Black. These have big ‘Triumph’ graphics on the indented tank to set it apart from the X.

Like the design, the ergonomics are different between the two 400s because of the purposes. The Speed 400 seats you aboard a single-piece saddle while your hands go on a low handlebar. Its saddle height measures a super accessible 31.1 inches. On the flipside, the Scrambler 400 X has a chunky split saddle with tan-brown covers for both occupants. This is partnered by a different handlebar–mounted on a riser and complete with a foam bar pad–plus, a saddle height of 32.87 inches.

Accordingly, Triumph says the Speed 400 has a “comfortable and engaging riding position”. Whereas, the Scrambler 400 X boasts a “more upright and commanding riding position”. Once aboard, you’ll also appreciate the tank pads on the latter. These would come in handy during standing up while off-roading.

Both motorcycles are built around a new hybrid spine perimeter chassis. It suspends on 43 mm upside-down forks and a monoshock, complete with single disc brakes at each end. However, there are some serious differences, even with these similarities. Firstly, the Scrambler 400 X features a 19x2.5-inch front wheel and 17x3.5-inch rear wheel, shod with 100 and 140-section off-road-spec tires. In comparison, the Speed 400 has 17x3-inch and 17x4-inch wheels, wrapped in 110 and 150-section road-spec tires.

Secondly, the X has a longer wheelbase, height, width, ground clearance, and trail than the Speed. In addition, the above-mentioned extra components make the former 20 pounds heavier than the latter. This is also why Triumph has equipped the X with a 320 mm disc brake, instead of the Speed’s 300 mm unit.

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The third difference is the suspension travel. You get 0.4 and 0.8 inches of extra front and rear travel with the Scrambler to improve its off-road prowess. For reference, the exact dimensions are mentioned in the table below:

The Scrambler 400 X and Speed 400 have reached the American market. The former is priced at $4,995, whereas the latter sells for $5,595. This means they’re separated by $600, and it’s a well-justified difference. After all, there’s no denying Triumph has put in decent efforts to help the two 400s serve different purposes and cater to different audiences. The ball, then, is in your court, as it’s up to you to decide whether a roadster fits your bill or a spruced-up scrambler for occasional off-road stints. Comment your choice below, and stay tuned to TopSpeed.com for more such stories.

Source - Triumph USA

Punya is an avid motorcyclist who's always up for a ride to the canyons or the racetrack. He insists his riding skills are better than his writing skills, even though he's worked with some world-renowned automotive websites.