TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES first stole my heart back in 2019 when I decided it was time to upgrade from my Vespa scooter to a more powerful ride. That's when I stumbled upon the Triumph Bobber, and it was love at first sight. A few months later, I couldn't resist switching to the Speed Twin 1200, captivated by its stunning looks. Triumph, the United Kingdom's largest motorcycle manufacturer, is all about retro style and heritage design — qualities that have made it one of my all-time favorite brands.

Just last week, I had the chance to take the 2023 Speed Twin 900 for a test ride. Having previously owned the 1200, I was curious about how this model would compare, especially with its smaller engine. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.Once known as the Street Twin, the 2023 Speed Twin 900 reminded me of my old 1200 in terms of handling and riding style. With a seat height lowered by 40 mm — from 805 mm on the 1200 to 765 mm on the 900 — I can comfortably put both feet flat on the ground. At 5'3", seat height is a crucial feature for me, so this bike is much easier to move around compared to larger bikes where I'm often left tippy-toeing.Next up is the bike's weight, which is identical for both the 1200 and the 900 at 216 kilograms. Interestingly, the 900 feels lighter to handle, possibly because it's so easy to maneuver when I'm seated. The lightweight frame contributes to the overall comfort and ease of movement, making the bike an ideal choice for navigating tight spots.On the highway, the 900 impressed me with its smooth acceleration and effortless shifting from first to fifth gear. It provides the power I need when I need it, and there's no hint of stalling as its engine runs smoothly throughout its rev range, topping out around 7,000 rpm. The torque delivery is immediate, and the bike feels steady and confident throughout.One of my favorite aspects is the exhaust note from its parallel-twin engine. The 900 has that classic British growl that turns heads everywhere I go. The sound of a motorcycle's engine is a big part of the riding experience for me, and the 900's roar enhances the feeling of freedom and excitement.I also appreciate the simple, rider-friendly features on the 900. Its analog speedometer with a small LCD multifunctional display provides easy access to trip mileage, clock and fuel consumption info. Switching between riding modes — Road and Rain — is straightforward with a quick press of the info button on the left handlebar cluster, making it adaptable to various road conditions.All in all, the 2023 Triumph Speed Twin 900 is a fantastic bike that caters to riders of all types. With a perfect blend of sleek design, powerful performance, and comfort, it's an ideal companion for both daily commutes and long-distance rides.This beauty is currently priced at P715,000 and is available at Triumph Motorcycles Philippines on Ortigas Avenue in San Juan. Whether you're new to motorcycling or a seasoned rider, the Speed Twin 900 is worth considering for your next ride.