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Naked bike · 2002

Thunderbird

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MotoLibrary Score
49 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.31 hp/kg
Torque
70 Nm
Engine
885 ccm

2002 Triumph Thunderbird Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 2002 Triumph Thunderbird naked motorcycle, Triumph features a 885 cc (54 cu in) liquid-cooled in-line three, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 69 HP (50.4 kW) at 8,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 70 Nm (51.6 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox. With a specific output of 78 HP per liter and a 4,000 rpm working window between peak torque (4,000 rpm) and peak power (8,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the Thunderbird measures 220 kg (485 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.31 HP/kg (3.19 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 776 mm (30.6 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,580 mm (62.2 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.

Within MotoLibrary's Triumph archive, this model family spans 16 indexed model years from 1995 to 2018, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
78 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.31 HP/kg (3.19 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,000–8,000 rpm
Standover Height
776 mm (30.6 in)
Engine
Displacement 885.0 ccm (54.00 cubic inches)
Engine Type In-line three, four-stroke
Engine Details In-line three, four-stroke
Power 69.0 HP (50.4 kW)) @ 8000 RPM
Torque 70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.6 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
Compression 10.0:1
Bore x Stroke 76.0 x 65.0 mm (3.0 x 2.6 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor
Fuel Control Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Cooling Liquid
Transmission
Gearbox 6-speed
Chassis
Wheelbase 1580 mm (62.2 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Brakes Single disc
Front Brake Ø 320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc
Rear Brake Ø 285 mm (11.2 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 220.0 kg (485.0 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.3136 HP/kg
Seat Height 776 mm (30.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height 1150 mm (45.3 inches)
Overall Length 2250 mm (88.6 inches)
Overall Width 810 mm (31.9 inches)
Fuel Capacity 15.00 litres (3.96 US gallons)
More from Triumph
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
🏍️
Best For
City & Weekend Rides
📏
Seat Height
77.6 cm / 30.6 in
⚖️
Handling
Heavy bike — requires confident handling
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