The Triumph Speed Twin 900 might not be the most powerful, exotic, or performance-oriented bike in the Bonneville family, but since its introduction as the Street Twin, it has become the best-seller of the bunch. Why? It’s approachable, affordable, and still manages to retain plenty of the personality and charm of its bigger Bonneville siblings.
For 2025, Triumph has introduced a range of updates to ensure the Speed Twin 900 keeps pace with the competition. The question is: does this sportier, more modern interpretation enhance the bike, or should Triumph have stuck to the proven formula? I had the opportunity to test ride the new model during its press launch in southern Spain. Here’s what I discovered.
What’s New for 2025?
Triumph hasn’t messed with success, especially when it comes to the engine. But elsewhere, the 2025 Speed Twin 900 gets several upgrades.
These include improvements to the chassis, ergonomics, braking system, suspension, and even its tech package. Despite all these changes, the bike retains its classic essence while embracing a sportier edge.
The Engine: If It Ain’t Broke
Triumph wisely left the engine untouched. The 900cc high-torque Bonneville parallel twin continues to impress with its versatility and pleasant performance. Delivering 80Nm of peak torque at low revs, it pulls strongly from a standstill and is a joy to ride in urban, rural, and even moderate highway conditions.
Its smoothness, pleasant feel, and fantastic sound—thanks to a 270° crank and Triumph’s tuning expertise—make it a standout. While the bike might benefit from a sixth gear for more comfortable cruising at higher speeds, the five-speed gearbox works well for city riding and spirited weekend outings.
Fuel efficiency is another highlight, with the bike consuming approximately 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers during my test ride. The 12-liter tank size shouldn’t be a concern for most riders, given its frugal nature.
Chassis and Handling: Sporty Meets Comfortable
One of the key updates for 2025 is the chassis, aimed at delivering a sportier, more engaging ride while maintaining comfort and stability. The tubular steel frame and 18-inch front wheel remain, preserving the bike’s retro appeal.
The braking system has been upgraded with a larger 320mm disc and a Triumph-branded four-piston caliper, offering better feel and reassurance. Suspension improvements include Mazaki upside-down forks and twin piggyback shocks, which create a firmer, sportier ride without compromising comfort.
A shorter aluminum swingarm, lighter wheels, and a reduced wheelbase make the bike more agile, especially in quick directional changes. While the Michelin Road Classic tires felt less confidence-inspiring in damp patches, this is easily rectifiable with an aftermarket swap.
Improved Comfort and Ergonomics
The previous model’s low seat height of 765mm made it a favorite among shorter riders and beginners. However, the 2025 model raises the seat by 50mm to 780mm, creating a more spacious riding position. The redesigned footpegs provide an additional 6mm of legroom, making long rides more comfortable.
Despite the increase in height, the bike remains accessible, thanks to a narrower subframe and seat design. For shorter riders, Triumph offers a low-seat accessory that drops the height to 760mm—5mm lower than the previous generation.
Tech Upgrades: Modern Meets Retro
The Speed Twin 900 embraces modern technology while maintaining its retro charm. Gone is the single analog dash, replaced by a combination of an inverted LCD and a small TFT display. This setup adds functionality and supports optional connectivity features, such as navigation and media control.
The bike also includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that enables cornering-sensitive ABS and traction control, providing enhanced safety. My only critique is that cruise control remains an optional accessory rather than a standard feature, even though it’s available on Triumph’s more affordable models like the Trident 660.
Updated Design: A Subtle Evolution
Triumph has modernized the Speed Twin 900’s design while staying true to its heritage. The headlight is flatter, with updated brackets and a daytime running light for a premium feel. The tank, side panels, and engine finishes also received subtle tweaks, giving the bike a sleek, contemporary look.
The rear features a slimmer tail section and more minimal taillight, creating a cohesive design consistent with the Speed Twin 1200. While some may prefer the previous generation’s more traditional aesthetics, Triumph offers the T100 for riders seeking a classic Bonneville vibe.
Price and Value
Despite all the upgrades, the Speed Twin 900 remains competitively priced at just over £9,000—only £400 more than the previous generation. Considering the enhanced brakes, suspension, technology, and design, this is excellent value for money.
Compared to competitors like the Ducati Scrambler, the Speed Twin 900 holds its own as an affordable yet high-quality option in the retro market.
Final Thoughts
The Triumph Speed Twin 900 continues to strike a balance between heritage and modernity. With its approachable nature, sporty updates, and improved comfort, the 2025 model feels like a natural evolution of a beloved classic.
If you’re looking for a retro bike with more punch, check out our review of the Speed Twin 1200. Otherwise, this updated 900cc model remains a compelling choice.
