Foreword FOREWORD This handbook contains information on the Triumph Thunderbird motorcycle. Always store this owner's handbook with the motorcycle and refer to it for information whenever necessary. Warnings, Cautions and Notes Caution Throughout this owner's handbook This caution symbol identifies special...
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To ensure a long, safe and trouble free life for motorcycle, the symbol (left) your motorcycle, maintenance should only be can be seen. The symbol carried out by an authorized Triumph dealer. means 'CAUTION: REFER TO Only an authorized Triumph dealer will have THE HANDBOOK' and will...
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Triumph strongly recommends that all riders b) the use of the vehicle after such undertake a safety course approved by the device or element of design has...
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Triumph reserves the handbook. In these circumstances, right to make changes at any time without ensure the Owner's Handbook is prior notice, or obligation.
Foreword Table of Contents This handbook contains a number of section where, in the case of the major different sections. The table of contents below sections, a further table of contents will help will help you find the beginning of each you find the specific subject required.
Foreword - Safety First FOREWORD - SAFETY FIRST The Motorcycle Fuel and Exhaust Fumes Warning Warning This motorcycle is designed for on-road GASOLINE IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: use only. It is not suitable for off-road use. Always turn off the engine when refuelling. Off-road operation could lead to loss of Do not refuel or open the fuel filler cap control of the motorcycle resulting in an...
Foreword - Safety First Helmet and Clothing Warning Warning When riding the motorcycle, both rider A helmet is one of the most important and passenger must always wear a pieces of riding gear as it offers protection motorcycle helmet, eye protection, gloves, against head injuries.
By removing the key, the risk conversions for any Triumph motorcycle of use of the motorcycle by unauthorized are those which carry official Triumph or untrained persons is reduced. approval installed motorcycle by an authorized dealer. When parking the motorcycle, always...
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Foreword - Safety First Maintenance/Equipment Warning Warning Consult your authorized Triumph dealer Ensure all equipment that is required by whenever there is doubt as to the correct law is installed and functioning correctly. safe operation this Triumph removal alteration motorcycle.
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Foreword - Safety First Riding Warning Warning Never ride the motorcycle when fatigued This Triumph motorcycle should or under the influence of alcohol or other operated within the legal speed limits for drugs. the particular road travelled. Operating a motorcycle...
Caution This Triumph motorcycle is not fitted with Warning spark arresters. Operation in forests, brush or grass areas may violate state and local The rider and passenger must always use laws and regulations.
Warning Labels WARNING LABELS Warning Label Locations – Thunderbird The labels detailed on this and the following pages draw your attention to important safety information in this handbook. Before riding, ensure that all riders have understood and complied with all the information to which these labels relate.
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Warning Labels Warning Label Locations – Thunderbird (continued) Caution All warning labels and decals, with the exception of the Running-in label, are fitted to the motorcycle using a strong adhesive. In some cases, labels are installed prior to an application of paint lacquer.
Serial Numbers SERIAL NUMBERS Vehicle Identification Engine Serial Number Number (VIN) The engine serial number is stamped on the The vehicle identification number is stamped upper engine crankcase, towards the rear, into the steering head area of the frame. It is and is visible from left hand side, behind the also displayed on a plate, riveted to the starter motor.
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General Information Instruments There are two trip meters. Either trip meter shows the distance that the motorcycle has travelled since the meter on display was last Speedometer reset to zero. The speedometer indicates the road speed of the motorcycle. Warning Tachometer Do not attempt to switch between The tachometer shows the engine speed in...
General Information Clock Adjustment Fuel Gauge Warning Do not attempt to adjust the clock with the motorcycle in motion as this may lead to loss of motorcycle control and an accident. TRIP To reset the clock, select the clock display. Then press and hold the scroll button 1.
Contact an authorized will illuminate. Triumph dealer as soon as possible to have the fault checked and rectified. Caution Note: Do not continue to run the engine if the •...
Do not continue position. to ride for longer than is necessary with the indicator light illuminated. Contact an Low Fuel authorized Triumph dealer as soon as fuel indicator will possible to have the fault checked and illuminate...
General Information Switch Operation Ignition Switch Positions This is a three position, key operated switch. Engine off. All electrical circuits The key can be removed from the switch off. only when it is in the OFF or P (PARK) positions. Engine electrical To turn the switch from OFF to ON, insert...
(at safe place away from the motorcycle. which point the lock will turn and move Your authorized Triumph dealer can supply a inwards). replacement key cut from details of the key number or can cut a new key using the original as a master.
General Information To disengage the steering lock, insert the key, Right Handlebar Switches turn the handlebars slightly to relieve any weight on the lock and turn the key further counter-clockwise until the lock springs outwards. Remove the key. Warning Always disengage the steering lock before riding as, with the steering lock engaged, it will not be possible to turn the handlebars or steer the motorcycle.
General Information Left Handlebar Switches Caution Do not leave the ignition switch in the ON position unless the engine is running as this may cause damage to electrical components and will discharge the battery. Starter Button The starter button operates the electric starter.
Fuel Grade release the turn signal switch in the central This Triumph motorcycle is designed to run position. on unleaded gasoline with a CLC or AKI Horn Button octane rating (R+M)/2 of 87 or higher.
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These gasolines are a blend of conventional gasoline and another compound such as alcohol. This Triumph motorcycle will give its best performance when using unleaded gasoline. However, the following should be used as a guide if you use any oxygenated...
General Information Fuel Tank Cap Warning To help reduce hazards associated with refuelling, always observe the following fuel safety instructions: Gasoline (fuel) is highly flammable and can TRIP be explosive under certain conditions. When refuelling, turn the ignition switch to the 'OFF' position.
General Information Filling the Fuel Tank Warning Avoid filling the tank in rainy or dusty conditions where airborne material can Overfilling the tank can lead to fuel contaminate the fuel. spillage. If fuel is spilled, thoroughly clean up the Caution spillage immediately and dispose of the materials used safely.
General Information Side Stand Side Panels cfhl cfbo 1. Side stand 1. Side panel (right hand shown) 2. Grommets The motorcycle is equipped with a side stand on which the motorcycle can be parked. Side panel removal is required to access the fusebox and the tool kit Allen key.
General Information Tool Kit and Handbook The tool kit consists of an Allen key for removal of the rider and pillion seats and a C-spanner for adjustment of the rear suspension. The Allen key is located behind the left hand side panel (see page 35), attached to a bracket.
General Information Seats Rider Seat Removal Seat Care To prevent damage to the seats or seat covers, care must be taken not to drop or lean the seats against any surface which may damage the seats or seat covers. Caution To prevent damage to the seats or seat covers, care must be taken not to drop the seats.
General Information Pillion Seat Removal To refit the seat, engage the seat’s two hooks and location pin into the bracket behind the rider’s seat. Install and tighten the rear fixing to 7 lbf ft (10 Nm). Warning To prevent detachment of the seat during riding, after fitting always grasp the seat and pull firmly upwards.
General Information Breaking-In Both during and after breaking-in has been completed: Breaking-in is the name given to the process • Do not over-rev the engine when that occurs during the first hours of a new cold; vehicle's operation. • Do not lug the engine. Always In particular, internal friction in the engine will downshift before the engine begins be higher when components are new.
Adjustment section or see your authorized 0.06 in (1.5 mm) friction material Triumph dealer for the action required to remaining on all brake pads (page 73). return the motorcycle to a safe operating Brake Fluid Levels: No brake fluid leakage. condition.
How to Ride the Motorcycle TRIP cfcv 1. Ignition switch 2. Engine stop switch 3. Starter button 4. Neutral light To Stop the Engine To Start the Engine Close the throttle completely. Check that the engine stop switch is in the RUN position.
How to Ride the Motorcycle Pull the clutch lever fully into the handlebar. • The motorcycle is equipped with starter lockout switches. The switches Leaving the throttle fully closed, push the prevent the electric starter from starter button until the engine starts. operating when the transmission is not in neutral with the side stand Warning...
How to Ride the Motorcycle Shifting Gears Note: • The gear shift mechanism is the 'positive stop' type. This means that, for each movement of the gear shift pedal/lever, you can only select each gear, one after other, ascending descending order. Warning Do not shift to a lower gear at speeds that will cause excessive engine rpm (r/min).
Riders should practice emergency braking in a traffic-free area. Incorrect brake technique could result in loss of control and an accident. Triumph strongly recommends that all riders take a course of instruction, which includes advice on safe brake operation.
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How to Ride the Motorcycle Warning Warning For your safety, always exercise extreme When descending a long steep gradient, caution when braking (whether or not ABS use engine braking by down changing and is fitted), accelerating or turning as any use the brakes intermittently.
ABS braking system. Do not continue to ride for longer than is necessary with the indicator light illuminated. Contact an authorized Triumph dealer as soon as possible to have the fault checked and rectified. In this situation, braking too hard will cause the wheels to lock resulting in loss of control and an accident.
How to Ride the Motorcycle Parking Warning The ABS warning light will illuminate when the rear wheel is driven at high speed for more than seconds when motorcycle is on a stand. This reaction is normal. When the ignition is switched off and the motorcycle is re-started, the warning light will illuminate until the motorcycle reaches a speed exceeding 19 mph (30 km/h).
Warning Warning Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be explosive under certain conditions. If Only operate this Triumph motorcycle at parking inside a garage or other structure, high speed in closed-course on-road be sure it is well ventilated and the competition or on closed-course racetracks.
How to Ride the Motorcycle Brakes Check that the front and rear brakes are Warning functioning properly. handling characteristics Tires motorcycle at high speed may vary from those you are familiar with at legal road High-speed operation is hard on tires, and speeds.
How to Ride the Motorcycle Drive Belt Electrical Equipment Make certain that the drive belt is correctly Make certain that the headlight, rear/brake adjusted. Inspect belt wear, light, direction indicators, horn etc., all work damage/cuts, frayed edges, or broken teeth. properly.
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Accessories and Loading ACCESSORIES AND LOADING The addition of accessories and carrying of additional weight can affect the motorcycle's handling characteristics causing changes in stability and necessitating a reduction in speed. The following information has been prepared as a guide to the potential hazards of adding accessories to a motorcycle and carrying passengers and additional loads.
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Accessories and Loading Warning Warning Only operate this Triumph motorcycle at Do not carry a passenger unless he or she high speed in closed-course on-road is tall enough to reach the footrests competition or on closed-course racetracks. provided. High-speed operation should only then be...
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Accessories and Loading Warning Warning Never attempt to store any items between If the passenger seat is used to carry small the frame and the fuel tank. This can objects, they must not exceed 11 lb (5 kg) restrict the steering and will cause loss of in weight, must not impair control of the control leading to an accident.
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Triumph dealer maintenance chart. Only an authorized carry out the scheduled maintenance of Triumph dealer will have this knowledge this motorcycle.
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Maintenance and Adjustment Operation Description Odometer Reading in Miles (Kms) or Time Period, whichever comes first First Service A Service B Service C Service D Service Every 6,000 12,000 18,000 24,000 (800) (10,000) (20,000) (30,000) (40,000) 1 month 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years...
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Maintenance and Adjustment Operation Description Odometer Reading in Miles (Kms) or Time Period, whichever comes first First Service A Service B Service C Service D Service Every 6,000 12,000 18,000 24,000 (800) (10,000) (20,000) (30,000) (40,000) 1 month 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years...
Maintenance and Adjustment Engine Oil Caution Ensure no foreign matter or contamination enters the engine during an oil change or cbnz In order for the engine, transmission, and top-up. Contamination entering the engine clutch to function correctly, maintain the may lead to engine damage. engine oil at the correct level, and change the oil and oil filter in accordance with scheduled Stop the engine.
Contact with hot oil may cause the skin to be scalded or burned. 1. Oil filter Position the oil drain pan beneath the oil filter. Unscrew and remove the oil filter using Triumph service tool T3880313. Dispose of...
Oil Specification and Grade API SH (or higher) AND JASO MA. Triumph high performance fuel injected Start the engine and allow it to idle for a engines are designed to use 10W/40 or minimum of 30 seconds.
Note: Technology (known as Hybrid OAT • HD4X Hybrid OAT coolant, as or HOAT) coolant is installed in the supplied by Triumph, is pre-mixed cooling system when and does not need to be diluted motorcycle leaves the factory. It is...
Maintenance and Adjustment Coolant Level Inspection Coolant Level Adjustment Warning Do not remove the expansion tank cap or radiator pressure cap when the engine is hot. When the engine is hot, the coolant inside the radiator will be hot and also under pressure.
Align the cover to the crankcase. Install and low-pressure water. tighten the four screws to 80 lbf in (9 Nm). Coolant Change Have the coolant changed by an authorized Triumph dealer in accordance with scheduled maintenance requirements.
Always be alert for changes in the 'feel' of the throttle and have the throttle system checked by an authorized Triumph dealer if any changes are detected. Changes can be due to wear in the mechanism, which could lead to a sticking throttle.
Tighten the locknut. If there is an incorrect amount of free play, Triumph recommends that have adjustments made by your authorized Triumph dealer. However, in an emergency, throttle adjustment may be made as follows:...
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Ride carefully to your nearest authorized cfhu 1. Closing cable Triumph dealer and have them check the 2. Throttle cam throttle system thoroughly before riding again. With the throttle fully closed, ensure that there is 0.08-0.
Maintenance and Adjustment Clutch Inspection Check that there is 0.04-0.08 in (1-2 mm) clutch lever free play at the lever. If there is an incorrect amount of free play, adjustments must be made. Adjustment Loosen the knurled locknut at the lever end of the clutch cable and turn the adjuster sleeve until the correct amount of clutch lever free play is achieved.
It is dangerous to operate the motorcycle under such conditions and your authorized Triumph dealer must rectify the fault before riding. Riding with defective brakes may lead to loss of motorcycle control and an accident.
Reduce speed and do not continue to ride for longer than is necessary with the indicator light illuminated. Contact an Warning authorized Triumph dealer as soon as possible to have the fault checked and Brake fluid is hygroscopic which means it rectified.
Maintenance and Adjustment Brake Fluid Level Inspection and Rear brake Adjustment Front brakes 1. Rear brake fluid reservoir, fluid level window 2. Upper level line 1. Front brake fluid reservoir, lower 3. Lower level line level line The rear brake fluid level is visible from the 2.
An accident causing injury to the rider and the level of the fluid in either fluid other road users may result from use of a reservoir, consult your authorized Triumph motorcycle with defective brake lights. dealer for advice before riding. Riding with...
Maintenance and Adjustment Windshield Cleaning (if fitted as an accessory) Warning Never attempt to clean the windshield while the motorcycle is in motion as releasing the handlebars may cause loss of vehicle control and an accident. Operation of the motorcycle with a Clean the windshield with a solution of mild damaged or scratched windshield will soap or detergent and lukewarm water.
If any free play can be detected in the block will not cause damage to the sump. steering head (headstock) bearings, ask your authorized Triumph dealer to inspect and rectify any faults before riding. Warning Riding the motorcycle with incorrectly...
If the wheel bearings in the front or rear wheel allow play in the wheel hub, are noisy, or if the wheel does not turn smoothly, have your authorized Triumph dealer inspect the wheel bearings. The wheel bearings must be inspected at the...
Examine each fork for any sign of damage, scratching of the slider surface, or for oil leaks. If any damage or leakage is found, consult an authorized Triumph dealer. To check that the forks operate smoothly: • Position the motorcycle on level ground.
Therefore, always replace worn or turned fully anti-clockwise. There are five damaged drive belts using genuine Triumph positions in total. Position one gives the parts supplied by an authorized Triumph minimum amount of spring pre-load.
Final Drive Belt Tension Inspection Drive Belt Tension Specification Drive belt tension must be measured using Motorcycle on 5.5 to 7.0 mm Triumph service tool T3880126, which is sidestand (0.20 to 0.27 in) available from your Triumph dealer. Motorcycle on Support 7.5 to 9.0 mm...
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Maintenance and Adjustment Measure the drive belt tension as follows: • Push the deflection slider and its O-ring down the tool, so that it will Note: not touch the drive belt lower cover • During the following procedure when the tool is positioned to the the exhaust is shown removed for drive belt.
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Maintenance and Adjustment • Gently position the tool’s belt cradle • Taking care not to deflect the belt, to the center of the lower drive belt slide the deflection slider and its run, ensuring the deflection slider on O-ring upwards until the slider just the tool body is NOT in contact with touches the belt cover.
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Maintenance and Adjustment • Apply force to the belt tension • Remove the tool, taking care not to guage in an upwards direction, until move the O-ring or deflection slider, the 4.5 kgf (10 lbf) mark on the load and read the belt deflection on the scale is reached.
Maintenance and Adjustment Final Drive Belt Tension Adjustment marking is aligned with the same adjuster markng on both sides of the Note: swinging arm. • Always adjust drive belt tension at • Tighten both adjuster locknuts to the tightest point in the drive belt. 20 lbf ft (27 Nm) and the rear wheel spindle nut to 81 lbf ft •...
Maintenance and Adjustment Tires Tire Inflation Pressures Correct inflation pressure will provide maximum stability, rider comfort and tire life. Always check tire pressures before riding when the tires are cold. Check tire pressures daily and adjust if necessary. See the Specification section for details of the correct inflation pressures.
Check the rims for dents or deformation. Warning Operation with damaged or defective Only operate this Triumph motorcycle at wheels or tires is dangerous and loss of high speed in closed-course on-road motorcycle control or an accident could competition or on closed-course racetracks.
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Warning If tire damage is suspected, such as after Warning striking the curb, ask your authorized Triumph dealer to inspect the tire both On models fitted with ABS, the ABS internally and externally. Remember, tire computer operates by comparing the damage may not always be visible from relative speed of the front and rear wheels.
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Warning When replacement tires are required, Tires that have been used on a rolling road consult your authorized Triumph dealer dynamometer may become damaged. In who will arrange for the tires to be some cases, the damage may not be visible selected, in a correct combination, from the on the external surface of the tire.
Maintenance and Adjustment Battery Battery Removal Warning Under some circumstances, the battery can give off explosive gases; keep sparks, flames and cigarettes away. Provide adequate ventilation when charging or using the battery in an enclosed space. The battery contains sulphuric acid (battery acid).
Maintenance and Adjustment Battery Disposal Under normal conditions, the motorcycle charging system will keep the battery fully Should the battery ever require replacement, charged. However, if the motorcycle is the original battery must be handed to a unused, the battery will gradually discharge recycling agent who will ensure that the due to a normal process called self discharge;...
Caution Do not use an automotive quick charger as it may overcharge and damage the battery. Should the battery Voltage fall below 12.7 Volts, the battery should be charged using a Triumph approved battery charger. Always remove battery from motorcycle...
Maintenance and Adjustment Fuse Box Models without ABS: Position Circuit Protected Rating (Amps) Low and main headlight beams, starter solenoid Spare Auxiliary lights Cooling fan Engine management system Accessory socket, heated grips Alarm, instruments Accessory lights, fog 10* or lights cfgp 1.
Maintenance and Adjustment Models fitted with ABS: Headlights Position Circuit Protected Rating Warning (Amps) Low and main headlight Adjust road speed to suit the visibility and beams, starter solenoid weather conditions in which the motorcycle is being operated. Auxiliary lights Ensure that the beam is adjusted to Cooling fan illuminate the road surface sufficiently far...
Maintenance and Adjustment Headlight Bulb Replacement Disconnect the multi-pin electrical connector from the headlight bulb and remove the It is necessary to remove the headlight from rubber cover. the headlight bowl to gain access to the bulbs. Warning The bulbs become hot during use. Always allow sufficient time for the bulbs to cool before handling.
Maintenance and Adjustment To remove the position light bulb: Brake/Tail Light Without pulling on the wires, ease the bulb Brake/Tail Light Replacement holder from its socket. The bulb is removed from its holder by pulling gently upwards. The brake/tail light unit is a sealed, maintenance free LED unit.
Maintenance and Adjustment To remove the bulb, gently press inwards and Cleaning twist counter-clockwise. Frequent, regular cleaning is an essential part of the maintenance of your motorcycle. If regularly cleaned, the appearance will be preserved for many years. Cleaning with cold water containing an automotive cleaner is essential at all times but particularly so after exposure to sea breezes, sea water, dusty or...
Maintenance and Adjustment surfaces, if the same sponge or cleaning After Washing cloths are used. Remove the plastic bags and tape, and clear the air intakes. Where to be Careful Lubricate the pivots, bolts and nuts. Avoid spraying water with any great force Test the brakes before motorcycle operation.
Maintenance and Adjustment Cleaning of the Exhaust System Drying All parts of the exhaust system of your Dry the exhaust system as far as possible with motorcycle must be cleaned regularly to a soft cloth. Do not run the engine to dry the avoid a deterioration of its appearance.
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Make sure the cooling system is filled with a stabilizer (if available), following the fuel 50% mixture of coolant (noting that HD4X stabilizer manufacturer’s instructions. Hybrid OAT coolant, as supplied by Triumph, is pre-mixed and requires no dilution) and distilled water solution (see page 66). Warning...
Storage Preparation after Storage Crank the engine on the starter motor several times until the oil pressure light goes out. Install the battery (if removed) (see page 93). Replace the spark plugs, tightening to If the motorcycle has been stored for more 15 lbf ft (20 Nm), and start the engine.