The Triumph Thruxton 900 is a modern classic that pays homage to the café racer culture of the 1960s. With its retro styling, powerful parallel-twin engine, and impeccable craftsmanship, this motorcycle stands out in the modern classic segment. If you’re an enthusiast of vintage aesthetics combined with contemporary performance, the Triumph Thruxton 900 is a compelling choice. In this review, we will delve into its specs, performance, and features to give you a comprehensive understanding of this iconic machine.
Specifications
The Triumph Thruxton 900 is powered by an air-cooled, parallel-twin engine that delivers a mix of classic styling and modern engineering. Below are the key specifications of the bike:
Engine: 865cc air-cooled, parallel-twin, DOHC
Power Output: 68 HP @ 7,400 RPM
Torque: 69 Nm @ 5,800 RPM
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
Fuel System: Carbureted (earlier models) and Fuel Injected (later models)
Frame: Tubular steel cradle
Front Suspension: 41mm telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: Twin shock absorbers with adjustable preload
Brakes: Single 320mm disc (front), 255mm disc (rear)
Wheels: 18-inch front, 17-inch rear
Seat Height: 820mm
Dry Weight: 205 kg
Fuel Capacity: 16 liters
Performance
The Triumph Thruxton 900 is built for riders who enjoy a balance of classic charm and modern rideability. The 865cc parallel-twin engine is responsive and delivers a steady pull throughout the rev range. While it isn’t the fastest bike in its class, it offers a thrilling ride with sufficient power to handle highways and twisty roads with ease.
Acceleration & Speed: The Thruxton 900 can achieve a 0-60 mph time of around 5.5 seconds, which is respectable for a retro-styled motorcycle. It has a top speed of approximately 115 mph.
Handling: With its café racer-inspired ergonomics, the bike provides a sporty and aggressive riding position. The low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs contribute to a dynamic riding experience.
Braking: The single-disc braking setup is adequate for daily riding, but it may not provide the aggressive stopping power of modern superbikes.
Comfort & Ride Quality: The twin rear shocks and telescopic forks ensure a smooth ride over most surfaces, although long-distance rides might become uncomfortable due to the aggressive riding posture.
Features
While the Triumph Thruxton 900 keeps its features minimalistic to maintain its retro appeal, it still offers some modern conveniences that enhance the riding experience.
Design & Styling
One of the most striking aspects of the Thruxton 900 is its authentic café racer styling. The bike features a sculpted fuel tank, clip-on handlebars, wire-spoke wheels, and a single seat with a cowl, giving it an unmistakable vintage appearance.
Instrumentation & Controls
The instrument cluster remains simple, featuring a classic dual-pod analog speedometer and tachometer. The retro-styled dials add to the charm, making it a perfect blend of old-school aesthetics and necessary information.
Exhaust Note
The Thruxton 900 is equipped with twin upswept exhausts that deliver a deep and throaty exhaust note, enhancing the classic British bike experience.
Reliability & Maintenance
Being a Triumph, the Thruxton 900 is built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. It is known for its reliability, but regular maintenance is necessary to keep the bike performing optimally. The air-cooled engine requires routine oil changes, valve adjustments, and chain maintenance to ensure longevity.
Fuel Efficiency
Given its relatively large engine displacement, the Thruxton 900 offers a decent fuel economy of around 45-50 MPG, depending on riding conditions. The 16-liter fuel tank allows for a reasonable range before refueling.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔ Timeless Café Racer Styling – The retro-inspired design makes it a head-turner. ✔ Strong Mid-Range Performance – Offers sufficient power for city rides and highways. ✔ Build Quality – Premium materials and solid construction ensure durability. ✔ Engaging Ride – Fun-to-ride, responsive handling, and good torque output. ✔ Deep Exhaust Note – Enhances the riding experience with a classic sound.
Cons:
✘ Aggressive Riding Position – Clip-ons and rear-set footpegs can cause discomfort over long rides. ✘ Limited Braking Power – Single front disc can feel inadequate under hard braking. ✘ Lack of Modern Features – No ABS, traction control, or riding modes. ✘ Slightly Heavy – The weight can be felt in slow-speed maneuvers.
Conclusion
The Triumph Thruxton 900 is a motorcycle that embodies the spirit of classic café racers while offering a reliable and engaging ride. With its timeless styling, capable performance, and premium build quality, it is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern reliability.
While it may not be the fastest or most technologically advanced bike on the market, the Triumph Thruxton 900 delivers an experience that is hard to match. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer looking for a stylish and character-filled ride, this motorcycle is sure to impress.
If you’re considering adding a café racer to your garage, the Triumph Thruxton 900 is a motorcycle that deserves serious consideration. Its combination of specs, performance, and features makes it a standout in the modern classic segment.
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