Triumph Thruxton 1200 2017 vs. Triumph Thruxton RS 2020

The Triumph Thruxton 1200 model year 2017 and the Triumph Thruxton RS model year 2020 are both naked bikes with similar technical specifications. They have the same engine type, displacement, fuel system, and cooling system. However, there are several notable differences between the two models.

One of the main differences is in the power output of the engines. The Thruxton 1200 2017 has an engine power of 97 HP, while the Thruxton RS 2020 has a more powerful engine with 105 HP. This increase in power provides the RS model with improved acceleration and overall performance.

Another difference is in the front suspension. The Thruxton 1200 2017 is equipped with a telescopic fork front suspension from Kayaba, while the Thruxton RS 2020 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension from Showa. This change in suspension design improves the handling and stability of the RS model, especially during aggressive riding.

Triumph Thruxton 1200 2017

The rear suspension on both models is a swing arm with dual shock absorbers. However, the Thruxton RS 2020 has a higher quality shock absorber from Öhlins and offers more adjustment options, including compression, preload, and rebound. This allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their preferences and riding style.

In terms of brakes, the Thruxton 1200 2017 has a double disk front brake system with double piston calipers from Nissin. On the other hand, the Thruxton RS 2020 is equipped with a higher quality double disk front brake system with four piston calipers from Brembo. This upgrade provides the RS model with improved braking performance and better stopping power.

Both models come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS. This ensures enhanced safety and stability during braking and cornering.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both models have the same front and rear tire width and diameter, wheelbase, seat height, and fuel tank capacity. However, the Thruxton RS 2020 is slightly lighter with a dry weight of 197 kg compared to the 206 kg of the Thruxton 1200 2017.

Triumph Thruxton RS 2020

When it comes to strengths, the Thruxton 1200 2017 has a successful cafe racer look, a powerful engine, a pleasantly controllable braking system, and inconspicuous electronic features. On the other hand, the Thruxton RS 2020 stands out with its attention to detail, many wonderful details, powerful engine, very high-quality brakes, good chassis, great engine response, and overall ease of handling and control.

As for weaknesses, the Thruxton 1200 2017 has a somewhat elongated seating position and the suspension spring preload is adjustable only at the rear. On the other hand, the Thruxton RS 2020 is only available as the top version RS and has inadequate splash protection in bad weather.

In conclusion, the Triumph Thruxton RS 2020 offers several improvements over the Thruxton 1200 2017, including a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension and brakes, and attention to detail. However, both models have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.