2019 Triumph Street Twin road test review

NEW DELHI: After the acceptance of the 2016 Bonneville Street Twin, the British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph took a step further to launch the 2019 edition of the Street Twin, which promises to be “more of everything”, “better of everything”.
The modern classic's global debut took place earlier this year in Portugal and it took a while to arrive in India.With more power, enhanced ergonomics and upgraded parts and pieces, Triumph Street Twin is more engrossing than the 2016 edition and is likely to suit you for long rides. Though the engine capacity remains the same, there has been a significant overhaul in the power and refinement across the rev range.

The iconic style of the Bonneville family can be seen across the latest edition of the Street Twin. From the trademark Bonneville finned head and header clamps to genuine Triumph-and-Bonneville engine badging, the premium detailing on the motorbike is charged with distinctive styling cues.

Modern touches boost the retro-styled motorbike that will surely excite the rider. The headlamp covering is new and it gets a blacked out bezel. The rear view is simple and equally soothing. Apart from the tail-fin and brown-tanned cushy seat with 'Triumph' badging, the chrome-finished dual exhausts showcase the dominance of Street Twin.
A classic dial hosts the speedometer. An LCD multi-functional instrument in the dial unit is packed with a host of rider-friendly features. It displays engine rpm, odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, range to empty indication, service indicator, clock, two tripmeters, average and current fuel consumption display among the many.
Not a very sharp handler, however, Street Twin does ride well on unevenly bumpy city roads. The improved ergonomics offer better ride quality and pillion comfort. The dual channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) comes as standard in the bike.

What makes Street Twin’s ride more powerful?
Let us begin from the conclusion. The significant upgrade in 900cc ‘High Torque’ engine now delivers 65PS, which is an 18% increase in power against the previous generation. This maximum ride enjoyment is attributed to the new magnesium cam cover and new lightweight crankshaft together with its mass-optimised clutch cover and a lighter clutch.

The powermill delivers much-refined performance, with 10PS more peak power, ie, 65PS at 7,400rpm and peak torque of 80Nm at 4,000rpm. The rev limit is up by 500rpm and sits at 7,500rpm. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox, an upgraded 900cc High Torque Bonneville is equipped with extremely reliable Brembo front brakes, cartridge forks, twin shocks the rear and cast wheels.

Handling
Tipping at 198kg (kerb weight), the modern classic is well plants at a wide range of speeds and particularly cruises over 120kmph for longer durations. The rider feels comfortable irrespective of the surface condition. Triumph has updated Street Twin with rain and road modes apart from the traction control. The combination gets the job done. Other features boasting rideability are TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system) and heated grip ready, which is controlled by a handlebar mounted scroll button.
The wind in the sail for the Street Twin doesn't blow out even as the throttle is wrung to higher rev range. The dual-exhaust muffler oozes a deep bass exhaust note, which reminds of the vintage British twin-cylinder classics. The torque assist clutch can be considered partially semi-automatic but gets the job done at ease with a quick to react throttle response.

The seat height at 760mm and flat footpegs make it an easy-to-ride motorbike for all. Not a very sharp handler, however, Street Twin does ride well on unevenly bumpy city roads. The improved ergonomics offer better ride quality and pillion comfort. Dual channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) comes as standard in the bike.

The built quality of the bike is top-notch and the fit and finish make it very attractive. The modern classic expresses more power, though not very aggressive, making the rider feel confident of handling it. However, the engine radiates fair amount of heat that directly strikes the feet of the rider. In summer, when mercury touches 40 degrees, this can be uncomfortable for the rider.

The Street Twin offers a mileage of 18-20 kmpl in city commuting and around 22 kmpl on highways. The motorbike is supplied with a fuel tank of 12 litres, which means the rider gets range over 250 km.
The 2019 Street Twin priced at Rs 7.45 lakh (ex-showroom, India), is lower than the older variant (Rs 7.83 lakh, ex-showroom). Bonneville model would straightaway cause a stiff rivalry for Harley-Davidson Street Rod and Ducati Scrambler Icon in India.