Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle
While virtually everyone on the planet has heard of the Triumph Bonneville, the Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle has not achieved the same fame. And yet the Thunderbird was at least as important to Triumph as the ‘Bonny’ in terms of sales and popularity … it just isn’t mentioned as often. However, among Triumph loyalists and fans, the Thunderbird is perhaps the most important Triumph ever produced.
It all started with three riders riding 500 miles at 92 mph on three different Thunderbird 6T motorcycles, but registered as stock. In 1949, that was a testament to durability, reliability, and speed. From that year to 1966, Triumph produced the Thunderbird motorcycle at the Meriden factory and shipped it around the world. All models had a 649c.c. two-cylinder engine – a big increase from 498c.c. Speed Twin was inspired by it and mated to a 4-speed gearbox. It turned out to be so appreciated, perhaps loved, in the US that after 1950, Triumph sold more bikes in the US than in any other country, including the homeland of England.
The Thunderbird motorcycle disappeared after 1966 only to reappear in 1981 as the Thunderbird TR65. It was simply an ‘economy’ version of the T-140 Bonneville and was only sold in the UK and a handful of British Commonwealth countries. It lasted for three model years and then Triumph had a very difficult time.
However, John Bloor returned production to the company in 1990. Triumph Motorcycles Ltd. of Hinckley started another model of the Thunderbird motorcycle in 1994. This beauty had an 885c.c. 3-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed transmission and mounted on confidence-inspiring 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels. A manageable 69 hp and 52 ft-lbs of torque carried the 485-lb dry machine any distance anywhere it could find fuel. It was blessed with classic good looks, two-tone paint, and historic emblems and exhaust. Like the first T-bird, it was built for cruising and its catalog of parts and accessories was ready to help with anything a rider might need or want.
The Thunderbird 900 Sport motorcycle was built in 1997. It had many upgraded components: wheels, brakes, suspension, and so on. – and put 82 hp to the ground, a significant increase. The design was also slightly modified, but kept its charming retro flair. The 900 Sport was the last 885c.c. Thunderbird motorcycle to be manufactured ..
Until the 2010 Thunderbird motorcycle was developed! The latest addition is a fairly large twin at 1600c.c. in displacement, a comfortable cabin, great handling and smooth character. It still lives up to the needs of a cruising or touring cyclist, and it’s a very balanced and exciting ride. The Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle enters a new century and a new icon is born.