Triumph Thunderbird Sport

Triumph Thunderbird Sport: A brief history.

Triumph Thunderbird Sport Motorcycle Photography © Bikepix 2014

Introduced in 1998 (priced at £7649) as a variation of the Thunderbird range.

Distinctive ‘café racer’ styling included the pair of upswept reverse cone silencers mounted on one side and the ‘cheese grater’ air filter covers, with both features getting their inspiration from the Triumph X-75 Hurricane.

Enhancements included wider rims to accommodate sports tyres, twin front discs and the engine uprated to 82bhp from the 69bhp offered by the Thunderbird. They were also fitted with Keihin carburettors as opposed to the Mikuni carbs fitted to the Thunderbird.

The gear box was also upgraded to a six speed box (although later versions of the Thunderbird also benefited from a six speed gear box).

In 2001 and 2002 the bike was not available, presumably because of the launch of the new Bonneville range.

The TBS was reintroduced in 2003 by popular demand from the public, but didn’t last long and was discontinued in 2004.

Triumph Thunderbird Sport woodland photo shoot © Bikepix 2014