Triumph Thunderbird Storm...
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.