[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/44117542535/[/flickr]
Holding triple digit speeds isn’t a problem for the Speedmaster
Verdict – Easily the most cruiser looking motorcycle of the Triumph Bonneville lineup, the Speedmaster would take some time for the rider to get used to the handlebars and the windscreen (if opted for). But once on the saddle, the comfort it provides just takes you over. The refinement from the parallel-twin motor just makes the Speedmaster a lot more appealing. It has a few shortcomings like the tyres and suspension don’t gel well if you encounter bad roads. And the windscreen visor just drafts a lot of air at high speeds. But the cruiser character and a retro appeal gives it the necessary brownie points.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/44980537342/[/flickr]
The Speedmaster gets a pair of these leather saddle bags, quite useful to carry some luggage
What’s Cool
* Cruiser retro design looks very cool
* Low seat height makes it accessible to all kind of riders
* Parallel-twin rumble is very engaging, the engine is refined too
What’s Not So Cool
* Rear suspension has a bounce-back effect on bad roads
* Long wheelbase, difficult to turn around and requires efforts
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/43217295170/[/flickr]
Only if it could take the Indian roads just as gracefully as it rides
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster Specifications
* Engine: 1200cc, Parallel-Twin, Liquid-Cooled, 8-Valve, SOHC
* Power: 76 BHP @ 6100 RPM
* Torque: 106 Nm @ 4000 RPM
* Transmission: 6-speed
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Frame: Tubular Steel Cradle
* Suspension: 41 mm KYB Telescopic Forks (Front), KYB Monoshock with Linkage (Rear)
* Tyres: 130/90/16 (Front), 150/80/16 (Rear) (Cobra Avon)
* Brakes: 310 mm Dual Discs (Front), 255 mm Disc (Rear), ABS
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster Dimensions
* Length x Width x Height: 2235 mm x 770 mm x 1040 mm
* Wheelbase: 1510 mm
* Seat Height: 705 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 12-litres
* Kerb weight: 245.5 kgs
Testers’ Note:
“The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster is a more practical version of the Bonneville, especially when you compare it to the Bobber that definitely looks the part but isn’t practical. The Speedmaster is more focussed towards long distance riding which it does quite well but the small fuel tank and the windblast don’t bode well for munching on the miles, although the engine makes you think otherwise with its punchy performance.” – Faisal Khan, Editor, MotorBeam.
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