When it comes to modern classic cruisers that exude British heritage while offering the comfort and performance demanded by today’s riders, few motorcycles manage to strike the balance as well as the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster. Rooted in the iconic Bonneville lineage but tailored for long-distance comfort and low-slung cruiser charm, the Speedmaster is more than just a pretty face — it’s a genuinely capable machine designed to turn heads and clock miles with ease.
A Cruiser with British Soul
From the moment you lay eyes on the Triumph Speedmaster, its classic design grabs your attention. The bike takes the foundational elements of the Bonneville Bobber — such as the hardtail-look rear and minimalist styling — and infuses it with more laid-back cruiser DNA. The result is a bike that pays homage to the past while offering modern comfort and practicality.
Its sculpted tank, swept-back bars, forward-set footpegs, and wide, plush seat all scream cruiser, yet it still retains that distinctive British edge. The detailing is exquisite — chrome accents, a classic round headlight, and machined engine fins all contribute to the Speedmaster’s retro appeal. It’s the kind of bike that looks just as good parked outside a café as it does slicing through winding country roads.
Engineered to Impress
At the heart of the Speedmaster is Triumph’s proven 1200cc parallel-twin High Torque engine, producing around 76 horsepower and 106 Nm of torque. While those figures may not seem earth-shattering on paper, the way the power is delivered is what makes the Speedmaster shine. There’s a smooth, eager surge of torque available low down in the rev range, making the bike responsive and engaging even at relaxed cruising speeds.
Matched to a slick six-speed gearbox, the engine pulls effortlessly whether you’re overtaking on the highway or taking it easy on a scenic back road. It also sounds fantastic, thanks to the deep, throaty growl from its twin exhausts. Triumph has worked hard to give the Speedmaster an exhaust note that matches its classic styling — and they’ve succeeded.
Built for the Journey
While the Bobber is a beautiful machine, it’s more of a solo ride. The Speedmaster, by contrast, is designed with longer journeys and two-up riding in mind. The seat is larger and more comfortable, and the bike comes standard with a passenger seat and grab rail. Cruise control is also standard, making highway cruising more comfortable and reducing wrist fatigue.
Suspension duties are handled by Showa 47mm cartridge forks up front and a hidden monoshock rear setup with preload adjustability. Triumph has clearly tuned the suspension for comfort, and it shows — the ride is plush without feeling wallowy. Even on less-than-perfect roads, the Speedmaster soaks up bumps with grace.
For braking, you get twin 310mm discs with Brembo calipers up front and a single 255mm disc with a Nissin caliper at the rear — all supported by standard ABS. The brakes provide confidence-inspiring stopping power, essential for a cruiser that weighs in around 263 kg wet.
Technology That Enhances, Not Distracts
The Triumph Speedmaster walks a fine line between classic design and modern functionality. It comes with ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes (Road and Rain), switchable traction control, and ABS — all of which operate subtly in the background. The idea is to give you the safety and performance of a modern bike without cluttering the experience with too many digital intrusions.
The single-clock instrument cluster is another example of Triumph’s attention to detail. It combines analog and digital elements beautifully, with a clean, readable layout that displays all the information you need — including gear position, fuel level, trip info, and more.
Customization Potential
Like most modern Triumphs, the Speedmaster comes with a vast array of official accessories, allowing you to tailor the bike to your taste. Want to turn it into a stripped-back solo cruiser? Swap out the seat and remove the pillion setup. Looking for more touring comfort? Add a windshield, luggage racks, or heated grips.
Triumph even offers pre-configured inspiration kits, such as the “Highway” kit, which includes panniers, a touring screen, and comfort seats — turning your Speedmaster into a laid-back touring machine with ease.
Final Thoughts
The Triumph Speedmaster is the kind of motorcycle that doesn’t need to shout to get your attention. It wins you over with refined style, rich character, and a blend of performance and comfort that’s perfect for weekend escapes or weekday cruises. It’s a modern classic that manages to feel timeless, and one of the most charming options in the mid-size cruiser category.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a reliable long-distance companion or a newcomer drawn in by its retro appeal, the Triumph Speedmaster makes a compelling case. It’s more than just a Bonneville with forward pegs — it’s a cruiser with soul.