In the fiercely competitive middleweight motorcycle segment, Royal Enfield has long reigned supreme. However, the arrival of the Harley-Davidson X440 and Triumph Speed 400, backed by their global brand prestige and local expertise, marks a formidable challenge. This article delves into the seriousness of this threat, comparing these two challengers against Royal Enfield’s finest single-cylinder offering, the Classic 350.
Rev Up Your Ride: Epic Showdown! Harley-Davidson X440 vs. Triumph Speed 400 vs. Royal Enfield Classic 350 – You Won’t Believe Who Dominates!
Engine Comparison:
Royal Enfield’s Classic 350, despite its smaller engine and lower power output, boasts a unique charm that transcends spec sheet numbers. Its torque delivery at lower revs and signature thumping soundtrack create an enduring appeal, making it a delightful choice for riders not fixated on sheer speed.
In contrast, the Triumph Speed 400 is the performance-oriented contender, rivaling even the KTM 390 in acceleration and top speed. It reaches 100kph in under 7 seconds, surpassing its rivals in terms of sheer power and excitement. However, this exhilaration comes at the cost of a buzzier engine and a less serene highway cruising experience.
Harley-Davidson’s X440 lands in the middle ground, offering a respectable performance and a likable character. While not as swift as the Speed 400, it still accelerates to 100kph in under 10 seconds. The engine delivers clean power throughout the rev range, with a pleasant soundtrack, though it does exhibit some vibration at higher rpm. It excels in maintaining a comfortable cruising speed of 100-120kph.
All three bikes deliver similar fuel efficiency, averaging around 30kpl in both city and highway conditions.
Ride and Handling:
Each motorcycle retains its distinct identity in terms of handling. The Royal Enfield Classic 350, known for its laid-back nature, is less inclined to aggressive cornering but can handle it when necessary. It has notably improved in this department compared to its predecessors.
The Triumph Speed 400 shines in the agility department, effortlessly leaning into corners, offering quick steering, and providing an engaging experience on twisty roads.
Harley-Davidson’s X440, though slightly heavier on paper than the Classic, disguises its weight well and remains manageable, falling between the Enfield and Triumph in terms of handling. It also gives the impression of a lower seat height.
Surprisingly, the performance-focused Triumph Speed 400 surprises with its exceptional ride quality. Despite a softer setup, it handles our roads with ease, smoothing out rough patches while maintaining excellent body control. Only on a racetrack will its soft suspension potentially pose limitations, a scenario likely reserved for a select few owners.
Conclusion:
The Harley-Davidson X440 and Triumph Speed 400 indeed pose a significant challenge to Royal Enfield’s dominance in the middleweight segment. While Royal Enfield’s Classic 350 offers a unique charm, the Speed 400 impresses with its sheer power, and the X440 strikes a balance between performance and character. The handling characteristics cater to different rider preferences, making the competition fierce in this segment.
