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.

KAWASAKI W650 (1999-2006) Review

14 more images in gallery

"Styling is spot on – closer to a 60s Bonneville than Triumph's own latter day replica"

At a glance675cc  -  49 bhp51 mpg  -  165 miles rangeInsurance group: 8 of 17 
Compare insurance quotes nowMedium seat height (800mm)

1126



Overall Rating4 out of 5

Relive the 60s with the delightful Kawasaki W650. Styling is spot on – the exhausts are closer to a 60s Bonneville than Triumph’s own latter day replica. Modern handling, engine and reliability means all the joy of a classic with none of the grief. Relaxed performance unlike the Boneneville of the 1960s.

Ride Quality & Brakes3 out of 5

Despite a dry weight of 195kg, the Kawasaki W650's small size makes it feel far lighter and more controllable. Suspension’s not sophisticated, ground clearance is far from limitless but this is no sports bike – compared to a cruiser it’s nimble and capable. The Kawasaki can feel bouncy if you press on or take a pillion.

Engine3 out of 5

The Kawasaki W650's parallel twin is a real softy, borderline weakling. Claimed 49bhp is barely enough anywhere other than in town or bopping gently down those sunny memory-lanes – the firms own budget, 500cc twin, the  ER-5 manages more. Fine if you’re not after life in the fast (or even middle) lane.

Build Quality & Reliability4 out of 5

Most examples of the Kawasaki W650 get a relatively easy life and few problems are reported. Engine is in such a low state of tune it should last well. If a bike is neglected, the lashings of chrome will tell the tale. The centre stand decks out with enthusiastic cornering so check if buying used.

Insurance, running costs & value2 out of 5

Before Triumph released their Bonneville the Kawasaki W650 was a great buy for someone looking for a bike like this. The British bike is a little heavier but has a smidge more power – and has the right name on the tank. Unfortunately the W650’s only a bargain when discounted. At least insurance and running costs are low. Find a Kawasaki W650 for sale.

Insurance group: 8 of 17 – compare motorcycle insurancequotes now.

Equipment3 out of 5

The Kawasaki W650's standard kit is fairly limited but you don’t expect an on board computer on a bike like this. A kit was available in 2002 to turn the bike into a café racer. Soft and hard panniers plus rails are available from Kawasaki as are engine bars.