The new Bonneville T40 is a great package, but launching it without tubeless cross-spoke wheels in 2026 is a massive oversight by Bajaj-Triumph.
Hey all, Sharing some thoughts on the newly revealed Bonneville T40 (the sub-400 modern classic roadster co-developed with Bajaj). Aesthetically and ergonomically, they nailed the brief: true classic proportions, 195 kg planted weight, comfortable upright bench seating, liquid-cooled DOHC motor, cornering ABS, and cruise control. However, there is a glaring product planning decision that is causing major frustration among prospective buyers: it comes exclusively with center-laced, tube-type wire-spoke wheels. What makes this hard to justify: The parts already exist in their parts bin: On the Scrambler XC, Bajaj-Triumph proved they can engineer and factory-mount side-laced cross-spoke tubeless aluminium wheels at a very reasonable price tier. Positioning vs. practicality: At ₹2.80L ex-showroom (well over ₹3.15L on-road), the T40 sits at the top of the entry-classic range. Forcing tube tyres on customers under the guise of "heritage styling" completely ignores rider safety and puncture convenience on emerging market roads. Lack of a factory option: Even if tube spokes remain the standard aesthetic choice, there should be an official configurator add-on or reasonably priced dealer accessory swap for cross-spoke tubeless wheels, rather than forcing owners to pay exorbitant over-the-counter spare part rates or resort to DIY OutEx rim sealing. Many prospective buyers, including myself, have placed their booking deposits on hold pending clarity on whether a tubeless wheel option or conversion kit will be officially supported. Curious to hear from the community: how do you feel about modern classics continuing to ship on tube-type spokes when cross-spoke tubeless technology is readily accessible?