Triumph Thunderbird

In 1994, Thunderbird motorcycles made a comeback in the form of the Triumph Thunderbird 900. It was powered by an 885c.c. triple which produced 69hp and 52ft/lb of torque. This time, the Hinckley plant got it very right. This bike was made to ride anywhere - the accessories catalog was much larger for this model and many buyers added generously to their T-birds. Just as the first Thunderbird motorcycles were made for consuming the miles, the Thunderbird 900 was often configured as a touring machine.

However, Triumph also knew that any motorcycle - no matter its intended purpose - could use more power. The Triumph Thunderbird Sport 900 was more powerful, at 82hp, and had upgraded suspension, brakes, wheels, and more but it retained the classical styling of the model. The last 885c.c. Thunderbird motorcycles were assembled in 2004.

Triumph did not stop production for long, though. In 2009 they announced the new Thunderbird 1600 twin. This 2010 model-year machine boasts two 800cc. cylinders which together produce 85hp and 108ft/lbs of torque at 2750rpm! A six-speed transmission supplies power to the rear wheel via toothed belt for buttery smooth operation. With this new model, Triumph has told the world that Thunderbird motorcycles will be with us for many years to come ...