From a press release issued by Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd.:

TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES INTRODUCES THRUXTON 900



Triumph Café Racer Legacy Continues with Thruxton’s Performance, Styling and Sound

NEWNAN, Ga. — Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., announced today the world introduction of a second exciting new motorcycle in the company’s 2004 model line-up — the Thruxton 900. This new machine was unveiled during a Triumph Motorcycles Limited press conference in Milan, Italy at the International Motorcycle Show. Also making its debut to the European market at this show is the Rocket III, Triumph’s thrilling new 2.3 liter power cruiser that was introduced to the world from the United States several weeks ago.

“The 2004 Triumph Thruxton remains true to its rich heritage,” said Ross Clifford, Triumph Motorcycles Product Manager, “with clip-on handlebars, rearset footpegs and megaphone silencers, this new motorcycle is the first Triumph café racer of the modern era.”

Named after a well-known racing circuit in Hampshire, England, the Thruxton pays homage to the original successes of Triumph’s 1969 sweep of first, second and third-place in the Thruxton 500 (a 500-mile endurance race), when a series of specialized racing Bonnevilles was born. During that time, the Bonneville Thruxtons were essentially racers for the road with well tuned engines and a pared-down, high performance look and riding position – an exciting, distinctive style that inspired the café racing street motorcyclists of the time.

To create the new Thruxton 900, the Bonneville’s 790cc air-cooled twin-cylinder engine was enlarged to 865cc, then tuned with new cams, new carburetors and megaphone-style exhausts for more power and torque. The Thruxton’s engine has a peak power output of 69bhp at 7,250rpm and peak torque of 53ft.lb at 5,750rpm.

Revised telescopic forks and longer rear shocks (both with preload adjustment) enhance the suspension action while sharp steering geometry delivers responsive handling. A fully floating front disc and twin-piston brake caliper provide powerful, yet sensitive, braking performance. The tubular steel twin cradle frame and box section swingarm maximize the engine’s increased power output.

Polished engine covers, clip-on handlebars, rearset footpegs and a short front mudguard, further reinforces the bike’s café-racer detail. Color options are jet black or sunset red, both with a checkered-flag tank graphic and silver mudguards. The MSRP for the 2004 Thruxton 900 is $ 7,999.00 to be available at Triumph US dealerships in April 2004.