Another great video thanks Sean. You have opened my eyes to how good the Speed 400 is and I love the colour in Black. This little Triumph is one I could seriously consider and I'm grateful to you as before your video I didn't really give it a second look. Glad to see you and Suzie are enjoying life and living the dream, well done both.
Thank you Will, really appreciate the kind words. To be honest the Speed 400 suits me as frankly its a bargain and I do admit to operating mostly at the entry level end of the motorcycle market. Its also a popular bike and so I wanted to see what all the fuss was about, I wasn't disappointed and whilst I'm not going to relinquish the BSA to early I am pleased for those that ordered these good value bikes. As for the 'dream' we do love Portugal and will be looking to return for longer in the Autumn! Hope you are well and getting out on the bike! Sean
Fab review, it completely covers my own views. Had mine a month now. I am a returning biker aged 68, after 35 years of not owning/riding a bike. Had 2xrefresher lessons last Sept, realised I needed more, bought a 125, good move it turned out to be. The Speed 400 is so good for me, almost like it has been designed to my Spec albeit zI could only express my needs in simple ways. Once again, great bang on review.
Love the enthusiasm, that personal touch gives a real sense of the ride. Nice to see your subscribers rising too. I recall at the show when you sat on it you thought too small, riding it seems to change your mind, note to self, always ride to be sure.
Thanks Lumpy, appreciate the comment. I do think that it is a smaller bike in the way it handles and it's less stable than the BSA at speed. Also I really need to investigate a front fork upgrade for mine. Perhaps TEC perhaps another solution...
One of your channel's strengths is your objective thoughtful common-sense reviews, well done. I was also taken by the comparisons you made between this lightweight and your BSA without dismissing your bike. It occurred to me as I watched that what this new triumph is, or rather what it isn't is a retro, but rather a modern efficient single that might be better compared to the razor sharp road bike single engines being put out by the Japanese. I kept thinking of the canyon carving Honda CBR300R as I watched your video. Sounds like that Triumph may have better suspension right out of the box. Thanks again for all the work that goes into your content. Best!
That is very kind Richard, I appreciate those remarks very much. I think we could also compare it to the Zontes GK350, although most on here wouldn't entertain a chinese bike or perhaps the husqvarna svartpilen 401 or even one of the new and expected Royal Enfield 450 street bikes which are undoubtedly in the works. One of the striking things about the test was it highlighted the harshness of my BSAs front end, I'll look to improve that when I can. The BSA I think is more 'classic' and of course has a torque rich engine so those are nice attributes... Again thanks for the motivational comment! Cheers, Sean
Sean, good review. I'd agree on the long distance touring if you're talking about two-up with the kitchen sink on the back but solo with a roll bag on the pillion seat you could ride any distance. Also, it needs a centre stand. Is that an option?
Hi Stephen, thanks for the comment. Solo with light luggage you could indeed be fine on this bike. I've had a little look on the Triumph website under Speed 400 accesories. You've got engine bars upper and lower, a sump guard, mirrors and the like but seemingly no centre stand. The aftermarket will be hot on this however with so many bikes sold, I imagine someone is planning a centre stand as we type! Thanks, Sean
To me, the styling makes reference to its 'Bigger Brother' Speed Twins. So, it is not a 'Baby Bonnie'. I hope that there will be a Baby Bonnie version with main stand & storage under the seat. The latter not being possible with all the air between wheel and seat & the mono shock suspension taking up so much space under the seat. I can but dream. Thanks for a great review, it looks a great bike and the engine sounds as so smooth as you describe it feels.
Love this and so glad you loved the bike. I could watch you smile and be this happy all day about a bike, makes my heart melt. You're amazing. Keep being you ❤ and perhaps you should start selling these haha 😜
The bike that gets missed out when comparing 400s seems to be the Husqvarna Svartpilen. Yes, it's an even more modern take on a neo-retro but the styling cues are still there, from the round headlight, the spoked wheels shod in chunky of road tyres, to the flat tracker contours of the seat. At £5599 it's a mere £4 more than Triumph's Scrambler, but that does buy you an extra 5.5hp, a TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity for turn by turn navigation alongside a speed limiter, a quickshifter and cornering ABS and Traction Control. There's a whole load more toys with the Indo-Swede than its Indo-British second cousin once removed. Which is better? I don't know, but unlike most reviewers who seem intent on comparing the Triumph to either the 350 Classic or 450 Himalayan from Royal Enfield, I'd definitely be taking the Husky and the Trumpet out on back to back test rides.
Thanks Alex, and yes theres good overlap with the Husky. For me and perhaps other TH-cam riders its hard to find a Husky showroom or dealer willing to let you ride one of their bikes, I don't know where my nearest one is... certainly in stats yes the bikes overlap very closely. There have been a lot of RE 350 riders who have switched over to T400, so either those riders are specification independent and just want the latest exciting bike or it's more a price thing, theres a cohort of riders me included who love to be involved at the lower end of the market. Good post tho, thanks for sharing. Sean
Is there anyone that has ridden this bike that doesn’t like it? Amazing job by Triumph. You’ve mentioned a few things here that no one else has said. The seat is wide. As a short rider the width really makes a difference to being able to flat foot it. I’m considering having mine shaved at the edges to remove the hardness on the inner thigh. Also, 6th gear does really feel like an overdrive gear. In the twisties 5th is the top gear, on straights and main roads 6th is for cruising. Top speed is probably around the 155 to 160 km/h… apparently
I think it's down to the price, it's very very hard to fault something that looks and rides like this for £5k (now 5.2k). I always take that into account when commenting on a bike...
Nice review. That's a very handsome machine and, after watching your road test, I'm seriously tempted to try one out myself. This could be a very nice (and completely unnecessary!) second bike... 🤔
Thanks for the comment. I hope I gave it a fair outing, for me you can forgive ALOT when a bike is £4,999. It actually does have a slipper clutch as well according to Triumphs website... I said it didnt! Cheers, Sean
I want the triumph speed 400 so badly but in America, it goes from $4995 to a realistic price of $7200 out the door by the time they add in freight assembly and taxes!
Another useful review, Sean! Enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this. I agree that in spite of the “Speed” name attaching it to the Bonneville series, it’s just as much an entry point to the Trident, which could be viewed as an even more modern “standard.” There’s a Triumph dealer I just found out about in my general area. I’ll have to try to set up a test ride on the 400. I like what I see so far.
Hi Mark, that's very astute, it's practically a small trident which has also sold very well much less like a bonneville. I guess Triumph look at Royal Enfield with some degree or envy with RE bike sales in the millions and their own sales under 100,000 worldwide. They could probably see a trend towards riders downsizing, they wanted a piece or the buoyant sub 400 market and as you say it's an entry into the Triumph family for a lot of new customers. The strategic team at Triumph must be delighted how that is all going. Triumph are still selling 1 tiger 1200 to every 3 1300GS and they're new Daytona bike enters a crowded market. I imagine the modern retros range sells well but getting something in place sub 400cc seems very clever to me. Cheers.
it is a great bike ;; i am glad that is NOT aimed at the same market as the re 350 ,, easy , low power ride , the triumph is aimed at the more [ rev ] orientated market ,, so comparing them is not needed ,,
Thanks Simon. You are right they are indeed very different. The T400 is a bit of an interesting bike for Triumph as it's in the modern classic range but runs a monoshock, LCD dash and all the rest...
It's good to hear your thoughts on this Triumph Sean. I was curious about the new Triumphs but i really paid attention when Nathanthepostman got a Scrambler for his channel. After looking one over in Fowlers i placed my order for delivery in June. This will go alongside my Legacy Gold Star, retro and modern, completely different but complimentary.
Thanks Gordon, very interested to hear from you as you've got a Legacy and a Scrambler, hopefully in the future when youve got both in the garage. I'd perhaps have a scrambler in 12 months or so when they start popping up secondhand.... who knows. I agree with you they are certainly different and complimentary bikes. Lovely pairing though!
To play devils advocate Ian, it's low on torque, a bit flightly in the front end and not really a classic with its monoshock etc. That said, I couldn't find much else wrong with it! I'm waiting 12 months to see them come up second hand and fully optioned 😊😆
Thank you very much, nice comment to have. I did ride an XSR700 a while back but it was old, high in the miles and had Conti TKC80 knobby tyres on it so handled badly. I didn't like it but that was probably that particular bike not the model. With road/sport tyres I imagine it would be a different proposition.
Hi Sean. I really like these. But as you said. Not for the shorter rider. When I sat on it, I was on very tip of my tip toes😢. And with my abdomen issues, no use. I actually get a tad more feet down on the 900 speed twin. When I asked re lowering, the local dealer, basically said it can’t been done. So would probably see if an inch can be taken out from seat. Glad you enjoyed the run out😊
Triumph have made the 400s with a bolt on rear subframe, which means they're are already custom builders like Zeus in Thailand producing different, and possibly lower options.
Hi Mark, it was indeed surprising that it feels taller than the seat height suggests. The Scramber would be worse of course. Shame really as the bike is so light it is easy to manhandle about. I would expect that the aftermarket is going to support this bike very strongly given the sales figures and so it might be a case of watch this space for mods and accessories... cheers.
People bemoning the lack of a centre stand - they obviously haven't watched your earlier video about the bike jack! I've not had a bike with a centre stand since 1996 and don't miss it. Yes, it's handy but not having one certainly isn't a deal breaker. You can still carry out on the road maintenence like chain adjustment and lubing, albeit with more effort than with a centre stand, but for any bigger jobs, like chain replacement or wheel removal, I'd do in my garage anyway and use front and rear paddock stands.
I suspect that alongside cost cutting on the part of the manufacturer it's to do with most modern bikes being bought on finance. When your finance and warranty conditions specify a yearly main dealer service, why equip the rider with the means of maintaining their motorcycle? Dealers want you to bring it in, even for summering as simple as chain adjustment, it's yet another way for them to make money.
Yea & i'm another one of those people bemoning the fact of bikes with no center stand. I can understand it on some bikes i.e. dirt bikes; but not road bikes. I couldn't believe it when " bankrupt pentioner" channel said that his new triumph t 120 came without a center stand. You can call me old fashioned if you want (72y.y.) ; I don't give a damn, but it's a deal breaker for me on whether I purchase. I shouldn't have to go out & purchase a g.d. bike jack ; are you kidding!!!!!! If you don't want your bike to have the center stand on it, take it off!!
To think nearly all the jap bikes had centre stands in the late seventies even the 125/250cc class. When I’m on tour it would be a faff without one that’s for sure.
A centrestand is a must for me,chain maintenance,tyre checks(which I do after ever ride),oil and filter changes,wheel removal and parking overnight and longer.There's five very good reasons to have a centrestand. BTW the the cost of OEM centrestands is quite simply ridiculously expensive,it's no wonder there are so many aftermarket companies selling them at half the price of OEM ones.
@@johnwood4448 Exactly; well said John. I'll bet $5 to a donut that if we quit buying these bike's that should have a c.s.; that they would start in a hell of a hurry to begin installing them again. Trouble is that too many people accept this crap in today's world.
I didnt knew you were in Portugal !! My country Ive been watching your videos I've started with the keeway and the Voge, and you doing a nice job. i'm thinking to buy my first one maybe a 125 Im still gathering info and confidence to make the move 😁
Thanks very much for the comment. Ah the Keeway 302c, that was a brilliant little bike, really enjoyed that one too. We are hoping to come back to Portugal on a more longer term basis so hopefully more videos from here to come 😊👍
A fine review of the bike on fine roads. However I have a question about the BSA if you don't mind. I am waiting to see the shadow edition which is still on pre-order. Do you know if there are any supply problems with the BSA range in the UK or anywhere else?
Hi Simon, as far as I've heard there are no longer supply problems with the BSA Goldstar. The accessories of all things have finally landed. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen owners post pictures of them 😉😁...
I boughtba caspian blue in April and in many ways its spot on not too powerful for my skill level, nice styling quality etc annoying to check oil sight glass its really low down difficult to see when trying to keep bike level as no centre stand and chain is on the wrong side for easy maintenance too. Its a bit jerky in the lower gears and too low geared easy to set off in 2nd. Mudguards too small tho rad gets mucky, the speed & mpg are very optomistic but the fuel capacity suits my commute. Fly screen took 5 months to arrive and is a bit small too dealer in my city no RE tho bit easy to trip kill switch accidentally too. Got me a £220 veterans discount too overall really enjoying it for my b road commute too revvy for a comfy Mway blatt.
I sat on the Speed 400 and could flat foot it even with my 29" in-seam , I found it to be not much bigger than my current 125cc Bluroc Legend. Wish they offered more colours, but nice to see a black one for a change. However I'm recently thinking about the Husqvarna 401 as an alternative and it's very different looking. Just can't make up my mind what I want when the time comes 🙄
Cheers Lee, I could flat foot this but I guess as we looked mainly for an option for Suzie it was a surprise that it was as tall as it was. It's strikingly light which is a nice change for a big bike. I would have preferred a green scrambler but if I was to have a speed it would be this back one for sure. Very clean and classy looking. Thanks!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist 🤣 will you be doing a "desperately seeking for Suzie" theme of videos to find the perfect match? The Scrambler, by all accounts is a more substantial variation and taller, Triumph have certainly struck gold with them, I wonder if it will encourage the Japanese brands to follow with classic styled 400s. I'd love to see Honda's GB style come to the UK
Well she's got to pass the test first, which as you know is no easy feat these days. I would also like a range of smaller bikes to come available. I suspect small/cheaper bikes will begin to come of age... Royal Enfield have led the charge to be fair.
yeah and i know what will happen,rung my mate about it,go and look he said,well he did see it.sat on it,and worst of,rode it,twice,and bought one in black.but foe me it has to be blue.
I would be interested to hear your thoughts on it Jez as an owner of the Fantic 500. I have a feeling your current bike is slightly better put together... it would be very close for sure. Thanks!
Hi Mark, I could be tempted to swap the BSA but I quite fancy having a bike as a relative long termer. I've had 3 bikes in quick succession and whilst there are arguments for having a new bike - it keeps things fresh on the channel for one - I want to do a stint with one bike and see how much I can get done with the BSA. From a practical point too, the BSA has about 60% more torque and the T400 felt a bit gutless in comparison. Never say never of course and I'll be more interested when the T400s are sitting around in dealers for £4k in 9 months time...
@@MindfulMotorcyclist There's definitely not many Goldstar vloggers out there Sean so it's a good move keeping her, but l think most come to your channel for you and Suzie. Good thinking with the 400 in a years time it would be a lot of bike for little money 👍
There was a bit of loose gravel about Bib, made me wince a couple of times but I guess not enough to spoil the over all experience of being out on it. Can you imagine messing up on a demonstrator, that would not be a fun (or cheap) experience. Thanks!
Hi Jonathon, probably the answer is no as I'd lose the torque I'm now accustomed to and I like the old fashioned feel of the BSA. I would like to hang on for a bike a bit longer this time and of course if I was to have a t400 pick it up nearly new in 12 months time. I do wish the BSA community was as fast growing as the new T400 groups and perhaps more open to change. Hey ho, it is what it is... Thanks
Suzie is 5'3'' I believe and we are a couple. She's not done her licence yet but shes become involved and interested in bikes so long term I think it's in her future! A bike like this would really suit her but the seat is wide so 790mm is deceptively tall! Hope that helps! Sean
The title of vid 'mentioned' RE and BSA and that's about all we got from him too ! ~ he's just obsessed with the Oriental Triumph .It's a cheapo , one bike vid 😮
Not a fan of the 400 Triumphs. The overpriced SR400 is my favourite 400. Still available in Thailand. I like long-stroke singles better. You hark back to an era when bikes were cheap. When was this? In 1992, I bought a new Africa Twin 750 RD04. I got it cheap in Tokyo, but in England it would have cost over 5,300 GBP. That equates to around 13,800 GBP now. Nick
Hi Nick, I was referring to perhaps earlier in the 1960-70s when people picked up an old BSA for £20 and ran it until it blew up and got another one. Obviously, this is not my experience but from stories I've heard from the old boys at the dealership. People also seemed to use bikes for their primary transport back then...
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Had my Speed 400 for nearly two weeks and have loved every one of the 300 miles I have done so far. Nice to see you enjoyed your time on it.
Thanks Charlie. I really did like this bike, it doesn't take long to win you over! Congrats on yours and hope you continue to enjoy!
Another great video thanks Sean. You have opened my eyes to how good the Speed 400 is and I love the colour in Black. This little Triumph is one I could seriously consider and I'm grateful to you as before your video I didn't really give it a second look. Glad to see you and Suzie are enjoying life and living the dream, well done both.
Thank you Will, really appreciate the kind words. To be honest the Speed 400 suits me as frankly its a bargain and I do admit to operating mostly at the entry level end of the motorcycle market. Its also a popular bike and so I wanted to see what all the fuss was about, I wasn't disappointed and whilst I'm not going to relinquish the BSA to early I am pleased for those that ordered these good value bikes. As for the 'dream' we do love Portugal and will be looking to return for longer in the Autumn! Hope you are well and getting out on the bike! Sean
Fab review, it completely covers my own views. Had mine a month now. I am a returning biker aged 68, after 35 years of not owning/riding a bike. Had 2xrefresher lessons last Sept, realised I needed more, bought a 125, good move it turned out to be.
The Speed 400 is so good for me, almost like it has been designed to my Spec albeit zI could only express my needs in simple ways.
Once again, great bang on review.
Thank you that's very kind of you to say. I wish you well with your T400 and I'm glad you got back into riding! Cheers 🍻
Love the enthusiasm, that personal touch gives a real sense of the ride. Nice to see your subscribers rising too. I recall at the show when you sat on it you thought too small, riding it seems to change your mind, note to self, always ride to be sure.
Thanks Lumpy, appreciate the comment. I do think that it is a smaller bike in the way it handles and it's less stable than the BSA at speed. Also I really need to investigate a front fork upgrade for mine. Perhaps TEC perhaps another solution...
One of your channel's strengths is your objective thoughtful common-sense reviews, well done. I was also taken by the comparisons you made between this lightweight and your BSA without dismissing your bike.
It occurred to me as I watched that what this new triumph is, or rather what it isn't is a retro, but rather a modern efficient single that might be better compared to the razor sharp road bike single engines being put out by the Japanese. I kept thinking of the canyon carving Honda CBR300R as I watched your video. Sounds like that Triumph may have better suspension right out of the box.
Thanks again for all the work that goes into your content. Best!
That is very kind Richard, I appreciate those remarks very much. I think we could also compare it to the Zontes GK350, although most on here wouldn't entertain a chinese bike or perhaps the husqvarna svartpilen 401 or even one of the new and expected Royal Enfield 450 street bikes which are undoubtedly in the works. One of the striking things about the test was it highlighted the harshness of my BSAs front end, I'll look to improve that when I can. The BSA I think is more 'classic' and of course has a torque rich engine so those are nice attributes... Again thanks for the motivational comment! Cheers, Sean
Sean, good review. I'd agree on the long distance touring if you're talking about two-up with the kitchen sink on the back but solo with a roll bag on the pillion seat you could ride any distance. Also, it needs a centre stand. Is that an option?
Hi Stephen, thanks for the comment. Solo with light luggage you could indeed be fine on this bike. I've had a little look on the Triumph website under Speed 400 accesories. You've got engine bars upper and lower, a sump guard, mirrors and the like but seemingly no centre stand. The aftermarket will be hot on this however with so many bikes sold, I imagine someone is planning a centre stand as we type! Thanks, Sean
To me, the styling makes reference to its 'Bigger Brother' Speed Twins. So, it is not a 'Baby Bonnie'. I hope that there will be a Baby Bonnie version with main stand & storage under the seat. The latter not being possible with all the air between wheel and seat & the mono shock suspension taking up so much space under the seat. I can but dream. Thanks for a great review, it looks a great bike and the engine sounds as so smooth as you describe it feels.
Love this and so glad you loved the bike. I could watch you smile and be this happy all day about a bike, makes my heart melt. You're amazing. Keep being you ❤ and perhaps you should start selling these haha 😜
Thanks Suzie! Great to have all the support and motivation from you! Perhaps you should start selling them, probably sell more than me 😂
Great comparison reviews Sean, Your channel just keeps getting better 👍
Thanks Richard, nice comment to receive and very much appreciated. Hope you are well and ride safe! Regards, Sean
This Caspian Blue here, is my SPEED 400 2024. Beautiful and fantastic motorcycle now.
Congratulations on your new Motorcycle!!
The bike that gets missed out when comparing 400s seems to be the Husqvarna Svartpilen.
Yes, it's an even more modern take on a neo-retro but the styling cues are still there, from the round headlight, the spoked wheels shod in chunky of road tyres, to the flat tracker contours of the seat.
At £5599 it's a mere £4 more than Triumph's Scrambler, but that does buy you an extra 5.5hp, a TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity for turn by turn navigation alongside a speed limiter, a quickshifter and cornering ABS and Traction Control. There's a whole load more toys with the Indo-Swede than its Indo-British second cousin once removed.
Which is better? I don't know, but unlike most reviewers who seem intent on comparing the Triumph to either the 350 Classic or 450 Himalayan from Royal Enfield, I'd definitely be taking the Husky and the Trumpet out on back to back test rides.
Exactamente . Yo estoy valorando comprar la vitpilen 401 o la 400 speed .
No me decido . Y tampoco veo comparativas al respecto 😢
Thanks Alex, and yes theres good overlap with the Husky. For me and perhaps other TH-cam riders its hard to find a Husky showroom or dealer willing to let you ride one of their bikes, I don't know where my nearest one is... certainly in stats yes the bikes overlap very closely.
There have been a lot of RE 350 riders who have switched over to T400, so either those riders are specification independent and just want the latest exciting bike or it's more a price thing, theres a cohort of riders me included who love to be involved at the lower end of the market.
Good post tho, thanks for sharing.
Sean
Triumph has Traction Control too!..
Is there anyone that has ridden this bike that doesn’t like it? Amazing job by Triumph. You’ve mentioned a few things here that no one else has said. The seat is wide. As a short rider the width really makes a difference to being able to flat foot it. I’m considering having mine shaved at the edges to remove the hardness on the inner thigh. Also, 6th gear does really feel like an overdrive gear. In the twisties 5th is the top gear, on straights and main roads 6th is for cruising. Top speed is probably around the 155 to 160 km/h… apparently
I think it's down to the price, it's very very hard to fault something that looks and rides like this for £5k (now 5.2k). I always take that into account when commenting on a bike...
Nice review. That's a very handsome machine and, after watching your road test, I'm seriously tempted to try one out myself. This could be a very nice (and completely unnecessary!) second bike... 🤔
Thanks for the comment. I hope I gave it a fair outing, for me you can forgive ALOT when a bike is £4,999. It actually does have a slipper clutch as well according to Triumphs website... I said it didnt! Cheers, Sean
I want the triumph speed 400 so badly but in America, it goes from $4995 to a realistic price of $7200 out the door by the time they add in freight assembly and taxes!
It should be around 20% more given the exchange rate so we could expect £4999 to become $6200? Agree the extra charges suck...
Another useful review, Sean! Enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this. I agree that in spite of the “Speed” name attaching it to the Bonneville series, it’s just as much an entry point to the Trident, which could be viewed as an even more modern “standard.” There’s a Triumph dealer I just found out about in my general area. I’ll have to try to set up a test ride on the 400.
I like what I see so far.
Hi Mark, that's very astute, it's practically a small trident which has also sold very well much less like a bonneville. I guess Triumph look at Royal Enfield with some degree or envy with RE bike sales in the millions and their own sales under 100,000 worldwide. They could probably see a trend towards riders downsizing, they wanted a piece or the buoyant sub 400 market and as you say it's an entry into the Triumph family for a lot of new customers. The strategic team at Triumph must be delighted how that is all going. Triumph are still selling 1 tiger 1200 to every 3 1300GS and they're new Daytona bike enters a crowded market. I imagine the modern retros range sells well but getting something in place sub 400cc seems very clever to me. Cheers.
I am new driver do you think is good for new riders? Thanks for video
Great review, objective and fair!
Thanks Rob, really appreciate that. Hope you're doing well!
it is a great bike ;; i am glad that is NOT aimed at the same market as the re 350 ,, easy , low power ride , the triumph is aimed at the more [ rev ] orientated market ,, so comparing them is not needed ,,
Thanks Simon. You are right they are indeed very different. The T400 is a bit of an interesting bike for Triumph as it's in the modern classic range but runs a monoshock, LCD dash and all the rest...
It's good to hear your thoughts on this Triumph Sean. I was curious about the new Triumphs but i really paid attention when Nathanthepostman got a Scrambler for his channel.
After looking one over in Fowlers i placed my order for delivery in June.
This will go alongside my Legacy Gold Star, retro and modern, completely different but complimentary.
Thanks Gordon, very interested to hear from you as you've got a Legacy and a Scrambler, hopefully in the future when youve got both in the garage. I'd perhaps have a scrambler in 12 months or so when they start popping up secondhand.... who knows. I agree with you they are certainly different and complimentary bikes. Lovely pairing though!
Tempted to sell my bikes a just own a Speed 400. Looks like a good all rounder
To play devils advocate Ian, it's low on torque, a bit flightly in the front end and not really a classic with its monoshock etc. That said, I couldn't find much else wrong with it! I'm waiting 12 months to see them come up second hand and fully optioned 😊😆
@@MindfulMotorcyclist This is my approach, too! Not that there's much to option on them.
Brilliant review, you must review the XSR700 sometime soon?
Thank you very much, nice comment to have. I did ride an XSR700 a while back but it was old, high in the miles and had Conti TKC80 knobby tyres on it so handled badly. I didn't like it but that was probably that particular bike not the model. With road/sport tyres I imagine it would be a different proposition.
Very good review ...very good bike....but no centre stand on a modern motorcycle....not really on is it ?
I can't think of many modern motorcycles with a centre stand, possibly because modern motorcyclists go to the dealer?
Hi Willy, I guess the BSA doesn't have one and yes that is a pain but I suppose I'm used to it now. Thanks.
Hi Sean. I really like these. But as you said. Not for the shorter rider. When I sat on it, I was on very tip of my tip toes😢. And with my abdomen issues, no use. I actually get a tad more feet down on the 900 speed twin.
When I asked re lowering, the local dealer, basically said it can’t been done. So would probably see if an inch can be taken out from seat.
Glad you enjoyed the run out😊
Triumph have made the 400s with a bolt on rear subframe, which means they're are already custom builders like Zeus in Thailand producing different, and possibly lower options.
Hi Mark, it was indeed surprising that it feels taller than the seat height suggests. The Scramber would be worse of course. Shame really as the bike is so light it is easy to manhandle about. I would expect that the aftermarket is going to support this bike very strongly given the sales figures and so it might be a case of watch this space for mods and accessories... cheers.
People bemoning the lack of a centre stand - they obviously haven't watched your earlier video about the bike jack! I've not had a bike with a centre stand since 1996 and don't miss it. Yes, it's handy but not having one certainly isn't a deal breaker. You can still carry out on the road maintenence like chain adjustment and lubing, albeit with more effort than with a centre stand, but for any bigger jobs, like chain replacement or wheel removal, I'd do in my garage anyway and use front and rear paddock stands.
I suspect that alongside cost cutting on the part of the manufacturer it's to do with most modern bikes being bought on finance.
When your finance and warranty conditions specify a yearly main dealer service, why equip the rider with the means of maintaining their motorcycle? Dealers want you to bring it in, even for summering as simple as chain adjustment, it's yet another way for them to make money.
Yea & i'm another one of those people bemoning the fact of bikes with no center stand. I can understand it on some bikes i.e. dirt bikes; but not road bikes. I couldn't believe it when " bankrupt pentioner" channel said that his new triumph t 120 came without a center stand. You can call me old fashioned if you want (72y.y.) ; I don't give a damn, but it's a deal breaker for me on whether I purchase. I shouldn't have to go out & purchase a g.d. bike jack ; are you kidding!!!!!! If you don't want your bike to have the center stand on it, take it off!!
To think nearly all the jap bikes had centre stands in the late seventies even the 125/250cc class. When I’m on tour it would be a faff without one that’s for sure.
A centrestand is a must for me,chain maintenance,tyre checks(which I do after ever ride),oil and filter changes,wheel removal and parking overnight and longer.There's five very good reasons to have a centrestand.
BTW the the cost of OEM centrestands is quite simply ridiculously expensive,it's no wonder there are so many aftermarket companies selling them at half the price of OEM ones.
@@johnwood4448 Exactly; well said John. I'll bet $5 to a donut that if we quit buying these bike's that should have a c.s.; that they would start in a hell of a hurry to begin installing them again. Trouble is that too many people accept this crap in today's world.
I didnt knew you were in Portugal !! My country Ive been watching your videos I've started with the keeway and the Voge, and you doing a nice job. i'm thinking to buy my first one maybe a 125 Im still gathering info and confidence to make the move 😁
Thanks very much for the comment. Ah the Keeway 302c, that was a brilliant little bike, really enjoyed that one too. We are hoping to come back to Portugal on a more longer term basis so hopefully more videos from here to come 😊👍
A fine review of the bike on fine roads. However I have a question about the BSA if you don't mind. I am waiting to see the shadow edition which is still on pre-order. Do you know if there are any supply problems with the BSA range in the UK or anywhere else?
Hi Simon, as far as I've heard there are no longer supply problems with the BSA Goldstar. The accessories of all things have finally landed. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen owners post pictures of them 😉😁...
Looked like a lot of fun!
Lovely little bike to be fair, rode great. Thank you for the comment Maurice.
Nice bike. Just struggle with the exhaust and huge rear tyre/ seat gap
Thanks Nigel!
I boughtba caspian blue in April and in many ways its spot on not too powerful for my skill level, nice styling quality etc annoying to check oil sight glass its really low down difficult to see when trying to keep bike level as no centre stand and chain is on the wrong side for easy maintenance too.
Its a bit jerky in the lower gears and too low geared easy to set off in 2nd.
Mudguards too small tho rad gets mucky, the speed & mpg are very optomistic but the fuel capacity suits my commute. Fly screen took 5 months to arrive and is a bit small too dealer in my city no RE tho bit easy to trip kill switch accidentally too.
Got me a £220 veterans discount too overall really enjoying it for my b road commute too revvy for a comfy Mway blatt.
Thanks Anthony for the owners experience of the Speed 400! Nice comment! 👍
I sat on the Speed 400 and could flat foot it even with my 29" in-seam , I found it to be not much bigger than my current 125cc Bluroc Legend. Wish they offered more colours, but nice to see a black one for a change. However I'm recently thinking about the Husqvarna 401 as an alternative and it's very different looking. Just can't make up my mind what I want when the time comes 🙄
Cheers Lee, I could flat foot this but I guess as we looked mainly for an option for Suzie it was a surprise that it was as tall as it was. It's strikingly light which is a nice change for a big bike. I would have preferred a green scrambler but if I was to have a speed it would be this back one for sure. Very clean and classy looking. Thanks!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist 🤣 will you be doing a "desperately seeking for Suzie" theme of videos to find the perfect match? The Scrambler, by all accounts is a more substantial variation and taller, Triumph have certainly struck gold with them, I wonder if it will encourage the Japanese brands to follow with classic styled 400s. I'd love to see Honda's GB style come to the UK
Well she's got to pass the test first, which as you know is no easy feat these days. I would also like a range of smaller bikes to come available. I suspect small/cheaper bikes will begin to come of age... Royal Enfield have led the charge to be fair.
@@leegrevesonNo Honda GB 350 in UK we get it in NZ 🇳🇿 & Ausie & Warro got one & a 350 Classic which HE has made a Scrambler.
great review and looks a great bike, well done Sean 👍
Thanks Richard, will you be doing an owners review on the T120 after getting a few miles under your belt?
@@MindfulMotorcyclist Hi Sean, oh yes, as time passes, I will be doing regular reviews 👍
Great review. I'm tempted! A test ride at the very least...
yeah and i know what will happen,rung my mate about it,go and look he said,well he did see it.sat on it,and worst of,rode it,twice,and bought one in black.but foe me it has to be blue.
I would be interested to hear your thoughts on it Jez as an owner of the Fantic 500. I have a feeling your current bike is slightly better put together... it would be very close for sure. Thanks!
I'm from Brasil - Pelotas city - state of RIO GRANDE DO SUL, BRASIL. Congratulations for your videos.
Thank you Carlos 😊
Good review Sean, sounds like you could be tempted to trade the BSA
Hi Mark, I could be tempted to swap the BSA but I quite fancy having a bike as a relative long termer. I've had 3 bikes in quick succession and whilst there are arguments for having a new bike - it keeps things fresh on the channel for one - I want to do a stint with one bike and see how much I can get done with the BSA. From a practical point too, the BSA has about 60% more torque and the T400 felt a bit gutless in comparison. Never say never of course and I'll be more interested when the T400s are sitting around in dealers for £4k in 9 months time...
@@MindfulMotorcyclist There's definitely not many Goldstar vloggers out there Sean so it's a good move keeping her, but l think most come to your channel for you and Suzie. Good thinking with the 400 in a years time it would be a lot of bike for little money 👍
Do you have to be mindful of the sand on the road surface? I get the impression it could make the roads treacherous....
There was a bit of loose gravel about Bib, made me wince a couple of times but I guess not enough to spoil the over all experience of being out on it. Can you imagine messing up on a demonstrator, that would not be a fun (or cheap) experience. Thanks!
Czy można podnieść przód moto wysuwając teleskopy w dół o 1cm, bo widzę że jest taka możliwość
Tempted to swap your Gold Star for one Sean?🤔👍
Hi Jonathon, probably the answer is no as I'd lose the torque I'm now accustomed to and I like the old fashioned feel of the BSA. I would like to hang on for a bike a bit longer this time and of course if I was to have a t400 pick it up nearly new in 12 months time. I do wish the BSA community was as fast growing as the new T400 groups and perhaps more open to change. Hey ho, it is what it is... Thanks
Would you mind publishing the body height of your friend Susie, who considered this bike as too high?
Suzie is 5'3'' I believe and we are a couple. She's not done her licence yet but shes become involved and interested in bikes so long term I think it's in her future! A bike like this would really suit her but the seat is wide so 790mm is deceptively tall! Hope that helps! Sean
@@MindfulMotorcyclist Thank you very much for your answer. I'm something in between 5'3" and 5'4", so I'll probably have the same problem.
Love mine :)
Its lovely to be fair....
The title of vid 'mentioned' RE and BSA and that's about all we got from him too ! ~ he's just obsessed with the Oriental Triumph .It's a cheapo , one bike vid 😮
😂😂 don't hold back will you. Cheapo 😂😂
Have you abandoned the UK now?
Back in June Andy and after that yes going into Autumn we plan to leave for warmer climes yes! Big changes but all for the best we hope.
i rather like that bike better than the himo 450 , even though i do not like triumph as a company ;;
I'd probably have the Scrambler 400 over the Himmy if only the weight and nothing else...
Not a fan of the 400 Triumphs. The overpriced SR400 is my favourite 400. Still available in Thailand. I like long-stroke singles better.
You hark back to an era when bikes were cheap. When was this? In 1992, I bought a new Africa Twin 750 RD04. I got it cheap in Tokyo, but in England it would have cost over 5,300 GBP. That equates to around 13,800 GBP now. Nick
Hi Nick, I was referring to perhaps earlier in the 1960-70s when people picked up an old BSA for £20 and ran it until it blew up and got another one. Obviously, this is not my experience but from stories I've heard from the old boys at the dealership. People also seemed to use bikes for their primary transport back then...