Marzocchi and little fuss
Remember that the Italian brand, intended to be high-end and in full swing, is often able to compete with Showa – the other big name and major supplier of suspensions for motorcycles popular on the European market – when it comes to non-adjustable models and the quality is still there. On the other hand, lightweight double-spoke rims of the best effect are shod with excellent Metzeler M9 RR. The whole influences the behavior of the motorcycle through handling which is supposed to be reinforced and significant ease in switching from one angle to another. Another factor in favor of ease on the handlebars: the size of the tires. Certainly in 17 inchesthe width of 120 and sides of 70 high at the front is pleasantly followed by that of 160 by 60 “only” at the rear. The theoretical guarantee of more lively behavior and good hold on the corner.
Revised ergonomics
The 14.5 liter tank also sees its form evolve in a very relevant and visually more impactful way. The position of the knees is correct: they are at the upper limit between metal and generous mechanics. The heat emanating from the twin cylinder being felt in mild temperatures and when driving more outside built-up areas than in an urban environment, one wonders about the bearability in summer in the city, at traffic lights/ Even with ventilation on the road and liquid cooling. Likewise, the handlebar end mirrors are particularly aesthetic, but the mirrors protrude copiously, limiting the possibilities of going back in line or, at least, requiring them to be taken into account.
Still about the tank, its Monza type capin aluminum, is mounted on a hinge while revealing a simply screwed cap. With a protective lock flap (also articulated), it looks great, while the inscription 1200 rebelliously “tattooed” on the sides, like the overall shape, recalls certain Harley Davidson Sportsters of times gone by. Opposite the beautiful Albion, however, we will more readily find a BMW R 12 Nine T, even though the power of the Teutonne stands out. Moto Guzzi and its V9s, or even Kawasaki and its Z900 RS seem to be the only ones to still offer an alternative to the Speed Twin in the neo retro style.
More modern and more complete equipment
The equipment of the motorcycle being revised upwards, the 216 kg claimed remain substantially equivalent, despite the apparent loss of weight on numerous elements. There inertial unit (IMU) responds present in order to manage as well traction control (temporarily deactivated and only when stopped) that ABS now active on the corner. However, what we gain on one side, we lose on the other, with disappearance of Sport engine mode previously implemented alongside behaviors Rain et Road. Finally, the instrumentation block is displayed in two parts, including an upper half-moon of TFT type and a lower square of color LCD typeseems to have become a standard on the brand's models. We therefore find its round face on the novelty, thereby introducing connected functions providing entertainment info (messages, calls), without forgetting the retention and display of additional information provided by l’application My Triumph of the smartphone. Indications reinforcing the plethora already available natively, to the point that it is possible to select what we see in the square digital display by using the up and down arrows on the directional cross on the left commodo.From the report engaged at engine speed through consumption or travel information, but also maintenance and engine temperature, so nothing is missing at the call of the thumb.
A qualitative and humble configuration
On this basic version of the Speed Twin (an RS version, also tested, being offered), the radial brake and clutch master cylinders (with spacing-adjustable levers), as well as the 4-piston front radial calipers and the rear one, are supplied by the now well-known Brembo subsidiary: J.Juan. The resemblance of the levers with their Italian counterparts is important, but the shape of the brake element (a little less pleasant, particularly at the index finger) as well as the firmer consistency than that of the high-end device, mark the difference.
More power, but only two engine modes
On the engine side, the 1,200 cc twin-cylinder is revised to meet the Euro5 + standard. Maintaining its interesting torque of 112 Nm, it displays above all ungained 5 ch to now reach 105 English Thoroughbred at 7,750 rpmbut loses the sportiest operating mode (Sport mode) now reserved for the RS, so only Rain and Road remain. The power curve is nevertheless more and better filled than previously, auguring good reactions. Liquid-cooled, with a discreet radiator in a vertical position on the front of the steel cradle frame, we always appreciate the imposing collector/line assembly coming out of each side of the motorcycle and ending its race in two silencers (one on each side) very modern and particularly discreet in shape.
More relaxed, the English roadster becomes more road-oriented
The fine selle de la Speed Twin allows you to maintain a height of 805 mmwhile you effectively place the flats of your feet on the ground without even meeting the footrests. The driving position is raised by bridges high enough to only slightly bend the back, a handlebar widened by 14 mm compared to the previous model reaches 792 mm, while the installation of the footrests is sufficiently advanced to protect the ground clearance, all without the legs being extended too much and without the location and shape of the plates allowing the adoption of a shifter, reserved for the sportiest RS version with rear controls. In fact, the classic English roadster naturally moves towards more kindness towards its driver, retaining fairly low footrests and a pleasant passenger seat, offering only the bust in front of you to hold on to. On the tare, 216 kg fully loaded allows us to consider the Speed with pleasure and to place it in the category of old-style motorcycles best designed for all types of motorcyclists.
Finally, let us recall They are base rate: €14,895. Expensive, certainly, but the quality of manufacturing and finishing are there and this series targets an aesthetic clientele, which it happily pleases.
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