There’s something magical about a road trip to Goa for India Bike Week (IBW)—the camaraderie of riders, the hum of machines, and the allure of the open road. This year, we had the pleasure of experiencing the journey aboard the newly launched Triumph Speed T4, a motorcycle that promises a relaxed yet engaging ride. The route? The picturesque Anuskura Ghat, known for its sweeping curves, lush landscapes, and challenging ascents—perfect to test the mettle of the Speed T4.
The Road to Goa: Testing the Speed T4 on the Move
As we left the city chaos behind and hit the open highways, the Speed T4 quickly revealed its character. This motorcycle isn’t about hair-raising acceleration or adrenaline-pumping performance; it’s about delivering a smooth and laid-back experience. The shift in torque delivery is noticeable, with the first half of the rev range emerging as the sweet spot. Triumph’s focus on low-end grunt is immediately apparent; the bike pulls cleanly and effortlessly, making it a joy to ride through city traffic and open roads alike.
The smaller rear sprocket plays a significant role here, allowing the T4 to feel more relaxed in higher gears at cruising speeds. This makes it an excellent companion for long highway stretches, where stability and comfort matter most. This relaxed demeanor was perfectly suited for our journey, allowing us to fully enjoy the route without feeling fatigued.
Even more impressive was the Speed T4’s fuel efficiency. Over the course of the 450 km journey, we achieved an excellent mileage of 38.6 kmpl, making it possible to complete the entire trip on a single 13-liter tank. This outstanding efficiency meant fewer stops, more time to enjoy the road, and a sense of freedom that’s rare on long-distance rides.
Through Anuskura Ghat: A Mix of Twists and Serenity
Anuskura Ghat is not just a road; it’s a rider’s playground. With its blend of tight corners, scenic vistas, and rolling terrain, it’s a route that tests a bike’s dynamics. The Speed T4 performed admirably here, albeit with some nuances.
The bike’s softer suspension setup is a clear advantage on imperfect roads. The telescopic forks up front and the rear suspension are tuned for comfort, soaking up bumps and undulations with ease. This plush setup made our ride through Anuskura’s patchy sections a breeze, ensuring we stayed fresh for the long haul.
However, this softer suspension does bring compromises in agility. While the T4 retains a playful nature in corners, it isn’t as sharp or eager as its bigger sibling, the Speed 400. The longer trail adds stability, which is welcome for relaxed riders but means it’s slightly less nimble when carving through tighter turns.
Braking and Handling: Built for Relaxed Riders
When it comes to braking, the Speed T4 shows a split personality. The rear brake feels progressive and responsive, ideal for maintaining control through the ghat’s winding sections. However, the front brake lacks initial bite, and with the softer front suspension leading to noticeable nose dive, aggressive braking can feel unsettling. This trait might be a concern in emergency situations or when riding aggressively, but it’s unlikely to bother the relaxed rider the bike is designed for.
Comparing it to the Speed 400: Where the T4 Stands
It’s impossible to ride the Speed T4 without comparing it to its sibling, the Speed 400. The most notable difference is the throttle setup. The T4 swaps the 400’s ride-by-wire throttle for a manual cable-operated one. On the T4 we rode, the throttle felt a bit choppy and laggy, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. While this is a minor hiccup for a bike meant to cruise, it’s something riders upgrading from the 400 might notice.
In terms of suspension, the T4 leans heavily toward comfort, with a softer setup that feels more forgiving over bumps but slightly less confident in spirited riding. The Speed 400, by contrast, is more agile and eager, appealing to those seeking a more dynamic experience.
A Chill Companion for the Road
By the time we reached Goa, the Speed T4 had won us over for what it is—a chill, well-built motorcycle that prioritizes comfort and tractability. It’s not a bike for the thrill-seekers; it’s for the rider who wants an easy-going machine that’s capable on highways, comfortable over long distances, and forgiving on rough terrain.
The journey through Anuskura Ghat to IBW was a testament to what the T4 represents. With its combination of smooth performance, relaxed ergonomics, and phenomenal fuel efficiency—38.6 kmpl over 450 km on a single tank!—the Speed T4 truly shines as a versatile companion for long-distance adventures.
Whether you’re navigating scenic mountain roads, cruising highways, or tackling rough patches, the Triumph Speed T4 delivers a ride that’s smooth, composed, and perfect for laid-back adventures. If a stress-free, efficient, and enjoyable ride is what you seek, the Speed T4 is more than ready to take you wherever your wanderlust leads.
