Cruisers

2003Triumph Thunderbird

31 fields on record

The 2003 Triumph Thunderbird is a modern classic cruiser that appeals to riders seeking retro styling with contemporary reliability. Its 885cc three-cylinder engine delivers smooth, accessible power ideal for relaxed riding and easy handling. Best known for blending British heritage aesthetics with practical performance, it suits experienced riders who value character and comfort over raw speed.

Capacity: 885.0 ccm
Engine: In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 220.0 kg
Seat height: 776 mm
Power: 70.0 HP (51.5 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2003 Triumph Thunderbird

vs the 2002

Spec	2002	2003
Power	69.0 HP (50.7 kW) @ 8000 RPM	70.0 HP (51.5 kW)

Other years 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding45%

Daily riding65%

Touring75%

Two-up70%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed, torque-driven cruising and long highway stints rather than outright speed or cornering agility.
Built for: A big, laid-back British cruiser with strong low-end torque, a deep exhaust note, and a commanding, classic custom presence.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders wanting sharp handling, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 776mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2003 Triumph Thunderbird, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 885.0 ccm
Power: 70.0 HP (51.5 kW)
Torque: 70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m) @ 4000 RPM
Engine type: In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3182 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 76.0 x 65.0 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet. multi-plate

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1580 mm
Overall length: 2280 mm
Overall width: 810 mm
Overall height: 1190 mm
Seat height: 776 mm
Dry weight: 220.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 136 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 285 mm
Front tyre: 110/80-R 18
Rear tyre: 150/80-R 16

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1995	2000	2003	2009	2013	2018
Capacity	885 cc	885 cc	885 cc	1597 cc	1597 cc	1597 cc
Dry weight	220 kg	220 kg	220 kg	308 kg	308 kg	308 kg
Seat height	750 mm	776 mm	776 mm	700 mm	700 mm	700 mm
Fuel capacity	15 L	15 L	15 L	22 L	22 L	22 L