The 300-400cc motorcycle segment has seen rapid growth, becoming one of the most competitive spaces in the bike market. Within this space, roadsters stand out as ideal daily riders, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and style. Today, we’ll compare two exciting roadsters that promise to thrill on the urban streets: the Anglo-Indian Triumph Speed 400 and the Indo-American Hero Mavrick 440. Each has its unique appeal, but which one is the better fit for you? Let’s dive in and break down the key aspects of each bike.
Design and Styling
Hero Mavrick 440
The Mavrick 440, based on the Harley Davidson X440 platform, brings a muscular and striking aesthetic. It boasts a large, imposing tank that gives the bike a proper “big bike” feel. The tall and chunky design, paired with clean yet aggressive shrouds, emphasizes its cruiser DNA. Up front, the premium-looking headlight adds to its macho vibe. It’s a larger bike than the Speed 400, both in terms of length and width, which makes it instantly eye-catching. However, the rear end could be polarizing for some, with a large, floppy mudguard and twin shocks that don’t scream sportiness. Despite this, the overall look of the Mavrick is that of a mean, serious machine.
Triumph Speed 400
In contrast, the Triumph Speed 400 merges retro charm with modern execution. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank with an offset fuel cap, gold-plated upside-down forks (USDs), and upswept exhaust exude class and sophistication. While the detailing is well-executed, there’s one caveat: it’s a small bike, and that compactness might make it look more humble than its actual performance. For riders seeking a blend of style and subtlety, the Speed 400’s appearance hits the mark, but if you want a more dominant street presence, the Mavrick might steal the show.
Engine and Performance
Hero Mavrick 440
At the heart of the Mavrick 440 is a 440cc single-cylinder engine, derived from the Harley Davidson X440. It’s an old-school, air-and-oil-cooled, 2-valve SOHC motor that puts out 27 bhp and 36 Nm of torque. This engine is a blueprint for a classic thumper, delivering a deep, bassy exhaust note that adds to the bike’s character. Its power delivery is linear, with torque coming in early, making it an easy-going bike in urban settings. However, being a slow-revving engine, it lacks the high-rev thrills and sharpness of more modern motors.
Triumph Speed 400
On the other hand, the Speed 400 is powered by a 398.15cc liquid-cooled, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine, churning out 39 bhp and 37 Nm of torque. This engine is clearly more performance-oriented, especially when paired with the bike’s lower weight of 170 kg (12 kg lighter than the Mavrick). The result is a fast-revving, responsive engine that rewards you when pushed hard. The Speed 400 has a broader powerband, which is especially satisfying when riding through city traffic or hitting twisty roads.
Riding Dynamics
Hero Mavrick 440
The Mavrick 440 is built on a cruiser-friendly platform, and it behaves as you’d expect. With its lower-revving engine, the bike feels relaxed most of the time, especially in the mid-range where it delivers smooth and predictable power. However, its SOHC engine takes a bit longer to rev up, and the bike’s higher center of gravity and wider stance make it less agile than the Speed 400. In tight corners, it feels slightly lazy, but it’s still fun to ride. The compliant suspension soaks up bumps well, making for a comfortable ride even on rough roads. However, the front brake lacks feedback, which detracts from rider confidence. On the upside, the gearbox is smooth, and the clutch is light, making city riding easy.
Triumph Speed 400
The Speed 400’s dynamics are much sportier. The engine delivers a lovely spread of torque in the mid-range, pulling linearly and with satisfying grunt. The bike feels more at home in tight, twisty sections, thanks to its lower center of gravity and compact dimensions. It’s a nimble machine, and slow-speed maneuvers are a breeze. The Speed 400 has a more planted feel, especially when leaning into corners. The suspension is stiff enough for sporty riding but not so stiff that it makes city commutes uncomfortable. The front brake provides excellent feedback, while the rear brake, although slightly spongy, offers adequate stopping power.
Ergonomics
Hero Mavrick 440
Swing your leg over the Mavrick 440, and you’re greeted with a relaxed, cruiser-style riding position. The forward-set foot pegs and upright handlebars put you in a comfortable posture, making it an ideal machine for longer rides or touring. The seat height of 803 mm is approachable for most riders, and at higher speeds, the bike feels stable and composed. For those looking for a bike that can handle both urban commutes and weekend highway trips, the Mavrick 440 offers a solid option.
Triumph Speed 400
The Speed 400 puts you in a much sportier stance. The rear-set foot pegs and slightly forward-leaning handlebar position give you a more aggressive posture, ideal for carving through city traffic or attacking twisty roads. The compact nature of the bike makes it feel light and flickable, encouraging spirited riding. The riding position isn’t as relaxed as the Mavrick’s, but for those seeking a more dynamic experience, the Speed 400 delivers.
Features and Technology
Both bikes come equipped with modern features, including digital instrument clusters, LED lighting, and dual-channel ABS. The Speed 400 edges out the Mavrick in terms of premium feel, with features like ride-by-wire throttle and a slipper clutch, making it more tech-savvy. However, the Mavrick counters with its rugged build quality and larger stature, which might appeal more to riders who prioritize a strong street presence.
Conclusion
So, which one is for you? Both the Hero Mavrick 440 and the Triumph Speed 400 are fantastic roadsters that cater to different rider preferences.
Hero Mavrick 440: Think of it as the fun uncle – relaxed, muscular, and always ready to roll, yet unhurried in how it delivers its power. It’s ideal for those who want a comfortable, everyday bike that can handle longer trips and cruising with ease.
Triumph Speed 400: This is the energetic young guy – quick, agile, and always up for a thrill. It’s perfect for riders who want a sporty, performance-oriented bike that’s just as happy on a twisty road as it is in city traffic.
In the end, the choice comes down to whether you want the laid-back charm of the Mavrick or the sharp, refined performance of the Speed 400. Either way, you’re in for a great ride.
