Triumph has announced two Modern Classic models for 2025: the updated Triumph Speed Twin 1200 and a new up-spec version called the Speed Twin 1200 RS, which replaces the outgoing Thruxton.
The Speed Twin 1200 platform gets significant updates throughout, including an extra 5 hp from the high-torque Bonneville engine, chassis and suspension upgrades, new technology and electronics, and refreshed styling. Both models will begin arriving in dealerships in mid-December 2024.
2025 Triumph Speed Twin 1200
Both the Speed Twin 1200 and the RS version receive an extra 5 hp from the 1,200cc parallel-Twin, now peaking at 103.5 hp at 7,750 rpm. Torque remains the same, peaking at 82.6 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm, and the engine continues to use a 270-degree firing order.
The Speed Twin 1200 gets new suspension, now with an inverted 43mm Marzocchi fork with 4.7 inches of travel and twin Marzocchi shocks with remote reservoirs, adjustable preload, and 4.6 inches of travel. It also gets new Triumph-branded radial front calipers paired with two 320mm discs, and it rides on Metzeler Sportec M9RR tires.
Triumph made some changes to the riding position to create a more spacious feel, including moving the handlebar higher and farther forward. The one-piece bench seat has also been tweaked to be shallower and more sculpted, and it’s now narrower at the front for easier stand-over.
New and upgraded components throughout the bike have been designed to retain the Modern Classic’s retro-meets-contemporary design. It features a new tank with raked lines and deep front cutouts, as well as a new flip-up fuel cap. The side panels are simpler and integrate into the new minimal throttle-body covers with brushed aluminum finish, and the black powdercoated engine casings are also new. The round headlight is housed in a new brushed aluminum bezel, and the bike receives new cast-aluminum wheels.
Technology includes two ride modes (Road and Rain), cornering ABS, and traction control. The new LCD and TFT displays are encased in a classic circular dial and allow turn-by-turn navigation and phone connectivity, and the USB-C charging port is concealed to retain the bike’s classic style.
The 2025 Triumph Speed Twin 1200 will be available in two split-color designs. Both designs feature Sapphire Black in the lower section and a bold 1200 tank graphic, with either Crystal White or Carnival Red in the upper section. An Aluminum Silver option with discreet 1200 numbering and twin black stripes will also be available. Pricing starts at $13,595.
2025 Triumph Speed Twin 1200 RS
The Speed Twin 1200 RS is a sportier version of the Speed Twin 1200 and acts as an evolutionary next step from the outgoing Thruxton model. The RS receives sportier ergonomics, up-spec suspension and brakes, an extra ride mode, and Triumph Shift Assist, which is included here for the first time on a Triumph Modern Classic.
Related: 2025 Triumph Thruxton Final Edition | First Look
On the RS, the rear of the bike is raised, and the seat height is slightly higher at 31.9 inches compared to the Speed Twin 1200’s 31.7 inches. The seat also gets a napped finish with stitch detailing. The handlebar is at the same height but is moved farther forward, and the footpegs are slightly raised and farther back.
The RS features a fully adjustable Marzocchi inverted fork (4.7 inches travel) and fully adjustable Öhlins twin shocks (4.8 inches travel) with remote reservoirs. Replacing the Triumph-branded brake components of the Speed Twin 1200 are two 320mm front discs with Brembo Stylema M4.30 radial calipers and a 220mm rear disc with a Nissin 2-piston floating caliper. The RS also rides on Metzeler Racetec RR K3 tires and features brushed aluminum front and rear fenders.
On the electronics side, the Speed Twin 1200 RS benefits from the addition of Triumph Shift Assist, an up/down quickshifter. It also gets the addition of Sport ride mode, which sharpens throttle response and optimizes traction control.
The 2025 Triumph Speed Twin 1200 RS will be available in Baja Orange or Sapphire Black, both with gold RS decals to match the anodized suspension components. Pricing starts at $15,995.
More than 50 genuine accessories will be available for these two models, including clip-on bars, a quilted bullet seat, a seat cowl, and more.
Visit the Triumph website for more information.
Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2025 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
I like my 900cc may be time for an upgrade
Bottom line, the ‘25 Speed Twins look like great bikes. The quibbles? With respect to the “classic” models, the pinch-welded fuel tanks stench of cheap and – too predictably – the absence of twin analog clocks will attract more disdain than approval. The suspension is bound to work well but the retro we dearly pay for is more rubber gaiters than gold forks. Will I buy one anyway? Maybe . . .
I’ve had the opportunity to ride every Triumph model while leading demo rides at a local dealer. Great bikes them all. I would be on a Triumph Tiger right now if the dealer hadn’t gone out of business.
But honestly, almost all manufacturers roll out new bikes every year and they all look like the same bike the year before and the year before that. They add things like color screens (which are nice) and suspension upgrades which most will not notice.
Triumph needs a face lift…
Is Cruise control available on either?
A cruise control kit is available as an option from Triumph for $285.
Cruise control is only available as a option on the RS version