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Triumph SA launches 2018 bike range

Following the recent announcement of a new home for Triumph in South Africa, the newly-formed Triumph Motorcycles SA launched their 2018 range of bikes to the media at Hartebeestpoort Dam on 14 June.

During the event, the media had the opportunity to ride the 17 models that make up the Hinckley-based manufacturer’s local range. This includes 6 new, or fully revised, models that the local public and media have not yet had an opportunity to ride:

• Tiger 800
• Tiger 1200
• Bonneville Bobber Black
• Bonneville Speedmaster
• Speed Triple
• 2018 Street Triple

For the launch, the bikes were divided into three groups – Adventure, Modern Classics and Roadsters – with three separate routes around the scenic Magalliesberg area to bring out the best in the various mchines.

'Building a flagship'

Prior to the media rides, Triumph SA CEO Bruce Allen told the journalists that the new company has spent the time since the announcement to homologate the new bikes and get spares and dealership agreements into place.

Allen said: "We have committed to building a flagship ‘Triumph World Black’ facility in Woodmead, Johannesburg. This will initially accommodate the needs of our Gauteng customers, while facilities that meet global Triumph standards will open in Cape Town in 2019 and in Pretoria in 2020."

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Sales of the new Triumphs started on Saturday 16 June. Allen also made the commitment that demo versions of all the bikes in the new range would be available at the company’s interim dealership in Sandton, to allow potential buyers to test ride any of the bikes in the range.

Having ridden all of the bikes during the launch event, I agree with Allen’s claim that there is a bike for every taste in the range. The Speed Triple and Street Triple are particularly lively and nimble, and chasing the pack through some curves on the former was especially enjoyable. 

The Bonneville Bobber and Speedmaster tick the boxes in the looks department, and are well suited for long laid-back cruises, while the rest of the Bonneville range make for excellent everyday bikes with a distinct 1960s British Twin flavour.

I have long been a fan of the Tiger 800, and the latest version is no less competent that its predecessor. The 1200 Tiger takes the best of the 800 and adds a healthy dollop of touring capability to create a bike that feels comfortable and secure both on and off the beaten track.

Existing Triumph owners and aficionados of the Hinckley machines are undoubtedly relieved that the brand is back on solid ground and excited about the extensive range that will be available locally.

Triumph has a loyal following on our shores, and it seems that Allen and his colleagues are determined to ensure that they get what they want. 

Look out for individual reviews on as many of these bikes as we can fit into our schedule.

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