Triumph Motorcycles is expanding its growing single-cylinder line-up with two new retro models for 2027. The Bonneville T40 and T40 Black are powered by a revised version of the company’s 398cc TR-series engine and use a dedicated chassis designed specifically for the new models.
The two motorcycles are scheduled to arrive in dealerships from 2027, taking Triumph’s 400cc family to seven models. The range began with the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X in 2024, followed by the Tracker 400, Thruxton 400 and Scrambler 400 XC.
Developed in partnership with Bajaj Auto in India, the 400cc range has now surpassed 150,000 sales across more than 50 countries. The latest additions continue Triumph’s push into the smaller-capacity leisure motorcycle market, while giving the Bonneville name a more accessible entry point.
Despite their smaller engine, the T40 and T40 Black have been designed with the proportions of a larger retro motorcycle. They weigh 191kg ready to ride and have a 790mm seat height, making the pair relatively approachable for a broad range of riders.
The 398cc single-cylinder engine has received a revised tune for the Bonneville models, producing 31.6bhp at 7,000rpm. Peak torque stands at 36.1Nm, at 5,000rpm. That lesser than the 39.5bhp at 8,000rpm and 37.6Nm, at 6,500rpm claimed for the existing Speed 400.
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The engine itself now sits in a more upright position within the chassis, while the cylinder head has been redesigned with cooling fins to give it a more traditional retro appearance. It is housed in a new tubular steel frame, with suspension provided by 43mm conventional forks with rubber gaiters and twin rear shocks with preload adjustment. Both ends provide 130mm of travel.
The chassis also differs from the other 400cc models, with a one-piece frame replacing a bolt-on rear subframe. This arrangement accommodates the twin rear shocks, while braking is handled by a larger 310mm front disc and a two-piston axial caliper supplied by ByBre, Brembo’s sister brand. Wheel sizes are also tailored to the Bonneville’s classic proportions, with an 18-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear. Both are fitted with MRF Zapper tyres produced in India.
Despite the modest engine output, Triumph has equipped the T40 models with a relatively sophisticated electronics package. Lean-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS come as standard, alongside Road, Rain and Eco riding modes and two additional customisable settings.
The electronics are controlled through a new 4.0-inch circular TFT display, which has a design similar to the displays used on Royal Enfield’s Guerrilla 450 and Himalayan 450. Smartphone connectivity adds navigation through Triumph’s new Navigation App, while the display can also be switched to a Heritage Mode that presents key information in a faux-analogue layout.
Both Bonneville T40 models also come with full LED lighting, cruise control and back-lit switchgear as standard. Triumph has yet to confirm whether these technology upgrades will eventually filter through to other motorcycles in its 400cc range. With their larger-bike dimensions, classic Bonneville styling and extensive electronics package, the T40 and T40 Black give Triumph another entry point into the retro motorcycle market when they arrive in 2027.
Stay tuned to BRM to find out when they will reach our shores!
