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Triumph Speedmaster: cruiser, generations and what to check when buying
The Triumph Speedmaster is a British cruiser motorcycle with a twin-cylinder engine, produced since 2003. We look at its generations, engines, and what to check when buying a used motorcycle.
Speedmaster in brief
The Speedmaster is a cruiser from the Bonneville family — low seat, relaxed riding position, and classic British styling. It's designed for relaxed, comfortable riding and cruising around town or on the open road.
The model has been in production for a long time, so there are several generations with different engines and equipment. The main difference is the displacement and updates after 2018.
Generations — what sets them apart
The first-generation (from 2003) has an air-cooled 790 cm³ twin-cylinder engine, while later models have an 865 cm³ engine, which became the standard in the Bonneville family.
Since 2018, the Bonneville Speedmaster with a 1200 cm³ liquid-cooled engine, more modern electronics, and a more comfortable riding position has been offered. This is quite a different motorcycle from the earlier versions.
Engine and transmission
Earlier versions have air-cooled 790 or 865 cm³ engines, while the 1200 cm³ version has around 77 hp and a liquid-cooled engine with strong low-end torque.
The transmission is either belt or chain-driven, depending on the version, with a manual gearbox. Newer versions have riding modes, ABS, and traction control.
What to check when buying a used Speedmaster
Check the engine for oil leaks, and see if the cold engine starts easily. Inspect the rear shock absorbers and the front fork seals.
Check for corrosion on the struts and wheel arches, as well as the exhaust system and chrome parts. Test the charging system by measuring the battery voltage.
Look into the service history, whether the timing belt has been checked, and if all manufacturer's requirements have been met. In newer versions, check the electronic functions.
Trim levels and versions
Trim levels vary by year and market; below are the main versions.
Speedmaster 790
From 2003First-generation models with a smaller engine.
- Air-cooled two-cylinder engine
- Classic styling
- Low seating position
Speedmaster 865
Later yearsUpdated version with a larger engine.
- 865 cm³ engine
- Often – a facelift
- More comfortable driving position
Bonneville Speedmaster 1200
From 2018New generation with liquid-cooled engine.
- Around 77 AG
- ABS and traction control
- Driving modes
Su priedais
As per the ownerAdditional cruise-style extras.
- Often — a windscreen
- Often — wheel arches
- Often — special exhausts
Speedmaster generation comparison
| 790 | 865 | 1200 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For classic enthusiasts | For daily driving | For a more modern cruise |
| Cooling | Interior | Interior | Seats |
| Electronics | Basic | Basic | Modern |
| Position | Low | Low | Lower and more comfortable |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ |
Budget-friendly earlier generations, but if you're after a modern, comfortable cruiser, go for the 1200 cm³ version.
Pros
- Classic British styling
- Low seating position
- Smooth engine character
- Comfortable position
Cons
- Not as dynamic as sporty models
- Older versions lack modern electronics
- Less common than main competitors' offerings
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between the 865 and 1200 versions?
The 1200 version has a larger liquid-cooled engine and modern electronics, while the 865 is simpler and air-cooled.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Smaller versions suit more experienced beginners due to the low seat height, but the 1200 version is heavier.
How much power does the latest Speedmaster have?
Around 77 hp.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
