Triumph has unveiled a new Thunderbird 1600 for 2010. Set to be an early release model -- summer 2009 -- the bike will feature a new, 1600cc parallel twin engine with a six-speed transmission and belt drive.With its new Thunderbird 2010, Triumph enters the competitive cruiser segment with a parallel-Twin powerplant unique in this category.
Instead of using a V-Twin, the T-Bird uses a 1597cc vertical-Twin powerplant that is an exceptionally clean lump for a liquid-cooled engine. A 270-degree firing interval essentially turns the motor into a 0-degree V-Twin, if you will. Double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder enhance breathing and combine with an oversquare 103.8 x 94.3mm bore and stroke to enable fairly high (for a Big Twin) 6500-rpm rev limit.
This "T-16” engine is the world’s largest production parallel-Twin motor. Thumps from the 800cc pistons are quelled with twin balance shafts (front, rear) plus a crank-mounted torsional damper. Triumph claims this new mill pounds out a claimed 85-hp peak at 4850 rpm when measured at the crankshaft. Torque crests at 2750 rpm with an alleged 108 ft-lbs.
A twin-spine steel-tube frame uses the engine as a stressed member for a stout platform within its fairly tidy 63.6-inch wheelbase, 0.6 inch shorter than the Harley Dyna Super Glide Custom that Triumph used as one of its targets. A beefy 47mm Showa fork is raked out at 32 degrees with 151mm of trail, while dual Showa shocks with 5-position preload adjustability (wrench under the seat) anchor down the back end.
There's no such thing as a viable cruiser with a tall seat height, so the T-Bird boasts a wide and well-padded saddle 27.6 inches above the ground (same as the Dyna), and this ensures a cruiser-typical feet-forward riding position. The handlebar greets hands a bit further forward than some laid-back cruisers, putting a rider’s spine in a comfortable position slightly rotated forward. A pleasantly tight turning circle is an unexpected bonus.
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