All-New Triumph Bonneville T40 Top Highlights
This is by far the most feature-loaded and expensive Triumph 350 cc bike in India
The new Triumph Bonneville T40 was recently launched in India as the brand’s latest modern-classic motorcycle in the 350 cc segment. While it gets the unmistakable Bonneville family design, the T40 packs a more modern engine, a long list of features and premium hardware. Here are the top five highlights of Triumph’s new 350 cc Bonneville:
Classic Bonneville Looks, Modern-Day Finish
The Bonneville T40 looks like a smaller version of Triumph’s larger Bonneville motorcycles, and that is certainly not a bad thing. It gets a classic round headlight, a sculpted metal fuel tank, a single-piece seat and a clean, minimalist design that gives it plenty of road presence. The motorcycle gets LED lighting all around, while the round single-pod instrument console keeps the cockpit looking simple and premium. The T40 will also be available in single-tone and dual-tone paint schemes, similar to the larger Bonneville models. The fit and finish are expected to be one of the motorcycle’s strongest points, with Triumph focusing on giving the T40 a more premium feel than most motorcycles in this segment.
Small Engine, Big Personality
Powering the Bonneville T40 is Triumph’s new-generation 350 cc TR-series engine. The engine gets a revised cylinder head and camshaft, with Triumph focusing on delivering stronger performance while retaining the relaxed character expected from a modern-classic motorcycle. The engine is paired to a 6-speed gearbox, while the motorcycle’s overall character should make it equally comfortable during city commutes and longer highway rides. On paper, the T40’s performance gives it a significant advantage over motorcycles such as the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda CB350. However, the bigger question will be how this extra performance translates into real-world riding.
More Than Just A Pretty Face
Despite its classic styling, the Bonneville T40 is loaded with modern features. It gets a 4-inch circular TFT instrument console, which is designed to retain the retro appearance while offering modern functionality. The console also supports smartphone connectivity and Google Maps mirroring, making it easier to use the motorcycle for everyday commuting and longer rides. There are also five riding modes on offer – Road, Rain, Eco and two customisable modes. The motorcycle gets cruise control as well, which should come in handy during highway rides.
Built For The Everyday Ride
The T40 gets a combination of modern hardware and classic styling. It rides on spoked wheels at both ends and gets disc brakes, along with lean-sensitive ABS and traction control. The motorcycle also gets a self-cancelling indicator function and a USB Type-C charging port, adding more convenience to the package. Triumph has also equipped the T40 with a peashooter-style exhaust, which fits neatly with the motorcycle’s classic Bonneville appearance.
Is The T40 Worth The Premium?
The Triumph Bonneville T40 is expected to appeal to buyers who want the classic Bonneville experience in a smaller and more accessible package. It certainly has the styling, features and performance to stand out in the 350 cc segment. However, its pricing starts at Rs 2.55 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), making it considerably more expensive than established rivals such as the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda CB350. The premium is easier to justify on paper, thanks to its higher performance and significantly longer equipment list. The T40, therefore, looks like an interesting alternative for someone who wants a premium modern-classic motorcycle without stepping up to Triumph’s larger Bonneville models.