Triumph Speed Twin 900
TRIUMPH Motorcycles captured my heart back in 2019 when I decided to transition from my Vespa scooter to a more robust bike. The Triumph Bobber was my first encounter, and it was love at first sight. A few months later, I found myself drawn to the allure of the Speed Twin 1200, and there was no turning back. Triumph, the UK’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, has established itself with a commitment to retro style and heritage design, making it one of my all-time favorite brands.
Last week, I had the opportunity to take the 2023 Speed Twin 900 for a spin. As a former owner of the 1200, I was curious to explore what this model had to offer, especially with its smaller engine size. And I must say, it exceeded my expectations.
Formerly known as Street Twin, the 2023 Speed Twin 900 shares similarities with my previous 1200 in terms of handling and riding style. With a seat that sits 40-mm lower — 1200 at 805mm and 900mm at 765mm — both my feet comfortably touched the ground. This lower seat height facilitates easy maneuvering in and out of parking lots, a feature I appreciate as a rider with a height of 5,3”. Seat height is a crucial factor for me when selecting a bike.
Following seat height, I assess the bike’s weight. Surprisingly, both the 1200 and 900 weigh in at 216 kilograms. However, the 900 feels lighter, possibly due to its easy maneuverability while seated. The lightweight frame contributes to the bike’s overall comfort and handling.
Cruising on the highway, the 900 performed admirably. Shifting gears from first to fifth was smooth, providing the necessary power without any sense of stalling. The acceleration was seamless, offering ample torque right off idle, and the bike ran through its rev range smoothly, concluding around 7,000 rpm.
A noteworthy aspect is the exhaust note from its parallel-twin engine. The 900 produces an iconic British sound that grabs everyone’s attention. Personally, the sound of a motorcycle’s engine significantly influences my riding experience. The audible roar during throttle application confirms the sense of freedom and excitement.
Additionally, the 900 boasts simple and user-friendly features. The analog speedometer with a small LCD multifunctional display offers trip mileage, clock, and fuel consumption information. Choosing between road or rain riding modes is effortless, providing versatility for different conditions. All these functions are easily accessible with a touch of the info button on the left-hand cluster.
Undoubtedly, the 2023 Triumph Speed Twin 900 stands out as an excellent choice for riders of all types. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and comfortable features, this bike can serve as an ideal daily commute companion or a reliable partner for long-distance touring.
Priced at P715,000, this beautiful bike is available at Triumph Motorcycle Philippines, located on Ortigas Avenue, San Juan.