2013 Triumph Speedmaster Review

2013 Triumph Speedmaster

"More than what you expect"

One look at the Triumph Speedmaster and you might think that it’s a miniature toned down version of the Rocket III but after riding one, it is clear that it was built for greater overall usability. One of the Speedmaster’s eminent abilities is lending itself to a wide range of rider demographics. Experienced riders who appreciate the eye catching stripped down styling to novice riders who can build confidence from a low seat height and forward controls makes itself demandable to riders from all different backgrounds.

Contrary to its bad to the bone styling, the Speedmaster is a pleasure to ride, very comfortable ergonomically and actually somewhat sporty. The 19” front wheel allows for a secure, surefooted, feeling in all situations without ever giving the rider a sense of nervousness. The seat has a nice molded shape that supports the lower portion of your back which I appreciated for longer stints down the highway. Albeit any wind protection for the rider, the bike itself remains compliant and more stable than expected at highway speeds and during wind blasts.

While motoring along, the Speedmaster continually gave me the impression that it was more than capable of a multi-state road trip and all that would be needed would be a pair of accessory panniers. It is already setup with a 5.1 gallon fuel tank offering a wide range in between fuel stops and the 5^th cog is high enough to make the engine not scream at 70mph.

The suspension was a bit firmer than I had anticipated and did not offer a slushy ride that is felt on many cruisers. Because of this, it can be pushed into corners harder without a feeling of being underdamped. My only real gripe about the riding position is the long reach from the seat to the handlebar which may cause some awkwardness for shorter riders. I found the brakes  to work fine and the overall 550lb wet weight was easy to manage.

It is amazing what a jewel Triumph’s parallel twin 865cc power plant really is. In combination with a remarkably smooth shifting 5 speed, the two work in harmony with each other with a sense of diligence. The entire experience is almost electric as you do not detect any sound from the drivetrain other than the surrounding environment once you get going underway. It is very relaxing but if one wanted more sound to better match its appearance impressions, I have no doubt it could turn itself into a bit of hooligan. Although it does not have the shear grunt that a v –twin does down low, the parallel design offers a flatter torque curve making its power delivery more usable all throughout rev range. Power is more than adequate and there when you need it, but not over the top.

It is a wonderful thing when bikes like the Speedmaster are more than what they were intended to be. It separates itself enough from the America model to appeal to a broader rider network. Sometimes motorcycles will be designed to be so focused around looking one way or the other that their true intentions were forgotten. This is not so with the Speedmaster.