Triumph Street Twin

» Triumph’s wildly successful entry-level bike gets a comprehensive refresh for 2019, with an extra 10bhp, stronger brakes and more electronic aids. The engine changes are welcome – the 900cc parallel twin was always friendly and easy to ride, but at 54bhp, the motor soon ran out of puff if you wanted to make the most of the pleasingly frisky handling. The 18% power increase comes by way of a new lighter crankshaft along with lighter balance shafts – these help push the redline up by 500rpm to 7500rpm. Torque remains at 59 lb ft, delivered at a friendly 3800rpm. There’s a new magnesium cam cover and lighter clutch too. The front end has also been pepped up – the single front brake now uses a Brembo 4-piston caliper and there are higher-specification cartridge forks. The 10-spoke alloy wheels now feature machined highlights. One of the charms of the Street Twin was its simplicity – just switch it on and go. But Triumph felt obliged to give it some electronic rider aids, so the new bike has Road and Rain riding modes and switchable traction control. Prices are yet to be announced. We estimate a £500 hike on the old model, taking it from £7800 to £8300.