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Thruxton R really that much better than regular Thruxton 1200?

52K views 207 replies 39 participants last post by  Nick Goodwin 
#1 ·
Looking at a new Thruxton, and I like the regular one in competition green, but I'm wondering if I'll regret not getting the R model. I know it's just suspension and brakes that differ between models, and I like the look of the standard model over the gold on the R. I don't race, but I can appreciate a good handling bike coming from a Duke 390 and Sv650.

Anyone ride them both?
 
#4 ·
I'm also a little concerned about resale, but it seems there are more Thruxton R's being made than the standard model, so maybe I'll be okay!


I couldn't see past the brake discs on the Street Twin, T120 and standard Thruxton after Someone pointed out to me the cut outs look like some exotic/expensive lady toys.

Can't stop seeing it now, rather like the 911 coming out of the BMW i8's bum.
Damn you. Well nothing some aftermarket rotors won't fix I guess!


I can get the new green one for only about $1500 less than a used (with only 1 mile somehow) R model, so that's why I'm trying to decide.
 
#5 ·
A magazine reviewer said that, if the R did not exist, we would be ecstatic with the S. The reviewer said he only missed the suspension upgrades when really pushing it. He did say that he did miss the brakes from the R though.

Just upgrading the brakes or the suspension will cost you the price difference between the R and S. Both together make it a bargain.

Are the prices you are comparing "out the door" prices? They can tack on quite a bit for shipping, pre delivery inspection, and assembly for new bikes.

For me, there was never any debate. I went for the R.
 
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#6 ·
Yes. Comparing OTD prices. Got quoted $14,4xx for the base new and $16,0xx for the the "used" R, or $16,8xx for a new R.

My debate is whether or not dealing with the added cost, as well as worse (IMHO) looks of the R is worth it over the standard in green that I really love.

I bet I can upgrade brake pads to make up some of the initial bite, and change springs or oil in the forks if I really need to change the suspension. The gold/yellow on the R just ruins the look for me, even if they cost the same.
 
#7 ·
If they'd made an R version without the blingy gold bits I'd have probably spent the extra cash, but as that wasn't an option I went for the standard in White. My dealership only had an R demo bike, and while the brembos are indeed fantastic and noticeably stronger, the standard still has decent brakes.

I found the suspension on the R quite firm, which potentially could be dialled down with the various adjustments, but for me the slightly softer standard suspension is actually more suited to crappy UK roads. It's great either solo or with a passenger.

You'll be immensely happy with either bike, it's the engine that makes it, so I would say if you're not going to track day it then go for the one you find the prettiest.
 
#9 ·
The latest issue of Bike Magazine has a review of the two Thruxtons. They said most would not be able to tell the difference between the two bikes unless really pushing on the street or track riding. So, depends upon how you ride and if you have to have the higher spec goodies. I like the looks of the non R better. If the R came with modern mag wheels, I could fathom the forks, brakes and shocks taking away from the retro look. The engines are the same, so unless the standard suspension and brakes or really mediocre. the non R would be the one for me if I was interested. Plus, you get a real leather seat, not synthetic.
 
#10 ·
I'll have to check that magazine out. Yeah the R would need more upgrades to make me justify it. Maybe 20 more power, 180 rear tire, different wheels, and lighter weight and I'd spend even more for it. But I'm just using this for year round daily commuting, so there's no need.
 
#11 ·
I like the looks of the R, the bling of the upgraded shocks and forks. It makes it more colorful and I like that.

If I didn't like the looks though, I would not get the R. No doubt about it though, the extra money is a bargain for the upgraded parts that come with it. All of the extras you mention would push the price even higher.

I'm pretty sure the S does NOT come with a leather seat. I like the non-slip surface of the R's seat. With the thrust it has, I need all the help I can get.
 
#14 ·
Along with the brakes and suspension I think there are also at least a dozen other differences between the two. I don't think you can go wrong on either, although if your commute is slow speed urban stuff there are much better bikes for that.

I went with the R as it was the only one available at the time, and I got it for the price of the standard as it had a few miles on it. I am also lazy and don't like polishing chrome. As has been said I'd go with the one you like the look of.
 
#15 ·
Without trying to offend any egos, the base model is more than enough for the average rider. The suspension is more comfortable, the price more agreeable and unless you are a very experienced track, mountain rider, the R will be of no benefit to most, apart from the status of having an R series above the base model. Yes..it has Ohlins, better brakes etc, but it has a very firm ride and is less forgiving.
 
#24 ·
I don't care if the R has a very firm ride. I can take a harsh ride without complaining. With the price diff, the R is a bargain and you get shocks that are easily rebuild-able. And who does not want better stopping ability?
 
#16 ·
Sorry guys, gotta laugh. There is two Thruxtons available, one is an R model and the other is a D model.
I thought the D model I test rode wanted to stay tank up and go straight the first corner I came to at hwy speed. Hope the R I ordered is better.
Buy the bike you like, not what people approve of. You can always paint it. I doubt too many will stay in show room condition, so who knows what resale they will ever have.
 
#20 · (Edited)
I thought the D model I test rode wanted to stay tank up and go straight the first corner I came to at hwy speed. Hope the R I ordered is better.
I wouldn't expect the R to turn in noticeably better. The geometry is almost identical.

Yes..it has Ohlins, better brakes etc, but it has a very firm ride and is less forgiving.
The ride is a lot better on full soft and is still very well controlled. I agree that most will never exploit the upgrades fully. Why is it less forgiving?
 
#18 ·
Like everyone else said, the upgrades if bought alone are obviously worth way more than the price difference, but I'm not a track day guy, go over 100 mph like, once or twice a month.
I have the standard White Thrux and I LOVE IT! I think it handles fine (after you firm suspension up to 3rd notch) and I personally thing it looks better than the R spec. But I get what Triumph was going for with the R.

Either way I don't think you'll be disappointed.
 
#19 ·
I'd rather ride my Gold Wing in city traffic than my Thruxton. The Thruxton will do it, it's just not a comfortable position for me in the city.

I would have thought the Duke would be great on country roads. It's actually a strong contender for the 4th spot in my collection.
 
#21 ·
The Duke was such a fun bike when something nimble was needed, but at prolonged speeds above 50 or so, it just got boring and felt a little too light if that's possible (306lbs dry). Easy to get blown around, especially with the bolt upright riding position. I'd still own it if it didn't get stolen while I was at work last monday, but now that I have a chance to get something else, the Thruxton is really calling to me.
 
#22 ·
I went for the standard bike as I was concerned that the R was a bit firm for me. I also preferred the purer classic looks (white one) but that's very much a personal thing. As others have said, the engine is what makes this bike.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
 
#37 ·
Anyone ride them both?
I bought a Thruxton classic I made 4000 km with it.:laugh2:

I wanted more comfort.then,I bought a T120.:smile2:
I made 3000 km with it.it was perfect but so sad after thruxton.:crying:

so I bought an R.0:)
and I do not regret.:thumb
 
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#39 ·
As others have said, I think the marginal price increase for the trick bits make it a no brainier, especially the brakes, but I really prefer the looks of the classic. I almost bought one and still sometimes regret not doing so. I think the standard model would be more than adequate for most street riding to include spirited and aggressive mountain fun. It simply comes down to personal preference, aesthetics, and if the upgrades are really worth it to you. Probably get a better deal on a standard model, they don't seem to be selling near as well as the R, but that is just conjecture on my part. I know the one I ordered months ago is still on the showroom floor.
 
#40 ·
The price isn't as big of a factor for me as much as the asthetics. However, if the regular model had terrible suspension and brakes, I'd compromise and go for the R. Seems the standard model gets no mention in magazines or online because every review or comparison is all about the R, which makes it difficult to compare the dynamics of the two.

I've got a modified corvette Z06 for when I want to go fast, so I don't feel the compromise in looks is worth it for the added performance of the R model.
 
#43 ·
Just my personal story. I´ve ridden a 2013 Street Triple R for three years and 14.000km. Became father two times during that time and don´t wanted to quit motorcycling as my hobby. I wanted to calm things a bit down and test rode the Thruxton R and 1200. I choosed the 1200.

I know, the adujstable suspension an Brembos are a good advantage on a race track. But I only ride on public roads and try to stay within the the laws most of the time. :wink2:

After 3000km, I find the Thruxton 1200 is a very fast bike on real roads. Kudos to the chassis, geometry, powerful engine and tire size and choice. I consider the Pirelli Angle GT the far better solution for everyday riding than the Rosso Corsa on the R. About 80% of the German Street Triple Forum switched from the Corsas to different tires after the first set was worn.

Long story short, I´m very happy with my Thruxton 1200. And due to the agility of the bike, the grip of tires and the powerful engine (especially out of sharp corners) I have a blast when riding together with my friends on public roads on the German hinterlands. Triumph choosed one setup for the bike and it seems to fit my riding style very well.





Greetings
Felix
 
#44 ·
Let me be honest if it weren't for the look I'd never even consider a triumph and just get a japanese sport tourer like the FJR. Not in to ADV bikes because they feel way too high for street use. Same reason I don't daily a lifted Jeep or something.

Perhaps someday I'll kick myself for getting the Competition Green thruxton 1200 instead of the R model, but until then I'll just try not to spend too much time staring at it when it's parked :)
 
#47 · (Edited)
Yeah just go for the one that you like the look of, both are great bikes. There have been a few comparison reviews of the non-R and R in the UK press and they all say both are just fine.

Fortunately for me there was no decision to make because the bike looks so much better in silver so the R was the one.
 
#51 ·
I bought an R after a trusted friend of mine bought a green Thruxton (put it on the radar for me as I wasn't paying close attention to these at all) and I went and rode my dealer's personal R.

I knew I'd regret not getting an R "just because". This purchase replaces a long lamented Duc PS1000LE sale a couple years ago. It had to be an R.

Additionally, the pluses for me were being able to have a silver Thruxton (as God and Velocette intended), the lovely gold anodized forks and Ohlins, the better brakes and oh, as it turns out, the ability to have the fairing and not go low bars, something that is impossible with a non-R due to the cast brake master. Usually, 20/20 hindsight bites me in the posterior. Not this time.

Where are all the SC riders posting on this forum? I am on the Savannah River here in Augusta.

Cheers, Chip
 
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