Triumph Speed Twin 900 2021: A Complete Review and Comparison 2023

 Introduction

The Triumph Speed Twin 900 is a retro-style motorcycle that combines the timeless charm of the Bonneville family with the performance and handling of a modern roadster. It is the successor of the Street Twin, which was renamed and updated for 2021. In this review, we will take a closer look at the features, specifications, pros, and of the Speed Twin 900 and see how it compares to its rivals in the market.

Design and Style

The Speed Twin 900 retains the classic silhouette of the Bonneville, with a round headlight, tear-drop-shaped fuel tank, single-piece saddle, and twin-sided exhaust canisters. However, it also adds some contemporary touches, such as LED lighting, cast aluminum wheels, and a semi-digital instrument cluster. The bike is available in three color options: Jet Black, Matte Ironstone, and Matte Silver Ice. The latter features a matte silver finish on the tank with yellow accents, black side panels, and black mudguards.

The bike has a minimalist and elegant look, with a balanced proportion and a low stance. The quality of the finish and detailing is impressive, with brushed aluminum covers, engine badges, bar-end mirrors, and a Monza-style fuel cap. The bike also has a USB charging port under the seat and is pre-wired for heated grips and a tire pressure monitoring system as optional accessories.

Engine and Performance

The Speed Twin 900 is powered by a 900cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers 65 PS of power at 7500 rpm and 80 Nm of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine is based on the Thruxton RS, with a lighter crankshaft, higher compression pistons, modified intake and exhaust ports, and higher lift camshafts. The engine is also Euro 5 compliant, with lower emissions and a refined sound.

The engine has a smooth and linear power delivery, with plenty of torque available from low to mid-range. The throttle response is crisp and precise, with three riding modes to choose from: Rain, Road, and Sport. All three modes offer full power but differ in the sensitivity of the throttle and the intervention level of the traction control. The traction control is switchable and can be turned off if desired.

The bike has a five-speed gearbox that shifts smoothly and positively. The clutch is light and easy to operate. The bike has a claimed fuel efficiency of 24.39 km and a fuel tank capacity of 12 liters.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Speed Twin 900 has a tubular steel twin cradle frame that provides a rigid and stable chassis. The bike has a wheelbase of 1450 mm, a rake angle of 25.1 degrees, and a trail of 102.4 mm. The bike has a dry weight of 216 kg and a seat height of 765 mm.

The bike has been upgraded with new suspension and braking components for 2021. The front end features upside-down Marzocchi forks with 43 mm diameter and 120 mm travel. The rear end has twin KYB shocks with adjustable preload and 120 mm travel. The suspension offers a good balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and potholes without compromising stability and feedback.

The braking system consists of dual Brembo four-piston radial calipers on the front wheel and a single Nissin two-piston floating caliper on the rear wheel. Both wheels have disc brakes with ABS as standard. The front discs are larger than before, measuring 320 mm in diameter. The rear disc remains at 255 mm. The brakes are powerful and progressive, with good modulation and bite.

The bike rides on new cast aluminum wheels with a 12-spoke design. The tires are Metzeler Racetec RR K3, which are high-performance rubber designed for track use. The tires offer excellent grip and confidence in corners but may wear out faster than regular tires.

The bike has agile and responsive handling, with quick steering and easy maneuverability. The bike feels light and nimble on twisty roads, but also stable and composed on straight stretches. The riding position is comfortable and relaxed, with an upright posture and slightly rear-set footpegs. The seat is well-padded and supportive but may feel narrow for some riders.

Comparison with Rivals

The Speed Twin 900 faces competition from other retro-style motorcycles in the market, such as the BMW R nineT, the Kawasaki Z900RS, and the Ducati Scrambler 1100. Here is a brief comparison of their specifications and prices:

As seen from the table, the Speed Twin 900 is the most affordable option among its rivals, but also the least powerful and torque. It is comparable in weight to the Z900RS and the Scrambler 1100, but heavier than the R nineT. It also has the smallest engine displacement and fuel tank capacity among its rivals.

The Speed Twin 900 may appeal to riders who value style, simplicity, and character over performance, features, and practicality. It may also suit riders who prefer a more relaxed and refined riding experience over a more aggressive and sporty one.

Conclusion

The Speed Twin 900 is a modern classic motorcycle that offers a blend of retro charm and contemporary performance. It has a smooth and torquey engine, a nimble and responsive handling, and a powerful and progressive braking system. It also has a high-quality finish, LED lighting, a USB charging port, riding modes, traction control, ABS, etc.

However, it also has some limitations, such as a small fuel tank, a low ground clearance, a short mudguard, no cruise control, no windscreen, etc. It also faces stiff competition from other retro-style motorcycles that offer more power, torque, features, and practicality.

The Speed Twin 900 is a motorcycle that appeals to the heart more than the head. It is a motorcycle that delivers fun and enjoyment more than speed and efficiency. It is a motorcycle that celebrates the heritage and legacy of Triumph more than the trends and innovations of today.

If you are looking for a motorcycle that combines style with substance, emotion with logic, and tradition with technology, then the Speed Twin 900 may be the one for you.

FAQs:

Q: What is the price of the Speed Twin 900 in India?

A: The Speed Twin 900 is priced at Rs. 8.78 - 8.79 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. The price may vary depending on the color option, dealer location, and taxes.

Q: What is the top speed of the Speed Twin 900?

A: The Speed Twin 900 has a claimed top speed of 193 mph. However, this may depend on the riding conditions, rider weight, and gear ratio.

Q: What is the service interval of the Speed Twin 900?

A: The Speed Twin 900 has a service interval of 16,000 km or one year, whichever comes first. The bike also has a self-diagnostic system that alerts the rider when a service is due.

Q: What are the accessories available for the Speed Twin 900?

A: The Speed Twin 900 has a range of accessories available from Triumph, such as heated grips, tire pressure monitoring system, a fly screen, a luggage rack, panniers, an engine protection kit, a headlight grille, a tank pad, etc. The accessories can be purchased separately or as part of a package.

Q: How does the Speed Twin 900 compare to the Street Twin?

A: The Speed Twin 900 is based on the Street Twin, but has several differences and improvements. The Speed Twin 900 has a more powerful engine, a larger front brake disc, an upside-down fork, a cast aluminum wheel, a semi-digital instrument cluster, a USB charging port, etc. The Speed Twin 900 also has a sportier riding position, a lower seat height, and a lighter weight than the Street Twin.