damp patches. However, the traction control errs on the side of caution in any setting, as the TC light flashes frantically at less than impressive lean angles—if you were expecting the kind of leniency seen on Triumph's modern sportbike offerings, you'd be disappointed. Instead, turn it off or reel it in and enjoy the ride. And as for the quickshifter on the RS, it tends to clear up at higher rpms but is clunky down low, which isn't surprising for a retro p-twin engine. Blasting through quaint villages, either Speed Twin 1200 has fully embraced spirited riding. Sure, the base bike is damped a little lighter than its sibling, which makes wrestling it from side to side slightly less composed. So, too, does its rubber that isn't as sticky. Though, if you're imagining a scenario where it'd fall short of sporting expectations while sashaying across pristine Spanish tarmac, waylay those notions now. The short wheelbase and low centre of gravity keep each Speed Twin steady on. Yet, the RS does edge out a victory thanks to its firmer suspenders while drawing the rider toward the front end with its slightly more aggressive riding position, ushering in confidence that makes a rider forget it's a retro-styled motorcycle. Tipping the RS into turns while in the shadow of Puig Major, Mallorca's tallest peak, is deeply satisfying and will surely scratch any sporting vintage itch that you've ever had. Naturally, we'd be remiss not to mention the brakes: The Brembo stuff does offer a better feel and more bite at the level, but to say that J.Juan jobbers are substandard would be a bald-faced lie. Triumph isn't shy about its past, nor should it be, as it is a brand steeped in tradition and shoulders more than its fair share of the two-wheeled record. At times, being faithful can hinder progress, yet offerings like the Speed Twin 1200 and 1200 RS show that modernity and heritage don't need to be at odds. Some things must be protected, while others can live on in history. In moments like these, we get to live with them both.
“Blasting through quaint villages, either Speed Twin 1200 has fully embraced spirited riding.”
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