• The 2020 Triumph Thruxton RS was also launched at EICMA 2019.

• Triumph reworked the engine to produce more power and character.

• It’s also lightened by 10 kg.

The 2020 Triumph Thruxton RS was also launched at EICMA 2019.

Triumph had teased the bike just before the mega show, by showing the bike’s side panel with the Thruxton RS badge. We relished the prospect of a hotted-up Thruxton anytime.

You see, the Thruxton R was an experience to ride, not merely an enjoyable ride. Its handling, the throttle and engine response, the way the engine feels, everything makes for a ride like no other.

So, how do you make something already great greater?

You start with the engine, obviously. Triumph hotted up the “High Power” 1200cc, liquid-cooled, 270-degree crank, parallel-Twin with a low-inertia crankshaft, revised ports, high-compression pistons, plus other lightweight internals. The revisions bring maximum power to 104 bhp, while torque remains at 112 Nm. The manufacturer says that the new engine is more responsive and characterful (as if the old one wasn’t responsive and characterful enough already). There’s also a torque-assist clutch.

In combination with other lightening work, the Thruxton RS is almost 10 kg lighter than the base Thruxton, weighing in at 196 kg. That’s light for a bike that consists of mostly metal parts!

Chassis and running gear are retained from the previous Thruxton R. The forks are fully-adjustable Showa BPF, while the rear shocks are fully-adjustable Öhlins with piggyback reservoirs. The front brakes are the same radially-mounted Brembo 4-piston monobloc calipers. 

Electronics include Sport, Road, and Rain ride modes. ABS is standard.

Design remains the unmistakable Triumph silhouette. Colour schemes include an optional matte grey on black with red striping (pictured).

The bike’s American price is USD 16,200.