Triumph America Parallel-Twin

British motorcycle brand, Triumph entered Indian bike market on 28th November, 2013. Their cruiser bike, America was also expected to be one of the bikes which would be seen on our Indian roads. But the company has not launched 'America' in India. Let’s know more about this iconic bike.

Design and Style

America unmistakably looks like a true cruiser bike. Triumph has blessed this bike with heavy chrome and metal which enhances the appearance of this bike. There is no front cowl or visor in this bike and its naked headlight and instrument console are surrounded by chrome. The orange colored side indicators can be seen on its beefy front telescopic forks. These forks complement the styling of its multi spoke rim at its front. America has a wide front tyre and fender which adds macho character to this cruiser bike. Move to the side of this bike and you will notice a big elongated fuel tank which has been designed neatly with premium graphics on it. You will also notice heavy usage of chrome on this fuel tank which makes it look up market. The long twin chrome exhaust pipes are similar to most of the Royal Enfield’s bikes. Its low positioned rider seat can’t be ignored and looks really impressive with its chromed side panel. The bike has a long and wide rear cowl which has been chrome finished and carries the full size tail light, side indicators and number plate of this bike. Its naked chain sprocket, wide rear tyre and overall usage of chrome at the back make it a premium cruiser bike.

Instrument Console

The bike has a fully analogue instrument console which gives it the true essence of a cruiser bike. The bike features analogue speedometer, odometer and trip-meter in a circular dial while you can notice its analogue fuel gauge on its fuel tank. This chrome case also displays few LED indicators which provide essential information to the rider.

Engine and Gearbox

The bike will be powered by a parallel twin, 4-stroke 865cc engine. This air-cooled, DOHC engine generates a power output of 60 bhp which arrives at 6800 rpm. The torque production of this engine is of 72 Nm which is accessible at 3300 rpm. Triumph has mated this engine with a manual five speed gearbox with one gear down and four gears up-shift pattern.

Acceleration and Performance

Looking at its specifications, you might doubt its powerful performance. It certainly doesn’t have the best power to weight ratio in its class but the early torque and power availability changes the game for this bike. The bike is backed with enough amount of torque at early rpms. It can reach 0-100km/hr in less than 9 seconds which makes it quite impressive. The torque arrives as early as 3300rpm which reduces gear shifts and gives you comfortable rides. The gear ratios are on the taller side but that doesn’t mean you have to wait for the power. The power delivery is quite linear and you will also enjoy instant throttle response in this bike. The bike crosses the three digit mark in its second gear without any problem. Being a DOHC engine, it tends to be more refined and that shows when you rev this bike hard. This engine shows no signs of vibrations and harshness. The well matched gearbox also works effectively and helps rider to go pass the speed of 140km/hr. The bike stays quite stable at high speeds and feels best when driven between 100km/hr to 130km/hr.

Mileage

The accurate fuel efficiency can only be calculated after the test drive of this bike on our Indian roads but you can expect a mileage of around 20km/ltr from this bike.

Comfort while Driving

The low positioned seat gives immense confidence to the rider and feels quite comfortable on long journeys. The stepped up seat gives rider and pillion rider enough space to relax. The cruiser style wide handle bar of this bike comes to you automatically once you settle on this bike. It’s a vibration less handlebar which not only gives you firm palm grip but also gives you great control over this bike. The front set foot pegs is the characteristic feature of a cruiser bike which gives great comfort to your legs.

Storage Space and Safety Features

The side panels in this bike offer some storage space while you can also opt for other accessories like leather bag to carry few more things. The bright headlight cuts through the dark when you drive at night and increases your safety by providing clear vision of roads.

Suspension and Brakes

America will have telescopic KYB front forks of 41mm and KYB adjustable twin spring shocks at the back. Triumph has equipped this bike with front disc brake of 310mm and single disc brake of 285mm at the back. The bike also features 2-piston calliper at its both ends.

Ride and Handling

The bike promises an impressive ride and handling. It has an extended wheelbase of 1617mm which makes it feel best in class in terms of stability. It never losses contact with road at high speeds. Its superb suspension system also firmly holds this bike while its fatty tyres constantly maintains good road grip. The stability around corners also improves with its high ground clearance. The suspension system easily takes the heavy weight of this bike and gives you stress free long trips. Handling is quite up to the mark when you treat it on highways but as soon as you enter city traffic it becomes quite a task to steer this bike frequently. It’s a huge bike and takes time to settle in city traffic. Triumph could have worked on the braking system of America though as sometimes you have to try hard to stop this heavy machine.

Tyre Size, Shades and Variants

The bike will feature 16 inches wheel at its front and 15inches wheel at the back. Shades and variants are yet to be disclosed.

Verdict

Triumph America will compete with other cruiser bikes like Hyosung ST7 and Suzuki Intruder in India. The pricing of America will decide if it’s a complete value for money bike or not. If Triumph can place it below other established bikes then there are more chances that this bike may succeed in India.