Norton Dominator Vs Triumph Thruxton 1200 R Vs BMW R nineT: Spec Comparison

All three bikes feature fully adjustable front and rear suspension setups. However, Norton’s Dominator takes the cake with a set of premium Ohlins. The Thruxton comes in a close second while the Beamer settles for third in this case. All said and done, it all boils down to how reactive these suspension setups are in the real world, how easy they are to tune, and how it helps improve the bike’s handling. 

The R nineT may lose out in terms of premium suspension components and may not be the best handler of the lot, but it packs the biggest brakes which should help it drop the anchor quicker. To add to this, the roadster comes with fatter tyres which should help with stability. The Dominator though, has a fatter 190-section rear tyre.

Dimensions:

Specifications	Norton Dominator	Triumph Thruxton 1200 R	BMW R nineT
Wheelbase	1400mm	1415mm	1487mm
Ground clearance	NA	NA	NA
Fuel tank capacity	NA	14.5-litres	18-litres
Seat height	810mm	810mm	805mm
Kerb weight	227kg (kerb)	203kg (dry)	222kg (kerb)

The shortest wheelbase means the Dominator should be quick to turn in and inspiring confidence. So is the case with the Thruxton R which is just 15mm longer. 

The R nineT, on the other hand, sets itself as a better tourer. It comes with straight handlebars that offer a relatively relaxed riding posture as opposed to clip-ons on its rivals. The BMW R nineT’s touring capabilities are further highlighted when its larger 18-litre fuel-tank comes into play. More fuel at your disposal should keep you on the road a bit longer. 

Average sized riders would also find it easier to swing a leg over the R nineT which gets a lower seat height. A seat height of 810mm (5mm more) on the other two bikes may not be a deal breaker, but it could be problematic for shorter riders.

Then there's the weight. At 227kg, the least powerful bike - the Norton Dominator - is also the heaviest, which affects its power-to-weight ratio. The BMW R nineT takes second place while the Thruxton 1200 R stands tall in first.

Price & Verdict

Norton Dominator	Triumph Thruxton 1200 R	BMW R nineT
Rs 23,70,000	Rs 12,15,800	Rs 17,80,000

(all starting prices, ex-showroom)

Each one of you may have your pick, but it all boils down to the bikes’ pricing. And in this case, it’s the Triumph Thruxton 1200 R, imported from Thailand, that offers more bang for your buck. It looks gorgeous, offers more power and premium mechanicals for the least amount of money. 

The BMW R nineT also makes for one heck of a bike if you’re looking for a powerful yet comfortable ride. Bear in mind that the bike’s opposed twin engine configuration does suffer from torsional vibration, but even that has a charm of its own.

If you have money to splurge, the Norton Dominator could be your pick. In theory, it should handle better, gets better equipment to do so and has an authentic retro vibe to it.