What To Know
- The Thruxton 1200 is a cafe racer, while the Speed Twin 1200 is a more traditional roadster.
- The Thruxton 1200 has a cartridge-type fork and twin shocks, while the Speed Twin 1200 has a conventional fork and twin shocks.
- The Thruxton 1200 is a more classic cafe racer, while the Speed Twin 1200 is a more modern roadster.
The Triumph Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 are two of the most iconic motorcycles in the Triumph lineup. Both bikes are powered by the same 1200cc parallel-twin engine, but they offer different riding experiences. The Thruxton 1200 is a cafe racer, while the Speed Twin 1200 is a more traditional roadster. In this blog post, we’ll compare the two bikes and help you decide which one is right for you.
Engine and Performance
As mentioned, both the Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 are powered by the same 1200cc parallel-twin engine. However, the Thruxton 1200’s engine is tuned for more power and torque. The Thruxton 1200 produces 97 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque, while the Speed Twin 1200 produces 96 horsepower and 78 lb-ft of torque.
Handling and Suspension
The Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 have different handling characteristics. The Thruxton 1200 is a more agile bike, thanks to its shorter wheelbase and lighter weight. The Speed Twin 1200 is a more stable bike, thanks to its longer wheelbase and heavier weight.
Both bikes have adjustable suspension, so you can dial in the handling to your liking. The Thruxton 1200 has a cartridge-type fork and twin shocks, while the Speed Twin 1200 has a conventional fork and twin shocks.
Brakes
The Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 have different braking systems. The Thruxton 1200 has dual 310mm discs with four-piston calipers, while the Speed Twin 1200 has dual 320mm discs with two-piston calipers.
Both braking systems provide excellent stopping power. However, the Thruxton 1200’s braking system is more powerful, thanks to its larger discs and four-piston calipers.
Ergonomics
The Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 have different ergonomics. The Thruxton 1200 has a more aggressive riding position, with its handlebars lower and its footpegs higher. The Speed Twin 1200 has a more relaxed riding position, with its handlebars higher and its footpegs lower.
The Thruxton 1200’s riding position is better suited for shorter riders, while the Speed Twin 1200’s riding position is better suited for taller riders.
Styling
The Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 have different styling. The Thruxton 1200 has a more classic cafe racer look, with its round headlight, low-slung handlebars, and single seat. The Speed Twin 1200 has a more modern roadster look, with its LED headlight, upright handlebars, and bench seat.
Price
The Thruxton 1200 starts at $12,500, while the Speed Twin 1200 starts at $12,000.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Thruxton 1200 is a great choice for riders who want a classic cafe racer with plenty of power and performance. The Speed Twin 1200 is a great choice for riders who want a more modern roadster with a comfortable riding position.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can experience the different riding positions, handling characteristics, and power delivery for yourself.
The Verdict: Triumph Thruxton 1200 vs. Speed Twin 1200
The Triumph Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200 are both excellent motorcycles. The Thruxton 1200 is a more classic cafe racer, while the Speed Twin 1200 is a more modern roadster. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can experience the different riding positions, handling characteristics, and power delivery for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between the Triumph Thruxton 1200 and Speed Twin 1200?
The Triumph Thruxton 1200 is a cafe racer, while the Speed Twin 1200 is a roadster. The Thruxton 1200 has a more aggressive riding position, more power and torque, and a more classic styling. The Speed Twin 1200 has a more relaxed riding position, less power and torque, and a more modern styling.
2. Which bike is better for me?
The best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can experience the different riding positions, handling characteristics, and power delivery for yourself.
3. How much does the Triumph Thruxton 1200 cost?
The Triumph Thruxton 1200 starts at $12,500.
4. How much does the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 cost?
The Triumph Speed Twin 1200 starts at $12,000.
5. What are the pros and cons of the Triumph Thruxton 1200?
Pros:
- Classic cafe racer styling
- Powerful engine
- Agile handling
Cons:
- Aggressive riding position
- Expensive
- Not as comfortable as the Speed Twin 1200
6. What are the pros and cons of the Triumph Speed Twin 1200?
Pros:
- Modern roadster styling
- Comfortable riding position
- Less expensive than the Thruxton 1200
Cons:
- Less power and torque than the Thruxton 1200
