2011 Triumph Thunderbird Storm

A bit late to the new-release party but still wanting to partake was Triumph, who recently introduced a new version of the Thunderbird cruiser.

The 2011 Triumph Thunderbird Storm rolls on the same chassis and sources its powerplant from the base Thunderbird, but the 1699cc liquid-cooled Parallel Twin engine (with 270 degree firing interval), is a bored-out version of the standard 1597cc unit. Triumph claims 98hp at 5200rpm for the Thunderbird Storm, with torque rated at 115 ft-lb. at 2950rpm.

The Storm takes it a bit further than just the engine upgrade, with wholesale styling changes that include black engine cases, a straighter drag bar style and twin bug-eye headlights (as opposed to the regular T-Bird's solo light). It also gets twin 310mm floating discs up front with four pistons for superior stopping power, and ABS is optional.

Triumph also announced major changes to the long-running America and Speedmaster for 2011, which include lower seat heights and improved ergonomics 'to make them more accessible to more riders', say the Brits.

The America refreshes its classic theme for 2011, with the 16-inch front and 15-inch rear cast wheels now sporting full-height tires to complement a deeper front fender, and handlebars and controls pulled back to focus the traditional cruiser look.

The Speedmaster, meanwhile, goes in the other direction, with the addition of a 19-inch cast aluminum front wheel and 'skinny' tire for a more chopped, look. Ergos also get tweaked for the 2011 model year, with a low 27 inch seat height married to new, wider handlebars that bring a new riding position. All three units will be available in the USA and Canadian markets by the end of January; check our website for the prices.

2011 Triumph Thunderbird Storm - USA Specifications
American MSRP: $TBA USD

Engine
Type
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, Parallel-twin, 270 degree firing interval
Capacity
1699cc
Bore/Stroke
103.8 x 94.3mm
Compression Ratio
9.7:1
Fuel System
Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection, progressive linkage on throttle

Transmission
Final Drive
Toothed belt
Clutch
Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox
6-speed constant mesh, helical type 2nd - 6th

Cycle Parts
Frame
Tubular steel, twin spine
Swingarm
Twin-sided, steel
Front Wheel
Cast aluminum alloy 5-spoke 19 x 3.5 in
Rear Wheel
Cast aluminum alloy 5-spoke 17 x 6 in
Front Tyre
120 / 70 R19
Rear Tyre
200 / 50 R17
Front Suspension
Showa 47mm forks. 120mm travel
Rear Suspension
Showa chromed spring twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload. 95mm rear wheel travel
Front Brakes
Twin 310mm floating discs. Nissin 4-piston fixed calipers
Rear Brakes
Single 310mm fixed disc. Brembo 2-piston floating caliper


Dimensions
Length
92.1 in
Width (Handlebars)
34.6 in
Height
44.1 in
Seat Height
27.5 in
Wheelbase
63.5 in
Rake/Trail
32 degree / 151mm
Wet weight
746 lbs
Fuel Tank Capacity
5.8 US gals
Performance (measured at crankshaft to 95/1/EC)
Maximun Power EC
97bhp @ 5200rpm
Maximum Torque EC
115ft.lbs @ 2,950rpm

Colours
Jet Black