TRIUMPH THRUXTON 1200 (2016-on) Review

Overall Rating5 out of 5

Triumph has produced a Thruxton worthy to carry the name to the next generation of owners. The styling and attention to detail lavished on the Thruxton is second to none. The parallel twin engine is slightly lacking in character but nothing that a set of loud pipes wouldn’t rectify and many owners favour refinement over character anyway. The R’s handling is right out of the top draw thanks to excellent brakes, suspension and chassis balance. The electronics marry the whole package together. 

Ride Quality & Brakes5 out of 5

The Thruxton models have the same geometry and wheelbase as the Speed Triple, which shows you how dedicated Triumph has been to ensuring they handle properly. These are no style queens, it’s all go as well as show. The R version adds Ohlins shocks and Showa BPF to the party with Brembo brakes for even more sporting prowess. The clip-ons are a little uncomfortable over distance and the seat is firm but acceptable for a cafe racer.

Engine4 out of 5

Triumph’s 1200cc parallel twin is a very quick engine and spins up rapidly thanks to a lightened crank when compared to the T120 models, but it is refined and calmed down thanks to a good electronics package. This is no brute, it’s an elegant motor with bags of refinement rather than pure brute force.

Build Quality & Reliability4 out of 5

Triumph has lavished huge amounts of time and effort on the Thruxton and the level of detail and finish is excellent, especially the little touches such as the seat’s inbuilt stand that stops you scratching the paint when it is removed. The motor’s service intervals have been extended to 10,000 miles, which is also good news.

Insurance, running costs & value5 out of 5

The standard Thruxton is good value, but the Thruxton R is incredible value for money when you look at its spec list.

Equipment4 out of 5

The R is the higher specification bike but both models get traction control, three power modes and ABS as standard. The dash includes a gear indicator and fuel range as well as the usual information. A pillion seat and pillion peg hangers are an optional extra.