The Triumph Bonneville T40 has finally arrived, marking a significant milestone almost three years after the debut of Triumph’s first 400cc motorcycles, the Speed and Scrambler X. This new addition aims to redefine the retro motorcycle segment. However, it faces stiff competition in India’s fiercely contested 350cc category, where Royal Enfield’s Classic 350 reigns supreme. Honda’s CB350 and Jawa’s 350 are also vying for dominance, though Royal Enfield remains the leader in sales. The question now is whether Triumph can challenge its Indian-UK counterpart.
The Engine and Performance
Triumph has made a strong entry with the Bonneville T40, particularly focusing on its engine. It features a 350cc liquid-cooled engine, one of only two on the market, and boasts the highest power and torque in its class. The Jawa 350 follows in terms of power, while the Honda CB350 offers comparable torque. The Honda engine delivers power and torque earlier in the rev range, providing a different riding experience.
Dimensions and Weight
When it comes to size and weight, the Honda CB350C stands out due to its lightness, despite being the heaviest model in the CB350 lineup. It weighs 181kg, while the CB350RS is slightly lighter at 180kg. The Honda also features the largest fuel tank capacity, along with a balanced seat height and ground clearance. The Bonneville T40, with its second-shortest wheelbase, promises agility, though its real-world performance remains to be seen. The Classic 350, known for its short wheelbase, does not prioritize agility, which is typical for this segment. It’s important to note that Jawa/Yezdi reports the dry weight of their bikes, so the Jawa 350’s kerb weight is closer to its competitors when accounting for fuel and fluids.
Tyres, Brakes, and Suspension
Differences among these motorcycles are subtle, with variations mainly in wheel sizes. Two bikes feature a 19-inch front wheel, while the other two have an 18-inch one. Similarly, the rear wheels vary between 17 and 18 inches. Disc rotor sizes also differ slightly but remain largely comparable across the board.
Feature Comparison
The Bonneville T40 stands out in the features department, offering ride-by-wire technology and a 4-inch TFT display with five ride modes, including Eco, Road, Rain, and Rider A and B. It also includes turn-by-turn navigation, cornering ABS, traction control, and cruise control as standard features. In comparison, the Honda CB350C offers dual-channel ABS, a slip-and-assist clutch, Honda Selectable Torque Control, and Honda RoadSync connectivity on higher variants through an LCD screen. Triumph’s new instrument cluster, debuting with the Bonneville, has been a welcomed addition, enhancing its modern-retro appeal.
Pricing in the Market
In terms of pricing, the Bonneville T40 is the most expensive in its class. A specific model for India is priced at Rs 2.55 lakh, which is Rs 29,000 more than the top variant of the Classic 350. For those seeking a more traditional retro experience at a lower cost, Royal Enfield’s Bullet 350 ranges from Rs 1.67 lakh to Rs 2.11 lakh. Triumph’s Speed T4 offers a more affordable modern classic option at Rs 2.10 lakh, although it lacks the Bonneville’s storied name. With the Bonneville’s long-awaited launch, the market eagerly anticipates its impact.
