Interesting. In fact, I'm a big fan of Triumphs and have owned several. Even considered a Rocket as an alternative to my Valk. No way, but riding it
was an enlightening experience, especially when the throttle was cranked in top gear at 100 mph.
With the introduction of the new Thunderbird, I'm not surprised to see Triumph refocus the Rocket (or at least one variant) away from the "cruiser" market segment and leave the Tbird to compete there. No point in cannibalizing one's own market. In reality, the Tbird is a far more appropriate "cruiser" even though it departs from the V-Twin dogma.
I'll be interested to see if Triumph maintains three versions of the Rocket (with this new addition) or whether they will drop the original and keep this new "roadster" along with their touring version.
All in all, ever since Triumph's disastrous 600cc sportbike of several years ago, they have demonstrated a largely unerring sense of marketing savvy. The Bonnie line is a cash cow (and the Thruxton, imo, is an especially fine motorcycle.) The Speed Triple and its 675 little brother are iconic and the 675 sport bike with the same engine in two levels of trim is a great bike for those who like some torque in a lightweight supersport.
Considering the number of firms that have failed miserably to resurrect hallowed motorcycle brands, Triumph stands largely alone creating a real motorcycle company.
