Triumph has taken the covers off the updated Speed Twin 1200 models, which are available in two variants: standard and RS. The difference between the two primarily lies in their underpinnings and slight ergonomic revisions.
- Engine in both bikes rated at 105hp, 112Nm of torque
- Bidirectional quickshifter exclusive to RS variant
- RS variant has more focused ergos compared to the base 1200
Triumph Speed Twin 1200 line-up: Design, features details
A lot has changed with the Speed Twin 1200, and the biggest difference is in its appearance. It now features the same LED headlight as the Speedmaster, and Triumph says the goal of this update was to make the bike sleeker. To that end, the updated Speed Twin models use new engine casings, inverted shock absorbers at the rear instead of RSU units, and narrower exhaust mufflers.
The instrumentation on the Speed Twin 1200 models has also changed, with twin digi-analogue dials making way for the LCD from the Trident 660, which is being seen on a growing number of Triumphs now. The switchgear, too, is the same as the Trident, and a USB-C charging port is standard.
Triumph Speed Twin 1200 line-up: changes under the new skin
Both the Speed Twin 1200 and the RS are powered by the same liquid-cooled, 1,200cc parallel-twin engine as before, but this motor now gets a new cam, a sportier tune, and a higher 8,000 rpm redline. It is now rated at 105hp at 7,750rpm and 112Nm at 4,250rpm. Power is up by 5hp and is made 500rpm later in the rev band; this is the same output as the erstwhile Thruxton RS.
Speaking of ergonomics, the handlebar on the standard Speed Twin 1200 has been moved up and back toward the rider, and the footpegs are placed in a relatively roomier manner compared to the RS variant. It also has a lower seat height of 805mm compared to both the RS and the outgoing model.
Being the sporty variant, the RS has relatively more aggressive ergonomics, with a lower, forward-set handlebar, and higher, more rear-set footpegs. It also has a taller seat height of 810mm and is suspended by a fully adjustable Marzocchi fork and Ohlins shock absorbers. Braking duties are handled by superbike-spec Brembo Stylema calipers clamping down on twin 320mm discs. Like the current Speed Twin 1200, the RS rolls on Metzeler Racetec RR tyres.
Internationally, the base Triumph Speed Twin 1200 will cost GBP 12,495, which is a step up from the current model’s price tag of GBP 11,995, and the RS is priced at GBP 14,495. Currently, the Speed Twin 1200 is priced at Rs 11.09 lakh in India and it remains to be seen what pricing strategy Bajaj adopts when the new 1200s make their way to India.
Vishal Venugopal
Ved Janve
Azaman Chothia
