Triumph Thunderbird: Specs, Features, Background, Performance, & More

Table of Contents

1. The Backstory of Triumph Thunderbird Motorbike
2. Triumph Thunderbird at First Glance
3. Triumph Thunderbird: A Buyer’s Guide

3.1 How Fast Is the Triumph Thunderbird Motorcycle?
3.2 How Many CCs Is the Triumph Thunderbird Engine?
3.3 How Much Horsepower Does the Triumph Thunderbird Have?
3.4 How Much Does the Triumph Thunderbird Weigh?
3.5 What Is the Triumph Thunderbird Mileage?
3.6 Why Was the Triumph Thunderbird Motorcycle DIscontinued?

4. Detailed Specification: (Triumph Thunderbird Specs)

4.1 General
4.2 Dimensions
4.3 Chassis
4.4 Engine
4.5 Performance
4.6 DriveTrain
4.7 Electrical

5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Triumph Thunderbird

When it comes to buying a reliable motorcycle that delivers, the Triumph Thunderbird is a top choice among American cruiser enthusiasts. With a sleek silhouette, sporty engine, a comfortable saddle, and elevated handlebars, the bike is the personification of elegance.

Another advantage would be if this bike can be customized for tours and camping trips by installing motorcycle luggage and other essential aftermarket parts.

Unfortunately, this perfect ride couldn’t meet emission standards and was discontinued in 2018. But there is still hope that the Thunderbird will make a thunderous comeback with better fuel and exhaust systems.

In the meanwhile, you can enjoy thrilling rides on the Triumph Thunderbird by renting or buying it from the second-hand market. Read this article to learn all the necessary information, including detailed specs, performance, background, and more.

Also Read: Triumph America: Specs, Features, Background, Performance, & More

1. The Backstory of Triumph Thunderbird Motorbike

The first production phase of the Triumph Thunderbird dates back to 1949. The production of the 650 cc bikes lasted for 17 years, until the Triumph Thunderbird was discontinued in 1966.

In 1995, the cruiser market saw a resurgence of the Thunderbird 900 as Hinckley engineers redesigned the engine with a vintage look and better torque at low rpm range.

In 1998, a sportier version of the bike, designated as the Triumph Thunderbird, was also launched so that riders could enjoy a more aggressive ride.

The standard variant of Thunderbird was discontinued in 2003, and the Thunderbird Sport was discontinued in 2004.

The Thunderbird variants introduced between 1995 to 2004 were either roadsters or sports bikes. These heavy bikes were a mix of sportbikes and tourers and featured a 320 mm front disc brake with twin-piston calipers, non-adjustable front suspension, and a 16-inch wide rear tire. The bikes had an overall weight of 525 lbs and had slow handling due to their heavy weight.

1995-2004 TRIUMPH THUNDERBIRD EVOLUTION
Distinct Features	Thunderbird 900	Thunderbird Sport
Production Years	1995	1998
Category	Roadster	Sportsbike
Engine Displacement	885 cc	885 cc
Transmission	Five-speed	Six-speed
Horsepower	69 hp at 8000 rpm	83 hp at 8500 rpm
Torque	72 Nm at 4800 rpm	76 Nm at 6500 rpm
Front Tire	110/80-16	110/80 R-17
Rear Tire	150/80-16	160/70 R17
Discontinued	2003	2004

In 2009, Triumph reintroduced the Thunderbird that boasted a 1597 cc motor. The liquid-cooled DOHC engine featured a six-speed transmission and an efficient belt final drive. The Thunderbirds produced during this time were classified as reliable cruisers with a relaxed seating position.

For the first two models of the lineup in 2009 and 2010, the motorcycle company promoted a shiny chromed cover for the clutch system with the original Thunderbird logo.

In 2011, the Thunderbird Storm variant with blacked-out parts and 1700 cc engine was launched. The Thunderbird Storm’s clutch cover had the same paper dart emblem, but it also featured the word “Storm.”

2014 marked the launch of the Thunderbird LT and Commander models.

The details of all bikes are provided in the chart below:

2009-2018 THUNDERBIRD MODELS
Distinct Features	Thunderbird	Thunderbird Storm	Thunderbird LT	Thunderbird Commander
Production	2009	2011	2014
Category	Cruiser	Cruiser	Tourer	Cruiser

ENGINE
Displacement	1600 cc	1700 cc	1700 cc
Torque	149.5 Nm at 2750 rpm	156 Nm at 2950 rpm	151 Nm at 3500 rpm
Horsepower	84 hp at 4800 rpm	98 hp at 5200 rpm	94 hp at 5400 rpm

Transmission: SIX-SPEED
DIMENSIONS & CHASSIS
Weight	746 lbs	746 lbs	838 lbs	767 lbs
Rake	31°	31°	29.9°	30°
Trail	5.9 in	5.9 in	5.2 in	5.3 in
Suspension	Front: 47 mm Showa Forks (front suspension non-adjustable) Rear: Showa Twin-Shocks - (adjustable preload)
Wheels	Cast Aluminum		Wire-Spoked	Cast Aluminum
Tires	Tubeless tires		Tube-Type	Tubeless
Front Tire Size	20%/70 ZR 19	20%/70 R 19	150/80 R 16	140/75 ZR 17
Rear Tire Size	200/50 ZR 17	200/50 R 17	180/70 R 16	200/50 ZR 15
Brakes	Front: 310 mm double discs w/ four-piston Nissin calipers Rear: 310 mm single disc w/ Brembo two-piston calipers

Though new variants of the Thunderbird were introduced to the market, the bikes didn’t undergo any significant mechanical changes.

From 2013 onwards, the Thunderbird featured a standard ABS system.

Other than this upgrade, the changes were restricted to new color schemes. Here are the details:

TRIUMPH THUNDERBIRD COLOR CHANGES
Model Year	Price	Colors
2010	$12,499	Jet Black Jet Black & Aluminum Silver Fusion White & Pacific Blue
2011	$12,499	Phantom Black
2012	$13,499	Black Blue Red
2013	$13,499	Marble Red Haze Black & Red
2014-2015	$13,499	Phantom Black Phantom Black & Caspian Blue Silver Frost & Lava Red
2016-2018	$13,499	Black Lava Red with Silver Frost

All Thunderbird motorcycles were discontinued after 2018.

2. Triumph Thunderbird at First Glance

Triumph Thunderbird at First Glance

Triumph Thunderbird Styling

One look at the Thunderbird’s heavy chrome details and sophisticated engine will enchant you. From non-inverted front forks, headlight nacelle, handlebars, mirror, engine covers, and side covers, everything is covered in shiny chrome.

The teardrop fuel tanks and fenders are color matched. The highly finished paint jobs complement the bike’s superior build.

Triumph Thunderbird Engine

The Thunderbird is a beast with its 1600 cc parallel twin engine. Though the engine is liquid-cooled, the cylinder heads feature cooling fins as a stylish design.

The double overhead camshafts (DOHC) allow for larger generation of power.

The chromed engine covers enhance the bike’s appeal by hiding the liquid-cooling system. With a torque of 149.5 Nm at 2750 rpm and 84 hp, this bike’s stunning engine boasts astonishing performance statistics.

The electronic fuel injection works well. Large pipes are attached to the cylinder heads for increased air flow and greater engine power outputs.

Triumph Thunderbird Handling

When introduced in 1995, the Thunderbird was a sporty bike. But after 2009, the Thunderbird was introduced as a cruiser with sporty attitude. However, they are more agile and offer exceptional maneuverability.

The six-speed transmission smoothly translates the engine’s power to the rear wheel via a belt final drive made of Kevlar.

The Thunderbird is equipped with the world’s best Showa suspensions. But some riders still complain that the suspensions don’t handle bumps well. The only explanation is that the Thunderbird is a cruiser and is designed for a riding experience distinct from sports bikes.

Triumph Thunderbird Brakes

The Thunderbird’s brakes are reliable as the 310 mm double disc at the front and a single disc at the rear brings the bike to an immediate stop with their Nissin and Brembo piston calipers. The later models came with a standard ABS system for maximum braking power and stability.

Triumph Thunderbird Wheels

The Thunderbird makes contact with the road with its large cast aluminum wheels covered with tubeless tires. The 120 mm front tire and the 200 mm rear tire give this bike stability and a dominant cruiser look.

Triumph Thunderbird Ergonomic Design

The laid back handlebars and elevated rider seat bring out the sporty character of the bike. On the other hand, the forward-mounted foot pegs suit its cruiser frame.

Triumph Thunderbird Comfort

The Thunderbird offers a comfortable riding position and a plush, well-cushioned seat. You can easily travel up to 100 miles on this bike without getting sores and aches. However, if you want to modify this bike to go on longer routes, then you may find its level of comfort lacking.

Triumph Thunderbird Instruments & Lighting

This bike is equipped with basic analog instruments such as a clock, speedometer with an integrated rev counter, a fuel gauge, and LCD tripmeter. All these instruments are tank-mounted. The motorcycle is also equipped with a bar-mounted scroll button.

For visibility, the motorcycle is fitted with a simple headlight, turn signals, and a tail light. The single headlight offers limited night time visibility as it does not allow you to see farther down the road.

3. Triumph Thunderbird: A Buyer’s Guide

3.1 How Fast Is the Triumph Thunderbird Motorcycle?

The Triumph Thunderbird motorbike has an estimated top speed range of 120-124 mph.

3.2 How Many CCs Is the Triumph Thunderbird Engine?

The Triumph Thunderbird possesses a powerful engine that displaces 1597 cc.

3.3 How Much Horsepower Does the Triumph Thunderbird Have?

The Triumph Thunderbird’s engine can generate a maximum horsepower of 97 hp.

3.4 How Much Does the Triumph Thunderbird Weigh?

The Triumph Thunderbird is a middleweight cruiser that weighs 679 lbs on an empty fuel tank.

3.5 What Is the Triumph Thunderbird Mileage?

Due to its six-speed transmission, fuel injected engine, two-into-one exhaust, and DOHC configuration, the Thunderbird is a fuel-efficient bike. It has an average mileage of 38 mpg.

3.6 Why Was the Triumph Thunderbird Motorcycle DIscontinued?

After 2017, Triumph discontinued the production of its Thunderbird models as they failed to meet strict emission standards.

3.7 What Is the Difference Between Triumph Thunderbird 900 and Thunderbird?

The Triumph Thunderbird 900 was a roadster while the Thunderbird was a cruiser. For details, see the table below:

TRIUMPH THUNDERBIRD 900 vs THUNDERBIRD
Differences	Thunderbird 900	Thunderbird
Production	1995	2009
Category	Roadster	Cruiser
Rake	27°	31°
Trail	106 mm / 4.1 in	151 mm / 5.9 in
Engine Displacement	885 cc	1596 cc
Transmission	Five-speed	Six-speed
Torque	72 Nm at 4800 rpm	149.5 Nm at 2750 rpm
Horsepower	69 hp at 8000 rpm	84 hp at 4800 rpm
Wheels	Spoked wheels	Cast aluminum
Tires	Tube-type	Tubeless
Tire Size	Front: 110/80-18 Rear 150/80-16	Front: 120/70 ZR 19 Rear: 200/50 ZR 17
Brakes (Front & Rear)	320 mm disc with twin-piston calipers	310 mm double discs with four-piston Nissin calipers
Weight	525 lbs	746 lbs
Suspension	Front: 43mm fork Rear Monoshock (w/ adjustable preload)	Front: 47mm Showa fork Rear: Dual Showa shocks (w/ adjustable preload)

4. Detailed Specification: (Triumph Thunderbird Specs)

4.1 General

Manufacturer	Triumph Motorcycle Limited
Production Years	2009-2018
Model	Triumph Thunderbird
Category	Cruiser
Touring Ability	Average
Price	$13,499
Colors	Jet Black Silver Frost w/ Lave Red
Warranty	Two Years Unlimited Mileage

4.2 Dimensions

Max. Length	92.1 in / 2340 mm
Height	44.1 in / 1120 mm
Width	34.6 in / 880 mm
Max. Weight (Dry)	679 lbs / 308 kg
Max. Seat Height	27.6 in / 700 mm
Rake	32°
Wheel Base	63.6 in / 1615 mm
Trail	5.9 in / 151 mm
Oil Capacity	4.44 qt / 4.2 L
Fuel Capacity	5.81 gal / 22 L
Fuel Economy/Mileage Range	38 mpg

4.3 Chassis

Frame Type	Tubular Frame: Steel Twin spine
Front Suspension	47 mm Showa fork
Rear Suspension	Showa dual-shocks (chromed; spring) Preload: Five positions Adjustment
Wheel Travel	Front: 4.7 in / 120 mm Rear: 3.7 / 95 mm
Wheels	Cast Aluminum (alloy)
Front Tire Size	120/70-R19
Rear Tire Size	200/50-R17
Brake Type	310 mm Disc Front: Double Rear: Single
Brake Calipers (Front)	Nissin calipers; four-pistons
Brake Calipers (Rear)	Brembo calipers; two-piston
ABS	Equipped

4.4 Engine

Type	Four-stroke Liquid-cooled
Bore	103.8 mm / 4.1 in
Stroke	94.3 mm / 3.7 in
Displacement	1597 cc 97.45 cu in
Engine Details	Firing angle: 270° DOHC
Compression	9.7:1
Fuel System/ Induction	Electronic Induction Sequential multipoint injection Throttle features progressive linkage
Exhaust system	Two-into-one Chrome-plated Stainless Steel Exhaust (Dual-skin) Silencers: chromed

4.5 Performance

Maximum Power	84 hp at 4850 rpm
Maximum Torque	146 Nm at 2750 rpm
Top Speed	120 -124 mph (estimated range)
Weight to Power Ratio	0.2760 hp per kg

4.6 DriveTrain

Clutch System	Multiplate Wet
Transmission	Six-speed
Final Drive	Belt (toothed)

4.7 Electrical

Starter	Electric
Ignition	Digital
Instruments (Analog)	Clock Speedometer w/ rev count integration Fuel Gauge Scroll button: Bar-mounted LCD trip

5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Triumph Thunderbird

The Thunderbird is a reliable cruiser motorcycle with adequate touring capability. This naked bike comes with a 1597 cc motor that generates large amounts of torque for relaxed urban and highway cruising.

However, a few add-ons are required to make this highly adaptable commuter into a tourer. The bike lacks luggage racks, saddlebags, fairings, crash bars, sissy bars, and rider and passenger backrest. You can customize it for touring by adding these extra parts.

Moreover, the forward mounted footpegs and high handlebars can make the ride uncomfortable after 100-200 miles. This can be fixed as you can replace the original handlebars with aftermarket ones. The footpeg position can also be adjusted.

Once you take care of the luggage and riding position, the next thing you need to change is the rider and passenger seat. The Triumph Thunderbird was designed for daily commutes. And the driver and passenger seats serve that purpose well. However, they fail to meet the touring comfort levels, so a replacement may be necessary.