Preview: Triumph Street Twin and Street Scrambler first ride

WE’RE IN LISBON, Portugal, today to ride Triumph’s updated Street Twin and Street Scrambler models.

Already Triumph’s most popular ‘modern classic’ range, the two have received a host of engine, chassis, tech and styling upgrades for 2019.

Firstly, the engine receives an 18 per cent power hike – that’s about 9hp, with a higher-revving redline, up to 7,500rpm. This is thanks to uprated lightweight engine components, including magnesium engine covers, lighter crankshaft, balance shafts and clutch, which allow the engine to spin up faster. This engine retains its peak torque of 80Nm, however Triumph claims that there is now more available after that peak.

Both models have also seen a hardware upgrade, with Brembo four-pot callipers promising better feel and improved stopping power over the previous unit. A new KYB 41mm cartridge fork now features, while the Street Scrambler also gets adjusted rear suspension.

And as for tech, Triumph claims that the models top their class in this respect. Both now boast Rain and Road riding modes, while the Scrambler also gets an Off-Road mode, contrary to what was announced when the models were unveiled at Intermot. This mode retains the Road throttle map and deactivates ABS and Traction control. Rain and Road tweak the ride-by-wire throttle maps on the single throttle body, and feature varying degrees of ABS and TC intervention.

A Thatcham-approved immobiliser and USB sockets come as standard, while heated grips and a tyre pressure monitoring system are among the hundreds of official accessories offered for each bike.

Styling-wise, there’s a handful of updates across the models, including new cast aluminium wheels on the Street Twin, while the Scrambler gets spokes. A funky new logo sits proud, while additional Triumph badging is subtle across the bikes. Both retain their classic looks, but benefit from new modern touches.

There’s new colour options too – ironstone and red options for the Twin (alongside the pre-existing black), and red and a two tone scheme for the Scrambler (as well as the classic white).

The Street Twin will cost from £8,100 in black, and £8,250 in the two new paint jobs, while the Scrambler will retail at £9,300 in white, £9,450 in red, and £9,650 in that Twin colour scheme.

In the UK, both models are expected to be available in late January.

Check back later to read our first ride impressions…