I am buying my son a Speed 400. Looks great, has a bit of that Triumph mystique, and (short of any major crash damage) I anticipate it will bring a resell amount much closer to the purchase price than other options when he moves up. But...and this is the critical piece...another young rider enters motorcycling on a Triumph. Damn genius of Triumph to get such a well put together bike out there for $ that makes it comparable to used starter bikes and gets young people riding the brand. If HD had done that, they might still be relevant in a few years.
My dad 84 years of age would Love the 400. He loves the way my 1200 sounds and looks but feels the brutal way its engine works and its weight to much. I know he is tempted. And for the money it is So enticing. I’m actually thinking of buying the Scrambler 400X as a nimble bike around town. No I’m not selling my 1200. Never!
Please tell your son to use all the necessary equipment while riding. Mine made an accident and he survived due to good quality shoei helmet and thanks to wearing other equipment.
I'm like you a 1200 Speed Twin owner. It's two bikes in one. You can trundle around using the low down torque and be as smooth as butter. Open it up and let the revs climb and it becomes a different beast. Many practical faults like inadequate mudguards but these are curable with aftermarket additions. The point is this is a bike that make you smile when you wheel it out of the garage and just look, makes you smile at the noise when you start it, and makes you smile on every ride. Not cheap, but a machine that makes me smile, priceless.
Absolutely agree. Its hopelessly impractical compared to my Transalp, for example (cramped, no wind protection, luggage ruins the looks, etc), but I love it :)
I have two RE 350's and an Interceptor, i agree with what he said and Inty feels more planted compare to 350's, i never owned triumph Bonneville but planning to.
@@ramirof1986 Are you taking about T120 or Interceptor? I'm surprised with how good parallel twin of Interceptor is that I'm constantly thinking about T120 as it's parallel twin as well with lot more power, if I'll ever upgrade i guess I'll get T120 for now I'm looking for couple of test drives. But bike looks gorgeous.
I went for the 900 - I love the sound, and the low seat height was a winner for me. I do agree with you, the single clock is a great visual disappointment, and the shocks need an upgrade. Other than that, I prefer the old school looks, and riding on back roads is what it's for.
The Fox RSU is lovely in my opinion, especially if you have a passenger. Also Pirelli Demons on it are lovely. Becomes a different machine - way more agile and comfy than the price would indicate. I have 16K miles on my 2022.
I'm buying a Speed 400. Many, many moons ago I rode the Yamaha RD350 and then the Yamaha 650 Special. I have only regularly riden a 150 CC bike since then. As I'm getting older, I wanted to own a bigger CC thumper and this Triumph came out at the right time and fits me perfectly for my size, use and wants. I hope to receive delivery this month here in Southeast Asia. Thanks for the video.
You won't be disappointed, it's a great 'little' bike. I would buy one, if I had a need for a 400. Nobody NEEDS the 9 or the 12, but we just can't resist. I love my 1200, but if they brought out a 1400, I would have to have it, lol :)
I love my 1200. 55000 kms in 3 years, she takes me everywhere and still after all this time she puts a smile on my face, in the city and in the twisties. I call her my forever bike, one I will never sell.
I've got the dart classic screen, and with ear plugs I can comfortably sit at 85 MPH with no issues, geared up to 17t on the front so it's much less buzzy. Get around 55mpg
I owned a 900 and put 10k miles on it. It was such a lovely and fun motorcycle. I eventually sold it for the reasons you mentioned, but especially because it felt like it was lacking a 6th gear to cruise comfortably at highway speed (around 80mph where I live). I eventually upgraded to a Thruxton 1200 and I’m again very impressed with what Triumph have done. Amazing bikes all around.
The 1200 is a great bike which you can't go wrong with and has a 6th gear. For the 900 riders though, the trick with the 900 5 gears and searching for a 6th (which the more expensive 1200 has) is don't change up early! The engines deliver a lot of torque but you can rev them happily higher than most people realise. The lazy torque delivery is great but don't be scared of revving it higher! they are designed for it, so don't worry, work it more. I can change up at over 80mph from 4th to 5th on mine, which is an air cooled 865cc 2013 T100 Bonneville. This bike delivers power in a more linear manner and peak power and torque occur higher in the rev range, but I suspect the same trick could be played on the more modern 900! When you get used to higher revs and change up at 80mph say, then you won't be expecting an extra 6th gear. I think this can sometimes be overlooked, you have engine balancer shafts in the engine to prevent higher revs from being uncomfortable and too vibratory, why not make use of them!
ST 900 is the Goldilocks bike for me. Taking my wife on pillion is a consideration. I had a ST1200 but traded that for a BMW R1250RT with a view to comfortable touring. Now I’ve downsized to the ST900 for more local riding. I have a top box I occasionally put on the 900, which gives the wife a feeling of security, as well as a bit of practicality. Agree though, the ST1200 is a beautiful bike and the Speed400 is probably good for riding solo locally. But Goldilocks, the compromiser (in their seventies) prefers the ST900. Thanks for the interesting comparison. 😊
I bought a Speed 400 for those "Gee, what a nice day for a short ride" days when I really didn't want to drag out my Tiger Explorer. Absolutely NO regrets. Riding since 1961.
Great presentation, thank you. The 400 looks best of all three and I expect Triumph to update the other two designwise in the shorter future. Also the rear suspension with these two shocks should be replaced by a more contemporary linked single shock suspension. I testrode the 1200 two years ago when I was in the market for a classic naked bike and although the engine really pleased me I finally went for my Kawa Z900RS and didn't regret that decision.
Nah!..the 1200 and 900 are timeless Classics, I love the looks with the twin shocks and everything, If one wishes a more modern bike there is the street triple or Trident. IMO the Classic ones are a bit more practical, for example with my street Twin 900 I also use it in some mild off roading with 50/50 dualsport Tires, the 18inch front wheel although it can be a pain to find front tires for it, it can handle a bit of the slightly larger bumps or road imperfections. Handles well on road, its comfy, low seat height and you can also tour on it, the 900 has more than enough power and its very smooth. Not the cup for everyone but it can do a bit of everything which is good. The 400's are nice but honestly I wished they where more similar to the classics, to me its like they are half speed 900 on the front and half trident from the seat backwards. Not a bad thing entirely but looks for looks the classic ones are more better looking, or at least for me. Now what I wish is that they also make 125cc models, how about a modern Triumph Tiger Cub?😅
Actually I got 1200 three weeks ago, thanks also to your videos. Found demo model, much better priced compared to “brand new”. Love it! Even in still cold conditions. Cheers.
Great video! I thought I would pick the 400... but damn it, once you put it that way - I now want a 1200 too! I am all into small bikes now, but 1200 makes me want to make an exception.
I love my Thruxton RS. Had a Speed Twin 900 for 2 years and I was constantly yearning for more. So happy I bought the Thruxton (1200) and like this video would encourage others to do the same.
Great review! I pre ordered a Speed 400, way back in September. Why? I'm 68 and not ridden a bike for 35 years- until I had a couple of refresher lessons in the Autumn. That showed me, I needed more practice, so bought a cheap Mutt 125. Good move. The 1200 has so much appeal but, my age and the real world- eg my driveway has a noticeable slope making bike handling difficult- means I am happy to take the 400. Should arrive soon!
I bought the bonneville T120 with 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm. It is perfect for me because it’s more comfortable than the Speed and sounds better as well. I upgraded front and rear shocks with Ohlins as well ❤. And put handlebar risers. I will never sell it.
I'd go for a Sunday roast and get the T120. Plenty of grunt, good acceleration 70-95, comfier seat and pillion and less twitchy. Or the new R12nineT with heated grips and a quickshifter for a few more bob - bratwurst?
Nicely presented. Well, I'm glad I watched this video after eating my lunch, even though licking the screen is not really my thing. So the 900 has the knees by the ears (the lowest seat height...too low for my body) and the 1200 comes with an organ donor card. I wouldn't mind the 1200 if the weight would be lower. But as it is, I'd buy the 400. The 50-something kg weight penalty is quite significant to me. Yes, I'd get to our provincial road speed limit of 80 km/h 3 or 4 seconds faster, but then the low speed handling and parking are so much easier with 170 kg.
Thanks for the video! I love the modern classic segment and I am sure I will upgrade to a Speed Twin 1200 in the future. The way you described the power would give me the occasional thrill of a super powerful bike on the top end, but it would be more than reasonable for city use.
I do like the gator look, also they do perform a function. I'd also like a 400, but as I already have a scooter and a suzuki gsx 8s it's not offering anything functionally. I think Triumph nailed it with the 400, if I had one bike, I could make the 400 work.
I also own a 1200 speed twin and you’re right about the power delivery and feel. I also own a classic 650 bonneville and 750 Norton, each one was the rocket ship in its day. I think there is nothing better than riding a twin for the sound and torque.
I'm seriously considering a second bike. I have my Indian Chieftain which is great for the longer rides, but a bit heavy sometimes in town. In my opinion, the 400 would be a great addition. I just have to go out test ride one. :)
Nice comparison test, for me I'd buy the Moto Guzzi (yes I know you were looking at 3 Triumphs) It's cheaper, more characterful, shaft drive and oozes Italian Charm. Ok the 900 then.
that whole review had me smiling ,,,, well done , the bit when you admitted the 900 sounded better than yours made me laugh , you don't often show much emotion - but that was brilliant ;;; i am also surprised that the 900 is just as useful as the 12 , it seems that it is a fair chunk of money to buy better looks and more go ;;;
I bought a Trident 660 for my wife after I watched your videos. A month ago I bought a Speed Twin 1200 for myself after I watched your videos. You mention "brutal" and I assume you refer to torque... I however also ride a well tuned Gen.3 KTM Super Duke R... and I wonder if the Speed Twin owners have ever swung a leg over a Super Duke R.... If ever you can, go try one - It is sensational in every aspect!!
I am going to change my scrambler 900 for speed twin 1200. I will miss Gandalf the grey, but new stealth edition 1200 is just so tempting, that I have to proceed. It is now or never... looking forward to this change
I ended up with a T120, but the 900 is the most fun I've ever had on a Triumph retro, 1200 included. There's something about the low power big noise combination that makes it hilarious around town.
I live in Vilamoura and have been down every road in the video, so I right enjoyed that. Hopefully ill be in to see you soon, investment pending. I fancy the 900, your on the 125..😎🔆
Bike size depends largely how one uses it. If I'm gonna ride 500 miles a day cruising 70-90mph and/or hitting inclement weather, my Super Tenere is obvious choice. Traction, tech, power, comfort, protection is all needed. For cheap commute around city, beating traffic, touring occasionally up to 300-400 miles a day, hauling on hitch carrier of truck for vacation, cb500x is best fit and very fun bike. For slow speed, short distances 200-400cc is sufficiant and more fun than heavier bikes. There is also issue of afforability. I would say most people ride what they can afford.
If these were the only 3 bikes in existence, I'd go for the 900, but in all honesty, for regular 2-hour trips on the motorway, you need more wind protection than any of these bikes can offer.
@@RocketMan_Moto Funny. I tought that the 1200 would be your pick because of the bigger motor. Its just for 3 times a year if that manny. I like the triumph style.
The 900 has a more comfortable riding position. The extra power of the 1200 is irrelevant above about 110km/h because the wind blast wants to pull you off😂
Hello..I bought a Scrambler 400 last April...first motorcycle at 39 years old....I rode it for 4.000km...and I'm attending some courses to get better my guide... For you....Can I buy a 900 next years o I can directly take the 1200 as definitely motorbikes, cause the 900 is just 65 hp and weight the same of 1200? Thanks..I ride always with my gf and I love also my 400
Im going to get the 400, simply because i live in Lisbon, in the old part of the city with all the cobble stones, trams and hills so lightweight and agility are a must, if i was living in the Algarve i would get the 900 for sure, i hate heavy bikes but that torque must feel great cruising along
I have not ridden these modern Triumphs, but I frequently hop on my 1973 T140V Bonneville for a cheap thrill. Weighing less than 400 lbs, it has good power, plenty enough for traveling twisty roads at 50 mph or less. Handling is superb. If the modern classics can duplicate it, they are doing quite well, IMO. Your account of the modern 900 sounds just like my T140. Long live the Bonneville.
I’ve owned a 09 Bonnie SE for 10 years. It’s what became the street twin. With a tune, some pipes and removing all the extra air crap it’s in the 80+ hp range. It’s a real hoot around the bends or town. Highway kinda sucks but I don’t want to ride there anyway
You can see the wheels of my ktm 1290 super adventure S in the beginning of the video. I saw you there in the shop and I thought that it was you with camera in the chest mount, but I wasn't sure. It would have been nice to chat a little with you. I like your videos a lot. I went there with a friend and I loved the shop and I tested the tiger 900 and 1200 and the two small 400. Loved them all with their very different purposes. But we'll chat a little next time.
I'm in Brazil and I own a 1200 (2023) before that I owned a 765 RS (2018) and like you I wouldn't trade my 1200 for anything. Excellent bike, especially on mountain roads with lots of curves. Interestingly, in Brazil the Speed 1200 costs approximately 5% less than the 765 RS
I'm long past my touring days and also up in the years where my main desire is to take some nice leisurely rides on a warm summer morning on some 2 lane roads. So it's the Speed 400 for me. I don't want "brutal" and I certainly don't want "heavy". My first "real" motorcycle was a Honda CB77 Super Hawk. Between then and now I've owned big , fast machines with high horsepower and viscious acceleration. They were fun, but I can't say that I got the most pleasure in riding by pulling wheelies or doing a 10 second quarter mile. My most pleasurable memories were those of riding that Honda. Maybe its just rose colored glasses or the innocence of youth, but there's just something that attracts me to a small, agile, fun to ride machine.
I brought a new 77 Super Hawk it was awesome and so reliable. I lived on the hills and because I new every corner it took a very good rider to pass me. My front tyre became wedge shaped so much so I cut a sheep in half at 60 miles and hour. No damage to me but the bike ended up with bent forks.....and the smell was intense. I am 72 now and looking to buy a T120 Bonneville
I’ve put 12k miles on my 900 over the past year. I learned to ride on it. My first bike. But I find myself contemplating the 1200 quite a bit. Sometimes I find myself in a sportier mood, wishing I had that brutal torque and 17” wheels. The brakes and clocks and the sixth gear put it over the top.
Always wished the 900 pipes were put on the 1200. Sounds and looks so much better. Love my Street Twin 900. Upgraded to Koni shocks and changed springs and oil in front, and handles amazing.
I've had a 900 for a couple of years and love it, but I can't shake the temptation of the 1200. The intoxicating power and beefier looks are very appealing. The 900 does sound better, as you said, but that's fixable on the 1200. I might have to get a used one and live with it for a while before deciding which to keep.
This is the problem. I'd be perfectly happy with the 900, but knowing there was a 1200 within reach would keep me awake at night. Just as if one day Triumph brings out a Speed Twin 1400, I will absolutely have to have it ;)
@@RocketMan_Moto thank you for responding. I have seen the video in full and I understand the steak reference :) The both bikes mentioned by myself are what I love visually but I won't make the decision before I ride both. Thanks to your video, I know I should try the Speed 1200 vs whatever else I have in mind. Many safe returns to you!
I'm stuck on picking between the 900 and 1200.. There's something in the 900 that speaks to my soul, I also love the modern retro speedometer A LOT, but I am afraid I'll want more power..
Miss my speed twin ! I had the first model with the gatted forks ! Your right though that motor is bloody fantastic, gotta say though I was in triumph Birmingham today and there are loads of 400's going out today because of the 1st March new reg they told me they can't get enough of them , very impressive for the money ❤
I'm on a 2024 Street Triple R and I absolutely love it! I do keep saying though that my next bike might be the Speed Twin 1200 - it's just a cool looking bike with a goodly acceptable amount of performance (at least as I perceive it).
Good video. For me I have a Bobber Black. Yes there’s more practical/cheaper options but that not why I ride a bike. It’s down to coolness and for me the Bobber Black is the coolest stock bike you can buy.
In your last video you mentioned that Tec shocks had a reliability problem. I've not heard anything like this from any other source and as I've just had fitted some uprated Tec rear shocks on my GoldStar have i made a mistake ?
TEC are a good company and they have probably uprated their design since I saw the leaking shocks issue on social media a couple of years ago, so I wouldn’t worry too much😊
Your 1200 looks fantastic in black!! Have u thought about blacking out the fenders? I saw one the other day like that, with Termi slip ons, and it looked great!
Thanks. It's actually BMW carbon black (custom paint job), very dark blue. I'm looking into changing the exhaust now that I know the 900 sounds better!
@@RocketMan_Moto I have Cone Engineering mufflers with a cat delete. Sounds fantastic without being too loud. Has some nice crackles on deceleration too!
Just considering this in a 2021 euro 4 version know you’ve sold yours will ride it over summer before deciding what’s needed before changing anything but seems like rear shocks would be top of list
Want to trade my Street Twin 900 to a Speed Twin 1200, but my Street Twin is dialed in with Koni shocks and front springs, and found just the right oil weight for the front with my springs and I have a Ninja 1000SX that can give me visceral, front wheel raised power pulls that give me excitement anytime needed.
They are all good at differing things, of course you recomend the 12 as u have one, deffo wouldnt call a 9 a compromise though, as for a lot its a better bike ..quickish,reliable, dependable,and a good looker,,12 is nice but often heavy for some,,, i like the 4 but its not enough for some
Very fine comparison! I would take the 400 scrambler. It is verly light, you can easyly go on gravel roads and it is much cheaper... the only disadvantage is driving on a Highway... so you have to turn off your brain and ride the 120 as long as it takes
Thank you. Yes, if you can 'switch off' when you're on the motorway, then the 400 is fine. The Speed is a nicer ride than the Scrambler, though, imo :)
The Speed Twin 1200 is the sensible choice, but being 6'2", I went with my heart and got the Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition! Two years later, this bike still brings the biggest grin.
Thermal exhaust tape is amazing to reduce the heat. My Euro 5 bike has the cat way back, way better than the Euro 4 version that I have tested and roasted my leg!
I have the 1200 and live in Southern California. I'm an acceleration junkie and the bike has all the punch I want. It's docile up to 3500 rpm, then accelerates like a rocket from there. I ride the freeways mostly at 80-90 mph and it wants to go faster. It's really 2 bikes in one. Two dislikes are that the turn sigs are not self cancelling and you need a magnifying glass to find the side stand.
I bought my first big bike Honda CB500x when I saw your review few yrs back I sold it now I wanna upgrade to speed 900 my height is 5 6 @nd a turning 62 yo need your advise thanks
Excellent review again Rocketman, and a pleasure to listen to. This is a topic I have been thinking about as well. I would get a Speed Twin because I love the looks, double clocks, everything about it really, but even secondhand its more than 10,000 euro where I live and thats over budget for a motorcycle to me. So, it would be a Street Twin, which you can get as of 7500/8000 EURO secondhand but.... I agree that it doesnt look as good, and I miss the double clocks. So I would go for a Bonneville. Though again, here you pay about 10000 for any secondhand watercooled refreshed Bonneville. Older models much cheaper of course. I am passing on the 400X partly because of your review, I am considering the Honda NX500 as well, which I hear you say is a much more comfy bike ( I just dont love the styling) and considering the Shotgun 650, which I hope you review soon. Ive seen that one in the flesh and it looks quite fancy in certain colors, with an analogue dash and a good seating position even for me at 189cm.
I can't comment on the 400 or 1200 not having ridden either but I was loaned a Speed 900 while waiting for delivery of my Street Triple RS, I found it really dissapointing , gutless and too heavy for a 900 twin.
@@RocketMan_Moto I did ride the original Speed twin which was a rocketship, a real torque monster, my only minor disappointment was the "vague" rear suspension, as I said I haven't been lucky enough to ride the later Speed twin but if it's better than the original it's obviously something special, I found it hard to believe that the Speed 900 has the same lineage as the 1200 as the 1200 is twice the bike in every way.
The rear shocks on the 2nd generation ST 1200 offer no improvement, I’m afraid, which is why I immediately swapped mine for some YSS and then for some Ohlins. But yes, a real torque monster😊
Hello RM Serait-il possible comme par le passé d'avoir une version en Français ? J'avais beaucoup apprécié cela sur la Tiger 660 . Mais je suppose beaucoup de temps nécessaire pour le doublage Cordialement
C’est ça, le problème, Eric. Au fur et à mesure que mes vidéos devenaient plus élaborées, la synchronisation images/voiceover me prenaient de plus en plus de temps, pour relativement peu de vues (par rapport à la version anglaise/internationale)🙁
I’d choose the 1200 because of the higher seat height. I got a 3ft inseam so many bikes are too low for me. Are you by any chance a member of ASB ? I am considering this, will get the keys to my house in the Portimao region in September.
I bought a Speed Twin 1200 a year ago. It's my first bike. I practiced on a SV650 and an Aprilia Pegaso. I test rode a Speed Twin shortly after i got my licence and bought it. It's got more of everything that i will be able to use, and any other bike i have tested since has been something of a disappointment. I love my bike.
Yeah, i starten practicing in april 2022. Got my license in september and bought the bike as a Christmas gift for myself. The main reason I bought the 1200 and not the 900 was mainly the seat height, the 6th gear and the amazing torque. Still remember the first time I opened up the throttle and went above 3500 rpm. 😁
I may have been tempted if the 400 was a twin..............I would be concerned about vibration at top end and since it is a single I would have to give it heaps especially on the twisties to feel the thrill. I am 72 yrs
I have owned a Speed Twin 1200 for 5 years, and won`t be getting rid of it. I used to own a Street Cup 900, the cafe racer version of the then Street Twin, now Speed Twin 800, but the single front disc was pitiful for two up riding. So i traded it for the Speed Twin. I then found myself going to bike shows and shops, and seemed to have moor interest in smaller capacity bike, and when the Speed 400 came out, i bought one, and absolutely love it. Living in Dorset, a county with no motorways, and very few faster main roads, there`s no point in have a litre class sporttsbike, and the Speed Twin really makes sense. But when you start travelling around Dorsets narrow twisty windy back lanes, the Twin becomes a chore to ride, as it does around town, but this is where the Speed 400 comes into its own, it`s enormous fun a license friendly speeds, that`s why i`m keeping both the Speed Twin 1200, and the Speed 400. I have the perfect bikes for both worlds.
I rode all three yesterday on demo and commented elsewhere on the 1200 already, so here I'll say that the 400 was surprisingly fun. First gear is mostly useless but if you keep around town and start in 2nd gear (unless you're on a hill maybe), it's great. Especially for beginners or for those that just like small bikes. The 900 felt meh but I already have a Speedmaster so maybe familiar is more apt.
Good video. I’d go for the 900 (if this model were to be modernized). I like "modern-Classic." For me,I find the 1200 too much of a good thing. As for the 400, you are right, it is not a premium bike and it is still a single-cylinder.
Loved that. Thanks. As a recent convert to Triumph I last year bought a new (so 2023) Speedmaster Chrome. I'm my mid 70s and have dodgy knees and short legs (I've always had short legs - that's not an age thing 🙃) so its relaxed upright slightly feet-forward low seat riding position is just right for me. And it has BAGS of torque. I love it (its only downsides for me are its weight to push around in the garage and its lack of a centre stand). Have you ridden one? If so, as (I presume) a younger man, how do you rate it compared to your 1200? Vince
Comfortably? Probably not. It can do 120kph, but only for short bursts. The 900 is a lot more expensive, but it's a significant step up. The 400 is really only for city duties and 'relaxed' rides in the country.
Good comparison video 👍 I am also riding a Speed Twin 1200 in Korea. I tuned variously such as Olins suspension tuning and Brembo brake tuning. I filmed and uploaded a UA-cam video as a hobby. Drive safely
I have owned the T120 for few years and loved it. I moved to a GSA for longer rides and now want a Triumph again as second bike. The 900 looked nice until the 400 came along. I am seriously considering a 400 later this year. The 900 looks like a poor value. But the fact is we in the US can buy a relatively low mileage 900 for a little more than the 400 new. So that’s probably the route I will take.
I'm still on my 2019 Speed Twin 1200 after 5 years. It was my first big bike as a middle aged newbie rider. When I was buying my first big bike in 2019, I was torn between the 900 and 1200. I plumped for the 1200 more on the fact that I thought "if I get the 900 I'm going to want to be trading it in very shortly". 5 years later, I still haven't out grown the 1200. It's still way more than I need in a bike . I'm still loving it. Having the "rip my arms off torque" on tap is still exhilarating, even though I don't do it that often ! When I've test ridden the Street/Speed 900 in the last few years, usually at service times, I've never regretted getting the 1200. It's not that the 900 is bad, it's just the 1200 is that bit better. As for the Speed 400 , I'll have to get a test ride. They did look sold out when I went to my local Triumph dealer recently. So that could be hard. I doubt I'd buy one, unless I ended up doing a local town centre commute ( that's unlikely to happen ). The bikes I'm more likely to get are another striple or Tracer 9 GT ! I do miss a triple engine . PS , you could change your youtube name to "Speed Twin Man" 🙂
Great idea for a video, and well presented. Re: 900, given that most bikes park up on side stand (which are always on left), why put the single disc on that side also, as you tend to look more from rightside. Maybe it's just me. 🤔
Thanks for the test video. Good idea, I like it. Also I like the new 400, thinking about to bye the little scrambler. Triumph make a good job. At least, don't drive without gloves, after three crashes in my life, I now what it means to use gloves. For summertimes the market give a great choice of light gloves.. Think about how many younger drivers see your videos... Thank you again, always good tours for you.
The 900 is a enough bike for anyone if they're being honest, at least insofar as a 'do it all' bike if one could only afford a single motorcycle; the 1200 is for someone who wants a retro that offers some (some) level of comparable performance to a 'proper' sport bike. The 400 is a well-built 'my first bike' that is also a brilliant commuter. I have a 2020 Speed Twin 1200 that I basically made into a superior Thruxton - I wanted a retro version of my supernaked sports bike for casual riding around the mountains and taking to classic bike meetups, and it fit the ticket in a way that my Speed Triple 1200 RS can't (namely in looks, hah!). Personally, I actually like the gaitered forks and true retro looks of the 900 and older 1200 models - I really dislike the USD forks (that aren't even that good nor are they adjustable) on the '22 and later Speed 1200s, but that's purely for aesthetic reasons. A retro that tries to look somewhat modern just strikes me as... out of synch, especially as a retro-setup twin is just never going to handle like a proper sport bike anyway. All in all, I find I agree with most of your take on the three! I've ridden the 400, my partner owns the 900 (which I have ridden plenty), and of course I own the 1200. Cheers.
Agree totally. Nobody NEEDS the 1200, or even the 900. I’d be quite happy with the 400… if I didn’t know the other 2 existed. Just as I’m perfectly satisfied with my 1200… but if Triumph bring out a turbocharged version…😬
@@RocketMan_Moto That would be the Rocket III, but I agree with what I perceive to be your impression - it's too bloody heavy and lacks for agility. I was able to test ride one once, and it was thrilling, but wholly impractical - almost as impractical as a hardcore race rep supersport.
I have owned the 900 from new, 4 years now. It's a great all-around bike. I also owned a T120 for 2 years before that. The T120 is at 4000 revs at 80. And street twin 5000. Neither are motorway bikes, but at high speed, the T120 is the more relaxed and comfortable. The street twin has a single clock, but I prefer this as the numbers are larger and easier to read. All these bikes you show are modern style with very little difference between all of them. If you're after a proper classic style retro with great looks and reasonable power, there is only one choice triumph to go for. And that is the T100, in my opinion, obviously, which you didn't even give a mention ? 😊
Have you tested the XSR900 , or the MT09 ? I can't find any review on the channel . Can't wait for a comparison with the TS 1200 . Tx for the nice content .
Shouldn’t you do your own testing ? I mean, it’s you that’s going to ride them, and we all like different flavours. Anyhoo, the Yams run higher up the Rev range, ( my favourite) the twins have more grunt and are lazier to ride. Both are exciting and fun but in a very different way. Only you can decide.
@@RocketMan_Moto Yes, and I thought your review was great, and do try the new mt09, it will make you grin for a week. 765 for me though, light and fits like a glove with such smooth fuelling it’s great to ride slow or fast. I didn’t know what I was missing until I demo’d one. The dealers round here (Ashford) have a massive choice of demo bikes. Not sure where you are. Good riding 😎👍
Yey again another well informed video & once again I agree with you on not just your own bike but in general the 1200 but how long have we both been saying about an upgrade or update how ever you want to call it but lets be honest when was the last time they updated the 1200 all they seem to do is bring out special editions or limited edition with just a paint job that's seriously not worth the extra money especially when they can't even match the tank colour with the mudguards front and rear & let alone so new tech or clocks & so here's another new year with no updates for the 1200 soo disappointing yet again from triumph!!🤔🤷🏼♂️ But enough about moaning & great video as usual fine sir!!👌🏻👍🏻😎
@RocketMan_Moto Exactly just a Tank paint up & then call it or them special editions or limited editions bloody joke but what do we know!! 🤔 🤷🏼♂️ All i know is that I still won't buy one until they seriously update it how ever long that will be!!🤔🤷🏼♂️😬
Tbh there is definitely merit and comparing the 400 and 900. You can buy a used 900 for about the same as a new 400 and a used 900 is sort of cheaper if you factor in depreciation.
I've ridden both the 900 and 1200 and agree with what you've said. The 900 looks and feels old, is much slower steering than the 1200 and really doesn't deserve to be called 'Speed'. I loved the 1200's power delivery but living in England I couldn't bring myself to buy a big bike without a fairing. So, if I bought any of them it would be the 400 as a second bike to my Yamaha Tracer 700.
Good point. The total lack of wind protection on these bikes means that, when it’s cold, they’re pretty much unusable. Now I have the Honda Transalp, the Speed 1200 has become a warm-weather bike🤔
None of the above. I went with the T100 because: slightly higher seat than Speed 900, slightly lower than Speed 1200. Also I could put a centerstand on it, not an option on the 1200. A problem finding a good rear rack for the 1200 with the different US brake light / turn signals. Triumph seems to make many different bikes so most could probably find something they like.
I'm about to buy the 400. Just retired and want a lighter bike, cheaper to run (gas prices where I live are getting silly ) and I'm not a speed freak. I'm luckier than most in that I live in the twisties and get to ride them every day, the 400 is perfect for me, although the scrambler is a better fit, I've gone for the better cornering of the Speed.
I'd have gone for the 900 if I could pay the full thing right away. I used to have a Scrambler 900 which I unfortunately sold for a sportstourer which was a mistake. But unfortunately where I live, the 900 costs over 100% more than the 400, so this time around I'm going with the 400 since I've never owned a small capacity bike and I want t to see if I actually miss the extra horsepowers since I never ride full-throttle anyways.
The only thing ‘wrong’ with the 400s is the existence of the 900 & 1200. Nobody NEEDS the extra power, but we all yearn for it, unfortunately😂 Enjoy your 400 - great bike👍
Love to see the same rundown on the Scramblers! LOVE my street scrambler… but now there’s the 1200X. 🤔 Btw, love hearing “pejorative” used as vernacular 👍👍
What a great idea! Triumph Algarve have the 400X in as a demo bike at the moment, but none of the other scramblers, unfortunately. Maybe in a few weeks?
![Triumph Speed 400 [QuickTest#33]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/6hq84YaBTig/mqdefault.jpg)
![Triumph Speed 400 [QuickTest#33]](/img/tr.png)
ALL ROCKETMAN DISCOUNT CODES:
rocketman-motorcycles.com/discount_codes_rocketman.htm
10% OFF Roadskin Jeans - Trip Machine accessories - Pyramid Plastics
SOCIAL MEDIA
facebook.com/rocketmanmoto/
instagram.com/rocketman_moto/
#rocketman #motorcycle
I am buying my son a Speed 400. Looks great, has a bit of that Triumph mystique, and (short of any major crash damage) I anticipate it will bring a resell amount much closer to the purchase price than other options when he moves up. But...and this is the critical piece...another young rider enters motorcycling on a Triumph. Damn genius of Triumph to get such a well put together bike out there for $ that makes it comparable to used starter bikes and gets young people riding the brand. If HD had done that, they might still be relevant in a few years.
Great first bike👍😊
My dad 84 years of age would Love the 400. He loves the way my 1200 sounds and looks but feels the brutal way its engine works and its weight to much.
I know he is tempted. And for the money it is So enticing.
I’m actually thinking of buying the Scrambler 400X as a nimble bike around town.
No I’m not selling my 1200. Never!
Please tell your son to use all the necessary equipment while riding. Mine made an accident and he survived due to good quality shoei helmet and thanks to wearing other equipment.
No, don't sell it. Bikes like the ST1200 will probably be banned soon anyway :(
Sage advice :)
I'm like you a 1200 Speed Twin owner. It's two bikes in one. You can trundle around using the low down torque and be as smooth as butter. Open it up and let the revs climb and it becomes a different beast. Many practical faults like inadequate mudguards but these are curable with aftermarket additions. The point is this is a bike that make you smile when you wheel it out of the garage and just look, makes you smile at the noise when you start it, and makes you smile on every ride. Not cheap, but a machine that makes me smile, priceless.
Absolutely agree. Its hopelessly impractical compared to my Transalp, for example (cramped, no wind protection, luggage ruins the looks, etc), but I love it :)
I have two RE 350's and an Interceptor, i agree with what he said and Inty feels more planted compare to 350's, i never owned triumph Bonneville but planning to.
@@muttineni03 If you got the budget, you won’t be disappointed 💯 and that stock exhaust sound is so good
@@ramirof1986 Are you taking about T120 or Interceptor? I'm surprised with how good parallel twin of Interceptor is that I'm constantly thinking about T120 as it's parallel twin as well with lot more power, if I'll ever upgrade i guess I'll get T120 for now I'm looking for couple of test drives. But bike looks gorgeous.
Did you have to replace the shocks too?
I went for the 900 - I love the sound, and the low seat height was a winner for me. I do agree with you, the single clock is a great visual disappointment, and the shocks need an upgrade. Other than that, I prefer the old school looks, and riding on back roads is what it's for.
Totally understand that. Enjoy👍😊
The Fox RSU is lovely in my opinion, especially if you have a passenger. Also Pirelli Demons on it are lovely. Becomes a different machine - way more agile and comfy than the price would indicate. I have 16K miles on my 2022.
Hi, the 900 may only have 1 clock as standard but it is cheaper than the T100 which has twin clocks for a bit more cash outlay though!
@@brunomalisheski4682 Agree seat height is a big deal for me. Used Speed 900s are around $7k here - a very fair price for the smiles.
I'm buying a Speed 400. Many, many moons ago I rode the Yamaha RD350 and then the Yamaha 650 Special. I have only regularly riden a 150 CC bike since then. As I'm getting older, I wanted to own a bigger CC thumper and this Triumph came out at the right time and fits me perfectly for my size, use and wants. I hope to receive delivery this month here in Southeast Asia. Thanks for the video.
You won't be disappointed, it's a great 'little' bike. I would buy one, if I had a need for a 400. Nobody NEEDS the 9 or the 12, but we just can't resist. I love my 1200, but if they brought out a 1400, I would have to have it, lol :)
I love my 1200. 55000 kms in 3 years, she takes me everywhere and still after all this time she puts a smile on my face, in the city and in the twisties. I call her my forever bike, one I will never sell.
Totally get that! Ride safe😊👍
The only thing I'd love to know is how bothersome really is wind blast on the highways?
@@VirenV7 it's fine if you are doing 120. When you go faster for a long time it does get tiring.
Yes, the wind blast is the problem😟
I've got the dart classic screen, and with ear plugs I can comfortably sit at 85 MPH with no issues, geared up to 17t on the front so it's much less buzzy. Get around 55mpg
I owned a 900 and put 10k miles on it. It was such a lovely and fun motorcycle. I eventually sold it for the reasons you mentioned, but especially because it felt like it was lacking a 6th gear to cruise comfortably at highway speed (around 80mph where I live).
I eventually upgraded to a Thruxton 1200 and I’m again very impressed with what Triumph have done. Amazing bikes all around.
Enjoy :)
The 1200 is a great bike which you can't go wrong with and has a 6th gear. For the 900 riders though, the trick with the 900 5 gears and searching for a 6th (which the more expensive 1200 has) is don't change up early! The engines deliver a lot of torque but you can rev them happily higher than most people realise. The lazy torque delivery is great but don't be scared of revving it higher! they are designed for it, so don't worry, work it more. I can change up at over 80mph from 4th to 5th on mine, which is an air cooled 865cc 2013 T100 Bonneville. This bike delivers power in a more linear manner and peak power and torque occur higher in the rev range, but I suspect the same trick could be played on the more modern 900! When you get used to higher revs and change up at 80mph say, then you won't be expecting an extra 6th gear. I think this can sometimes be overlooked, you have engine balancer shafts in the engine to prevent higher revs from being uncomfortable and too vibratory, why not make use of them!
ST 900 is the Goldilocks bike for me. Taking my wife on pillion is a consideration. I had a ST1200 but traded that for a BMW R1250RT with a view to comfortable touring. Now I’ve downsized to the ST900 for more local riding. I have a top box I occasionally put on the 900, which gives the wife a feeling of security, as well as a bit of practicality. Agree though, the ST1200 is a beautiful bike and the Speed400 is probably good for riding solo locally. But Goldilocks, the compromiser (in their seventies) prefers the ST900. Thanks for the interesting comparison. 😊
Thanks, Pete👍😊
The 900 looks the best. 18'' front wheel, fork gaiters and a plain, round dash. I like the torque coming in so low down. Just like my SCR950. Nick
I bought a Speed 400 for those "Gee, what a nice day for a short ride" days when I really didn't want to drag out my Tiger Explorer. Absolutely NO regrets. Riding since 1961.
Excellent👍😊
Are you just bragging about having a Tiger E , much like a Vegan ? 🤭.
@@leeinwis 🤣🤣🤣
Great presentation, thank you.
The 400 looks best of all three and I expect Triumph to update the other two designwise in the shorter future. Also the rear suspension with these two shocks should be replaced by a more contemporary linked single shock suspension.
I testrode the 1200 two years ago when I was in the market for a classic naked bike and although the engine really pleased me I finally went for my Kawa Z900RS and didn't regret that decision.
The Z900RS is an awesome machine👍😊
Nah!..the 1200 and 900 are timeless Classics, I love the looks with the twin shocks and everything, If one wishes a more modern bike there is the street triple or Trident. IMO the Classic ones are a bit more practical, for example with my street Twin 900 I also use it in some mild off roading with 50/50 dualsport Tires, the 18inch front wheel although it can be a pain to find front tires for it, it can handle a bit of the slightly larger bumps or road imperfections. Handles well on road, its comfy, low seat height and you can also tour on it, the 900 has more than enough power and its very smooth. Not the cup for everyone but it can do a bit of everything which is good.
The 400's are nice but honestly I wished they where more similar to the classics, to me its like they are half speed 900 on the front and half trident from the seat backwards. Not a bad thing entirely but looks for looks the classic ones are more better looking, or at least for me. Now what I wish is that they also make 125cc models, how about a modern Triumph Tiger Cub?😅
A 61 tiger cub(used, very!) was my first bike primitive but who cares when yr 12 years old😊@@ripmax333
Actually I got 1200 three weeks ago, thanks also to your videos. Found demo model, much better priced compared to “brand new”. Love it! Even in still cold conditions. Cheers.
Great choice. It’s definitely a warm-weather bike, though. Spring is nearly here😊
Great video! I thought I would pick the 400... but damn it, once you put it that way - I now want a 1200 too! I am all into small bikes now, but 1200 makes me want to make an exception.
Lol, oh dear, sorry. Nobody NEEDS the 1200, the 400 will take you from A to B just the same for 1/3 of the cost. But those steak juices..!
I love my Thruxton RS. Had a Speed Twin 900 for 2 years and I was constantly yearning for more. So happy I bought the Thruxton (1200) and like this video would encourage others to do the same.
Fabulous bike. There are rumours the name will reappear shortly on an iteration of the 400 platform. Mmm, not sure about that...
Great review! I pre ordered a Speed 400, way back in September. Why? I'm 68 and not ridden a bike for 35 years- until I had a couple of refresher lessons in the Autumn. That showed me, I needed more practice, so bought a cheap Mutt 125. Good move.
The 1200 has so much appeal but, my age and the real world- eg my driveway has a noticeable slope making bike handling difficult- means I am happy to take the 400.
Should arrive soon!
Great choice! The 400 is a lovely bike to ride. Nobody NEEDS the 1200 - or even the 900, for that matter. Enjoy😊👍
good on you I am 72 in 2 months and in 3 weeks I pick up my T120 Bonniville
I bought the bonneville T120 with 105 Nm @ 3500 rpm. It is perfect for me because it’s more comfortable than the Speed and sounds better as well. I upgraded front and rear shocks with Ohlins as well ❤. And put handlebar risers. I will never sell it.
I agree the T120 is more comfortable. Ride safe👍😊
8:37 The 900 is just a Big Mac. LMFAOOOO 😂
Nothing wrong with a Big Mac, I love them. But a 'real' juicy steak is on the next level :)
And thev400 is a cheese burger 😅
😂👍
We’ve started a new type of scale here!
I'd go for a Sunday roast and get the T120. Plenty of grunt, good acceleration 70-95, comfier seat and pillion and less twitchy. Or the new R12nineT with heated grips and a quickshifter for a few more bob - bratwurst?
Nicely presented. Well, I'm glad I watched this video after eating my lunch, even though licking the screen is not really my thing. So the 900 has the knees by the ears (the lowest seat height...too low for my body) and the 1200 comes with an organ donor card. I wouldn't mind the 1200 if the weight would be lower. But as it is, I'd buy the 400. The 50-something kg weight penalty is quite significant to me.
Yes, I'd get to our provincial road speed limit of 80 km/h 3 or 4 seconds faster, but then the low speed handling and parking are so much easier with 170 kg.
The 400 is a fine machine. Great value👍😊
Thanks for the video! I love the modern classic segment and I am sure I will upgrade to a Speed Twin 1200 in the future. The way you described the power would give me the occasional thrill of a super powerful bike on the top end, but it would be more than reasonable for city use.
Exactly that👍😊
I do like the gator look, also they do perform a function. I'd also like a 400, but as I already have a scooter and a suzuki gsx 8s it's not offering anything functionally. I think Triumph nailed it with the 400, if I had one bike, I could make the 400 work.
👍😊
I also own a 1200 speed twin and you’re right about the power delivery and feel. I also own a classic 650 bonneville and 750 Norton, each one was the rocket ship in its day. I think there is nothing better than riding a twin for the sound and torque.
Absolutely👍😀
I'm seriously considering a second bike. I have my Indian Chieftain which is great for the longer rides, but a bit heavy sometimes in town. In my opinion, the 400 would be a great addition. I just have to go out test ride one. :)
Perfect complement to your Chieftain👍😊
Nice comparison test, for me I'd buy the Moto Guzzi (yes I know you were looking at 3 Triumphs) It's cheaper, more characterful, shaft drive and oozes Italian Charm. Ok the 900 then.
Unfortunately the Guzzi dealer here in the Algarve is terrible
that whole review had me smiling ,,,, well done , the bit when you admitted the 900 sounded better than yours made me laugh , you don't often show much emotion - but that was brilliant ;;; i am also surprised that the 900 is just as useful as the 12 , it seems that it is a fair chunk of money to buy better looks and more go ;;;
I agree, buying the 1200 over the 900 makes no sense. But neither does buying the 900 over the 400, lol :)
I bought a Trident 660 for my wife after I watched your videos. A month ago I bought a Speed Twin 1200 for myself after I watched your videos. You mention "brutal" and I assume you refer to torque... I however also ride a well tuned Gen.3 KTM Super Duke R... and I wonder if the Speed Twin owners have ever swung a leg over a Super Duke R.... If ever you can, go try one - It is sensational in every aspect!!
Fabulous bike👍😊
I am going to change my scrambler 900 for speed twin 1200. I will miss Gandalf the grey, but new stealth edition 1200 is just so tempting, that I have to proceed. It is now or never... looking forward to this change
Fabulous machine. Just swapped mine for a Tiger 900, but I wish I could have both😩
I have a 1200xc as my first bike. I'm not sure why you would have a bike do anything less. perfection
It's hopeless on the motorway, it's cramped (for me) and luggage just ruins the looks... but we love it :)
Good comparison video. Being very short and getting on in age I think I would go for the 400 if I was to back to riding.
Yea, I think the 400 is a good bike to do about anything except take regular long cross country trips.
The 400 is perfectly adequate for most people, including me. Nobody NEEDS the 1200 - or even the 900 - but those steak juices are irresistible :)
I ended up with a T120, but the 900 is the most fun I've ever had on a Triumph retro, 1200 included. There's something about the low power big noise combination that makes it hilarious around town.
Totally agree👍😊
Great one! Keep on doing the great job !!
Thanks👍😊
Thank you for the wonderful comparisons. Very objective, with your own biases clearly noted.
👍😊
I live in Vilamoura and have been down every road in the video, so I right enjoyed that. Hopefully ill be in to see you soon, investment pending. I fancy the 900, your on the 125..😎🔆
See you at Triumph Algarve👍
Bike size depends largely how one uses it. If I'm gonna ride 500 miles a day cruising 70-90mph and/or hitting inclement weather, my Super Tenere is obvious choice. Traction, tech, power, comfort, protection is all needed. For cheap commute around city, beating traffic, touring occasionally up to 300-400 miles a day, hauling on hitch carrier of truck for vacation, cb500x is best fit and very fun bike. For slow speed, short distances 200-400cc is sufficiant and more fun than heavier bikes. There is also issue of afforability. I would say most people ride what they can afford.
Thanks for your input👍
what is better in high ways? For exemple from going from Algarve to Lisbon, once every month.
If these were the only 3 bikes in existence, I'd go for the 900, but in all honesty, for regular 2-hour trips on the motorway, you need more wind protection than any of these bikes can offer.
@@RocketMan_Moto Funny. I tought that the 1200 would be your pick because of the bigger motor. Its just for 3 times a year if that manny. I like the triumph style.
The 900 has a more comfortable riding position. The extra power of the 1200 is irrelevant above about 110km/h because the wind blast wants to pull you off😂
Hello..I bought a Scrambler 400 last April...first motorcycle at 39 years old....I rode it for 4.000km...and I'm attending some courses to get better my guide...
For you....Can I buy a 900 next years o I can directly take the 1200 as definitely motorbikes, cause the 900 is just 65 hp and weight the same of 1200? Thanks..I ride always with my gf and I love also my 400
The 900 would be perfect… if you didn’t know the 1200 existed. You’ll always be curious/frustrated with the lesser of the two
Im going to get the 400, simply because i live in Lisbon, in the old part of the city with all the cobble stones, trams and hills so lightweight and agility are a must, if i was living in the Algarve i would get the 900 for sure, i hate heavy bikes but that torque must feel great cruising along
We lived in Cascais before moving down to the Algarve, and I agree that the 400 makes more sense in a city environment. Ride safe :)
I have not ridden these modern Triumphs, but I frequently hop on my 1973 T140V Bonneville for a cheap thrill. Weighing less than 400 lbs, it has good power, plenty enough for traveling twisty roads at 50 mph or less. Handling is superb. If the modern classics can duplicate it, they are doing quite well, IMO. Your account of the modern 900 sounds just like my T140. Long live the Bonneville.
👍😊
I got myself a Speed 400 and it’s awesome. Next upgrade will be the 1200 for sure. Very informative video.
Very different beasts😊
I’ve owned a 09 Bonnie SE for 10 years. It’s what became the street twin. With a tune, some pipes and removing all the extra air crap it’s in the 80+ hp range. It’s a real hoot around the bends or town. Highway kinda sucks but I don’t want to ride there anyway
Yes, lack of wind protection means that none of these bikes is very good on the motorway. Thanks for your input😊👍
You can see the wheels of my ktm 1290 super adventure S in the beginning of the video. I saw you there in the shop and I thought that it was you with camera in the chest mount, but I wasn't sure. It would have been nice to chat a little with you. I like your videos a lot.
I went there with a friend and I loved the shop and I tested the tiger 900 and 1200 and the two small 400.
Loved them all with their very different purposes.
But we'll chat a little next time.
Yes, I remember the 2 of you testing the Tigers👍😊
I'm in Brazil and I own a 1200 (2023) before that I owned a 765 RS (2018) and like you I wouldn't trade my 1200 for anything. Excellent bike, especially on mountain roads with lots of curves. Interestingly, in Brazil the Speed 1200 costs approximately 5% less than the 765 RS
Strange how prices vary around the world. The ST1200 is 15% more than the 765RS here🤷♂️ Btw, Mrs RM is from Recife 🇧🇷
I'm long past my touring days and also up in the years where my main desire is to take some nice leisurely rides on a warm summer morning on some 2 lane roads. So it's the Speed 400 for me. I don't want "brutal" and I certainly don't want "heavy". My first "real" motorcycle was a Honda CB77 Super Hawk. Between then and now I've owned big , fast machines with high horsepower and viscious acceleration. They were fun, but I can't say that I got the most pleasure in riding by pulling wheelies or doing a 10 second quarter mile. My most pleasurable memories were those of riding that Honda. Maybe its just rose colored glasses or the innocence of youth, but there's just something that attracts me to a small, agile, fun to ride machine.
Totally understand and empathise with that. Ride safe👍😊
I brought a new 77 Super Hawk it was awesome and so reliable. I lived on the hills and because I new every corner it took a very good rider to pass me. My front tyre became wedge shaped so much so I cut a sheep in half at 60 miles and hour. No damage to me but the bike ended up with bent forks.....and the smell was intense. I am 72 now and looking to buy a T120 Bonneville
I’ve put 12k miles on my 900 over the past year. I learned to ride on it. My first bike. But I find myself contemplating the 1200 quite a bit. Sometimes I find myself in a sportier mood, wishing I had that brutal torque and 17” wheels. The brakes and clocks and the sixth gear put it over the top.
The 1200 is definitely more exciting. Have you test ridden one?
Always wished the 900 pipes were put on the 1200. Sounds and looks so much better. Love my Street Twin 900. Upgraded to Koni shocks and changed springs and oil in front, and handles amazing.
I bet! Yes, I wanted to swap the pipes over while the dealer had his back turned😩
I've had a 900 for a couple of years and love it, but I can't shake the temptation of the 1200. The intoxicating power and beefier looks are very appealing. The 900 does sound better, as you said, but that's fixable on the 1200. I might have to get a used one and live with it for a while before deciding which to keep.
This is the problem. I'd be perfectly happy with the 900, but knowing there was a 1200 within reach would keep me awake at night. Just as if one day Triumph brings out a Speed Twin 1400, I will absolutely have to have it ;)
Thank you for this, just what I needed was an honest comparison. Still torn between SpeedTwin 1200 and Bonneville T-120.
Very different bikes: T120 is very laid back… too laid back for me personally. The Speed Twin 1200 is a steak in vegetarian clothing😊
@@RocketMan_Moto thank you for responding. I have seen the video in full and I understand the steak reference :) The both bikes mentioned by myself are what I love visually but I won't make the decision before I ride both. Thanks to your video, I know I should try the Speed 1200 vs whatever else I have in mind. Many safe returns to you!
Appreciate the honesty and perspective from an owner.
Appreciate your nice comment :)
I'm stuck on picking between the 900 and 1200.. There's something in the 900 that speaks to my soul, I also love the modern retro speedometer A LOT, but I am afraid I'll want more power..
The 900 also sounds better and tbh there’s not that much of a difference in power until you really give it the beans. Nice dilemma to have👍😊
Miss my speed twin ! I had the first model with the gatted forks ! Your right though that motor is bloody fantastic, gotta say though I was in triumph Birmingham today and there are loads of 400's going out today because of the 1st March new reg they told me they can't get enough of them , very impressive for the money ❤
Lol, interesting. I always forget about the obsession with new number plate letters/numbers in the UK. Not really a thing on the continent😊
I'm on a 2024 Street Triple R and I absolutely love it! I do keep saying though that my next bike might be the Speed Twin 1200 - it's just a cool looking bike with a goodly acceptable amount of performance (at least as I perceive it).
The Street Triple is ultimately the (much) quicker bike - I used to have a 2017 - but the Speed 1200 is such a beefy wolf in sheep’s clothing😉
@@RocketMan_Moto And as I'm reaching my upper middle age that might be just the trick. ;)
It certainly worked for me😍
Good video. For me I have a Bobber Black. Yes there’s more practical/cheaper options but that not why I ride a bike. It’s down to coolness and for me the Bobber Black is the coolest stock bike you can buy.
Definitely a cool bike👍😊
In your last video you mentioned that Tec shocks had a reliability problem. I've not heard anything like this from any other source and as I've just had fitted some uprated Tec rear shocks on my GoldStar have i made a mistake ?
TEC are a good company and they have probably uprated their design since I saw the leaking shocks issue on social media a couple of years ago, so I wouldn’t worry too much😊
Thanks a lot nobody likes being sold a lemon.
Let us know how you get on👍
Your 1200 looks fantastic in black!! Have u thought about blacking out the fenders? I saw one the other day like that, with Termi slip ons, and it looked great!
Thanks. It's actually BMW carbon black (custom paint job), very dark blue. I'm looking into changing the exhaust now that I know the 900 sounds better!
@@RocketMan_Moto I have Cone Engineering mufflers with a cat delete. Sounds fantastic without being too loud. Has some nice crackles on deceleration too!
I’ll take a look👍
Hi.
I’m thinking of trading my XJR 1300 in for the speed twin 1200 next year. My question is A have you ridden a XJR ? &B what’s your opinion??
I haven’t ridden the XJR, so can’t really comment. Looking forward to trying the new Speed 1200 later this month, hopefully👍😊
Please do a similar review on the triumph scrambler range. I went for the 900 street scrambler
Good idea, but I will have to wait until all the stars align and my local dealer has them available for demonstration at the same time :)
Just considering this in a 2021 euro 4 version know you’ve sold yours will ride it over summer before deciding what’s needed before changing anything but seems like rear shocks would be top of list
Mine was a 2021. Very nice bike, but yes, better shocks is top priority. Fyi, there’s a big update coming for 2025😉
@@RocketMan_Moto ahh thanks for giving me the heads up on that so should I wait is the question?
See Motobob’s video from yesterday👍
Want to trade my Street Twin 900 to a Speed Twin 1200, but my Street Twin is dialed in with Koni shocks and front springs, and found just the right oil weight for the front with my springs and I have a Ninja 1000SX that can give me visceral, front wheel raised power pulls that give me excitement anytime needed.
Honestly, the 9 offers 90% of the 12 (and sounds better), but what price that extra 10%?😬
Looking for my first bike been thinking about a Trident. Thoughts on it?
I have recommended the Trident to my son as his first bike. Really liked mine👍😊
They are all good at differing things, of course you recomend the 12 as u have one, deffo wouldnt call a 9 a compromise though, as for a lot its a better bike ..quickish,reliable, dependable,and a good looker,,12 is nice but often heavy for some,,, i like the 4 but its not enough for some
I've sold my 1200 now, but I would still buy one over the other 2 :)
Very fine comparison! I would take the 400 scrambler. It is verly light, you can easyly go on gravel roads and it is much cheaper... the only disadvantage is driving on a Highway... so you have to turn off your brain and ride the 120 as long as it takes
Thank you. Yes, if you can 'switch off' when you're on the motorway, then the 400 is fine. The Speed is a nicer ride than the Scrambler, though, imo :)
I'm going for the 400 (I previously owned a 865 and a 1200, very curious on how I'll get along with the baby bonnie)
Great choice. Tbh, any of these 3 would suit me fine👍😊
The Speed Twin 1200 is the sensible choice, but being 6'2", I went with my heart and got the Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition! Two years later, this bike still brings the biggest grin.
Beautiful machine, but I’d be worried about the heat from the exhaust during the long hot summers here in the Algarve. How do you find it?
Thermal exhaust tape is amazing to reduce the heat. My Euro 5 bike has the cat way back, way better than the Euro 4 version that I have tested and roasted my leg!
Interesting. Thanks👍
Can you make a video about the triumph scrambler 900? Thank you boss
I’d love to, but Triumph Algarve never has the big scramblers on demonstration🙁
I have the 1200 and live in Southern California. I'm an acceleration junkie and the bike has all the punch I want. It's docile up to 3500 rpm, then accelerates like a rocket from there. I ride the freeways mostly at 80-90 mph and it wants to go faster. It's really 2 bikes in one. Two dislikes are that the turn sigs are not self cancelling and you need a magnifying glass to find the side stand.
A lot of people find the side stand annoying, but I can’t say I’ve had a problem. Must be my dainty ballerina’s feet..?🤔
I bought my first big bike Honda CB500x when I saw your review few yrs back I sold it now I wanna upgrade to speed 900 my height is 5 6 @nd a turning 62 yo need your advise thanks
The 900 has a very reasonable seat height, so you should be ok. The engine has much more poke than the 500X, so you will definitely enjoy that :)
@@RocketMan_Moto thanks rocket man IL go for the 900 am from Manila working in UAE
Good choice :)
I’ve owned a 1200 for 3 years now and totally agree with the brutal power delivery….but it’s addictive and I love it!
😀👍
Excellent review again Rocketman, and a pleasure to listen to. This is a topic I have been thinking about as well. I would get a Speed Twin because I love the looks, double clocks, everything about it really, but even secondhand its more than 10,000 euro where I live and thats over budget for a motorcycle to me. So, it would be a Street Twin, which you can get as of 7500/8000 EURO secondhand but.... I agree that it doesnt look as good, and I miss the double clocks. So I would go for a Bonneville. Though again, here you pay about 10000 for any secondhand watercooled refreshed Bonneville. Older models much cheaper of course. I am passing on the 400X partly because of your review, I am considering the Honda NX500 as well, which I hear you say is a much more comfy bike ( I just dont love the styling) and considering the Shotgun 650, which I hope you review soon. Ive seen that one in the flesh and it looks quite fancy in certain colors, with an analogue dash and a good seating position even for me at 189cm.
All 3 are nice bikes👍
I can't comment on the 400 or 1200 not having ridden either but I was loaned a Speed 900 while waiting for delivery of my Street Triple RS, I found it really dissapointing , gutless and too heavy for a 900 twin.
I get that - compared to a Street Triple, it's a big old bus
@@RocketMan_Moto I did ride the original Speed twin which was a rocketship, a real torque monster, my only minor disappointment was the "vague" rear suspension, as I said I haven't been lucky enough to ride the later Speed twin but if it's better than the original it's obviously something special, I found it hard to believe that the Speed 900 has the same lineage as the 1200 as the 1200 is twice the bike in every way.
The rear shocks on the 2nd generation ST 1200 offer no improvement, I’m afraid, which is why I immediately swapped mine for some YSS and then for some Ohlins. But yes, a real torque monster😊
Hello RM
Serait-il possible comme par le passé d'avoir une version en Français ?
J'avais beaucoup apprécié cela sur la Tiger 660 .
Mais je suppose beaucoup de temps nécessaire pour le doublage
Cordialement
C’est ça, le problème, Eric. Au fur et à mesure que mes vidéos devenaient plus élaborées, la synchronisation images/voiceover me prenaient de plus en plus de temps, pour relativement peu de vues (par rapport à la version anglaise/internationale)🙁
Merci pour la réponse. Donc je vais me remettre à l'anglais pour mieux comprendre le contenu de vos excellentes vidéos...✌️
Merci et désolé encore pour la fin des French versions😊
Can you do the same for The Scrambler Line Up??!
Wish I could, but it all depends which bikes Triumph Algarve has on demonstration
@@RocketMan_Moto understandabel
Love the comparison between the steak and the Big Mac, I almost fell off my seat :-) 2 years in and I'm loving my 2022 1200 ....
I don't think we'll see the likes of the ST 1200 again... unfortunately :(
I’d choose the 1200 because of the higher seat height. I got a 3ft inseam so many bikes are too low for me. Are you by any chance a member of ASB ? I am considering this, will get the keys to my house in the Portimao region in September.
Yes, I often ride with the ASB :)
I bought a Speed Twin 1200 a year ago. It's my first bike. I practiced on a SV650 and an Aprilia Pegaso. I test rode a Speed Twin shortly after i got my licence and bought it. It's got more of everything that i will be able to use, and any other bike i have tested since has been something of a disappointment. I love my bike.
First bike? Wow, respect! I agree - nobody NEEDS a 1200, but what a machine. Ride safe :)
Yeah, i starten practicing in april 2022. Got my license in september and bought the bike as a Christmas gift for myself. The main reason I bought the 1200 and not the 900 was mainly the seat height, the 6th gear and the amazing torque. Still remember the first time I opened up the throttle and went above 3500 rpm. 😁
Haha, I bet :)
I may have been tempted if the 400 was a twin..............I would be concerned about vibration at top end and since it is a single I would have to give it heaps especially on the twisties to feel the thrill. I am 72 yrs
The 400 is a nice bike for running around town on the flat, but you're right, it's no canyon carver
I have owned a Speed Twin 1200 for 5 years, and won`t be getting rid of it. I used to own a Street Cup 900, the cafe racer version of the then Street Twin, now Speed Twin 800, but the single front disc was pitiful for two up riding. So i traded it for the Speed Twin. I then found myself going to bike shows and shops, and seemed to have moor interest in smaller capacity bike, and when the Speed 400 came out, i bought one, and absolutely love it. Living in Dorset, a county with no motorways, and very few faster main roads, there`s no point in have a litre class sporttsbike, and the Speed Twin really makes sense. But when you start travelling around Dorsets narrow twisty windy back lanes, the Twin becomes a chore to ride, as it does around town, but this is where the Speed 400 comes into its own, it`s enormous fun a license friendly speeds, that`s why i`m keeping both the Speed Twin 1200, and the Speed 400. I have the perfect bikes for both worlds.
Thanks for your input👍😊
I rode all three yesterday on demo and commented elsewhere on the 1200 already, so here I'll say that the 400 was surprisingly fun. First gear is mostly useless but if you keep around town and start in 2nd gear (unless you're on a hill maybe), it's great. Especially for beginners or for those that just like small bikes. The 900 felt meh but I already have a Speedmaster so maybe familiar is more apt.
I found the Speed 400 much nicer to ride than the Scrambler 400X
Good video. I’d go for the 900 (if this model were to be modernized). I like "modern-Classic." For me,I find the 1200 too much of a good thing. As for the 400, you are right, it is not a premium bike and it is still a single-cylinder.
I agree the 1200 is definitely OTT, but that's what I find irresistible, lol. Not a fan of single-cylinder bikes, either.
Loved that. Thanks.
As a recent convert to Triumph I last year bought a new (so 2023) Speedmaster Chrome. I'm my mid 70s and have dodgy knees and short legs (I've always had short legs - that's not an age thing 🙃) so its relaxed upright slightly feet-forward low seat riding position is just right for me. And it has BAGS of torque. I love it (its only downsides for me are its weight to push around in the garage and its lack of a centre stand).
Have you ridden one?
If so, as (I presume) a younger man, how do you rate it compared to your 1200?
Vince
Love the Speedmaster. Engine specs are similar to my Speed Twin 1200, but it’s 45kg heavier so not quite as brutal. Which is maybe a good thing??😊
@@RocketMan_MotoAt my age, having stepped off an R9T onto the Speedy, it's a good thing! I'll forgo a bit of brutality for the comfort. 😁
Absolutely understand that. Ride safe :)
I would go for 900 since mostly are city use like 80% but long distance 20% (Thailand roads) 🙏🏻
The 900 is the rational choice, especially for urban duties
The new slipper clutch makes city riding on the 900 more pleasurable I believe?
Is the 400 highway capable in North America? Do you think it can cruise comfortably at around 120kmph? Or, should I just buy the 900?
Comfortably? Probably not. It can do 120kph, but only for short bursts. The 900 is a lot more expensive, but it's a significant step up. The 400 is really only for city duties and 'relaxed' rides in the country.
@@RocketMan_Moto thank you! That's helpful.
No problem
Good comparison video 👍 I am also riding a Speed Twin 1200 in Korea. I tuned variously such as Olins suspension tuning and Brembo brake tuning. I filmed and uploaded a UA-cam video as a hobby. Drive safely
Great bike, especially with the Öhlins. Ride safe :)
First: Thx for this comparison, me and a lot other folks have been waiting for!
Second: 900. More than enough motorbike.
Thanks. You’re absolutely right, the 900 is perfectly adequate😊👍
I have owned the T120 for few years and loved it. I moved to a GSA for longer rides and now want a Triumph again as second bike.
The 900 looked nice until the 400 came along. I am seriously considering a 400 later this year. The 900 looks like a poor value. But the fact is we in the US can buy a relatively low mileage 900 for a little more than the 400 new. So that’s probably the route I will take.
That would be my preference, too. The 900 is a huge step up from the 400 in all respects.
I'm still on my 2019 Speed Twin 1200 after 5 years. It was my first big bike as a middle aged newbie rider.
When I was buying my first big bike in 2019, I was torn between the 900 and 1200. I plumped for the 1200 more on the fact that I thought "if I get the 900 I'm going to want to be trading it in very shortly".
5 years later, I still haven't out grown the 1200. It's still way more than I need in a bike . I'm still loving it. Having the "rip my arms off torque" on tap is still exhilarating, even though I don't do it that often !
When I've test ridden the Street/Speed 900 in the last few years, usually at service times, I've never regretted getting the 1200. It's not that the 900 is bad, it's just the 1200 is that bit better.
As for the Speed 400 , I'll have to get a test ride. They did look sold out when I went to my local Triumph dealer recently. So that could be hard.
I doubt I'd buy one, unless I ended up doing a local town centre commute ( that's unlikely to happen ).
The bikes I'm more likely to get are another striple or Tracer 9 GT ! I do miss a triple engine .
PS , you could change your youtube name to "Speed Twin Man" 🙂
Haha, nice idea, but I just sold my beloved Speed Twin for a Tiger 900. Less thrilling, but more versatile😊
@@RocketMan_Moto TigerMan then !
👍😂
Great idea for a video, and well presented.
Re: 900, given that most bikes park up on side stand (which are always on left), why put the single disc on that side also, as you tend to look more from rightside. Maybe it's just me. 🤔
I agree. I don’t like single-disc setups, either for the way they look or for the reduced braking efficiency
Thanks for the test video. Good idea, I like it. Also I like the new 400, thinking about to bye the little scrambler. Triumph make a good job.
At least, don't drive without gloves, after three crashes in my life, I now what it means to use gloves. For summertimes the market give a great choice of light gloves.. Think about how many younger drivers see your videos...
Thank you again, always good tours for you.
ua-cam.com/video/NSkKY69WJ-E/v-deo.html :)
The 900 is a enough bike for anyone if they're being honest, at least insofar as a 'do it all' bike if one could only afford a single motorcycle; the 1200 is for someone who wants a retro that offers some (some) level of comparable performance to a 'proper' sport bike. The 400 is a well-built 'my first bike' that is also a brilliant commuter. I have a 2020 Speed Twin 1200 that I basically made into a superior Thruxton - I wanted a retro version of my supernaked sports bike for casual riding around the mountains and taking to classic bike meetups, and it fit the ticket in a way that my Speed Triple 1200 RS can't (namely in looks, hah!). Personally, I actually like the gaitered forks and true retro looks of the 900 and older 1200 models - I really dislike the USD forks (that aren't even that good nor are they adjustable) on the '22 and later Speed 1200s, but that's purely for aesthetic reasons. A retro that tries to look somewhat modern just strikes me as... out of synch, especially as a retro-setup twin is just never going to handle like a proper sport bike anyway. All in all, I find I agree with most of your take on the three! I've ridden the 400, my partner owns the 900 (which I have ridden plenty), and of course I own the 1200. Cheers.
Agree totally. Nobody NEEDS the 1200, or even the 900. I’d be quite happy with the 400… if I didn’t know the other 2 existed. Just as I’m perfectly satisfied with my 1200… but if Triumph bring out a turbocharged version…😬
@@RocketMan_Moto That would be the Rocket III, but I agree with what I perceive to be your impression - it's too bloody heavy and lacks for agility. I was able to test ride one once, and it was thrilling, but wholly impractical - almost as impractical as a hardcore race rep supersport.
The Rocket is the sort of bike I would like to have on display in my living room (if I had the money), but which I would probably never actually ride
I have owned the 900 from new, 4 years now. It's a great all-around bike. I also owned a T120 for 2 years before that. The T120 is at 4000 revs at 80. And street twin 5000. Neither are motorway bikes, but at high speed, the T120 is the more relaxed and comfortable. The street twin has a single clock, but I prefer this as the numbers are larger and easier to read. All these bikes you show are modern style with very little difference between all of them. If you're after a proper classic style retro with great looks and reasonable power, there is only one choice triumph to go for. And that is the T100, in my opinion, obviously, which you didn't even give a mention ? 😊
Thanks for your input. The reason I didn’t refer to the T100 or T120 is because this was a comparison of Triumphs 3 Speed models😊
how is the triumph scrambler 900 for daily city ride?
Just about perfect, although luggage options are a bit limited without ruining the looks🤔
Have you tested the XSR900 , or the MT09 ? I can't find any review on the channel . Can't wait for a comparison with the TS 1200 . Tx for the nice content .
I have ridden friends’ Yamahas, but unfortunately the dealer here never has any interesting demo bikes🙁
Shouldn’t you do your own testing ? I mean, it’s you that’s going to ride them, and we all like different flavours. Anyhoo, the Yams run higher up the Rev range, ( my favourite) the twins have more grunt and are lazier to ride. Both are exciting and fun but in a very different way. Only you can decide.
That’s a fair point, but we all enjoy hearing others’ opinions, too😊
@@RocketMan_Moto Yes, and I thought your review was great, and do try the new mt09, it will make you grin for a week. 765 for me though, light and fits like a glove with such smooth fuelling it’s great to ride slow or fast. I didn’t know what I was missing until I demo’d one. The dealers round here (Ashford) have a massive choice of demo bikes. Not sure where you are. Good riding 😎👍
I agree that the 765 RS makes all other bikes look like big old buses, lol
Yey again another well informed video & once again I agree with you on not just your own bike but in general the 1200 but how long have we both been saying about an upgrade or update how ever you want to call it but lets be honest when was the last time they updated the 1200 all they seem to do is bring out special editions or limited edition with just a paint job that's seriously not worth the extra money especially when they can't even match the tank colour with the mudguards front and rear & let alone so new tech or clocks & so here's another new year with no updates for the 1200 soo disappointing yet again from triumph!!🤔🤷🏼♂️ But enough about moaning & great video as usual fine sir!!👌🏻👍🏻😎
Thanks, Dave. Yes, their so-called special editions are just a different - often bad taste - paint job on the tank. Give us 40hp more, Triumph🤷♂️
@RocketMan_Moto Exactly just a Tank paint up & then call it or them special editions or limited editions bloody joke but what do we know!! 🤔 🤷🏼♂️ All i know is that I still won't buy one until they seriously update it how ever long that will be!!🤔🤷🏼♂️😬
@@RocketMan_Motothat final edition thruxton in green is the bomb though!
Not keen on 'British racing green', tbh, Steve. On bikes or cars...
@RocketMan_Moto Yeah totally agree with you about the colour green!!😬
Tbh there is definitely merit and comparing the 400 and 900. You can buy a used 900 for about the same as a new 400 and a used 900 is sort of cheaper if you factor in depreciation.
True enough👍😊
I've ridden both the 900 and 1200 and agree with what you've said. The 900 looks and feels old, is much slower steering than the 1200 and really doesn't deserve to be called 'Speed'. I loved the 1200's power delivery but living in England I couldn't bring myself to buy a big bike without a fairing. So, if I bought any of them it would be the 400 as a second bike to my Yamaha Tracer 700.
Good point. The total lack of wind protection on these bikes means that, when it’s cold, they’re pretty much unusable. Now I have the Honda Transalp, the Speed 1200 has become a warm-weather bike🤔
Get the 1200 and keep the Tracer as your second bike?!
None of the above. I went with the T100 because: slightly higher seat than Speed 900, slightly lower than Speed 1200. Also I could put a centerstand on it, not an option on the 1200. A problem finding a good rear rack for the 1200 with the different US brake light / turn signals.
Triumph seems to make many different bikes so most could probably find something they like.
Indeed, there’s almost too much choice. You can’t go wrong, though. They’re all cracking bikes👍😊
I got the 400 and love it.
… how long before i need the 900 ?
Haha, temptation…😊👍
Two weeks 🙂
Compare the Scramblers for medium offroad and Road pls
I’d love to, but the dealer never seems to have Scrambler demo bikes
I'm about to buy the 400. Just retired and want a lighter bike, cheaper to run (gas prices where I live are getting silly ) and I'm not a speed freak. I'm luckier than most in that I live in the twisties and get to ride them every day, the 400 is perfect for me, although the scrambler is a better fit, I've gone for the better cornering of the Speed.
Good choice, the Speed is nicer to ride than the Scrambler. Enjoy👍😊
I'd have gone for the 900 if I could pay the full thing right away. I used to have a Scrambler 900 which I unfortunately sold for a sportstourer which was a mistake.
But unfortunately where I live, the 900 costs over 100% more than the 400, so this time around I'm going with the 400 since I've never owned a small capacity bike and I want t to see if I actually miss the extra horsepowers since I never ride full-throttle anyways.
The only thing ‘wrong’ with the 400s is the existence of the 900 & 1200. Nobody NEEDS the extra power, but we all yearn for it, unfortunately😂 Enjoy your 400 - great bike👍
Scrambler comparison next, please.
I’d love to, but Triumph Algarve have only got the 400X in at the moment as a demonstrator. Maybe in a few weeks🙏
Love to see the same rundown on the Scramblers! LOVE my street scrambler… but now there’s the 1200X. 🤔
Btw, love hearing “pejorative” used as vernacular 👍👍
What a great idea! Triumph Algarve have the 400X in as a demo bike at the moment, but none of the other scramblers, unfortunately. Maybe in a few weeks?
#yesplease
Fingers crossed. Thanks again for the idea😊👍