Triumph-Bajaj Bike: What We’d Like To See

Looks like the fruits of Triumph and Bajaj’s partnership are beginning to bear fruit, as its first offering has been sighted. Triumph is gearing up to launch not one but two motorcycles catering to two different kinds of riders. You can read more about the roadster here, and the spy shots of the scrambler are analysed here. While details are sparse at the moment, here’s what we’d like to see from the two bikes:

Highway-friendly performance:

It’s pretty evident from the spy shots that the upcoming Triumph Bajaj bike will be powered by a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine. While the displacement is expected to be between 350cc to 400cc, it would bode well for Triumph if the capacity is closer to 400cc. The Triumph Bajaj bikes are going to be for the global market, so performance will be of essence, especially in countries where the highway speeds are in triple digits.

It’s clear from the engine case that the motor will have a DOHC setup, which should increase the combustion efficiency, and as a consequence, performance. Adding to this, the extra cee-cees should ensure the bike can comfortably cruise on the highway without feeling stressed. This will also give an edge over its rivals, the BMW G 310 R, Honda CB300R, and the KTM 390 Duke. Among the trio, the Duke is the most powerful one, and we hope Triumph is able to match up to the hooligan with power levels similar to the Duke. For perspective, the KTM 390 Duke makes 43.5PS and 37Nm. 

Tech-savvy features:

We can already see from the spy shots the Triumph-Bajaj bike will have a TFT screen. Expect it to have smartphone connectivity with navigation at least as an option. Triumph could also provide GoPro connectivity as an optional extra, as it already offers this feature on its higher-end bikes. Navigation will be crucial as it will make the bike more versatile for touring and commuting. We can also see other value-added features including call/SMS function, trip details and the likes.

Triumph is always known to equip its bikes with a healthy set of electronic aids, so it would be perfect if Triumph equips its upcoming bikes with switchable ABS. A rudimentary traction control system will also add value, although it’s not really necessary. 

Accessories:

We’d also like Triumph to come up with affordable accessories developed specifically for the bike with the help of Bajaj. This could include saddle stays, crash protection, fly screen, smartphone holder, and perhaps a pair of spoke wheels for the Scrambler variant. 

Spot on pricing:

Though Triumph will be taking Bajaj’s help in manufacturing, the bikes will ultimately bear the Triumph badging. That said, Bajaj’s manufacturing knowhow should help the brand price its bikes fairly competitively. We expect the British bikemaker to price the Triumph-Bajaj 350 at around Rs 2.25 lakh whereas, the Scrambler could be pegged at around Rs 2.50 lakh (both ex-showroom). If Triumph manages to keep the pricing at these levels, then this coupled with the expected features should easily help Triumph have a fighting chance in the highly lucrative 300-500cc segment. Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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