Lack of technology a YES from me, and I totally agree with you about the colours options the orange tank was spoiled by having a matt finish, l just don't get matt paint on any vehicle???? I had a demo 1200 speed twin home for a day and probably spent 95% of the time in rain mode just to smooth out the throttle response that said there would be space in the garage for one😊
Owned a Speed Twin for 3 years. Agree 100% with the comment about the side stand. I also find the Sport Mode very jerky in traffic. I had heated grips fitted, and they are essential in the UK if you ride in the cooler weather. I don't think apart from that the bike needs extra equipment. I should like to finish by saying that I do love the Speed Twin. I have it in Red which i like. I think it is a great bike, and is definitely a long term keeper.
I have a 2023 model owned several months now. For me I love the simplicity, those that complain about lack of QS, cruise control, heated grips, wind protection have in my opinion bought the wrong bike. It’s not what the Speed Twin is about. Yes the side stand is annoying but I can live with it. I love my red hopper colour. Also I agree that sport mode is a bit snatchy through town but fine on the open road. I’ve read many complaints about the headlight but really it’s not that bad even in rain at night. Great review. Thanks.
Pros, tourque, mirrors, looks, simplicity, brakes , handling, low seat height .cons tank range, fuel cap, narrow tyre profiles, electrics under the bike, my only bike and seems a great all rounder. Happy with my storm grey colour, when triumph do pin strips they make it look naff by writing goldline on. It does nice clutchless up changes. Great review kate cheers.
I owned one of the first Speed twins, had it fitted with weslake straight through cans. The noise was incredible 😊. Yep side stand terrible and all the early ones suffered with noisy front discs. Still the best filtering bike I've ever owned 👌
I would always go for heated grips in this country (the UK). Never had them in 40 years of motorcycling, but having tried them once on a BMW I became a quick convert. I would also like Triumph to make a decent screen for touring - not a little flyscreen but something to make 70 mph comfortable for more than a couple of minutes.
I've had a Triumph Trident before and loved it but feel I've outgrown it. Test rode the Speed Twin and love the toque of the engine and very smooth for a twin. Love the brakes and overall look of the bike but feel its a bit expensive for what it is and the colour options are limited. I don't like the LCD elements on the clocks and no quick shifter even as an option. For me, if you've had a quick shifter I don't really want to go back but can understand the arguement that its not that type of bike. Overall, great bike but one for the future. Bought the 765 RS instead!!
My husband has the 2022 1200 Thruxton and I have the 2022 1200 Speed Twin, Breitling edition. I agree with all your pros and cons, and would add the lack of self cancelling turn signals to the list of cons. From a safety standpoint, I feel these should be standard on all motorcycles. The lack of color choices was not an issue for me, as mine is that pretty Breitling Blue, but the retro livery that you mentioned would be beautiful. In summary, I think Triumph has done a great job of producing a quality bike, with modern technology while maintaining that retro look.
I wish they still did a Thruxton in British racing green, and strictly speaking a Speed Twin should be offered in in original Edward turner maroon, like they once did with the gen 1 Bobbers. A Speed twin would look great in that colour, especially if applied to all the cycle parts and not just the tank.
i mean you get used to the turn signals. usually i cancel it mid corner or right before i enter the turn. if you wait til youve completed the action you might forget
@@monkmoto1887 I'm terrible for leaving my indicators on. Have to say, the self-cancelling system on my Harley is really good. It even gets it right after overtakes. (Yes, they do happen on Harleys..). Trouble is you get used to it and then when you ride a bike without them you forget again.
Nice bike. Quick shifter on a retro bike is a bit silly to request. Now cruise control and a screen would be nice. Heated grips should be standard in colder climates. Here in Australia not required. Front mudgard clearly too small for a garage queen type of bike would have to buy radiator guard and keep cleaning it not a fan of cleaning bikes.a bit pricey would buy a T100 fit a screen and panniers and fit a side stand foot and hopefully that works.
Poor sidestand accessibility: I've got used to it on my Honda, comes with practice. But you could easily slip a short length of flexible tubing over the prong (braided fuel pipe?) to extend it a bit. As the actress said to the bishop.
Love the Speed Twin 1200. Such an engaging feel good bike, one of my all time favourites. Only 2 negatives for me... Racetec RR tyres are pointless on a bike like this. Sure it handles pretty well, but I'd much rather have M9RRs for general road use. Also the price... Bit steep considering the basic rear suspension and lack of gadgetry, especially compared with the Street Triples.
Haven't ridden the latest Speed Twin but on balance it sounds like the positives far outweigh the negatives. The side stand should be an easy fix. Other bikes have this issue too and there are kick-lug extensions available. If there isn't an off the shelf solution for the Triumph it wouldn't be hard to have something made up. The fueling should be fixable as well and is likely down to Euro 5 emissions compliance. And it's probable that some individual bikes will be less affected than others, so I wouldn't let it put me off, especially as if I was buying one I'd be looking to de-cat and remap it anyway. The colour options I agree with. I like black myself but really don't like the fashion for flat mat metallic. Looks like the sort of finish you expect to see on office furniture. And I think Triumph overdo the brushed stainless look. I'd rather see a bright polished or a gloss paint finish. Or a carbon option. The lack of tech would be a bonus for me. Most of it is unnecessary and only serves to pad the price. For a bike of this sort, I think less is more. The suspension could be an issue for heavier male riders. But if is so, I'd buy the Truxton RS and fit flat bars. All in all sounds like a great bike. But I'd still have the Thruxton..
Kate I have the Truxton R with the fairing. I think the entire Bonneville line doesn't need anything in the electronics department. They are PURE motorcycles. I also own the 2023 Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the Speed Triple 1200 RR and those bikes need all the electronics. Modern bikes benefit but the classics need to be just that, classic and simple like the good old days. Great video Lady! 👍👍
Funny! As I was thinking how good this bike would look in brighter colours, you mentioned it! In a mat off white colour. That would be great! A tried the Speed Twin some years ago, but went with the BMW RnineT Pure. It was more rock'n'roll in the beemer. About gadgets...this is not a gadget bike. Thank you Kate!
I have several bikes and only my Haley Davidson Ultra has cruise control. I do ride the Speed Twin frequently and find that I would like this feature on the bike. Especially on longer rides between coastal towns in Georgia where I live.
I had put a deposit on the RE Super Meteor 650 here in San Diego last month but after test riding it, and realizing recently, December; sometimes it takes a while to think things thru. The rear suspension was terrible, it took a couple of days for my back to quit hurting and the windscreen was also pretty bad above 55mph, (wind buffeting). I now have the deposit on the Blacked-out version of the RE Interceptor 650. It should arrive late January or sometime in February of '24. Thank you for sharing your videos and I recently saw you review the Interceptor 650.😎 Take care and be safe.
I miss torque so I'm thinking about getting the street twin 900 HT as my next bike, but I'll probably change my mind a million times by then. The side stand issue actually put me off the Thruxton 😮
I recently bought the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE, loving it ! I know what you mean about feeling planted on the road, the XE is confidence inspiring on lose gravel where my DR would feel skittish. Great review.
Always heel it, I've gotten so good it's nothing now, even with plastic armored heeled boots. It needs heated grips and cruise would be nice in lew of all the nannies. The classic deserves a level of simplicity. You would love the torque these put out uncorked :)
I echo the importance of a lifesaver; thanks for that! The side stand is bearable when you get used to it: lean the bike over a bit to find it and use your heel. I agree that the sport mode doesn’t make a huge difference, but I fitted a throttle spacer, a fuel booster and an aftermarket air filter. This has ironed out the jerkiness at low speeds and maybe improved the performance a bit. Having ridden a few thousand miles I think a quick shifter would be good. I have heated grips (essential in our climes). I miss self cancelling indicators, which I have on my other bike. Lots of people have bitched about the stock suspension but, honestly, how many of us adjust the suspension on a daily basis to compensate for what? I love the fact that this is a visceral, basic, old fashioned kind of bike, like the Bonny I dreamed of 50 years ago when I couldn’t afford one, but SO MUCH BETTER! As you say, the torque is phenomenal. Every time I take the ST out for a blast it puts a huge smile on my face. This is a true ‘modern classic’. I hope Triumph bring out an RS version! The Thruxton was too brutally uncomfortable; a more upright high performance Bonnie would be perfection!
I have had my grey 2019 speedtwin for nearly two years kate and wouldn't swap it for anything else absolutely love it. Definitely agree with the side stand issue and i think the clock's are at too flatter angle... get lots bad reflections especially on sunny days they need to be more vertical. Definitely a must is a vance and hines pipe too the standard is too quiet. Always wanted a thruxton initially but after sitting on a few felt that the tank was way too narrow felt like i was sitting on a yamaha fsie and the clips on would be a problem for me too. Keep up the great reviews 👍
Loved the review, Kate! I'm in San Antonio, Texas and just picked up a 2023 in the Baja Orange and I love it! I agree about the trend of bland colors... I bought my Street Twin in Korosi Red because it wasn't black. That side stand is really tough to find compared to my Street. I have to make a very conscious effort to remember where it is, especially when I have come off of riding the other bike. I absolutely love the power, fueling seems spot on, the throttle is very smooth, even before I added the Ducati spacers to the throttle. The fit and finish is fantastic and the style really stands out. The only miss in my opinion, and I think this only applies to US bikes, are the ridiculously large turn signals and multi-function rears with a blanking plate where the center brake light should be. It really does not fit the style and looks tacked on. I have already ordered the Euro lights, so thankfully, I will not have to live with that much longer! Love the content, keep it up! Ride safe!
Regarding the quick shifter: I am a returning biker, returning after about 40 years. I have a Street Triple R which has a wonderfull quick shift, but I very rearly use it for the simple fact that I forget it is there and use the clutch at each gear change, when I have used it I felt it was like flappy padles until the down shift and the blip that was nice. When I was riding Japanese two strokes the way to change gear without a clutch was rev matching and bliping the throtle on the down shifts. The one thing that I did get wrong when I speced my bike was to not have heated grips, mentally I had it in my mind that it was going to be a summer toy, boy was I wrong. I have built a car and love how it drives when you get cold air into the engine, on cold crisp days the Westy stays in the garage and I go out on my bike, with cold hands. Just how many pairs of gloves do I need to be able to put in hand warmers/inner gloves and summer gloves that mean they are not soaked with sweat, lol.
YES, YES YES It needs Cruise control, rhe T120 has it, so why not the Speed Twin! Heated grips can be fitted so not a problem. Quick shifter nah not needed One question does anyone get vibrations through the bars?
Speed Twin 2022 owner says lack of cruise control, heated grips, is a pro. Like TFT screen and customisable rider modes, totally surplus to need on this beast of a bike. This is not a BMW GS it's a proper motor bike! The side stand awkwardness I understand, it took a while but I can get it first time now. Great video .
I coveted this bike when the classic Triumph range came out. Having seen many reviews, I'm now not sure I would spend the my money on one. Having said that if you wanted a classic why would you want too much techy, there are loads of bikes for those who want blippers etc. As for the side stand, what on earth are you doing Triumph, that sounds so easy to fix and would annoy the hell out of me. Keep up the great work Kate.
I have own a Speed Twin for 2 years and love it. You get use to the stand, you can get options of heated grips and cruise. The throttle can be a little snatchey at low speed but it is a large twin so to be expected. It makes 112nm at 4250 rpm. I turn off the traction it is not needed. My main issue is poor dealership customer service compared to Honda.
Great video. I have owned a speed twin for just over 12 months. I have never rode it in rain mode. always ride in road mode. I can't cope with sport mode, on off throttle. No. the side stand not too bad I aways use my heal. But my husband has trouble with it. My husband does not have trouble with the sport mode. I think it's a man thing. we haven't found the suspension to back even 2 up. Lovely bike. Hopper Red. Right amount of tech for me. keep it simple.
Hey, the Triumph is pretty cool. I think a classic bike should have as little electronics as necessary, i.e. no automatic shifting, riding modes, etc. Just really classic. Thanks for the video 🙋🏼♂️👍🏻
Hi Kate! I have test rode a Speedy Twin 1200 and coming from my 40BHP bike to this was like..WOW! The torque of the engine is just incredible and throughout the test ride I pretty much stayed in 4th gear. My god this thing is like a rocket ship! It's a small bike and that's what I like, nothing too heavy either. It was not in the least bit intimidating. Scarey fast though! Im not sure I would survive too long owning one.
I have a 2022 Street Twin and love it. I do have heated grips but nothing else and find that perfect for this style of bike. Just my opinion. Love your videos!!!
Hi Kate, Heated grips and cruise are a must on a bike for that price. It's lazy and cynical of Triumph not to include cruise at least as an option. My question - I get that the torque is good in town, lower speeds. What about overtaking - how's the 60 to 80? Given the high torque number, would you say it's comparable to the Street Triple? Also, I've heard engine heat's on par with Ducati, but few reviewers actually seem to mention. What's your experience? Kr,
When i'm looking for a bike, i look for one that has a cable operated throttle and normal manual transmission. i don't want the tech, it makes the ride feel disconnected. i'm not racing for the gp cup so tenths of a second don't mean a lot. i just want to go out and fly the countryside as one with my machine. it's why i tend to gravitate towards the used market now but there's still a few bikes like this one that really peak my interest
Great round up. I’ve ridden a 2019 red ST1200 for three years and love it! Toured on it and all. Totally agree about the crap kickstand, almost stopped me buying it but have now got used to it but it was a total nightmare!! Heated grips added so o drama and a great bike!
Thankyou for showing us your video's, I thoroughly enjoyed them . Happy Christmas to you, Mike and your families, hope you all have wonderful new year.😊🎉
TFT screens are a liability got three biker mates that have issues and if it goes down on a street triple bike won’t go £1500 replacement I am told 😳 upgrades on the gen 2 are significant only upgrade I would do are YSS rear shocks and still think Vance & Hines pipes are the best 👊 Great review Kate as always 🤙
Good set of reviews, very fair. I went for a new Black Speed Twin in July 2019, not very keen on the colours available at the time. Complained and complained about the awful noise from the front brake, Triumph swapped bits, better but not cured, now in 2024 it finally seems to have settled down. All the first generation did it, strange how the journalists never mentioned it whilst on their jollie in Mallorca! Sidestand no problem once you are used to it. Average is almost 67mpg from new. Running on Avon Trailriders now, much more planted on damp British roads than the OEM tyres. Shame Avon have shut the factory! Runs cooler particularly on RH cylinder after de-cat, and sounds wonderful with V&H silencers. Options that are not so easy on gen 2. Looks good, but as you say the engine and the torque are the stars. A keeper, until I'm too old to swing my leg over.
To me the only thing Speed Twin lacks is heated grips and they can be added by the dealer. Quick shifter, cruise control and modes to me are fluff. Of course I am 71 and started riding 50 years ago.
Some good thoughts. Having one myself i agree mostly with you. I didn't like the jerkyness of the throttle either - so i installed a throttle spacer. The colours? I liked the grey of the pre-2021 model. But cause of the limited choices afterwards i just took it in black. The Gold-Line of the Street Twin would look nice aswell imho.
I think on this type of bike, analogue dials look the part. A TFT would look out of place on a cafe racer/retro/scrambler style of bike. The whole lack of colours is true on all bike manufacturers. Why do they make bikes in such boring dull colours? KTM might be a bit bright in the orange colour, but I think it's a brave move and suits the brand. As for tech or lack of, again, it goes with the style of the bike. But you're absolutely right about the stand, what the monkey pants is going on with the stand? You shouldn't have to get off the bike to flick the stand out! What a huge design flaw like it stands out (pun intended) like a sore thumb
I’ve got the new T120 which is similar and have to agree about the addictive torque. I have cruise control and still have never used it. I think a quick shifter and auto blipper is reserved for sports bikes, my last bike was a triple RS and the way I rode it made sense of the quick shifter but on the T120 everything is slowed down considerably and so in my opinion it would be at odds with the style of bike. Couple of things I don’t like on the T120 ( not sure if it’s the same on the speed twin ) are 1. Absolutely no space at all under the seat for even a small puncture kit and couple of tools 2. Front and rear indicator stalks are chromed plastic which is naff. LOVE your content Kate, keep up the great work.
The thing I dislike is the side stand, I put in the throttle space, DNA Oil air filter and snorkel removed and Nitron rear shocks transformed the handling. It's not really a touring bike and for that I have a Triumph Tiger 800 xrx with all the bells and whistles, the bike to tour on. The Speed Twin 1200 is a blast in the Twisties and good for 3-4 hours of toquey fun!
I have a 2020 ST, I love it. Yea, it has some character, but you can't beat the build quality. I find it's size, handling and torc are outstanding. I agree with the side stand, but not a big deal to me, The only upgrade I want to make is to the suspension. AT times it can feel rather harsh. But all in all a great motorcycle. Everytime I ride on my ST, it brings a smile to my face. If your looking for perfection your going to end up with a motorcycle that is boring as hell to ride. For that buy a Honda.
I have the 2020 model in the nicer red colour. It is snatcy at low revs in traffic in sport and road but fine in rain mode. Overall a great bike with a superb grunty engine and good looks. I dont find the side stand a problem but do wish it had a centre stand.
Great vlog as usual Kate , reference heated grips , nope I’ve got a good pair of heated , waterproof gloves instead , you can move them between bikes at no extra cost , cruise control , quick shifter no , I like having control over the bike , not the other way round ( ps been riding all types of bikes 52 years) , reference a big update for the bike , someone should bring back the classic Rickman fairing , now that would be interesting and Last of all ? A Big Happy Christmas 🤶 🤶🎅⛄️❄️🎂 to you all 😊😊👍👍
I agree with most of your comments as an current owner I’ do find suspension very harsh on our rubbish roads it should have heated grips and cruse control to help with all the speed limits we have to suffer l also agree with Triumph’s very poor colour options this extends across the hole,range in my opinion considering the prices with the exception of the speed triple R S in yellow and the low down torque is addictive as is the low down rumble from pipes mine is a 2020 version 😎👍
I was getting ready to defend my trusty steed, however, everything you highlighted is bang on. Colour options are poor, black is the best of a bad lot. Throttle is snatchy at low revs and the side stand is ‘odd’. Happy with the lack of tech, quick shifter isn’t needed so has everything it needs. I’ve upgraded the rear suspension and have a Hurley seat, other than that it’s a sophisticated grin machine.
Great final thoughts, I Love this bike after the crazy speed triple 1200, would be happy for a simple cruise control such as the T120 has (2023) and also adding my complain to the rear shocks. Hope that the new ST RS will have rear ohlins and CC. RED is always the fastest color 😉
Hi Kate Great Bike (I have one) 22 model metallic Red, after all it is a retro monster! But yes I also had the 1200 speedster with cruise control I miss it ! The 1200 speed twin is a bog standard kitted out bike but for the money should have had quick shifter, cruise, and top box rack facilities! Its all engine that’s what you are buying into! Have a great Day Ponty Pete!!!
I like a retro to have analog gauges, but definitely should come with heated grips. And anything ride by wire should have cruise, even sportbikes in my opinion. I agree with you on the colors.
It’s a roadster and a classic it’s got what it needs. Think it’s a bike for the older gen. I love my 22 plate rocket 3R but enjoy this one a little more it’s just so easy to ride and the transmission’s butter smooth.
Nice job! Agreed on the kickstand issue for certain! Have a different set of rear sets that helps a little with this problem. The sport mode is a tad jumpy off the line, more so than the other modes, but I believe that's the point of that particular mode. Color choices are what they are, unfortunately, but I have the 2022 model, and I believe they color choice is called Matt Storm Grey, even though I feel it looks more like a matt black. I love it! I chose to make mine look more like a café racer, so it works for me. Even though I originally wanted the Thruxton R, I went with the Speed twin for a better riding position for my back. Had to do some creative paint striping though, to cover the yellow line on that model. Didn't feel like it went with my scheme or black and grey. Stay safe out there!
Those gadgets are not really required but it would be a lot more useful if the price was lower because at the end of the day it's a pretty low tech bike in every way 😂😊😮
The gadgets do not cost too much after the software has been finished. Alas they are mostly there to gel over the fact that there is actually precious little real development going on in motorcycle land (except electric bikes). But not everything is bleak. As long as someone like Kate is so friendly to explain it all to us in her unique style….
Good review Kate. I agree with everything in your summary though having just come back from riding mine in 35c I would like refrigerated grips and seat as an Australian option!
I completely agree with you about the colors. I'm close to getting a scrambler 1200 xe. I don't like the current color offerings at all and because I like the blue one, I'll be forced to find a used one and Triumph missed out on the sale of a new bike. since the tank is really the only thing that colored defiantly on the scrambler I'm surprised they don't offer more color options. I'd Love to see you and mike review the scrambler 1200 xe and xc. Thanks for the great videos :)
Lack of technology? I have a GS with lots of knobs and buttons and never use any of them! my Speed Twin has a snatchy clutch, tank range could be better and the brakes squeal. But the motor is awesome!!!!
I have a speed twin 1200 that side stand. You have to use bit of a technique you have to flick it very quick with your heel that’s the only way to do it 😮 I have the red I didn’t go for the Matt orange No don’t need quickshifter on a retro bike really it’s a relaxed effortless ride so much torque I have my Hornet 750 with the quickshifter ideal on that bike as it’s a lot more nimble and frisky 😂
I took one for a test ride whilst my Tiger was in for a service and dispite loving the looks I was disappointed. The engine was good but the bike felt to small and the finish was poor. The demonstrator had badly corroded down pipes despite only months old over summer, admittedly it was October by then, but still. And no one mentions the poor steering lock. Went to do a u turn to park up facing out and nearly dropped it the turning circle was so poor it couldn't do it without a 3 point turn where my much bigger Tiger manages no problem. Still like the styling but no thanks. Made me really appreciate my Tiger 900 when I went back to collect it!
I have a Kawasaki Versys which has been very good for two-up riding, but was looking to downsize in weight, but not necessarily in power so I’ve been testing out various options and went to the local Triumph dealer with the Speed Twin on my top list. It’s interesting jumping from the Versys to the Speedtwin. People say that inline fours are relatively smooth and I was used to the higher pitched vibes of the Kawasaki, so when I hopped on the Speedtwin I was quite surprised at the thumpy vibration, and yes, what motorcycle testers like to say about big twins throbbing is, what I would call vibration. I didn’t like the fact of no quick shifter and heated grips should be standard on almost every more expensive bike. I thought the handling was great and the torque was a great surprise. Unlike you, I found the clocks a little hard to read at a glance and yes, the sidestand was annoying. I also tried the T120 and felt the handling was quite slow compared to the Speed Twin, and the riding position was a lot more comfortable for my older bones, but it was definitely down on power compared to the Speed Twin. On my short ride on a cool day the engine heat was definitely noticeable at stops. I think the Speed Twin should have the quick-shifter and heated grips as standard. All in all, I think the Speed Twin is a great bike for folks looking for more of those old-school vibes.😊
Hi Kate, I have the 22 reg Speed Twin and it came with factory fitted heated grips, which are fab. Cant say i miss a cruise control or a quickshifter tbh. I don't think they suit this kind of bike. I also have fixed the twitchy throttle with a spacer kit and all is great now. Brill video as usual.
The speedy does make great torque, but Triumph geared it quite low, notice that it feels a bit ‘busy’ at 70-75, which added to the torque gives an impressive thrust figure.
Hi Kate, I owned the previous incarnation of the speed twin in silver 2019 model which sadly in June this year was crushed against a wall whilst it was parked at work, loved that bike. I replaced it with….another one, new, what colour to go for? New colours fuggly, where is the glorious triumph script? My dealer chased me down an orange example, you grow to really love that colour and the way it changes in the light ( should have been roulette green with bronze pin striping! Side stand aggravation is down to your boots, never bothered me on my Thruxton either. As for modes, use rain in rain, road on the road and only sport when you’re pushing on a bit and they’re fine. Is the new one better than the fist version simply yes, now all I need is the fine weather to get more time to appreciate. Cheers
I have 2,000 miles on my 22 matte black. the dials are pretty but i could make something more sturdy from two tuna fish cans. The suspension is inferior. with end cans the sound is perfect. Ill put more appropriate tires on it next time the slicks aren’t appropriate and something with tread would be. love that it doesn’t have a quick shifter or cruise control. the fueling in rain mode is preferable sometimes because you can still twist it when u want but it’s not snatchy.. so.. end cans, suspension, appropriate tires and we’re golden. Also hope triumph makes the dials better in the future it’s kind of embarrassing imo.
Not a fan of the color options? The present trend is to move the other tints ever closer to black. So basically you are totally right but hear who’s complaining! Queen of stealth! 😁
I’ve ridden the 1200. It’s my kind of bike in terms of style and that it comes with that nice sense of occasion. The engine os great in terms of its character for bumbling around. I was expecting more in terms of the torque based on the figures on paper. Brisk enough however. I was surprised how much feathering the clutch needed when pulling away at low rpms.
Neat review as always, Kate! I think the lack of tech is in keeping with the bike, but heated grips should be standard for the money. I have a friend who has had a quick shifter added to his older 765 street triple and has found it to be a bit hard on the chain. Perhaps the same would be the case with this bike. Color options are limited, I agree. I will say the Baja Orange from last year has grown on me since seeing it in real life. Easy enough to have the bike in another riding mode when putting around town, sport mode is not really there for town riding IMO. Fully agree with everyrhing else you like about it, the lines are perfect for me. Simple and very clean and elegant. Some of these modern bikes are starting to look like the makers of the Transformers have been in on the design team. All angles and bits and pieces and far too busy. The MT 10 is a classic example. Great bike by all accounts but I could never go for a ride that looked like that personally. The speedy looks perfect to me. Pretty lightweight with tons of torque.. again, perfect. I will definitely be buying one in the future. Hopefully soon... (and I'll have to mod the side stand. That will drive me nuts too, gotta confess.) Love your videos Kate, well done!
Hi 👋 Kate. I don’t know if the stealth read was available at the time you did your review, but I find it gorgeous. About lack of technological devices, I think I could easily live without them. I mean, I had an aftermarket Bluetooth adjustable quick shifter on my katana.. and I used it 3 o 4 times (100 euros each). Heated grips depend on use of the bike through the seasons. What I would really like is cruise control for boring motorways riding, and it saves some fuel too. Not interested in connectivity too, because when I have my phone on the handlebar, I’m happy with that. Rather a good (not bulky) Bluetooth system “built-in” in my Arai helmet. Anyway, I fell in love (strange isn’t it?) with the 2025 1200 speed twin Rs and I think the only person that can understand my feelings , my struggles is you (over dramatic speaking) because you rode both (this one and my Ktm 890 Duke R)… so the Hamlet question is “will I dramatically miss agility and punch, switching to the one I’ve mentioned? Thank you in advance . I try to follow your contents as much as I can, but time is a tyrant.
I'm a big fan of twin clock's and the minimum of tek, auto blippers and such are of no interest to me at all. If you find a top of the range Triumph like this one to have a few flaws I'm really looking forward to your thoughts on the new cheap 400s which as far as i can see are made down to a price and not up to a quality.
I own this speed twin and hate the sidestand. Its really tucked away. Also having no main stand is annoying. Its not an out and out sports bike so having to bugger about with bobbin's and paddock stands is real pain. The snatchyness is due to typical Triumph free play in the throttle which is pronounced at slow speed. A set of throttle spacers cures this. Otherwise the bike is really sound.
I know that you prefer Rain mode over Sport mode. But I'm wondering how the Road mode is. I'm starting to settle on the Speed Twin 1200 for my next bike.
"good break's" ? for this resume "why do you not do a quarter mile with emergency-break , three times?" this stop&go traffic plus your explanation about fit's not to your content many months before... perfectly
@@grachoderunwiderstehlichenThe lack of understanding of your comment is probably due to the incorrect spelling of brake. Plus the incorrect use of the apostrophe in " good break's" ( your spelling)
8.35 nice weave around that drain cover. I have to do that on at least three times on the way to work and four times on the way back in the dark. Fortunately I know the road like the back of my hand and know exactly where they are. One of them has sunk and if you go over it you do get quite a jolt. On the edge of the kerb is bad enough but why oh why are some bang slap in position two on the road.
Yeah avoid them at all costs..I'm sure you've done a video about the dangers of them...if you haven't maybe an idea for a video short. Still riding my bike in December as its still mild but did go in to work in -3 the other day, my visor had ice on it !! Been caught in the rain a few times but ibsuppose if you ride well within your limits and trust your bike and ride sensible it shouldn't be a problem unless it's absolutely chucking it down and then it's avoid those white lines and drain covers at all costs..safe riding Kate. 👍🖐
Heated grips and CC are a necessity for me. The Bonneville has CC as standard and the heated grips used to be standard on that bike. As far as I'm aware, CC isn't even an option on the speed twin. Everything else is not needed, but the option would be nice. I chose the T120 over the Speed Twin specifically because I could get the CC. Triumph dropped the ball on that one. Also the color choices on the Speed Twin are not inspiring. To be fair, Triumph stopped painting the fenders on the Bonneville to match the tank paint in 2021 (now they all come in black), so that's a big miss. I bought a 2020 T120 for the paint (silver with matching fenders), the center stand, which is no longer standard on the 21 and up models, the heated grips, which are not standard on the 21 and up models and added the factory cruise control which was an option on the earlier bikes. IMO, Triumph has started to cheap out on their classic line. Boring paint with few options, less standard equipment, but the prices have gone up? At least the Speed Twin got upside down forks in 2021, which is a big plus, but for a "premium" brand they really need to offer more in the way of colors and options across the entire line. If you're going to pay a premium price (new), you should expect premium accoutrements.
Bought a 24 ST in June, spend a lot of time in fuel stations and am constantly sliding forward into the tank. Love the look and sound of the bike but find it quite uncomfortable
Hi just watched you vlog I am 72 had street twin 900 good enough for me tech is way to much for me but I understand stand why bikes have so you can be a nutter lol I did 7,500 miles on it summer miles but then sold it for a guzzi v7 stone a bit character for me clunk bang clunk lol and of course shat drive brilliant nothing wrong with not having tech merry Christmas Kate
Had the speed twin enjoyed it but I do know not much tech. The one thing I hated was the heat….it gets so hot I couldn’t ride in the summer …swapped it for xsr 900
@@UsernameKate 2022 speed twin the updated one. I live in southern United States and summer rides are 90-100 daily . In the Uk you probably don’t need to worry much since your summer is one month ha
@@splodge57 same ….. along with monkey and super meteor….The sportster s is not bad …speed twin in southern summers is with no shield…not the best when it’s 100 degrees every day and the speed twin water cooled engine blows hot air…the xsr practically gives off zero heat
Tech is sadly always needed, so cruise and digital tach for instance. I got 5 stationary speedcams on my way to work, getting every day more plus the mobile ones. So if you don't want just to work for the tickets you get but want to let's say eat from time to time... but no need to eat, so average joe doesn't need to bother the underperforming suspension no more. Nice bike, sadly too small for me and I'm just 6ft, they seem to have made them to fit very small people.
Lack of technology a YES from me, and I totally agree with you about the colours options the orange tank was spoiled by having a matt finish, l just don't get matt paint on any vehicle???? I had a demo 1200 speed twin home for a day and probably spent 95% of the time in rain mode just to smooth out the throttle response that said there would be space in the garage for one😊
Owned a Speed Twin for 3 years. Agree 100% with the comment about the side stand. I also find the Sport Mode very jerky in traffic. I had heated grips fitted, and they are essential in the UK if you ride in the cooler weather. I don't think apart from that the bike needs extra equipment. I should like to finish by saying that I do love the Speed Twin. I have it in Red which i like. I think it is a great bike, and is definitely a long term keeper.
Simple really, don’t use sport in traffic 👍
If you have the conventional RWU fork version, it’s worth replacing the suspension with good quality components.
Excellent example how a life saver is crucial on a bike. Good that you highlighted it!
I expected it to be an Audi driver, and it was. Worst drivers on the road.
What's a lifesaver on a bike ?
@@rottweilerfun9520
Blindspot check or over the shoulder check. It can literally save your life.
@@rottweilerfun9520 Die meinen den Schulterblick :-) Gruß aus Tennenbronn
I have a 2023 model owned several months now. For me I love the simplicity, those that complain about lack of QS, cruise control, heated grips, wind protection have in my opinion bought the wrong bike. It’s not what the Speed Twin is about. Yes the side stand is annoying but I can live with it. I love my red hopper colour. Also I agree that sport mode is a bit snatchy through town but fine on the open road. I’ve read many complaints about the headlight but really it’s not that bad even in rain at night.
Great review. Thanks.
Totally Agee with every word.
Proper torque monster , for me I personally love the lack of technology…. Only bugaboo for me is the thin rear tyre
Totally agree on the color options. Not sure what Triumph was thinking.
Pros, tourque, mirrors, looks, simplicity, brakes , handling, low seat height .cons tank range, fuel cap, narrow tyre profiles, electrics under the bike, my only bike and seems a great all rounder. Happy with my storm grey colour, when triumph do pin strips they make it look naff by writing goldline on. It does nice clutchless up changes. Great review kate cheers.
I owned one of the first Speed twins, had it fitted with weslake straight through cans. The noise was incredible 😊.
Yep side stand terrible and all the early ones suffered with noisy front discs.
Still the best filtering bike I've ever owned 👌
I would always go for heated grips in this country (the UK). Never had them in 40 years of motorcycling, but having tried them once on a BMW I became a quick convert. I would also like Triumph to make a decent screen for touring - not a little flyscreen but something to make 70 mph comfortable for more than a couple of minutes.
One word. Puig.
I've had a Triumph Trident before and loved it but feel I've outgrown it. Test rode the Speed Twin and love the toque of the engine and very smooth for a twin. Love the brakes and overall look of the bike but feel its a bit expensive for what it is and the colour options are limited. I don't like the LCD elements on the clocks and no quick shifter even as an option. For me, if you've had a quick shifter I don't really want to go back but can understand the arguement that its not that type of bike. Overall, great bike but one for the future. Bought the 765 RS instead!!
Very very jealous of your new RS!!! What colour did you go for? 🙌
My husband has the 2022 1200 Thruxton and I have the 2022 1200 Speed Twin, Breitling edition.
I agree with all your pros and cons, and would add the lack of self cancelling turn signals to the list of cons. From a safety standpoint, I feel these should be standard on all motorcycles.
The lack of color choices was not an issue for me, as mine is that pretty Breitling Blue, but the retro livery that you mentioned would be beautiful.
In summary, I think Triumph has done a great job of producing a quality bike, with modern technology while maintaining that retro look.
I wish they still did a Thruxton in British racing green, and strictly speaking a Speed Twin should be offered in in original Edward turner maroon, like they once did with the gen 1 Bobbers. A Speed twin would look great in that colour, especially if applied to all the cycle parts and not just the tank.
i mean you get used to the turn signals. usually i cancel it mid corner or right before i enter the turn. if you wait til youve completed the action you might forget
@@monkmoto1887 I'm terrible for leaving my indicators on. Have to say, the self-cancelling system on my Harley is really good. It even gets it right after overtakes. (Yes, they do happen on Harleys..). Trouble is you get used to it and then when you ride a bike without them you forget again.
Side stand crap fuel cap can be turned round so that the cap opens the opposite way game changer
Nice bike. Quick shifter on a retro bike is a bit silly to request. Now cruise control and a screen would be nice. Heated grips should be standard in colder climates. Here in Australia not required. Front mudgard clearly too small for a garage queen type of bike would have to buy radiator guard and keep cleaning it not a fan of cleaning bikes.a bit pricey would buy a T100 fit a screen and panniers and fit a side stand foot and hopefully that works.
Poor sidestand accessibility: I've got used to it on my Honda, comes with practice. But you could easily slip a short length of flexible tubing over the prong (braided fuel pipe?) to extend it a bit. As the actress said to the bishop.
Love the Speed Twin 1200. Such an engaging feel good bike, one of my all time favourites. Only 2 negatives for me... Racetec RR tyres are pointless on a bike like this. Sure it handles pretty well, but I'd much rather have M9RRs for general road use. Also the price... Bit steep considering the basic rear suspension and lack of gadgetry, especially compared with the Street Triples.
The racetecs were ok. They only lasted 5000km about 6 months so no problem. Now on 2nd set of Rosso IVs great for Aussie roads.
PS I have ohlins shocks now on the rear. It is a different bike. Just brilliant!
Haven't ridden the latest Speed Twin but on balance it sounds like the positives far outweigh the negatives. The side stand should be an easy fix. Other bikes have this issue too and there are kick-lug extensions available. If there isn't an off the shelf solution for the Triumph it wouldn't be hard to have something made up.
The fueling should be fixable as well and is likely down to Euro 5 emissions compliance. And it's probable that some individual bikes will be less affected than others, so I wouldn't let it put me off, especially as if I was buying one I'd be looking to de-cat and remap it anyway.
The colour options I agree with. I like black myself but really don't like the fashion for flat mat metallic. Looks like the sort of finish you expect to see on office furniture. And I think Triumph overdo the brushed stainless look. I'd rather see a bright polished or a gloss paint finish. Or a carbon option.
The lack of tech would be a bonus for me. Most of it is unnecessary and only serves to pad the price. For a bike of this sort, I think less is more.
The suspension could be an issue for heavier male riders. But if is so, I'd buy the Truxton RS and fit flat bars.
All in all sounds like a great bike. But I'd still have the Thruxton..
Oh definitely, I loved my time with it :)
Great comments, I agree 100% with all you say.
Kate
I have the Truxton R with the fairing.
I think the entire Bonneville line doesn't need anything in the electronics department. They are PURE motorcycles. I also own the 2023 Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and the Speed Triple 1200 RR and those bikes need all the electronics. Modern bikes benefit but the classics need to be just that, classic and simple like the good old days.
Great video Lady! 👍👍
Funny! As I was thinking how good this bike would look in brighter colours, you mentioned it! In a mat off white colour. That would be great!
A tried the Speed Twin some years ago, but went with the BMW RnineT Pure. It was more rock'n'roll in the beemer.
About gadgets...this is not a gadget bike.
Thank you Kate!
I have several bikes and only my Haley Davidson Ultra has cruise control. I do ride the Speed Twin frequently and find that I would like this feature on the bike. Especially on longer rides between coastal towns in Georgia where I live.
Got mine Wednesday and its just sat waiting for the dry weather. Dont fancy them road race tyres in this weather
I had put a deposit on the RE Super Meteor 650 here in San Diego last month but after test riding it, and realizing recently, December; sometimes it takes a while to think things thru. The rear suspension was terrible, it took a couple of days for my back to quit hurting and the windscreen was also pretty bad above 55mph, (wind buffeting). I now have the deposit on the Blacked-out version of the RE Interceptor 650. It should arrive late January or sometime in February of '24. Thank you for sharing your videos and I recently saw you review the Interceptor 650.😎 Take care and be safe.
I miss torque so I'm thinking about getting the street twin 900 HT as my next bike, but I'll probably change my mind a million times by then.
The side stand issue actually put me off the Thruxton 😮
I recently bought the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE, loving it ! I know what you mean about feeling planted on the road, the XE is confidence inspiring on lose gravel where my DR would feel skittish. Great review.
Always heel it, I've gotten so good it's nothing now, even with plastic armored heeled boots.
It needs heated grips and cruise would be nice in lew of all the nannies. The classic deserves a level of simplicity. You would love the torque these put out uncorked :)
I echo the importance of a lifesaver; thanks for that! The side stand is bearable when you get used to it: lean the bike over a bit to find it and use your heel. I agree that the sport mode doesn’t make a huge difference, but I fitted a throttle spacer, a fuel booster and an aftermarket air filter. This has ironed out the jerkiness at low speeds and maybe improved the performance a bit. Having ridden a few thousand miles I think a quick shifter would be good. I have heated grips (essential in our climes). I miss self cancelling indicators, which I have on my other bike. Lots of people have bitched about the stock suspension but, honestly, how many of us adjust the suspension on a daily basis to compensate for what? I love the fact that this is a visceral, basic, old fashioned kind of bike, like the Bonny I dreamed of 50 years ago when I couldn’t afford one, but SO MUCH BETTER! As you say, the torque is phenomenal. Every time I take the ST out for a blast it puts a huge smile on my face. This is a true ‘modern classic’. I hope Triumph bring out an RS version! The Thruxton was too brutally uncomfortable; a more upright high performance Bonnie would be perfection!
My first bike was a Suzuki 200cc X5..i had it for over ten years, it was bright yellow but I loved it nonetheless
I have had my grey 2019 speedtwin for nearly two years kate and wouldn't swap it for anything else absolutely love it. Definitely agree with the side stand issue and i think the clock's are at too flatter angle... get lots bad reflections especially on sunny days they need to be more vertical. Definitely a must is a vance and hines pipe too the standard is too quiet. Always wanted a thruxton initially but after sitting on a few felt that the tank was way too narrow felt like i was sitting on a yamaha fsie and the clips on would be a problem for me too.
Keep up the great reviews 👍
Loved the review, Kate! I'm in San Antonio, Texas and just picked up a 2023 in the Baja Orange and I love it! I agree about the trend of bland colors... I bought my Street Twin in Korosi Red because it wasn't black. That side stand is really tough to find compared to my Street. I have to make a very conscious effort to remember where it is, especially when I have come off of riding the other bike.
I absolutely love the power, fueling seems spot on, the throttle is very smooth, even before I added the Ducati spacers to the throttle.
The fit and finish is fantastic and the style really stands out. The only miss in my opinion, and I think this only applies to US bikes, are the ridiculously large turn signals and multi-function rears with a blanking plate where the center brake light should be. It really does not fit the style and looks tacked on. I have already ordered the Euro lights, so thankfully, I will not have to live with that much longer!
Love the content, keep it up! Ride safe!
You can put a rubber stopper on the sidestand. Try Loews or Home Depot.
Regarding the quick shifter: I am a returning biker, returning after about 40 years. I have a Street Triple R which has a wonderfull quick shift, but I very rearly use it for the simple fact that I forget it is there and use the clutch at each gear change, when I have used it I felt it was like flappy padles until the down shift and the blip that was nice. When I was riding Japanese two strokes the way to change gear without a clutch was rev matching and bliping the throtle on the down shifts. The one thing that I did get wrong when I speced my bike was to not have heated grips, mentally I had it in my mind that it was going to be a summer toy, boy was I wrong. I have built a car and love how it drives when you get cold air into the engine, on cold crisp days the Westy stays in the garage and I go out on my bike, with cold hands. Just how many pairs of gloves do I need to be able to put in hand warmers/inner gloves and summer gloves that mean they are not soaked with sweat, lol.
YES, YES YES It needs Cruise control, rhe T120 has it, so why not the Speed Twin! Heated grips can be fitted so not a problem.
Quick shifter nah not needed
One question does anyone get vibrations through the bars?
Great video very open and honest review.
Speed Twin 2022 owner says lack of cruise control, heated grips, is a pro. Like TFT screen and customisable rider modes, totally surplus to need on this beast of a bike. This is not a BMW GS it's a proper motor bike! The side stand awkwardness I understand, it took a while but I can get it first time now. Great video .
I coveted this bike when the classic Triumph range came out. Having seen many reviews, I'm now not sure I would spend the my money on one. Having said that if you wanted a classic why would you want too much techy, there are loads of bikes for those who want blippers etc. As for the side stand, what on earth are you doing Triumph, that sounds so easy to fix and would annoy the hell out of me. Keep up the great work Kate.
I have own a Speed Twin for 2 years and love it. You get use to the stand, you can get options of heated grips and cruise. The throttle can be a little snatchey at low speed but it is a large twin so to be expected. It makes 112nm at 4250 rpm. I turn off the traction it is not needed. My main issue is poor dealership customer service compared to Honda.
Great video. I have owned a speed twin for just over 12 months. I have never rode it in rain mode. always ride in road mode. I can't cope with sport mode, on off throttle. No. the side stand not too bad I aways use my heal. But my husband has trouble with it. My husband does not have trouble with the sport mode. I think it's a man thing. we haven't found the suspension to back even 2 up. Lovely bike. Hopper Red. Right amount of tech for me. keep it simple.
I've seen your Rocket 3 video. I do trust your opinion more than any other mototuber! You're great!
Hey, the Triumph is pretty cool. I think a classic bike should have as little electronics as necessary, i.e. no automatic shifting, riding modes, etc. Just really classic. Thanks for the video 🙋🏼♂️👍🏻
Love my 2023 Speed Twin 1200!!!!
Hi Kate! I have test rode a Speedy Twin 1200 and coming from my 40BHP bike to this was like..WOW! The torque of the engine is just incredible and throughout the test ride I pretty much stayed in 4th gear. My god this thing is like a rocket ship! It's a small bike and that's what I like, nothing too heavy either. It was not in the least bit intimidating. Scarey fast though! Im not sure I would survive too long owning one.
I have a 2022 Street Twin and love it. I do have heated grips but nothing else and find that perfect for this style of bike. Just my opinion. Love your videos!!!
Hi Kate,
Heated grips and cruise are a must on a bike for that price. It's lazy and cynical of Triumph not to include cruise at least as an option.
My question - I get that the torque is good in town, lower speeds. What about overtaking - how's the 60 to 80? Given the high torque number, would you say it's comparable to the Street Triple?
Also, I've heard engine heat's on par with Ducati, but few reviewers actually seem to mention. What's your experience?
Kr,
Can we all get together somehow and get Kate to 100k subs.... she’s waited too long.. these ride reviews are excellent !
When i'm looking for a bike, i look for one that has a cable operated throttle and normal manual transmission. i don't want the tech, it makes the ride feel disconnected. i'm not racing for the gp cup so tenths of a second don't mean a lot. i just want to go out and fly the countryside as one with my machine. it's why i tend to gravitate towards the used market now but there's still a few bikes like this one that really peak my interest
Great round up. I’ve ridden a 2019 red ST1200 for three years and love it! Toured on it and all.
Totally agree about the crap kickstand, almost stopped me buying it but have now got used to it but it was a total nightmare!!
Heated grips added so o drama and a great bike!
Thankyou for showing us your video's, I thoroughly enjoyed them . Happy Christmas to you, Mike and your families, hope you all have wonderful new year.😊🎉
Merry Christmas to you, have a great time
TFT screens are a liability got three biker mates that have issues and if it goes down on a street triple bike won’t go £1500 replacement I am told 😳 upgrades on the gen 2 are significant only upgrade I would do are YSS rear shocks and still think Vance & Hines pipes are the best 👊 Great review Kate as always 🤙
Good set of reviews, very fair.
I went for a new Black Speed Twin in July 2019, not very keen on the colours available at the time.
Complained and complained about the awful noise from the front brake, Triumph swapped bits, better but not cured, now in 2024 it finally seems to have settled down. All the first generation did it, strange how the journalists never mentioned it whilst on their jollie in Mallorca!
Sidestand no problem once you are used to it.
Average is almost 67mpg from new.
Running on Avon Trailriders now, much more planted on damp British roads than the OEM tyres. Shame Avon have shut the factory!
Runs cooler particularly on RH cylinder after de-cat, and sounds wonderful with V&H silencers. Options that are not so easy on gen 2.
Looks good, but as you say the engine and the torque are the stars.
A keeper, until I'm too old to swing my leg over.
To me the only thing Speed Twin lacks is heated grips and they can be added by the dealer. Quick shifter, cruise control and modes to me are fluff. Of course I am 71 and started riding 50 years ago.
Some good thoughts.
Having one myself i agree mostly with you.
I didn't like the jerkyness of the throttle either - so i installed a throttle spacer.
The colours? I liked the grey of the pre-2021 model. But cause of the limited choices afterwards i just took it in black.
The Gold-Line of the Street Twin would look nice aswell imho.
I think on this type of bike, analogue dials look the part. A TFT would look out of place on a cafe racer/retro/scrambler style of bike. The whole lack of colours is true on all bike manufacturers. Why do they make bikes in such boring dull colours? KTM might be a bit bright in the orange colour, but I think it's a brave move and suits the brand. As for tech or lack of, again, it goes with the style of the bike. But you're absolutely right about the stand, what the monkey pants is going on with the stand? You shouldn't have to get off the bike to flick the stand out! What a huge design flaw like it stands out (pun intended) like a sore thumb
I got that exact bike 500 miles on it now love it. 😎🌴
Thanks kate for another great one
I’ve got the new T120 which is similar and have to agree about the addictive torque. I have cruise control and still have never used it. I think a quick shifter and auto blipper is reserved for sports bikes, my last bike was a triple RS and the way I rode it made sense of the quick shifter but on the T120 everything is slowed down considerably and so in my opinion it would be at odds with the style of bike. Couple of things I don’t like on the T120 ( not sure if it’s the same on the speed twin ) are 1. Absolutely no space at all under the seat for even a small puncture kit and couple of tools 2. Front and rear indicator stalks are chromed plastic which is naff. LOVE your content Kate, keep up the great work.
Thanks for your thoughts on the T120. Appreciate your kind words too :)
The thing I dislike is the side stand, I put in the throttle space, DNA Oil air filter and snorkel removed and Nitron rear shocks transformed the handling. It's not really a touring bike and for that I have a Triumph Tiger 800 xrx with all the bells and whistles, the bike to tour on. The Speed Twin 1200 is a blast in the Twisties and good for 3-4 hours of toquey fun!
I have a 2020 ST, I love it. Yea, it has some character, but you can't beat the build quality. I find it's size, handling and torc are outstanding. I agree with the side stand, but not a big deal to me, The only upgrade I want to make is to the suspension. AT times it can feel rather harsh. But all in all a great motorcycle. Everytime I ride on my ST, it brings a smile to my face. If your looking for perfection your going to end up with a motorcycle that is boring as hell to ride. For that buy a Honda.
I think the lack of tech is a pro, less tech the better for me 😊
I have the 2020 model in the nicer red colour. It is snatcy at low revs in traffic in sport and road but fine in rain mode. Overall a great bike with a superb grunty engine and good looks. I dont find the side stand a problem but do wish it had a centre stand.
Great vlog as usual Kate , reference heated grips , nope I’ve got a good pair of heated , waterproof gloves instead , you can move them between bikes at no extra cost , cruise control , quick shifter no , I like having control over the bike , not the other way round ( ps been riding all types of bikes 52 years) , reference a big update for the bike , someone should bring back the classic Rickman fairing , now that would be interesting and Last of all ?
A Big Happy Christmas 🤶 🤶🎅⛄️❄️🎂 to you all 😊😊👍👍
Owned one for 5 years and loved it apart the painful seat and useless mud protection. I've eventually solved both issues with add-ons.
I agree with most of your comments as an current owner I’ do find suspension very harsh on our rubbish roads it should have heated grips and cruse control to help with all the speed limits we have to suffer l also agree with Triumph’s very poor colour options this extends across the hole,range in my opinion considering the prices with the exception of the speed triple R S in yellow and the low down torque is addictive as is the low down rumble from pipes mine is a 2020 version 😎👍
I was getting ready to defend my trusty steed, however, everything you highlighted is bang on. Colour options are poor, black is the best of a bad lot. Throttle is snatchy at low revs and the side stand is ‘odd’. Happy with the lack of tech, quick shifter isn’t needed so has everything it needs. I’ve upgraded the rear suspension and have a Hurley seat, other than that it’s a sophisticated grin machine.
Great final thoughts, I Love this bike after the crazy speed triple 1200, would be happy for a simple cruise control such as the T120 has (2023) and also adding my complain to the rear shocks. Hope that the new ST RS will have rear ohlins and CC. RED is always the fastest color 😉
Hi Kate Great Bike (I have one) 22 model metallic Red, after all it is a retro monster! But yes I also had the 1200 speedster with cruise control I miss it ! The 1200 speed twin is a bog standard kitted out bike but for the money should have had quick shifter, cruise, and top box rack facilities! Its all engine that’s what you are buying into! Have a great Day Ponty Pete!!!
I like a retro to have analog gauges, but definitely should come with heated grips. And anything ride by wire should have cruise, even sportbikes in my opinion. I agree with you on the colors.
Got a couple of Honda cb ‘s as well can’t beat them for reliability but style and build quality triumph have it nailed 🙂
It’s a roadster and a classic it’s got what it needs. Think it’s a bike for the older gen. I love my 22 plate rocket 3R but enjoy this one a little more it’s just so easy to ride and the transmission’s butter smooth.
Nice job! Agreed on the kickstand issue for certain! Have a different set of rear sets that helps a little with this problem. The sport mode is a tad jumpy off the line, more so than the other modes, but I believe that's the point of that particular mode. Color choices are what they are, unfortunately, but I have the 2022 model, and I believe they color choice is called Matt Storm Grey, even though I feel it looks more like a matt black. I love it! I chose to make mine look more like a café racer, so it works for me. Even though I originally wanted the Thruxton R, I went with the Speed twin for a better riding position for my back. Had to do some creative paint striping though, to cover the yellow line on that model. Didn't feel like it went with my scheme or black and grey. Stay safe out there!
Those gadgets are not really required but it would be a lot more useful if the price was lower because at the end of the day it's a pretty low tech bike in every way 😂😊😮
The gadgets do not cost too much after the software has been finished. Alas they are mostly there to gel over the fact that there is actually precious little real development going on in motorcycle land (except electric bikes). But not everything is bleak. As long as someone like Kate is so friendly to explain it all to us in her unique style….
Good review Kate. I agree with everything in your summary though having just come back from riding mine in 35c I would like refrigerated grips and seat as an Australian option!
I completely agree with you about the colors. I'm close to getting a scrambler 1200 xe. I don't like the current color offerings at all and because I like the blue one, I'll be forced to find a used one and Triumph missed out on the sale of a new bike. since the tank is really the only thing that colored defiantly on the scrambler I'm surprised they don't offer more color options. I'd Love to see you and mike review the scrambler 1200 xe and xc. Thanks for the great videos :)
Totally agree about the colours this year - It stopped me buying one
Lack of technology? I have a GS with lots of knobs and buttons and never use any of them! my Speed Twin has a snatchy clutch, tank range could be better and the brakes squeal. But the motor is awesome!!!!
Put some copper on the brake pads. Easy fix.
A blibber Would be wonderful
@@rottweilerfun9520don’t say that, you know someone will and blame you 😳
You do mean the backing plates right? 👍
@@rainerknaack176what’s a blibber?🤷♂️
I have a speed twin 1200 that side stand. You have to use bit of a technique you have to flick it very quick with your heel that’s the only way to do it 😮 I have the red I didn’t go for the Matt orange
No don’t need quickshifter on a retro bike really it’s a relaxed effortless ride so much torque
I have my Hornet 750 with the quickshifter ideal on that bike as it’s a lot more nimble and frisky 😂
I took one for a test ride whilst my Tiger was in for a service and dispite loving the looks I was disappointed. The engine was good but the bike felt to small and the finish was poor. The demonstrator had badly corroded down pipes despite only months old over summer, admittedly it was October by then, but still. And no one mentions the poor steering lock. Went to do a u turn to park up facing out and nearly dropped it the turning circle was so poor it couldn't do it without a 3 point turn where my much bigger Tiger manages no problem. Still like the styling but no thanks. Made me really appreciate my Tiger 900 when I went back to collect it!
Heateaed grips YES (sweden) less is more on this bike. 😍
I have a Kawasaki Versys which has been very good for two-up riding, but was looking to downsize in weight, but not necessarily in power so I’ve been testing out various options and went to the local Triumph dealer with the Speed Twin on my top list. It’s interesting jumping from the Versys to the Speedtwin. People say that inline fours are relatively smooth and I was used to the higher pitched vibes of the Kawasaki, so when I hopped on the Speedtwin I was quite surprised at the thumpy vibration, and yes, what motorcycle testers like to say about big twins throbbing is, what I would call vibration. I didn’t like the fact of no quick shifter and heated grips should be standard on almost every more expensive bike. I thought the handling was great and the torque was a great surprise. Unlike you, I found the clocks a little hard to read at a glance and yes, the sidestand was annoying. I also tried the T120 and felt the handling was quite slow compared to the Speed Twin, and the riding position was a lot more comfortable for my older bones, but it was definitely down on power compared to the Speed Twin. On my short ride on a cool day the engine heat was definitely noticeable at stops. I think the Speed Twin should have the quick-shifter and heated grips as standard. All in all, I think the Speed Twin is a great bike for folks looking for more of those old-school vibes.😊
To me, a Retro bike, should be Retro!
No fancy electronic gizmos imo.
Never apologise for your own views or opinions
Hi Kate,
I have the 22 reg Speed Twin and it came with factory fitted heated grips, which are fab.
Cant say i miss a cruise control or a quickshifter tbh. I don't think they suit this kind of bike.
I also have fixed the twitchy throttle with a spacer kit and all is great now.
Brill video as usual.
The speedy does make great torque, but Triumph geared it quite low, notice that it feels a bit ‘busy’ at 70-75, which added to the torque gives an impressive thrust figure.
Hi Kate, I owned the previous incarnation of the speed twin in silver 2019 model which sadly in June this year was crushed against a wall whilst it was parked at work, loved that bike. I replaced it with….another one, new, what colour to go for? New colours fuggly, where is the glorious triumph script? My dealer chased me down an orange example, you grow to really love that colour and the way it changes in the light ( should have been roulette green with bronze pin striping! Side stand aggravation is down to your boots, never bothered me on my Thruxton either. As for modes, use rain in rain, road on the road and only sport when you’re pushing on a bit and they’re fine. Is the new one better than the fist version simply yes, now all I need is the fine weather to get more time to appreciate. Cheers
I own one, love it!
Hi Kate I agree with u side stand awful , fueling not the best in sport mode around town probably to do with euro 5
I have 2,000 miles on my 22 matte black. the dials are pretty but i could make something more sturdy from two tuna fish cans. The suspension is inferior. with end cans the sound is perfect. Ill put more appropriate tires on it next time the slicks aren’t appropriate and something with tread would be. love that it doesn’t have a quick shifter or cruise control. the fueling in rain mode is preferable sometimes because you can still twist it when u want but it’s not snatchy.. so.. end cans, suspension, appropriate tires and we’re golden. Also hope triumph makes the dials better in the future it’s kind of embarrassing imo.
Not a fan of the color options? The present trend is to move the other tints ever closer to black. So basically you are totally right but hear who’s complaining! Queen of stealth! 😁
I know!! Is this a pivotal moment in changing my ways? To be continued 😬🤣
@@UsernameKate 😘
I’ve ridden the 1200. It’s my kind of bike in terms of style and that it comes with that nice sense of occasion. The engine os great in terms of its character for bumbling around. I was expecting more in terms of the torque based on the figures on paper. Brisk enough however. I was surprised how much feathering the clutch needed when pulling away at low rpms.
Neat review as always, Kate!
I think the lack of tech is in keeping with the bike, but heated grips should be standard for the money.
I have a friend who has had a quick shifter added to his older 765 street triple and has found it to be a bit hard on the chain. Perhaps the same would be the case with this bike. Color options are limited, I agree. I will say the Baja Orange from last year has grown on me since seeing it in real life.
Easy enough to have the bike in another riding mode when putting around town, sport mode is not really there for town riding IMO.
Fully agree with everyrhing else you like about it, the lines are perfect for me. Simple and very clean and elegant. Some of these modern bikes are starting to look like the makers of the Transformers have been in on the design team. All angles and bits and pieces and far too busy. The MT 10 is a classic example. Great bike by all accounts but I could never go for a ride that looked like that personally. The speedy looks perfect to me.
Pretty lightweight with tons of torque.. again, perfect. I will definitely be buying one in the future. Hopefully soon... (and I'll have to mod the side stand. That will drive me nuts too, gotta confess.)
Love your videos Kate, well done!
Hi 👋 Kate. I don’t know if the stealth read was available at the time you did your review, but I find it gorgeous. About lack of technological devices, I think I could easily live without them. I mean, I had an aftermarket Bluetooth adjustable quick shifter on my katana.. and I used it 3 o 4 times (100 euros each). Heated grips depend on use of the bike through the seasons. What I would really like is cruise control for boring motorways riding, and it saves some fuel too. Not interested in connectivity too, because when I have my phone on the handlebar, I’m happy with that. Rather a good (not bulky) Bluetooth system “built-in” in my Arai helmet. Anyway, I fell in love (strange isn’t it?) with the 2025 1200 speed twin Rs and I think the only person that can understand my feelings , my struggles is you (over dramatic speaking) because you rode both (this one and my Ktm 890 Duke R)… so the Hamlet question is “will I dramatically miss agility and punch, switching to the one I’ve mentioned?
Thank you in advance . I try to follow your contents as much as I can, but time is a tyrant.
Nice vlog Kate.
Good looking bike 🏍
Of course fender is the correct term the mud flaps are the rubber/plastic bits at either end of the fenders. I feel used!
muhahaha :)
We invented the language, it's a mudguard 😅
Perhaps they don't have mud in America but I don't know if fender is something else they spread on the road (or should that be highway?)
I'm a big fan of twin clock's and the minimum of tek, auto blippers and such are of no interest to me at all. If you find a top of the range Triumph like this one to have a few flaws I'm really looking forward to your thoughts on the new cheap 400s which as far as i can see are made down to a price and not up to a quality.
I own this speed twin and hate the sidestand. Its really tucked away. Also having no main stand is annoying. Its not an out and out sports bike so having to bugger about with bobbin's and paddock stands is real pain. The snatchyness is due to typical Triumph free play in the throttle which is pronounced at slow speed. A set of throttle spacers cures this. Otherwise the bike is really sound.
Amazing, thank you for the insight 😊
I know that you prefer Rain mode over Sport mode. But I'm wondering how the Road mode is. I'm starting to settle on the Speed Twin 1200 for my next bike.
Road mode is fine :)
Lack of tech is great
"good break's" ? for this resume "why do you not do a quarter mile with emergency-break , three times?" this stop&go traffic plus your explanation about fit's not to your content many months before... perfectly
I thought my English was pretty good, but this I do not understand 😅
@@aapddd...it is not to late to always learning ...
@@grachoderunwiderstehlichenThe lack of understanding of your comment is probably due to the incorrect spelling of brake. Plus the incorrect use of the apostrophe in " good break's" ( your spelling)
8.35 nice weave around that drain cover. I have to do that on at least three times on the way to work and four times on the way back in the dark. Fortunately I know the road like the back of my hand and know exactly where they are. One of them has sunk and if you go over it you do get quite a jolt. On the edge of the kerb is bad enough but why oh why are some bang slap in position two on the road.
Freaking hate the drains mid bend, lots of them in Wales. Not so bad in the dry but the wet!! 😬💩
Yeah avoid them at all costs..I'm sure you've done a video about the dangers of them...if you haven't maybe an idea for a video short.
Still riding my bike in December as its still mild but did go in to work in -3 the other day, my visor had ice on it !! Been caught in the rain a few times but ibsuppose if you ride well within your limits and trust your bike and ride sensible it shouldn't be a problem unless it's absolutely chucking it down and then it's avoid those white lines and drain covers at all costs..safe riding Kate. 👍🖐
Heated grips and CC are a necessity for me. The Bonneville has CC as standard and the heated grips used to be standard on that bike. As far as I'm aware, CC isn't even an option on the speed twin. Everything else is not needed, but the option would be nice.
I chose the T120 over the Speed Twin specifically because I could get the CC. Triumph dropped the ball on that one. Also the color choices on the Speed Twin are not inspiring. To be fair, Triumph stopped painting the fenders on the Bonneville to match the tank paint in 2021 (now they all come in black), so that's a big miss. I bought a 2020 T120 for the paint (silver with matching fenders), the center stand, which is no longer standard on the 21 and up models, the heated grips, which are not standard on the 21 and up models and added the factory cruise control which was an option on the earlier bikes.
IMO, Triumph has started to cheap out on their classic line. Boring paint with few options, less standard equipment, but the prices have gone up? At least the Speed Twin got upside down forks in 2021, which is a big plus, but for a "premium" brand they really need to offer more in the way of colors and options across the entire line. If you're going to pay a premium price (new), you should expect premium accoutrements.
It does sound nice 👍
Bought a 24 ST in June, spend a lot of time in fuel stations and am constantly sliding forward into the tank. Love the look and sound of the bike but find it quite uncomfortable
Hi just watched you vlog I am 72 had street twin 900 good enough for me tech is way to much for me but I understand stand why bikes have so you can be a nutter lol I did 7,500 miles on it summer miles but then sold it for a guzzi v7 stone a bit character for me clunk bang clunk lol and of course shat drive brilliant nothing wrong with not having tech merry Christmas Kate
Had the speed twin enjoyed it but I do know not much tech. The one thing I hated was the heat….it gets so hot I couldn’t ride in the summer …swapped it for xsr 900
Interesting about the heat! Not something I experienced but then again, i didn't ride it in summer. What model year was yours?
@@UsernameKate 2022 speed twin the updated one. I live in southern United States and summer rides are 90-100 daily . In the Uk you probably don’t need to worry much since your summer is one month ha
One month??? I wish we were that lucky 🤣
I have a 1200 Sportster and the Speed Twin. I find the Harley generates more heat in traffic but neither are a major problem.
@@splodge57 same ….. along with monkey and super meteor….The sportster s is not bad …speed twin in southern summers is with no shield…not the best when it’s 100 degrees every day and the speed twin water cooled engine blows hot air…the xsr practically gives off zero heat
Tech is sadly always needed, so cruise and digital tach for instance. I got 5 stationary speedcams on my way to work, getting every day more plus the mobile ones. So if you don't want just to work for the tickets you get but want to let's say eat from time to time... but no need to eat, so average joe doesn't need to bother the underperforming suspension no more. Nice bike, sadly too small for me and I'm just 6ft, they seem to have made them to fit very small people.