This facelifted Triumph motorbike gains more performance, more tech and revised styling.
Triumph Motorcycles has recently given its Speed Twin a rather radical refresh. Initially debuting in 2018, this updated Modern Classic performance roadster for 2021 is now better performing, nicer looking and more technically advance than ever before.
Kicking things off with its performance enhancements first, those expecting significantly more power with this most recent update will probably be left disappointed. That is because the peak power output of the now Euro 5 compliant 1,200 cc High Power Bonneville parallel-twin has only increased by a lowly 3 PS to 100 PS @ 7,250 rpm, while peak torque remains identical to what it was before at 112 Nm.
That said though, a flatter torque curve and more mid-range power made possible by a host of updated engine internals will mean that the rider will nevertheless be able to feel the performance difference with this updated 2021 Speed Twin while out on the road. A 17% reduction in inertia courtesy of a new lightweight crankshaft and alternator also means that this revised Triumph will be a more responsive ride than its predecessor.
To add to that responsive riding experience, the facelifted Speed Twin gains an uprated pair of upside down 43mm Marzocchi front forks with cartridge damping to complement the existing twin shock setup with adjustable spring preload round the rear. As for its brakes meanwhile, the fronts have been upgraded to Brembo 4-piston M50 radial monobloc front brake calipers that grab onto twin 320 mm Brembo discs, while the rear braking setup remains the same Nissin twin-piston floating rear calliper with 220 mm disc.
What has been upgraded on either end of the 2021 Speed Twin though will be its new lightweight 12-spoke cast aluminium 17-inch front and rear wheels that are both wrapped in Metzeler Racetec RR tyres. The lights at both ends of this updated Triumph are now LED units too, with the front circular headlight set to feature an integrated DRL signature.
And continuing on the topic of the headlight, new anodised headlight and mudguards mounts have also made its way on the 2021 Speed Twin. Other aesthetic enhancements to be found on this revised Triumph includes a new set of graphics on its 14.5 litre fuel tank, as well as a brand new pair of brushed stainless-steel twin upswept silencers that the British motorcycle manufacturer proclaims to have been ‘carefully crafted for a deep, throaty roar’.
Now moving onto the enhanced tech on the 2021 Speed Twin, the three driving modes (Rain, Road and Sport) previously offered have since been enhanced to allow for better adjustment of both the throttle response and traction control settings that suit the rider’s personal preference. These riding modes can be changed at the touch of a button while on the move, with riders can also having the option to switch the traction control off independently through the instrument menu on the analogue-digital combination cluster.
As for the more practical tech to be found on this updated Triumph, the revised Speed Twin features an under-seat USB charging socket, an accessory Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and an immobiliser with transponder integrated into the key. ABS is naturally also standard here, as well as an amazingly high 16,000 km first service interval.
The 2021 Speed Twin will be offered in three colour schemes: Red Hopper, Jet Black and Matt Storm Grey with yellow accents. Set to arrive in Malaysia come August, the retail price locally for this updated Triumph will unfortunately only be known by the end of June.
Judging by the current Speed Twin on sale over here however, it could be reasonable to expect this updated model to be priced somewhere around the RM 75,000 mark. Though this is before adding any of the 50+ custom accessories on offer of course, which range from multi-function LED indicators to quilted seats and luggage, knee pads, engine embellishers, heated grips and so much more.
PRESS RELEASE: Launched in 2018, the Triumph Speed Twin set the benchmark for how a Modern Classic performance roadster should ride and feel. Thanks to its class-leading handling, thrilling and responsive engine, advanced rider technology and beautiful, modern custom style with category-defining premium finish and detailing, it quickly became an award-winning performance icon.
Endowed with the power and torque of the Triumph Thruxton R in a more accessible set up, the Speed Twin delivered the contemporary custom style and engaged ride of the Street Twin but with even more premium and beautiful details. For 2021, this iconic roadster brings an evolution in every dimension, from power and performance, to handling, technology and style – making it the perfect combination of character, aesthetic appeal and genuine sport performance.
Higher Performance
Significantly updated, the 2021 Triumph Speed Twin’s characterful 1200cc High Power Bonneville twin engine has even higher performance but with lower emissions, making it fully Euro 5 compliant. It delivers 3PS more peak power, now 100PS at 7,250rpm, plus more power in the mid-range than its predecessor. Alongside the incredibly strong and linear power delivery, there is also a fuller torque curve with peak torque of 112Nm arriving more than 500rpm lower down the rev range.
The responsiveness of the engine has also been enhanced, thanks to a 17% reduction in inertia as a result of using a new lightweight crankshaft and alternator. These enable the engine to spin up faster and rev harder for longer, with peak revs now 500rpm higher than before. In addition, new high compression pistons, revised ports and a new cam profile complete the list of performance enhancements.
The distinctive sound of the High Power Bonneville twin is amplified by the new brushed stainless steel megaphone twin upswept sports silencers, which were carefully crafted for a deep, throaty roar to match the Speed Twin’s legendary name. The innovative and uninterrupted exhaust header run cleverly conceals the catalyst box, delivering the characteristic clean-line “straight-run” design.
As with all of the models in Triumph’s Modern Classic range, the cost of ownership is kept low thanks to the high first major service interval of 16,000 km.
Better Handling
Already acknowledged for its superb, sure-footed comfortable handling, the 2021 Triumph Speed Twin benefits from a number of significant upgrades for an even more precise, agile and dynamic ride.
New suspension hardware consists of upside down 43mm Marzocchi front forks with cartridge damping that brings a more confidence-inspiring and comfortable ride with 120mm of wheel travel. These are perfectly matched to the twin rear suspension units with adjustable spring preload, and 120mm of rear wheel travel, both precisely tuned for even better handling and to deliver the perfect modern roadster ride.
The dynamic package is further enhanced by improved braking performance. New higher specification Brembo 4-piston M50 radial monobloc front brake calipers grab twin 320mm Brembo discs and are matched to a Nissin 2-piston floating rear caliper with 220mm disc. With ABS fitted as standard, these deliver a stronger initial braking-bite, more feel and better fade characteristics.
Ensuring incredible grip, precision and high-speed stability, new Metzeler Racetec RR tyres are fitted as standard along with new cast aluminium wheels, 17” on both front and rear, featuring a lightweight 12-spoke design.
Ergonomically, the Speed Twin offers an intuitive and confidence-inspiring ride. The seat height is an accessible 809mm while a slim stand over width, tapered handlebars and a comfortable roadster foot-peg position that is 38mm further forward and 4mm lower than the Thruxton, provides the rider with a more relaxed riding position.
Enhanced Technology
Befitting its modern classic performance roadster classification, the new 2021 Triumph Speed Twin is packed with rider-focused technology, including a sophisticated ride-by-wire system that ensures precise throttle control and offers three riding modes: Rain, Road and Sport. These have been enhanced to allow for adjustment of both the throttle response and traction control settings to suit the rider’s preference. The riding modes can be changed at the touch of a button while on the move and riders can also choose to switch the traction control off independently through the instrument menu.
To make it stand out of the road, the Speed Twin is also equipped with an LED rear light and indicators, and, where market legislation permits, the signature LED Daytime Running Light (DRL) that is incorporated into the headlight.
Providing the rider with an information rich display, contemporary 3D clocks incorporate a digital menu system accessed by the scroll button mounted on the handlebar. Key information displayed includes gear position, two trip settings, fuel level and range-to-empty, as well an average and current fuel consumption, access to traction control settings and TPMS indicator if the latter is fitted as an accessory.
Other rider focused technology includes an under-seat USB charging socket, an accessory Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and an immobiliser with transponder integrated into the premium Triumph branded key.
More Premium Style and Detailing
Incorporating Triumph’s timeless DNA with a contemporary stripped-back custom style
and poise, the new 2021 Triumph Speed Twin is even more beautiful than its predecessor and comes with new stylish details.
In addition to the new 12-spoke cast wheels and twin upswept sporty silencers, the Speed Twin is characterised by its signature-shaped 14.5L tank with knee indents, beautiful bar end mirrors, sculpted side panels and stylish bench seat. Premium details and finishes are harmonised across the bike, including brushed aluminium front and rear mudguards with new mounts, plus brushed aluminium side panel finishers and heel guards. Additional premium touches and details include new anodised headlamp mounts to compliment the painted headlamp bowl, classic Monza fuel cap and clear anodised aluminium swingarm.
For 2021, the Speed Twin is available in three paint schemes: the new vibrant and lustrous Red Hopper scheme, the sophisticated Matt Storm Grey with subtle yellow accents, or the timeless Jet Black.
50+ Custom Accessories
The 2021 Speed Twin is the perfect platform for personalisation with over 50 custom accessories that riders can add to enhance the style, practicality and security of their bike. These range from multi-function LED indicators, to quilted seats and luggage, knee pads, engine embellishers, head bolt covers, sump plates, heated grips and many more.
All genuine Triumph accessories have been designed and developed alongside the bike itself, to the same exacting standards, to ensure perfect integration and excellent durability, and all come with the same two-year unlimited mileage warranty.
