Triumph Speedmaster cruiser unveiled, India launch in 2018
Triumph Motorcycles today showcased its latest generation Speedmaster. The 2018 Triumph Speedmaster is the newest addition to the current generation Bonneville family and is positioned as a more laidback cruiser/tourer. The target customer for the Speedmaster is someone who likes the classic design of the Bonneville T100/T120 but wants a more comfortable stance and touring ability. Interestingly, Triumph says the Speedmaster also boasts the same attitude as a Bobber with its classic twin-cylinder sound and torquey feel. In terms of competition, the Speedmaster is expected to take on the likes of the Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom and Indian Scout.
It comes powered by the same 1,200cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine as the Bonneville T120, Bobber and Thruxton R. The engine produces 77PS and 106Nm and comes mated to a six-speed transmission. The engine offers up to 10 percent more power and torque at 4,500rpm than the Bonneville T120. The power and torque outputs are 25 per cent and 42 per cent more than the 2015 Speedmaster respectively.
In terms of design, the Speedmaster continues with the classic British motorcycle look akin to its siblings, though it gets distinctive features like an all-LED headlight and LED daytime running lamps and a 'heritage-inspired' battery box with a stainless steel strap. Low, pulled back 'beach' handlebars and forward set footpegs add to the cruiser stance. The rear gets a classic hard-tail look along with low seating to add to its credentials. Unlike the Bobber the Speedmaster will seat two, though the pillion seat can be removed quickly to convert it into a single seater. In terms of technology the Speedmaster comes equipped with ride-by-wire which offers two riding modes (Road and Rain) apart from ABS, traction control and cruise control.
The Speedmaster also comes equipped with a torque assist clutch to reduce effort at the lever, which Triumph says will help in reducing fatigue over longer rides and commutes in city traffic as well. The Speedmaster rides on 16-inch wheels at both ends that come suspended with 41mm front forks and a hidden monoshock with preload adjustment. Braking duties are taken care of by dual 310mm discs upfront with Brembo floating calipers at the front and a single 255mm disc with a Nissin caliper at the rear. As is the case with other Bonnevilles, the Speedmaster will be offered with a range of accessories and equipment. Triumph India is yet to confirm an India launch, though we expect the bike to be launched in the country in 2018.