No, Triumph Motorcycles no longer manufactures the Thunderbird model. While it has a long and storied history with several revivals, its most recent iteration was discontinued in recent years.
A Legacy of Power and Style
The Triumph Thunderbird is an iconic nameplate in motorcycle history, first introduced as a British motorcycle in 1949. This original model enjoyed a significant production run, continuing in various forms until 1966. The Thunderbird quickly established itself as a popular and distinctive model, even being famously ridden by Marlon Brando in "The Wild One."
Due to its enduring appeal and brand recognition, the Thunderbird name was brought back by Triumph on three separate occasions for new and distinct motorcycle models after its initial production ceased. Each revival sought to reinterpret the essence of the Thunderbird for a new era, from classic-styled bikes to powerful cruisers.
The End of an Era for the Thunderbird Nameplate
The most recent version of the Triumph Thunderbird was a line of large-displacement cruisers, renowned for their smooth, torquey parallel-twin engines. These models, which included the Thunderbird 1600 and the high-performance Thunderbird Storm and LT, were popular among riders looking for a blend of British heritage and classic cruiser aesthetics.
However, Triumph ultimately made the strategic decision to discontinue the Thunderbird range. Production of these models ceased around 2017-2018, as the company shifted its focus towards other segments and new model development.
Here's a brief overview of the Thunderbird's journey:
| Thunderbird Era/Model Type | Key Characteristics | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Original Classic | Iconic British motorcycle, widely produced from 1949 to 1966. | Discontinued |
| Later Revivals | The name was used three more times for distinct new Triumph models across different periods (e.g., 1990s). | Discontinued |
| Modern Cruisers | Large-displacement parallel-twin cruisers (e.g., Thunderbird 1600, Storm, LT), produced into the late 2010s. | Discontinued |
While the Thunderbird may no longer be in production, its legacy continues through the brand's commitment to performance and design. Triumph's current lineup focuses on a diverse range of motorcycles, including:
- Modern Classics: Such as the Bonneville, Thruxton, and Speed Twin, which pay homage to their heritage.
- Roadsters: Including the Street Triple and Speed Triple, known for their agility and performance.
- Adventure Bikes: With the Tiger series, designed for diverse terrains and long-distance touring.
- Cruisers: While the Thunderbird is gone, Triumph continues to offer power cruisers like the Rocket 3.
For more historical details on the Triumph Thunderbird, you can refer to its comprehensive overview on Wikipedia.
