RIDE’S month in bikes

Triumph revives the legendary Speed Twin name for its sporty new roadster

YOU’D THINK TRIUMPH had already harvested every iconic model name from its 116-year heritage – including the Bonneville, Daytona, Tiger, Thruxton, Thunderbird and more. But for 2019 another legend rejoins their lineup: the Speed Twin. If it helps to navigate Triumph’s now 15-strong Modern Classic lineup, think of this one as sitting somewhere between a faster Street Twin and an upright Thruxton — a comfortable, usable, easy-going and welcoming retro, but infused with a capable chassis, modern performance and an exciting, rewarding sporty side.

The 1200cc twin comes from the Thruxton R, which means a quickrevving character, a generous 83lb·ft of torque and a claimed 96bhp top-end. Its frame is evolved from the Thruxton, but now combines tubular steel with an aluminium cradle (much like the new Scrambler 1200, p42) to save weight. Cast wheels and tubeless tyres save a further couple of kilos at each end. Overall, Triumph says the Speed Twin is 10kg lighter than the Thruxton.

Chassis spec includes cartridge forks, twin shocks and twin Brembo fourpiston front brake calipers. As ever there’s a wealth of modern touches – adjustable riding modes, traction control, LED headlight, underseat USB charger and so on – hidden beneath the traditional styling. The Speed Twin will be in dealers by the end of January and we’ll have a review in next month’s issue. Pricing is unconfirmed but it’s probably a fair guess that it won’t be cheaper than the Thruxton, which is £11,000.