A handsome racer

A handsome racer

If the Triumph Bonneville provided the touch and feel of a retro bike at the top, the Thruxton R takes it a step further. Available in India with all the bells and whistles, the Thruxton R makes a cafe racer. 

Well-proportioned and ‘classic’ looking, the bike taps into the affection for cafe racers of yore. What makes it interesting are the proportions of the Thruxton R — they seem to be rather right. If that makes it beautiful, the shape of the fairing with that lamp at the centre, the long tank, the minimalist side panels, and the bare essential tail piece make the Thruxton look handsome. The curves contribute to the retro feel, and influence the charming silhouette of this motorcycle.

Priced at Rs 13.5 lakh ex-showroom approximately, and at Rs 16 lakh approximately with a track racer kit that includes Vance & Hines exhaust among other bits, the Thruxton R is so much about details — the Monza-style tank cap and the throttle bodies that mimic carburettors are quite distinctive too. The front Brembo discs and the fully-adjustable Ohlins at the rear also draw attention.

The 1200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin does 97PS at 6750rpm. Peak torque is 112Nm at 4950rpm. Providing robust torque at lower revs, the Thruxton impresses with its smooth progress. This motorcycle provides a fast but smooth riding experience with a strong flow of torque at lower revs. The redline, which comes relatively early, should provide an idea.

Climbing into the region right of 150kmph with consummate ease, the Thruxton R is claimed to clock 0 to 100kmph in less than four seconds.
Fuel Efficiency: 15kmpl

Averaging 15kmpl under a mix of city and open road riding, the Thruxton R, with its bars placed low call for an amount of effort. The foot pegs are placed a bit towards the rear, and the tank being long, there’s an amount of reach-forward that is called for. A good position call for an amount of lean. If the seemingly limited travel of the Ohlins has some big irregularities transmitted, the Thruxton R impresses with its agility.

There is a retro flavour to it, and the motorcycle responds accurately to the inputs, never feeling hurried. The long wheelbase and the Pirellis combine to result in a ride that is confidence inspiring and enjoyable.

Even flow of power and high stability has the motorcycle flowing from one corner to the other with little effort. Displaying good agility to power out of a corner, and into the next, the Thruxton R makes for good lean angles. The pipes give out a consistent beat that increases over time to provide a full-bodied feel.

The ABS-equipped brakes provide a highly progressive feel and a strong bite. Blending electronics with mechanical to create a detailed and retro-looking machine that is reliable, the Thruxton R is not about a sudden burst, but a beautiful mix of power and ride. While the riding position may take a while  getting used to, the motorcycle impresses with the way it delivers.

Pros: Retro styling, performance, dynamics
Cons: Price

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