Both bikes also share suspension components, although the fork is a bit stiffer on the Thruxton. A 43mm inverted big- piston fork provides 5.5 inches of travel on the Tracker and 5.3 inches on the Thruxton, and the rear monoshock offers 5.1 inches of travel on both, as well as preload adjustment. I found the suspension suited the bikes’ sporty natures just right, with the Tracker offering a more comfortable ride and the Thruxton’ s slightly stiffer fork creating more confidence in the corners.
The instrumentation on these bikes is basic, but it provides everything you need and looks well- designed. I’ m fond of an analog speedometer, and the 400s have one. Off to the right side of the speedometer is an LCD display that shows rpm, gear position, a clock, fuel level, trip meters, and other info.
For machines priced around $ 6K, the Tracker and Thruxton are exciting additions to Triumph’ s 400 line. While they don’ t offer a lot of bells and whistles in terms of ride modes, adjustability, and extra features, they are well- sorted, well- made motorcycles that were thoughtfully designed, which is not always the case for entry- level bikes. I’ d be proud to own either of them, but it would be difficult to choose a favorite.
The Thruxton is a beauty, and it’ s an engaging ride, encouraging the rider to live up to its cafe- racer appearance. If I’ d only ridden each one for about an hour, my heart
would lie with the Thruxton. But after a full day of riding, the Tracker had the strongest pull for me. It’ s the more versatile of the two, and I could ride it more comfortably for longer periods of time while still enjoying a sportier ride than the Speed or Scrambler offer.
If you don’ t agree with my choice, there’ s good news for you! All five of Triumph’ s 400s offer their own unique flavor, alongside shared attributes like their simplicity and ease of use, their quality construction and feel, and their attainable price point. Pick whichever one speaks to you, and you’ ll have made the right choice.
The Thruxton’ s aggressive ergonomics make a rider want to take full advantage of the 5 % boost in power compared to the other 400s.
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