Faults:

Chrome plating can develop pitting or blistering if it is not maintained with specific anti-corrosion products.

Constant squeaking in the drive belt, which can be difficult to adjust properly to eliminate the noise.

Although it is comfortable, the accelerator can feel stiff and the vibrations in the handlebars can cause numbness in the hands during very long rides.

The rear suspension can feel somewhat harsh when going over sharp bumps if the preload is not properly adjusted according to the driver's weight.

General Comments:

For a British motorcycle, the Thunderbird LT has a very American look. That's not a bad thing; it's gorgeous with its two-tone paint, whitewall tires, and abundance of chrome.

The LT does away with the twin headlight system that gives away a Triumph, opting instead for a single large headlight flanked by smaller daytime running lights on either side. This three-light arrangement is so similar to that of other brands that you have to get close enough to read the Triumph emblem before you realize it's different.

The feeling from the rider's seat is that of a motorcycle far more agile than you might expect. With a dry weight of around 340 kg, it's a robust motorcycle. However, it doesn't feel heavy. Even at low speeds, the LT feels smaller than it actually is.

The LT (which stands for Light Touring) differs from the rest of the Thunderbird range by offering a configuration better suited for long journeys. This includes a large, removable windscreen, leather saddlebags, 16-inch spoked wheels, and a stiffer rear suspension. The result is a motorcycle that is enjoyable on long trips. The windscreen performs its function perfectly, maintaining a pleasant bubble of air around the rider. The saddlebags are quite spacious and come with waterproof inner bags, a very practical detail. The riding position is what I would call a softer version of the traditional cruiser. Your feet are positioned slightly forward with your arms at a natural angle. I found the Thunderbird more comfortable than most cruisers I've ridden, although after about 240 kilometers (150 miles) I did notice a slight discomfort in my back.

I was also impressed by the braking system. The three enormous discs bring the equally imposing motorcycle to a halt quickly and with absolute control. ABS comes standard, and try as I might, I couldn't detect any vibration in the lever.

As you'd expect from such a large engine, the power is prodigious, though never overwhelming. It boasts 94 horsepower and 108 lb-ft of torque, and perhaps this is where the Thunderbird demonstrates its robustness, as acceleration is adequate, if not particularly exhilarating. One minor drawback I find is the exhaust note, which is rather weak.

In short, this motorcycle offers performance that's hard to fault in the large-displacement cruiser category. Its finish is top-notch, and its price is lower than most of its competitors (especially Harleys and Kawasakis).