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Triumph Thruxton Vs Thruxton R: The Ultimate Retro Showdown

Matthew is an avid motorbike enthusiast from South London. He started riding bikes as a teenager and has owned over 10 bikes throughout his life. Matthew loves exploring the picturesque British countryside on two wheels and uses his matthewbikelog to document his riding adventures. When he's not out on his...

What To Know

  • And when it comes to modern classics, the Triumph Thruxton and Thruxton R stand as shining examples of the British marque’s enduring legacy.
  • Both the Thruxton and Thruxton R are powered by the same 1200cc twin-cylinder engine, but the Thruxton R boasts a slight edge in horsepower and torque.
  • The Thruxton is a timeless classic that’s perfect for cruising and weekend rides, while the Thruxton R is a more focused and performance-oriented machine that’s ideal for spirited riding and track days.

In the realm of classic motorcycles, few names hold the same allure as Triumph. And when it comes to modern classics, the Triumph Thruxton and Thruxton R stand as shining examples of the British marque’s enduring legacy. But what sets these two motorcycles apart, and which one is right for you?

The Triumph Thruxton: A Timeless Classic

The Triumph Thruxton evokes the golden age of motorcycling, paying homage to the legendary Thruxton racers of the 1960s. With its iconic Bonneville-inspired styling, twin-cylinder engine, and classic lines, the Thruxton is a timeless beauty that turns heads wherever it goes.

Key Features:

  • 1200cc twin-cylinder engine
  • 96 horsepower
  • 81 ft-lbs of torque
  • 524 lbs wet weight
  • 31.7-inch seat height

The Triumph Thruxton R: A Modern Icon

The Triumph Thruxton R takes the classic Thruxton formula and cranks it up a notch. It features a more aggressive stance, upgraded suspension and brakes, and a host of performance-oriented enhancements. The result is a motorcycle that’s both exhilarating to ride and stunning to behold.

Key Features:

  • 1200cc twin-cylinder engine
  • 105 horsepower
  • 83 ft-lbs of torque
  • 502 lbs wet weight
  • 31.7-inch seat height

Performance Comparison

Engine: Both the Thruxton and Thruxton R are powered by the same 1200cc twin-cylinder engine, but the Thruxton R boasts a slight edge in horsepower and torque. This translates to a more responsive and exhilarating ride, especially at higher speeds.

Suspension: The Thruxton R features fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, which provides superior handling and stability compared to the Thruxton’s conventional forks and twin shocks. This upgrade makes the Thruxton R more capable of tackling winding roads and spirited riding.

Brakes: The Thruxton R also benefits from upgraded Brembo brakes, which offer greater stopping power and improved feel.

Weight: The Thruxton R is significantly lighter than the Thruxton, thanks to its aluminum frame and other weight-saving measures. This makes it more agile and easier to maneuver.

Styling and Features

Styling: While both motorcycles share a similar classic design, the Thruxton R features a more aggressive and modern look. It has a shorter wheelbase, a more upright riding position, and a sleek tail section.

Features: The Thruxton R comes with a host of premium features, including a TFT display, keyless ignition, and cruise control. The Thruxton, on the other hand, has a more minimalist approach with analog gauges and a traditional ignition key.

Price and Availability

The Triumph Thruxton starts at $12,500, while the Triumph Thruxton R starts at $14,500. Both motorcycles are available at Triumph dealerships worldwide.

Which One is Right for You?

The Triumph Thruxton and Thruxton R are both exceptional motorcycles that offer a unique blend of classic style and modern performance. The Thruxton is a timeless classic that’s perfect for cruising and weekend rides, while the Thruxton R is a more focused and performance-oriented machine that’s ideal for spirited riding and track days. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and riding style.

Key Points: Triumphant Choices

Whether you choose the Triumph Thruxton or the Thruxton R, you can’t go wrong. Both motorcycles are worthy additions to the Triumph legacy and offer an unforgettable riding experience. From their timeless styling to their exhilarating performance, these modern classics are sure to turn heads and bring joy to every ride.

What You Need to Know

Q: What is the main difference between the Triumph Thruxton and Thruxton R?
A: The main difference between the Thruxton and Thruxton R is the latter’s upgraded suspension, brakes, and performance-oriented enhancements.

Q: Which motorcycle is more powerful?
A: The Triumph Thruxton R is slightly more powerful, with 105 horsepower compared to the Thruxton’s 96 horsepower.

Q: Which motorcycle is lighter?
A: The Triumph Thruxton R is significantly lighter than the Thruxton, weighing in at 502 lbs compared to 524 lbs.

Q: Which motorcycle has better handling?
A: The Triumph Thruxton R has better handling due to its fully adjustable Öhlins suspension and lighter weight.

Q: Which motorcycle is more expensive?
A: The Triumph Thruxton R is more expensive than the Thruxton, starting at $14,500 compared to $12,500.

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Matthew

Matthew is an avid motorbike enthusiast from South London. He started riding bikes as a teenager and has owned over 10 bikes throughout his life. Matthew loves exploring the picturesque British countryside on two wheels and uses his matthewbikelog to document his riding adventures. When he's not out on his current Yamaha FZ6, Matthew enjoys tinkering with and upgrading his bikes. He has a keen interest in bike mechanics and regularly shares tips on maintenance and repairs with his readers. Matthew also provides gear and equipment reviews, helping other riders choose the best kit for weekend rides or longer touring trips. Beyond talking motorbikes, Matthew's blog gives readers an insight into his life. He shares stories and photos from motorcycle trips around the UK as well as further afield in Europe. Readers often describe Matthew's writing as both entertaining and inspirational; he aims to fuel the wanderlust of other bikers. Through his passion for two-wheel adventures on all types of roads, Matthew explores the freedom that motorcycling brings. He looks forward to many more years of thrills on two wheels and chronicling his experiences on matthewbikelog.
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