Introduction
The café racer culture, born in the streets of the UK during the 1960s, is set to make a stylish comeback in Europe with the arrival of the Triumph Thruxton 400. Recently launched in India in August 2025, this retro-modern motorcycle will soon make its way to European markets by early 2026. Compact, powerful, and A2-license friendly, the Thruxton 400 is designed to attract both new riders and café racer enthusiasts who value heritage and modern engineering.
Design and Styling – True to Café Racer Roots
The Triumph Thruxton 400 is unmistakably a café racer. With its semi-fairing, clip-on handlebars, bar-end mirrors, rear seat cowl, and sculpted fuel tank, the bike brings back the iconic 1960s racing stance. Triumph offers it in premium shades such as Lava Red, Phantom Black, Storm Grey, and Racing Yellow – colors that highlight its sporty yet elegant appeal.
For Europe, where café racer culture has deep roots, the Thruxton 400 will feel right at home on city boulevards and countryside cafés, blending heritage styling with modern practicality.
Engine and Performance – Built for A2 Riders
At the heart of the Thruxton 400 is a 398cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder TR-series engine. It produces 42 PS at 9,000 rpm and 37.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and slipper-assist clutch.
Why does this matter in Europe? Because the Thruxton 400 neatly fits into the A2 license category, making it accessible to younger riders and learners. The performance is strong enough for spirited weekend rides while remaining manageable for everyday commutes.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Thruxton 400 is designed for agile, engaging rides. It features 43 mm USD front forks, a rear monoshock, and disc brakes on both ends with dual-channel ABS. The addition of switchable traction control ensures safety even on slippery European roads.
At 183 kg kerb weight, the Thruxton 400 is slightly heavier than some rivals but offers excellent stability at higher speeds, ideal for both urban streets and highway cruising
Features and Technology
Despite its vintage looks, the Thruxton 400 offers modern rider aids, including:
- Traction control (switchable)
- Dual-channel ABS
- Slipper and assist clutch
- LED lighting setup
- Semi-digital instrument cluster
These features provide a balance of retro design with 21st-century safety and convenience, making it practical for everyday European riders.
Price and Launch Timeline in Europe
Currently priced at ₹2.74 lakh in India (approx. €3,000), the Thruxton 400 is expected to retail in Europe at around €5,200–€5,500, factoring in import duties and taxes.
- Launch in India: August 2025
- Expected Europe Launch: Early 2026
- Production Hub: Bajaj–Triumph facility in India, with exports to Europe and other global markets
Rivals in Europe
When the Thruxton 400 arrives, it will compete with motorcycles such as:
- Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 (retro café racer, larger engine)
- Honda CB300R (lightweight, sporty design)
- Kawasaki Z400 (performance-oriented naked)
However, Triumph’s heritage branding and authentic café racer styling give the Thruxton 400 a unique position in the market.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Authentic café racer styling rooted in British heritage
- A2-license friendly engine performance
- Modern features like traction control and ABS
- Competitive pricing for a Triumph
- Global build quality with Indian production advantage
Cons
- Slightly heavier than rivals in the segment
- Aggressive riding stance may not suit long commutes
- Ground clearance may be a challenge on uneven roads
Conclusion – A Café Racer for the New Generation
The Triumph Thruxton 400 represents more than just another motorcycle launch; it’s a revival of café racer culture in Europe. With its balance of classic British styling, A2-friendly performance, and modern features, it is set to become a favorite among young European riders who want style with substance.
Expected in early 2026, the Thruxton 400 is not only Triumph’s attempt to bring retro back but also to make it accessible to a wider audience. For those who love motorcycles with history and personality, the Thruxton 400 could be your perfect next ride.