2021 Triumph Speed Twin: The Sporty Bonnie Gets Even Better

The Triumph Speed Twin has been quite an underrated motorcycle in the Indian context. It is extremely versatile as it manages to handle the sporty stuff with as much finesse as it would daily commuting or even touring. For 2021, Triumph has improved the package and if the company’s claims are to be believed, the price hike is not going to be massive either.

What’s New?
At the heart of the Speed Twin lies the same 1200cc parallel-twin engine that powers the larger members of the Bonneville series. Now, it gets a revised High Power tune that pushes out 100PS at 7250rpm. That’s 3PS more than the EU4/BS4 version. And even though the 112Nm peak torque remains the same, it peaks at 4250rpm, 500rpm lower. Plus, the torque is spread more evenly: 100Nm is available from as low as 3000rpm.

This has been made possible by lighter internals, high-compression pistons, revised ports and cam profiles, and a new intake system. The new brushed stainless steel twin megaphone end cans continue to put out a distinct British rumble which, to the delight of enthusiasts, hasn’t been muffled at all by EU5 norms.

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Triumph has upped the handling credentials of the Speed Twin with a 43mm Marzocchi USD fork, new lightweight 12-spoke alloy wheels and grippy Metzeler Racetec RR tyres. Even the Brembo M50 monobloc calipers are leagues ahead of the old axially-mounted calipers.

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Completing the list of updates are anodised headlight mounts, new mudguard mounts and a refreshed graphics scheme. You still get three colours to choose from with the Red Hopper being our favoured option, as it reminds us of the original 1938 Speed Twin.

What’s Unchanged?
The core of the Speed Twin remains the same. The 1200cc motor rests in the Thruxton-derived double-cradle frame that lends its sublime handling characteristics. Even the electronics package is simple with two rider modes that have dedicated throttle maps, traction control and ABS intervention settings. You can switch off the TC completely as well.

The retro elements such as the circular headlamp, twin pod info cluster, Monza-style fuel filler cap, and flat bench seat haven’t been touched at all. As always, you will get the same incredible levels of attention to detail on the Speed Twin that Triumphs are known for.

What Should Have Been Changed?
The Speed Twin would have benefitted from a bit more sophistication from its suspension. The inclusion of a USD fork is certainly welcome. However, it lacks adjustability, which we think would have elevated the appeal of the bike even further. Triumph has stated that the reason for skipping this feature is to keep costs in check.

What Will Be The Price? Who Are Its Rivals?
The updated Speed Twin hasn’t garnered a massive price hike in the UK and the same is expected for Indian customers as well. We guess Triumph will be giving it a sub-Rs 10 lakh price tag, making it around Rs 40,000-Rs 45,000 dearer than the outgoing model. That would still make this sporty Bonnie quite a lot more affordable than bikes like the BMW R NineT and the Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro Sport. The Speed Twin will be reaching European markets in August and India should follow soon thereafter.

ZigSays
The Triumph Speed Twin might not have rocked the sales charts in India as the company would have liked. Let’s hope with these updates, the Indian audiences will appreciate the bike more, reflecting in better sales.