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– 2012 Triumph Thunderbird Review
2012 Triumph Thunderbird
Go on a legend reborn.
Strong, muscular lines. Impeccable manners. Outstanding engineering. A tour de force. Voted ‘Cruiser of the Year’ by Cycle World magazine, Thunderbird rewrites the rules and brings Triumph’s reputation for handling and engineering excellence to the cruiser market. Personalization? No problem, with great paint schemes and over 100 accessories. It’s what cruiser riders have been waiting for.
The critically acclaimed new Thunderbird is a revelation. The bike that cruiser riders have been waiting for. But its turning heads among other types of rider too. Why? Because it delivers – on looks, on power, on handling, on comfort, on everything.
On the road or on the spec sheet, Thunderbird leads the way. Sit astride the well appointed low seat and enjoy the high quality chrome that dominates the design.
The tank mounted speedo includes a small built in tacho and on-board computer which includes clock, two trip meters and a fuel gauge. Low maintenance belt drive, Triumph’s first in the modern era, delivers the torque smoothly and cleanly, while the cycle parts ooze class and quality. Anti-lock brakes are an option for the Thunderbird, offering extra reassurance on all road conditions.
But riding a cruiser is all about individuality and with over 100 accessories you can personalize your Thunderbird and find your own unique look. From stripped down street rod to a soft bagged tourer, the Thunderbird delivers with style and charisma.
TRIUMPH THUNDERBIRD
– Cycle World magazine’s Cruiser of the Year in 2009 and 2010
– Bespoke 1,600cc parallel-twin powerplant delivers 146Nm torque
– Class leading handling and braking characteristics
– Low, 700mm, seat height for classic looks and easy riding
– Almost 100 official accessories for limitless customisation options
– Large, 22 litre fuel tank for long-distance cruising
– Two year unlimited mileage warranty as standard
Twice awarded ‘Cruiser of the Year’ by leading US magazine Cycle World, Triumph’s Thunderbird cruiser has been an unbridled success since its introduction in the summer of 2009.
Designed from the ground up as Triumph’s first entry in the mainstream premium cruiser sector, the Thunderbird combines classic cruiser styling and ergonomics with the British company’s engineering and design excellence.
At the heart of the Thunderbird is the 1600cc T-16 parallel-twin engine, a unique feature in a class of V-twins. The character-laden engine features a 270-degree crankshaft and delivers a mountainous 146Nm of torque at just 2750rpm.
Triumph has used the knowledge gained developing class leading sports bikes like the Daytona 675 and Speed Triple to endow the Thunderbird with levels of control and precision previously unheard of in a cruiser. The tubular twin spine steel frame features
chunky 47mm forks up front with five-way adjustable twin shocks at the rear, which can be adjusted to cater for everything from spirited solo riding to two up touring. Powerful twin 310mm floating discs up front are grabbed by powerful four-piston brakes for progressive stopping power, with optional ABS for increased rider security.
The Thunderbird comes dripping with acres of chrome adorning the high-quality cycle parts. The high specification includes five-spoke cast alloy wheels adorned with bespoke Metzeler tyres, while the tank mounted speedo includes a comprehensive on-board
computer which includes a clock, two trip meters and fuel gauge, in addition to a stylish tachometer and self-cancelling indicators.
A large, 22 litre, fuel tank has been fitted to the Thunderbird which, when combined with class-leading fuel economy (around 17% better than the competition according to Triumph’s internal tests) ensures that long rides in the low and comfortable saddle will not
be interrupted by inconvenient fuel stops.
Part of the Thunderbird’s attraction is its ability to be customised to the rider’s personal taste. A range of almost 100 accessories are available for the Thunderbird and allow it to be turned from an all-road cruiser to a stripped down power cruiser or even a bagged-up light tourer. Among these accessories is a 1700cc big bore kit, screens, panniers and a wide range of chrome and leather items for even more presence and pizzaz.
For 2012 the Thunderbird comes with a wide range of standard and limited run special colours. Standard options include the ever popular metallic Phantom Black and two-tone Pacific Blue with Fusion White centre stripe, while a Cranberry Red and Phantom Black combination is also available. Two new ‘marble’ effect options have also been developed by Triumph’s paint shop for the Thunderbird, with Marble Red Haze and Marble Blue Haze available for the first time in 2012.
2012 Triumph Thunderbird Features and Benefits
1,600cc Engine
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin, 270 degree firing interval 1,600cc Triumph engine with unmistakable character, sound and pulling power. Delivers near endless torque at low revs with 85bhp) and 108ft.lbs at 2,750rpm.
Transmission
Each gear change with the six-speed box feels precise, smooth and satisfying. The first belt driven Triumph since 1922, it grabs all that torque and plants it on the road. Low maintenance rear pulley is durable and clean running.
Chassis
Supple suspension for mile eating. A finely calibrated system which blends effortlessly to complement the bike’s looks. Rear adjustable for preload, it’s ready to go – one up or two. Dual front discs deliver smooth and progressive braking. ABS available too.
Instruments
Class leading instruments, tank mounted. Large speedo, tacho, two trip meters and fuel gauge in a chromed nacelle with unique Thunderbird logo.
Seats
Just 27.5in off the ground. Cruise alone or with a partner and still plant both feet on the ground. Well padded and comfortable with a range of seat accessories for even more comfort.
Fuel Efficiency:
38 MPG City / 56 MPG Highway
Engine:
1597cc Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin, 270º firing interval
Instruments:
Analogue speedometer featuring integrated rev counter, scroll button on handlebars, LCD trip computer, fuel gauge and clock.
Rear Suspension:
Showa chromed spring twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload, 95mm rear wheel travel
2012 Triumph Thunderbird – US Specifications/Technical Details
USA MSRP Price: On The Road $13,499 (Single Color ABS) / $13,799 (Two-tone ABS)
Engine and Transmission
Type Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin, 270º firing interval
Capacity 1597cc
Bore/Stroke 103.8 x 94.3mm
Fuel System Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection, progressive linkage on throttle
Exhaust Chromed twin-skin stainless steel 2 into 1 into 2, tandem large-volume catalysts in centralized catbox, chrome-plated exhaust
Final Drive Toothed Belt
Clutch Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox 6-speed constant mesh, helical type 2nd – 6th
Oil Capacity 4.2 liters (1.1 US gals)
Chassis, Running Gear and Displays
Frame Tubular Steel, twin spine
Swingarm Twin-sided, steel
Wheel Front Cast aluminum alloy 5-spoke 19 x 3.5 in
Rear Cast aluminum alloy 5-spoke 17 x 6 in
Tire Front 120/70 R19
Rear 200/50 R17
Suspension Front Showa 47mm forks. 120mm travel
Rear Showa chromed spring twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload. 95mm rear wheel travel
Brakes Front Twin 310mm floating discs. Nissin 4-piston fixed calipers
Rear Single 310mm fixed disc. Brembo 2-piston floating caliper
Instrument Display/Functions Analogue speedometer featuring integrated rev counter, scroll button on handlebars, LCD trip computer, fuel gauge and clock
Dimensions and Capacities
Length 2340 mm (92.1 in)
Width (handlebars) 880 mm (34.6 in)
Height without mirrors 1120 mm (44.1 in)
Seat Height 700 mm (27.5 in)
Wheelbase 1615 mm (63.5 in)
Rake/Trail 32º/151mm
Fuel Tank Capacity / Efficiency 22 liters (5.8 US gals)
Wet Weight (ready to ride) 339 kg (746 lbs)
Performance (measured at crankshaft to 95/1/EC)
Maximum Power 86PS / 85bhp / 63 kW @ 4850rpm
Maximum Torque 146Nm / 108 ft.lbs @ 2750rpm
Fuel Efficiency 38 MPG City / 56 MPG Highway *Estimated from fuel economy tests on a sample motorcycle conducted under ideal laboratory conditions. Actual mileage may vary based upon personal riding habits, weather, vehicle condition, and other factors.
Price
On The Road $13,499 (Single Color ABS) / $13,799 (Two-tone ABS) *Actual price determined by dealer. Price excludes taxes, license, options and $495 in destination/handling charges Prices and specifications subject to change without notice.
2012 Triumph Thunderbird – Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: On The Road One Color $14,999/ ABS $15,999 / 2-tone Color $15,499/ ABS $16,499
Engine and Transmission
Type Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin, 270º firing interval
Capacity 1597cc
Bore/Stroke 103.8 x 94.3mm
Fuel System Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection, progressive linkage on throttle
Exhaust Chromed twin-skin stainless steel 2 into 1 into 2, tandem large-volume catalysts in centralised catbox, chrome-plated silencers
Final Drive Toothed Belt
Clutch Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox 6-speed constant mesh, helical type 2nd – 6th
Oil Capacity 4.2 litres (1.1 US gals)
Chassis, Running Gear and Displays
Frame Tubular Steel, twin spine
Swingarm Twin-sided, steel
Wheel Front Cast aluminium alloy 5-spoke 19 x 3.5 in
Rear Cast aluminium alloy 5-spoke 17 x 6 in
Tyre Front 120/70 R19
Rear 200/50 R17
Suspension Front Showa 47mm forks. 120mm travel
Rear Showa chromed spring twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload. 95mm rear wheel travel
Brakes Front Twin 310mm floating discs. Nissin 4-piston fixed calipers
Rear Single 310mm fixed disc. Brembo 2-piston floating caliper
Instrument Display/Functions Analogue speedometer featuring integrated rev counter, scroll button on handlebars, LCD trip computer, fuel gauge and clock
Dimensions and Capacities
Length 2340 mm (92.1 in)
Width (handlebars) 880 mm (34.6 in)
Height without mirrors 1120 mm (44.1 in)
Seat Height 700 mm (27.5 in)
Wheelbase 1615 mm (63.5 in)
Rake/Trail 32º/151mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 22 litres (5.8 US gals)
Wet Weight (ready to ride) 339 kg (746 lbs)
Performance (measured at crankshaft to 95/1/EC)
Maximum Power 86PS / 85bhp / 63 kW @ 4850rpm
Maximum Torque 146Nm / 108 ft.lbs @ 2750rpm
Fuel Efficiency 6.2l/100km City / 4.2l/100km Highway
Price
On The Road One Color $14,999/ ABS $15,999 / 2-tone Color $15,499/ ABS $16,499 *Suggested Retail pricing only, actual price is determined by dealer. Price excludes $550 in destination & handling charges, taxes, license, options & pre-delivery expense.
2012 Triumph Thunderbird – International Specifications/Technical Details
Europe MSRP Price: On The Road from £10,499 (ABS +£600)
Engine and Transmission
Type Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin, 270º firing interval
Capacity 1597cc
Bore/Stroke 103.8 x 94.3mm
Fuel System Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection, progressive linkage on throttle
Exhaust Chromed twin-skin stainless steel 2 into 1 into 2, tandem large-volume catalysts in centralised catbox, chrome-plated silencers
Final Drive Toothed Belt
Clutch Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox 6-speed constant mesh, helical type 2nd – 6th
Oil Capacity 4.2 litres (1.1 US gals)
Chassis, Running Gear and Displays
Frame Tubular Steel, twin spine
Swingarm Twin-sided, steel
Wheel Front Cast aluminium alloy 5-spoke 19 x 3.5 in
Rear Cast aluminium alloy 5-spoke 17 x 6 in
Tyre Front 120/70 R19
Rear 200/50 R17
Suspension Front Showa 47mm forks. 120mm travel
Rear Showa chromed spring twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload. 95mm rear wheel travel
Brakes Front Twin 310mm floating discs. Nissin 4-piston fixed calipers
Rear Single 310mm fixed disc. Brembo 2-piston floating caliper
Instrument Display/Functions Analogue speedometer featuring integrated rev counter, scroll button on handlebars, LCD trip computer, fuel gauge and clock
Dimensions and Capacities
Length 2340 mm (92.1 in)
Width (handlebars) 880 mm (34.6 in)
Height without mirrors 1120 mm (44.1 in)
Seat Height 700 mm (27.5 in)
Wheelbase 1615 mm (63.5 in)
Rake/Trail 32º/151mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 22 litres (5.8 US gals)
Wet Weight (ready to ride) 339 kg (746 lbs)
Performance (measured at crankshaft to 95/1/EC)
Maximum Power 86PS / 85bhp / 63 kW @ 4850rpm
Maximum Torque 146Nm / 108 ft.lbs @ 2750rpm
Fuel Efficiency Urban: 45.7mpg (6.2 l/100km) – 56mph: 67.1mpg (4.2 l/100km) – 75mph: 49.9mpg (5.7l/100km)
Price
On The Road from £10,499 (ABS +£600)
* Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), the actual sale prices can vary.
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