Positioned in Triumph's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2012 Triumph Thunderbird utilizes a 1597 cc (97.5 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 86 HP (62.8 kW) at 4,850 rpm while maximum torque reaches 146 Nm (107.7 lb-ft) at 2,750 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 53.9 HP per liter and a 2,100 rpm working window between peak torque (2,750 rpm) and peak power (4,850 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Thunderbird measures 339 kg (747 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (3.94 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 700 mm (27.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,615 mm (63.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 22-liter (5.8 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 6.19 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 355 km (221 miles) between fill-ups.
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
53.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (3.94 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
2,750–4,850 rpm
Theoretical Range
~355 km (221 mi)
Engine
Displacement1597.0 ccm (97.45 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine Details270º firing interval
Power86.0 HP (62.8 kW)) @ 4850 RPM
Torque146.0 Nm (14.9 kgf-m or 107.7 ft.lbs) @ 2750 RPM
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.
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.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
