This Sunday, May 23rd 2021, will mark the 10th Year anniversary of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR), and to celebrate the milestone, and the life-changing men’s health causes the DGR was established to support, Triumph Motorcycles have created a stunning one-off custom Thruxton 1200 RS to be won by a key competition fundraiser.
Reflecting the passion and commitment of DGR riders fundraising worldwide this unique motorcycle will be the first prize for the 2021 DGR, to reward the fundraiser that unlocks all their badges to enter the competition.
To gain entry, and stand the chance of winning the unique Thruxton RS, fundraisers need to follow these four simple steps to unlock their badges (full details available on www.gentlemansride.com/) 1. Complete their Profile 2. Donate to their own Profile 3. Complete a Random Donation 4. Raise a minimum of $250 USD.
All entrants will receive the 2021 DGR Commemorative Prize Patch, and a single entry into the competition to win the DGR Thruxton RS. Prize winners will be drawn by the DGR when fundraising closes on June 6th, 2021.
This stunning 10th Year Anniversary Thruxton RS was designed, painted, and customised in Triumph’s UK paint shop, a state-of-the art facility within the factory in Hinckley, where highly trained professionals ensure the highest quality possible on motorcycle schemes, as well as creating unique hand crafted custom paintwork.
Triumph’s partnership of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride represents one of its most important and longest lasting collaborations, and this unique Thruxton RS showcases Triumph’s commitment and shared passion for the DGR, and the men’s health charities it was set-up to support.
Mark Hawwa Founder & Director of The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
“10 years of riding dapper for men’s health is nothing short of incredible and celebrating that with this one-of-one motorcycle designed in collaboration with Triumph Motorcycles is such an exciting way to honour that. This DGR Triumph Thruxton RS will be the key prize of our Gentlefolk Competition; giving every single fundraiser that unlocks their badges in DGR 2021 the chance to win. It’s a piece of DGR memorabilia that brilliantly represents the committed efforts of our dedicated gentlefolk around the world, and the shared passion of our partners, Triumph Motorcycles.”
Almost two months after a global recall on Thruxtons over side stand spring issues, the official notice has been posted in Australia.
A spokesman for the Australian distributor, Peter Stevens Importers, confirmed in late January that Australian bikes were affected.
They said customers were being contacted “as information comes to hand”.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has only now posted the official notice with the 804 VINs of affected Thruxtons (attached at the end of this article).
Thruxton TFC
The sidestand recall apparently affects 2016-2018 Thruxtons, 2016-2019 Thruxton R, and 2020 Thruxton TFC models.
It seems the spring may vibrate through resonance, weakening it and causing it to break.
If this happens, it could allow the side stand switch to activate and shut off the engine.
The replacement spring sits inside a rubber sleeve, preventing the resonance.
Owners should contact an authorised Triumph Dealer for a replacement spring to be fitted free of charge.
Bonneville recalls
The “Bonneville” range has been the subject of several embarrassing recalls since they were introduced in 2016:
Even though manufacturers and importers usually contact owners when a recall is issued, the bike may have been sold privately to a rider unknown to the company.
Therefore, Motorbike Writer publishes all motorcycle and scooter recalls as a service to all riders.
If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.
To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:
Triumph Australia will join a global recall on various Thruxtons over side stand spring issues and the Speed Twin over a gearshift linkage fault.
A spokesman for the Australian distributor, Peter Stevens Importers, confirms “Australian bikes are affected and customers are being contacted as information comes to hand”.
If an official notice is posted by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission with VINs , we will update this article so you can check your VIN to see if it is affected.
Thruxton recall
Thruxton TFC
The sidestand recall apparently affects 2016-2018 Thruxton, 2016-2019 Thruxton R, and 2020 Thruxton TFC models.
It seems the spring may vibrate through resonance, weakening it and causing it to break.
If this happens, it could allow the side stand switch to activate and shut off the engine.
The replacement spring sits inside a rubber sleeve, preventing the resonance.
Speed Twin recall
Speed Twin
Affected 2019-2020 Speed Twin models may develop a loose ball joint in the gearshift lever linkage thanks tocontaminated thread locking compound.
This could result in excessive movement at the end of the shift lever and riders will find gear shifts more difficult or even impossible.
Triumph can fix this issue by simply applying a new thread locking compound to the existing components.
This follows a Speed Twin recall last year for leaking coolant.
Owners of the above motorcycles should ask to schedule an inspection with an authorised Triumph Dealer “as soon as possible”. If it needs a fix, it will be free of charge.
Bonneville recalls
The “Bonneville” range has been the subject of several recalls since they were introduced in 2016:
Even though manufacturers and importers usually contact owners when a recall is issued, the bike may have been sold privately to a rider unknown to the company.
Therefore, Motorbike Writer publishes all motorcycle and scooter recalls as a service to all riders.
If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.
To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:
Triumph has squeezed in a Thruxton RS to their Bonneville range, in between the Thruxton R and the Thruxton TFC.
That’s four in the Thruxton line and some 13 models in the entire Bonneville range; five with the 900cc engine and the rest with the 1200cc twin.
There is no word yet from Triumph Australia on when it will arrive or pricing, but expect it to cost more than the R at $21,100 (plus on-road costs).
The new Thruxton R has 5kW more power o 77kW and 112Nm of torque delivered 700rpm lower in the rev range.
That compares with the top-of-the-line Thruxton TFC with 79kW and 115Nm.
Triumph says it the RS model is 6kg lighter than the R.
It comes with hi-spec Brembo M50 radial mono bloc callipers, sticker Metzler Racetec RR tyres, Ohlins shocks, traction control, LED lighting and USB charger.
The three riding modes – Sport, Road and Rain – now adjust throttle map, ABS and traction control.
Styling is dark with black anodised whereas and engine covers and black Ohlines RSU twin shocks.
It comes in black or grey with silver trimmings.A range of custom accessories will be available, including the bubble fairing.
Only 25 limited-edition 2.5-litre Triumph Rocket 3 TFC (Triumph Factory Custom) models will be coming to Australia, but you better be quick.
Triumph Motorcycles Australia spokesman Dale McBride says they have had “massive interest and most deposits already down for a chance to own the special edition”.
Pricing is yet to be announced.
Meanwhile, the Thruxton TFC has finally been homologated for Australia with 80kW of peak power at 8000rpm, 115Nm of peak torque.
That’s 7.5kW more power and 4Nm more torque than the Thruxton R, while also 5kg lighter at 198kg.
These TFC models are the first of a new line of limited-edition motorcycles from the British manufacturer.
Only 750 numbered models of each will be made worldwide and there is no word yet on when the Thruxton will arrive.
While pricing for these limited-edition models has not yet been released, expect to pay much more than the current Thruxton R ($21,100) and Rocket 3 ($23,990).
Rocket 3 TFC
The Rocket 3 TFC is not a tarted-up current model, but based on the upcoming model with increased engine capacity from 2.3L to 2.5L.
So it’s still the biggest capacity engine of any production motorcycle in the world!
While the previous 2294cc triple delivered 109kW of power and 221Nm of torque, the new 2458cc triple has more than 125kW with the same peak torque.
It will also have Showa cartridge forks and top-spec Brembo Stylema brake calipers.
Some of the other features of the Rocket TFC are Arrow exhaust, full LED lighting, colour TFT instruments, internally wired flat handlebars and loads of carbon fibre in the front guard, exhaust, fly screen, drive shaft cover, heel guards and tank strap.
Tech features include keyless ignition, tyre pressure monitors, cruise control, USB charging socket, cornering ABS and traction control, four riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport and Rider-configurable), up and down quickshiter and hill hold control.
There will also be an optional Bluetooth module to integrate GoPro control, music and phone operation, and Triumph’s navigation system which is powered by Google.
It will come in carbon black and matt carbon black paint scheme with brushed foil decals, gold accents and electroformed 3D Triumph badge, hidden pillion footrests and a leather interchangeable ‘twin or single’ seat.
Once the TFC model is sold out, we expect standard and touring models to follow. We are not sure how many of these features will be included on those models.
Triumph says the 2019 Rocket 3 TFC is more than 15% lighter than its predecessor with a 40+kg saving.
The base and touring models may be a little heavier without all that carbon.
Rocket TFC tech specs
Engine Type
Inline 3-cylinder, water-cooled, DOHC
Capacity
2458cc
Bore/Stroke
110.2mm x 85.9mm
Maximum Power
Over 125kW (170PS)
Maximum Torque
Over 221Nm
Fuel system
Ride-by-Wire, fuel injected
Exhaust
Stainless 3 into 1 headers with 3 exit Arrow branded silencer / CAT box
Final drive
Shaft, bevel box
Clutch
Hydraulic, slip-assist
Gearbox
6 speed
Frame
Full aluminium frame
Instruments
TFT multi-functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes (Rain/Road/Sport/Rider-configurable) – Triumph TFT Connectivity System can be added with accessory fitted Bluetooth module
Swingarm
Single-sided, cast aluminium
Front Wheel
17 x 3.6in cast aluminium
Rear Wheel
16 x 7.5in cast aluminium
Front Tyre
150/80 R17 V
Rear Tyre
240/50 R16 V
Front Suspension
Showa ø47mm upside-down 1+1 cartridge front forks, compression and rebound adj., 120mm travel
Single 300mm disc, Brembo M4.32 4-piston monobloc caliper, Cornering ABS
Seat Height
773mm
Rake
27.9º
Trail
134.9mm
Dry Weight
TBC
Fuel Tank Capacity
19L
Thruxton TFC
The Thruxton TFC will come with lashings of carbon fibre, Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes with adjustable lever, Metzler Racetec RR tyres, Vance & Hines pipes, flip-up Monza fuel cap, all-LED lighting and brushed aluminium accents.
A highlight is the hand-painted gold lining.
Thruxton TFC also has a lightweight engine, body and frame components that strip weight.
These stunningly beautiful Thruxton and Rocket TFC (Triumph Factory Custom) models are the first of a new line of limited-edition motorcycles from the British manufacturer.
Only 750 numbered models of each will be made worldwide when they are launched on May 1, 2019.
The Rocket TFC is based on the new Rocket III with single-sided swingarm, chunky forks, resigned cowl, new exhaust tips, beefier Brembo brakes and a more contoured rider’s seat.
No pricing for these limited-edition models has been released but expect to pay much more than the current Thruxton R ($21,100) and Rocket III ($23,990).
Triumph Motorcycles Australia hasn’t said what their allocation will be or whether it will be by customer order, only.
Thruxton TFC
The Thruxton TFC comes with lashings of carbon fibre, Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes with adjustable lever, Metzler Racetec RR tyres, Vance & Hines pipes, flip-up Monza fuel cap, all-LED lighting and brushed aluminium accents.
A highlight is the hand-painted gold lining.
Thruxton TFC will also have 7.5kW more power at 79kW and 4Nm more torque at 115Nm.
At the same time, Thruxton TFC also has lightweight engine, body and frame components that strip weight.
However, the bike is not yet homologated for Australia, so the importers have not confirmed the exact output and weight figures.
Rocket TFC
There are no details yet on what the Rocket TFC will include.
However, the images give us a good look at the next model.
Triumph isn’t saying anything about the engine except that it has been “transformed”.
The current Rocket III has the biggest capacity engine of any production motorcycle with a 294cc triple, delivering 221Nm of torque and 109kW of power.
Rumours are that the new model could be powered by a 2.5-litre, 134kW engine.
It may also include many of Triumph’s high-tech rider-aid features such as traction control, cornering ABS and rider modes.
Other tech could include LED lighting, keyless ignition, Bluetooth connectivity and TFT instruments like all modern bikes seem to be getting.
Triumph Motorcycles looks like having another big year in 2019 with a possible 2.5-litre 134kW (180bhp) Rocket III and high-spec, limited-edition Triumph Factory Custom (TFC) models.
The Rocket III has already the biggest capacity engine of any production motorcycle with a 294cc triple, delivering 221Nm of torque and 109kW of power.
However, rumours about an upgrade and the above photo have leaked from an October Triumph dealers meeting where the bike was wheeled out for a brief time.
Rocket photo
The Rocket III photo taken off a screen reveals quite a bit.
It shows bigger forks, resigned cowl, new exhaust tips, beefier Brembo brakes and a more contoured rider’s seat.
Most importantly, it goes from twin shocks and double-sided swingarm to a single-sided swingarm, probably with a hidden single shock.
Rumours are that the Rocket III will also include many of Triumph’s high-tech rider-aid features such as traction control, cornering ABS and rider modes.
Other tech could include LED lighting, keyless ignition, Bluetooth connectivity and TFT instruments like all modern bikes seem to be getting.
There is no word on when the new Rocket will arrive, but if they have wheeled out a bike at the dealer conference, it should be available sometime next year.
TFC models
Triumph has also told dealers to expect a range of high-spec, limited-edition Triumph Factory Custom (TFC) models.They have had limited-edition and RS models before, but this seems to be a whole new class of bike.
For car enthusiasts think of AMG or HSV.
Triumph suggested TFC models in 2014 when it revealed the TFC Bobber and TFC Scrambler.
The first model will be a Thruxton R TFC in January 2019 with a carbonfibre bobble fairing.
It will weigh less, but have a beefed-up engine mapping, titanium Vance & Hines exhaust and revised riding modes. So it should be a rocket as well!
Suspension is top-shelf Öhlins NIX 30 forks with Öhlins piggyback rear shocks.
Brakes are Brembo radial callipers and radial master cylinder.
Triumph has unveiled their Speed Twin which is a poor-man’s Thruxton with the same engine tuning, but not quite the braking or handling spec of the sporty Thruxton R.
It also doesn’t have the dropped bars, but a more relaxed riding position like the T120.
Unlike the spy shots we saw last month, the Speed Twin comes with Kayaba conventional forks and shocks, not upside down forks and Ohlins piggyback suspension.
Triumph Motorcycles Australia say the bikes will arrive in January/February with pricing closer to the release date.
We suspect they will retail for about $18,000 which is more than the T120 at $17,200.
However, it should be under the Thruxton at $18,700 and well under the Ohlins-clad Thruxton R at $21,100.
The Speed Twin is basically a dual-seat Thruxton with straight bars, brushed metal and black dual exhausts, and seven-spoke mag wheels instead of wired-wheels.
It will come in three colour options: Silver Ice/Storm Grey, Korosi Red/Storm Grey, and Jet Black.
The unveiling of the Speed Twin lifts the number of 900 and 1200 Bonneville models to 12.
Single 220mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Instrument Display and Functions
LCD multi-functional instrument pack with analogue speedometer, analogue tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, range to empty indication, service indicator, clock, trip computer, scroll and mode buttons on handlebars, heated grip ready, fuel consumption display, traction control status and throttle mode display. TPMS ready.