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The all fresh Triumph Thunderbird cruiser is a gem but detains character, according to Harley-Davidson fans.
In a national first, result were pitched at its closest Harley opponent, the 1584cc Dyna Super Glide Custom, and then two
Hog possessors commented on their thoughts of the sophisticated British bike.
Both Harley possessors stated the
Thunderbird was an excellent motorcycle, and incorporated an improved build, tour quality and more desirable than Japanese
manufactured Harley imitations.
However both fans of Milwaukee metal, also stated the Triumph reduced in character
of their own bikes, although they agreed the Thunderbird handled better.
Malcolm Pritchard explains, "The
Thunderbird is a very good bike. Obvious Harley influences abound, such as the switchgear, rear chrome side rail and fuel
tank readout, but it's not the clone the Japanese produce.
"It's a bit too smooth for me the
engine isn¹t vibey enough and feels like it doesn¹t have the torque of the Glide.
"But Harley could
learn a thing or two from the Triumph's brakes. It beats the clones and will challenge Harley, especially the Glide."
Robert Lye comments, "Initially, I thought the Thunderbird was a bit bland. Sometimes it feels more like
a smooth four-cylinder than a big twin.
"Everything fits and works and you don¹t have to think about
riding it. But top gear doesn't seem to have as much drive from low revs as the Harley.
"But after a while
I did like the Thunderbird. It felt right. It was confidence inspiring (borne out by my peg-scraping antics) and looks OK
apart from points like the radiator and unusual rear right-hand engine cover.
"If I was looking for a custom-themed
bike from scratch, it would most certainly be a contender.
"OK, the Harley wobbles and shudders and is softly
suspended compared to the Triumph, but it is these points and the almost archaic engine that go to make Harley ownership what
it is."
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