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The Thunderbird LT can return good fuel efficiency for its size when it cruises around on open stretches. Expect anywhere close to 17 kmpl on long rides. With a 22 litre fuel tank, the range is above 350 km. The efficiency drops to 12 kmpl in city conditions though.
Value
The closest rival to the bike internationally is the Harley Davidson Roadking. But since the model is not available in India, its closest rival is the smaller sibling of the Roadking – the classic version of the H-D Softail. We think Thunderbird offers a better value with the advantages of a parallel twin, size and plusher ride. For some, Harley as a brand works better than Triumph for a cruiser machine. For others, however, Triumph offer exclusivity, presence and refinement in a market swamped with Harleys. It works both ways.
The Indian Scout is another option which retails for lesser price, but the Thunderbird aces the baby Indian in terms of presence, power, cubic capacity and pure touring capability.
Verdict:
If you are really looking for a highway cruiser to travel on expressways at a steady pace, the LT is definitely one of the strong choices in the premium segment. The Thunderbird LT will stand you out from the crowd and offer an authentic cruiser experience. It’s not perfect for the taxing Indian conditions, but in all honesty, no other cruiser in its segment really is.
At Rs 15.75 Lakhs (Ex-showroom Delhi), it is what some would call expensive but looking at its alternatives the Thunderbird LT really comes across as good value for money.
Technical Specifications:
| Engine | |
| TYPE | Liquid cooled, DOHC, Paralleltwin, 270º firing interval |
| CAPACITY | 1699cc |
| Max Power | 94PS |
| Max Torque | 151Nm |
| BORE | 107.1mm |
| STROKE | 94.3mm |
| SYSTEM | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection, progressive linkage on throttle |
| EXHAUST | Chromed twin-skin stainless steel 2 into 1 into 2 exhaust system with chrome plated silencers |
| FINAL DRIVE | Toothed Belt |
| CLUTCH | Wet, multiplate |
| GEARBOX | 6 speed, helical type 2nd - 6th |
| OIL CAPACITY | 4.2 litre |
| Chassis Running Gear and Displays | |
| Frame | Tubular Steel, Twin Spine |
| Swingarm | Twin-sided, steel |
| Front wheel | Wire, 56 Spoke, 16 x 3.5 inch |
| Rear Wheel | Wire, 56 Spoke, 16 x 3.5 inch |
| Front Tyre | 150/80 VR16 Whitewall |
| Rear Tyre | 180/70 VR16 Whitewall |
| Front Suspension | Showa 47mm forks. 120mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Showa twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload. 108.5mm rear wheel travel |
| Brakes Front | Twin 310mm floating discs. Nissin 4-piston fixed calipers, ABS |
| Brakes Rear | Single 310mm fixed disc. Brembo 2-piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Instrument Display and Functions | Analogue speedometer and fuel gauge. LCD trip computer, range to empty and clock. LCD function scroll button on handlebars |
| Dimensions and Capacities | |
| Length | 2546mm |
| Width with Handlebars | 956mm |
| Height Without Mirror | 1225mm |
| Seat Height | 700mm |
| Wheelbase | 1665mm |
| Rake | 29.9 degree |
| Trail | 133mm |
| Tank Capacity | 22 Litre |
| Pannier capacity | 26 Litre |
| Wet Weight | 380 kg |
| Dry weight | 349 kg |
| Price | Rs. 16,19,670 (Ex Showroom Delhi) |
You know this is Triumphs smaller cruiser. For a truly large cruiser check out the Rocket III Touring.
Seen these in the show rooms at the dealers in Arizona, USA. Nice looking bike, it is big, but I do not believe I have seen one on the street that somebody actually bought, sad to say. I do see the regular Thunderbird and quiet abit which this is a spin off of. I also see the model with the twin headlights quiet often.
The bike is great, the saddle bags could have been better.