Better to own than to ride
THE BOBBER TFC is the third model in Triumph’s exclusive Factory Custom range. Designed by the TFC team in Hinckley (but built in Thailand), the Bobber TFC is limited to 750 bikes worldwide and boasts improved performance, bespoke detailing and topend running gear for a £5000 premium over a standard Bobber.
With Öhlins suspension front and rear and twin Brembo calipers, the TFC has a sportier outlook and silhouette than the more retro-themed Bobber. To match this attitude, the TFC department has added 10bhp and 3lb·ft of torque (it’s the most powerful Bobber) as well as reduced the engine’s inertia by 39% and included an extra ‘Sport’ power mode alongside clip-on bars. All of which don’t entirely enhance the riding experience...
While the engine is sprightlier and has a lovely throaty sound through the Arrow silencers, the mid-set pegs and lower bars hunch you up and, when combined with the unforgiving seat and shock’s inability to damp out harsh jolts mean you and your tenderized backside are left thankful the Bobber has a tiny tank. And the Brembo brakes are total overkill on a bike that is fitted with such a skinny front tyre.
All this aside, the Bobber TFC is still incredibly special and so, while it is undeniably uncomfortable and harsh on anything other than a smooth road, many will fall for the looks and high-end components. Us? We’d have a stock Bobber and save the money.