In the heart of England, where the Industrial Revolution was born, another revolution was taking shape at the turn of the 20th century. This wasn’t about steam engines or spinning jennies but about two wheels, a handlebar, and an insatiable thirst for freedom. This was the birth of Triumph Motorcycles, a beacon of British engineering and a testament to human ingenuity.
Triumph Motorcycles, with its rich heritage and iconic status, has carved a unique path in the annals of motorcycling history. From the gritty streets of Coventry to the gleaming showrooms of the 21st century, Triumph’s journey is a riveting saga of innovation, endurance, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
The roar of a Triumph engine is not just a sound; it’s a symphony that narrates a century-long story of craftsmanship, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to riding pleasure. As we throttle through this article, we’ll explore the twists and turns of Triumph’s journey, a journey that is as exhilarating as riding a Triumph motorcycle itself.
So, fasten your helmet and rev up your curiosity as we embark on this ride through time, exploring the legacy of Triumph Motorcycles—the brand that brought a new meaning to the word “Triumph”.
Early Years
Triumph Motorcycles was founded in 1902 by Siegfried Bettmann. The company initially produced bicycle parts, later moving to manufacture complete bicycles. The first true Triumph Motorcycle, the Germania, was introduced in 1904, featuring a 1.75 horsepower engine.
In 1902, Triumph produced its first motorcycle, known as No.1. This was essentially one of the company’s bicycles fitted with a 2-hp Minerva engine made in Belgium. Triumphs were powered by Belgian Minerva engines, followed by JAP engines until 1905 when the first all-Triumph models were introduced.
Expansion and Innovation (1905-1914)
In 1905, Triumph produced its first motorcycle completely in-house, powered by a 3-hp engine with a top speed of 45 mph. By 1907, annual production had reached 1,000 units. A significant advancement came in 1910 with the ‘free engine’ device (essentially the first practical clutch), which allowed the user to start the engine with the bike on its stand and ride away from a standing start.
World War I (1914-1918)
Despite its strong connection to Germany, Triumph was chosen by Col. Claude Holbrook to supply the Type H motorcycle for Allied military service during World War I. The company sold 30,000 motorcycles to the military over the course of the war.
Post-War Triumph (1945-1960)
Following World War II, Triumph Motorcycles emerged as a symbol of British manufacturing excellence. With the post-war economic boom, Triumph motorcycles gained popularity globally. Notably, the Triumph Speed Twin, introduced in 1938 by Edward Turner, set the standard for British parallel-twin design, dominating the industry for decades.
The Golden Era (1960-1970)
The 1960s marked Triumph’s golden age, producing iconic models like the Bonneville, named after the Utah Salt Flats, where speed records were set. Triumph motorcycles became cultural symbols, linked to the 1960s counterculture and the “cafe racer” trend. Celebrity endorsements from stars like Steve McQueen solidified Triumph’s iconic status.
Challenges and Bankruptcy
Triumph’s roaring 50s and 60s sputtered to a halt with the arrival of Japanese motorcycles. These new machines offered superior quality and affordability, leaving Triumph struggling to compete. Despite their iconic status, Triumphs became plagued by persistent issues like electrical gremlins, oil leaks, and carburettor woes.
These problems culminated in the company’s heartbreaking 1983 bankruptcy, a major blow to the British motorcycle industry. Even the BSA Group, which had acquired Triumph, couldn’t prevent its financial demise. However, the Triumph story wasn’t over. Remarkably, the brand would rise again, a testament to its enduring legacy and the unwavering spirit of its motorcycles.
Triumph’s Revival
British entrepreneur John Bloor, seeing potential where others saw only failure, acquired the Triumph name in 1983. His audacious vision? Not just to revive the brand but to propel it to global motorcycle leadership.
Bloor’s Triumph prioritised quality and innovation, pouring resources into cutting-edge technology and manufacturing. This gamble paid off handsomely. By the early 2000s, Triumph roared back as the fastest-growing motorcycle brand in the US.
Today, Triumph Motorcycles is a powerhouse, churning out over 50,000 motorcycles annually. They reign supreme in the modern classics market, power the prestigious Moto2 championship, have graced the silver screen alongside James Bond, and are poised to reclaim their dominance in motocross.
A testament to their resurgence is the iconic Rocket 3. Since 2004, it’s boasted the world’s largest production engine (over 2,200cc). Now, a new iteration is on the horizon, promising even more power, torque, and the ultimate bragging rights for owning the most potent production cruiser on the planet.
Modern Triumph Motorcycles
Triumph’s revival since the 1980s is nothing short of remarkable. Today, they offer a diverse range of motorcycles, each with its own distinct personality, performance, and cutting-edge rider technology.
- Modern Classics Reign Supreme: A standout category is the Modern Classics, featuring the iconic Bonneville lineup. These bikes pay tribute to Triumph’s rich heritage while seamlessly integrating modern design and technology, creating a timeless appeal for riders.
- Tech-Forward Approach: Modern Triumphs are synonymous with advanced technology. From groundbreaking engine design to sophisticated rider aids, they deliver a perfect blend of performance and comfort, catering to a broad spectrum of riders.
- Global Domination: Triumph Motorcycles has become a truly global brand, boasting dealerships worldwide. Their annual production of around 50,000 motorcycles solidifies their position as one of the UK’s leading motorcycle manufacturers.
- Eyes on the Future: Innovation remains at the forefront for Triumph. They continuously update their lineup with new models and technologies, keeping riders excited. One such example is the highly anticipated new iteration of the Rocket 3, poised to claim the title of the most powerful production cruiser on the market.
Triumph Motorcycles Models
Triumph Motorcycles offers a diverse range of models catering to various riding preferences and styles. Within the lineup, roadsters stand out for their dynamic performance and agile handling, appealing to riders seeking exhilarating urban and highway experiences.
For enthusiasts of timeless design and heritage-inspired aesthetics, Triumph’s modern classics evoke nostalgia while delivering modern technology and performance. Meanwhile, adventure motorcycles embody rugged versatility, designed to conquer both on and off-road terrain, providing riders with the freedom to explore uncharted paths and distant horizons.
With each category offering distinct characteristics and capabilities, Triumph Motorcycles ensures that riders can find the perfect match for their individual riding adventures.
Roadsters
Triumph’s lineup of roadsters epitomises the thrill of urban riding with a perfect blend of performance and style. From the nimble Street Triple to the muscular Speed Triple, each roadster boasts dynamic handling, powerful engines, and head-turning aesthetics, offering riders an exhilarating experience on every journey.
Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR is a really cool bike to see and ride. It has a powerful 1160cc engine, fancy Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, and strong Brembo brakes. You can pick from 5 different riding modes, and it even has a quick shifter for smooth gear changes. Plus, it comes with a long service interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months.
Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is a super powerful and high-performing bike. It has a big engine, can be adjusted for a comfy ride, and has really good brakes and tyres. You can choose from different riding modes, and it has a special quick shifter for easy gear changes. Plus, it has a battery that lasts a long time. You only need to get it serviced after you’ve ridden 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Triumph Street Triple R
Unleash the beast within. The Triumph Street Triple R isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a snarling, three-cylinder fury wrapped in a streetfighter’s attitude. This machine throbs with a responsive 765cc heart, ready to pounce at your command. Precision handling comes courtesy of Showa forks up front and a preload-adjustable rear, keeping you glued to the tarmac.
Nissin brakes with ABS haul you back from the edge, while 2 riding modes offer a taste of versatility. Craving lightning-fast gear changes? The Triumph Shift Assist quick-shifter has you covered. And with a 10,000-mile service interval, you can spend less time in the garage and more time carving up the canyons.
Triumph Trident 660
The Triumph Trident 660 is a new accessible Triumph roadster, providing a perfect entry point into the Triumph motorcycle range. It features a 660cc triple engine, slips & assist clutch, Showa upside-down forks and preload-adjustable rear suspension unit, Nissin brake callipers with ABS, and 2 riding modes. It also includes a Triumph Shift Assist up-and-down quick-shifter and a lithium-ion battery.
Modern Classics
Modern Classics at Triumph Motorcycles are a celebration of timeless design infused with cutting-edge technology. These bikes pay homage to iconic models of the past while offering riders the thrill of modern performance and reliability.
With a perfect blend of heritage-inspired aesthetics and contemporary engineering, Triumph’s Modern Classics lineup captures the essence of motorcycling’s golden eras while delivering an unmatched riding experience for today’s enthusiasts.
Triumph Bonneville T100
Hop on the Bonneville T100 and get ready for a ride that’s both classic and cutting-edge! With its powerful 900cc BS6 engine purring beneath you, this bike offers timeless style, thrilling performance, and a ride so easy, it practically steers itself. Plus, you’ve got the added safety of an anti-lock braking system and top-notch disc brakes on both wheels.
With two variants and a palette of five vibrant colours to choose from, the Bonneville T100 lets you ride in style. It’s the perfect fusion of old-school charm and modern innovation—a true testament to Triumph’s dedication to keeping the classics alive while embracing the future!
Triumph Bonneville T120
Get ready to meet the Triumph Bonneville T120, the epitome of motorcycle coolness, now even better than before! Powering this beauty is a gutsy 1200cc “High Torque” parallel-twin engine that’ll have you feeling the adrenaline rush with every twist of the throttle.
But wait, there’s more! This bad boy comes packed with features like a torque-assist clutch for silky-smooth gear shifts, a ride-by-wire throttle with switchable traction control to keep you in control no matter the road conditions, and two awesome riding modes—Road and Rain—because why settle for just one mode when you can have two?
Plus, with top-notch suspension, ABS brakes, and a service interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), the Bonneville T120 is not just a motorcycle; it’s a whole new level of riding experience waiting for you to unleash its full potential!
Triumph Scrambler 900
The Triumph Street Twin 900 was formerly known as the iconic Speed Twin. This stripped-down beauty combines timeless style with an engine that’s as versatile as it gets, catering to riders of all stripes. With its gutsy 900cc parallel-twin engine boasting plenty of low- to midrange torque, you’ll feel the power coursing through your veins with every twist of the throttle.
But that’s not all—this beast comes equipped with 41mm KYB cartridge forks and a spanking new Brembo four-piston calliper, ensuring you’ve got the stopping power to match that thrilling acceleration. And hey, with a service interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), you can spend less time in the garage and more time tearing up the open road on this bad boy!
Adventure Motorcycles
Adventure motorcycles at Triumph Motorcycles are built for those who crave exploration and thrill-seeking on and off the beaten path. With rugged durability, advanced technology, and versatile performance, Triumph’s Adventure lineup empowers riders to conquer any terrain with confidence and style. Whether it’s navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails, Triumph Adventure bikes are designed to inspire unforgettable journeys and unlock the spirit of adventure in every rider.
Triumph Tiger 1200 GT
The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT, a key player in Triumph’s adventure bike lineup, boasts a potent 1160cc BS6 engine designed to conquer the most epic of adventures. With a lighter chassis and a new tri-link setup, this road-focused model offers enhanced agility without compromising on comfort.
Sporting 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels wrapped in Metzeler Tourance tyres, the Tiger 1200 GT delivers increased power at 147bhp and a torque of 130Nm, making it the most powerful shaft-drive motorcycle in its class.
Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is the pinnacle of Triumph’s adventure bike lineup. It is powered by a 1160cc BS6 engine and is designed to deliver the ultimate off-road and on-road riding experience. The bike features a new lightweight chassis, a class-leading specification of equipment, and all-new rider ergonomics. It comes with a 21″ front and 18″ rear lightweight tubeless spoked wheels, a 20-litre aluminium fuel tank, and Showa Semi-Active Suspension with 220mm travel.
The Rally Pro also includes six riding modes, one of which is an ‘Off-Road Pro’ mode that fully disables the ABS and Traction Control for expert all-terrain riding. The Tiger 1200 Rally Pro is designed to set a new benchmark for road and off-road adventure handling.
Triumph Motorcycles stands as a beacon of innovation, heritage, and excellence in the world of motorcycling. With a rich history spanning over a century, Triumph has continuously pushed the boundaries of design, performance, and technology, earning a revered status among riders worldwide. As Triumph Motorcycles continues to evolve and innovate, its commitment to quality craftsmanship and unrivalled riding experiences ensures that the spirit of motorcycling lives on, inspiring generations of riders to embrace the thrill of the open road.
