Triumph Thruxton RS 2021 vs. Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2021

The Triumph Thruxton RS 2021 and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2021 are both naked bikes with powerful engines and advanced technology. However, they have some notable differences in terms of specifications and performance.

In terms of engine power, the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S takes the lead with 122 HP compared to the Triumph Thruxton RS's 105 HP. The Sportster S also has a higher torque of 125 Nm compared to the Thruxton RS's 112 Nm. This means that the Sportster S offers a more powerful and responsive ride.

Both bikes have a fuel injection system and liquid cooling, ensuring efficient fuel delivery and optimal engine performance. They also have a 2-cylinder configuration and a displacement of 1200ccm for the Thruxton RS and 1252ccm for the Sportster S.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature an upside-down telescopic fork at the front. The Thruxton RS uses Showa suspension with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound, while the Sportster S also utilizes Showa suspension but with monoshock rear suspension. This difference in rear suspension design may result in slightly different handling characteristics.

Triumph Thruxton RS 2021

Both bikes have a steel frame, with the Thruxton RS having a central tube frame and the Sportster S featuring a tubular, load-bearing engine frame. These frames provide stability and rigidity for enhanced handling and control.

When it comes to braking, the Thruxton RS is equipped with double disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 310 mm and four-piston radial monoblock calipers. The Sportster S, on the other hand, features a single disc brake at the front with a larger diameter of 320 mm and four-piston radial monoblock calipers. This suggests that the Sportster S may offer slightly better braking performance.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS. However, the Sportster S goes a step further with additional features such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and lean angle-dependent traction control. These additional electronic aids provide enhanced safety and control in various riding conditions.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Sportster S has a wider front tire (160 mm) compared to the Thruxton RS (120 mm). The Sportster S also has a slightly longer wheelbase (1520 mm) compared to the Thruxton RS (1415 mm). However, the Thruxton RS has a higher seat height (810 mm) compared to the Sportster S (755 mm). Additionally, the Sportster S has a higher dry weight (221 kg) compared to the Thruxton RS (197 kg).

Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2021

In terms of fuel tank capacity, the Thruxton RS has a larger capacity of 14.5 liters compared to the Sportster S's 11.8 liters. This means that the Thruxton RS may offer a longer range before needing to refuel.

In terms of strengths, the Thruxton RS stands out with its very high-quality components, beautiful and noble appearance, and authentic design. On the other hand, the Sportster S shines with its powerful and refined engine, excellent braking performance for a single-disc system, and a full electronics package with advanced rider assistance systems.

However, the Thruxton RS has some weaknesses, including a sporty seating position that may not be comfortable for long tours and the lack of a quickshifter. The Sportster S, on the other hand, has a chassis that is considered to be really hard and a turn-in behavior that may be somewhat unwilling due to the wide front tire.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Thruxton RS 2021 and the Harley-Davidson Sportster S RH1250S 2021 are impressive naked bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and priorities in terms of design, performance, and features.