Forza Thumper

Forza Thumper

TM's new 400 is a contender

EVERYONE'S GOT A THUMPER THESE DAYS. Even small-time Italian bike-builder TM. We slipped in a short ride on the first

pre-production TM 400 in the States, here for importer TWS (909/608-0082) to get suspension and jetting sorted.

Exact configuration of the motor is still somewhat of a mystery as to bore and stroke. It’s said to be very “Yamaha-esque,” as in maybe a YZ400F less one valve? The sand-cast TM motor is a four-valver with dohc, a very short cylinder and a familiar shape. The bottom-end looks a tad more roomy than the Yamaha, but it also incorporates a hydraulic clutch, an automatic decompression release and an oil sight glass, all tucked in nicely out of harm’s way. Ignition incorporates a lighting coil, but there was a five-speed close-ratio gearbox instead of the wideratio setup usually fitted to the company’s enduro bikes. Air/fuel mixing is handled by a radically angled 38mm Mikuni TMR carb instead of the usual Keihin FCR found on other Thumpers.

TM’s perimeter-style frame is a big advantage, as it allows the taller four-stroke head to fit between the frame rails, which in turn leads to a lower position for the gas tank and seat. Just sitting on the bike, you can’t tell it’s a Thumper. This is one compact package, much like the new KTMs. A Paioli fork and Öhlins shock handle the suspension duties, and machined-from-billet items like the brake pedal and kick-start lever scream “works bike!”

Though our ride was briefmore for photos than for evaluation-here’s our take on the bike: Watch out,

Yamaha! The TM has more of an

old-time Thumper low-end hit, but with a blistering rip on top, even wearing a quiet Euro-spec muffler. It feels lighter and nimbler than the WR426, without a hint of topheaviness. Absolutely standout is the action of the hydraulic clutch and the roomy rider accommodations.

With changing regulations in FIM displacement classes for

enduro and motocross, TM isn’t exactly sure what íes it will offer, but there’s talk of 450cc for and 250, 400 and 570cc for enduro bikes. Prices have not yet been set, but typically TMs are just a bit higher-priced than comparable KTMs. Certainly not cheap, but after our quick spin, we’re ready to pay to play.

Jimmy Lewis