Triumph Thunderbird Commander User manual

1
Foreword
FOREWORD
This handbook contains information on the Triumph Thunderbird Commander and the
Thunderbird LT motorcycles. Always store this Owner's Handbook with the motorcycle and
refer to it for information whenever necessary.
Warnings, Cautions and
Notes
Throughout this Owner's Handbook
particularly important information is
presented in the following form:
Note:
• This note symbol indicates points of
particular interest for more efficient
and convenient operation.
Warning
This warning symbol identifies special
instructions or procedures, which if not
correctly followed could result in personal
injury, or loss of life.
Caution
This caution symbol identifies special
instructions or procedures, which, if not
strictly observed, could result in damage to,
or destruction of, equipment.

2
Foreword
Warning Labels
At certain areas of the
motorcycle, the symbol (left)
can be seen. The symbol
means 'CAUTION: REFER TO
THE HANDBOOK' and will
be followed by a pictorial
representation of the subject
concerned.
Never attempt to ride the motorcycle or
make any adjustments without reference to
the relevant instructions contained in this
handbook.
See pages 10 to 13 for the location of all
labels bearing this symbol. Where necessary,
this symbol will also appear on the pages
containing the relevant information.
Maintenance
To ensure a long, safe and trouble free life for
your motorcycle, maintenance should only be
carried out by an authorised Triumph dealer.
Only an authorised Triumph dealer will have
the necessary knowledge, equipment and
skills to maintain your Triumph motorcycle
correctly.
To locate your nearest Triumph dealer, visit
the Triumph web site at www.triumph.co.uk
or telephone the authorised distributor in
your country. Their address is given in the
service record book that accompanies this
handbook.
Noise Control System
Tampering With the Noise Control System is
Prohibited.
Owners are warned that the law may prohibit:
a) The removal or rendering inoperative by
any person other than for purposes of
maintenance, repair or replacement, of
any device or element of design
incorporated into any new vehicle for the
purpose of noise control prior to its sale
or delivery to the ultimate purchaser or
while it is in use and,
b) the use of the vehicle after such device or
element of design has been removed or
rendered inoperative by any person.
Immobiliser and Tyre
Pressure Monitoring System
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful
interference
• This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications to the device could
void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.

3
Foreword
Tyres
With reference to the Pneumatic Tyres and
Tubes for Automotive Vehicles (Quality
Control) Order, 2009, Cl. No. 3 (c), it is
declared by M/s. Triumph Motorcycles Ltd.
that the tyres fitted on this motorcycle meet
the requirements of IS 15627: 2005 and
comply with the requirements under Central
Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), 1989.
Owner's Handbook
Thank you for choosing a Triumph
motorcycle. This motorcycle is the product of
Triumph's use of proven engineering,
exhaustive testing, and continuous striving for
superior reliability, safety and performance.
Please read this Owner's Handbook before
riding in order to become thoroughly familiar
with the correct operation of your motorcycle's
controls, its features, capabilities and limitations.
This handbook includes safe riding tips, but
does not contain all the techniques and skills
necessary to ride a motorcycle safely.
Triumph strongly recommends that all riders
undertake the necessary training to ensure
safe operation of this motorcycle.
This handbook is also available from your
local dealer in:
•Dutch
•French
•German
•Italian
• Japanese
• Portuguese
• Spanish
•Swedish.
Note:
• The fitting of some accessory kits
requires removal of the original pillion
seat, which houses the handbook. In
these circumstances, ensure the
Owner's Handbook is removed from
the pillion seat and carried with the
motorcycle at all times.
Warning
This Owner's Handbook, and all other
instructions that are supplied with your
motorcycle, should be considered a
permanent part of your motorcycle and
should remain with it even if your
motorcycle is subsequently sold.
All riders must read this Owner's
Handbook and all other instructions which
are supplied with your motorcycle, before
riding, in order to become thoroughly
familiar with the correct operation of your
motorcycle's controls, its features,
capabilities and limitations. Do not lend
your motorcycle to others as riding when
not familiar with your motorcycle's controls,
features, capabilities and limitations can
lead to an accident.

4
Foreword
Talk to Trium ph
Our relationship with you does not end with
the purchase of your Triumph. Your feedback
on the buying and ownership experience is
very important in helping us develop our
products and services for you. Please help us
by ensuring your dealership has your Email
address and registers this with us. You will
then receive an online customer satisfaction
survey invitation to your Email address where
you can give us this feedback.
Your Triumph team.
Information
The information contained in this publication
is based on the latest information available at
the time of printing. Triumph reserves the
right to make changes at any time without
prior notice, or obligation.
Not to be reproduced wholly or in part
without the written permission of Triumph
Motorcycles Limited.
© Copyright 10.2013 Triumph Motorcycles
Limited, Hinckley, Leicestershire, England.
Publication part number 3852561 issue 1.
Table of Contents
This handbook contains a number of different sections. The table of contents below will help
you find the beginning of each section where, in the case of the major sections, a further table
of contents will help you find the specific subject required.
Foreword. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Warning Labels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Parts Identification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Serial Numbers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
How to Ride the Motorcycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Accessories, Loading and Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Maintenance and Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

5
Foreword - Safety First
FOREWORD - SAFETY FIRST
The Motorcycle Fuel and Exhaust Fumes
Warning
This motorcycle is designed for on-road
use only. It is not suitable for off-road use.
Off-road operation could lead to loss of
control of the motorcycle resulting in an
accident causing injury or loss of life.
Warning
This motorcycle is not designed to tow a
trailer or be fitted with a sidecar. Fitting a
sidecar and/or a trailer may result in loss of
control and an accident.
Warning
This motorcycle is designed for use as a
two-wheeled vehicle capable of carrying a
rider on his/her own, or a rider and one
passenger (subject to a passenger seat
being fitted).
The total weight of the rider, and any
passenger, accessories and luggage must
not exceed the maximum load limit of:
• 220 kg for Thunderbird LT.
• 232 kg for Thunderbird Commander.
Warning
PETROL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE:
Always turn off the engine when refuelling.
Do not refuel or open the fuel filler cap
while smoking or in the vicinity of any
open (naked) flame.
Take care not to spill any petrol on the
engine, exhaust pipes or silencers when
refuelling.
If petrol is swallowed, inhaled or allowed to
get into the eyes, seek immediate medical
attention.
Spillage on the skin should be immediately
washed off with soap and water and
clothing contaminated with petrol should
immediately be removed.
Burns and other serious skin conditions
may result from contact with petrol.
Warning
Never start your engine or let it run for any
length of time in a closed area. The
exhaust fumes are poisonous and may
cause loss of consciousness and death
within a short time. Always operate your
motorcycle in the open-air or in an area
with adequate ventilation.

6
Foreword - Safety First
Helmet and Clothing Parking
Warning
When riding the motorcycle, both rider
and passenger must always wear a
motorcycle helmet, eye protection, gloves,
boots, trousers (close fitting around the
knee and ankle) and a brightly coloured
jacket. Brightly coloured clothing will
considerably increase a rider's (or
passenger's) visibility to other operators of
road vehicles. Although full protection is
not possible, wearing correct protective
clothing can reduce the risk of injury when
riding.
Warning
A helmet is one of the most important
pieces of riding gear as it offers protection
against head injuries. You and your
passenger's helmet should be carefully
chosen and should fit you or your
passenger's head comfortably and
securely. A brightly coloured helmet will
increase a rider's (or passenger's) visibility
to other operators of road vehicles.
An open face helmet offers some
protection in an accident though a full face
helmet will offer more.
Always wear a visor or approved goggles
to help vision and to protect your eyes.
cbma
Warning
Always turn off the engine and remove the
ignition key before leaving the motorcycle
unattended. By removing the key, the risk
of use of the motorcycle by unauthorised
or untrained persons is reduced.
When parking the motorcycle, always
remember the following:
Engage first gear to help prevent the
motorcycle from rolling off the stand.
The engine and exhaust system will be hot
after riding. DO NOT park where
pedestrians, animals and/or children are
likely to touch the motorcycle.
Do not park on soft ground or on a steeply
inclined surface. Parking under these
conditions may cause the motorcycle to fall
over.
For further details, please refer to the 'How
to Ride the Motorcycle' section of this
Owner's Handbook.

7
Foreword - Safety First
Parts and Accessories
Triumph does not accept any liability
whatsoever for defects caused by the fitting
of non-approved parts, accessories or
conversions or the fitting of any approved
parts, accessories or conversions by
non-approved personnel.
Maintenance/Equipment
Warning
Owners should be aware that the only
approved parts, accessories and
conversions for any Triumph motorcycle
are those which carry official Triumph
approval and are fitted to the motorcycle
by an authorised dealer.
In particular, it is extremely hazardous to fit
or replace parts or accessories whose fitting
requires the dismantling of, or addition to,
either the electrical or fuel systems and any
such modification could cause a safety
hazard.
The fitting of any non-approved parts,
accessories or conversions may adversely
affect the handling, stability or other aspect
of the motorcycle operation that may result
in loss of motorcycle control and an accident.
Warning
Consult your authorised Triumph dealer
whenever there is doubt as to the correct or
safe operation of this Triumph motorcycle.
Remember that continued operation of an
incorrectly performing motorcycle may
aggravate a fault and may also
compromise safety.
Warning
Use of a motorcycle with bank angle
indicators worn beyond the maximum
limit will allow the motorcycle to be
banked to an unsafe angle.
Banking to an unsafe angle may cause
instability, loss of motorcycle control and
an accident.
Details of the bank angle wear limits can
be found in the maintenance and
adjustment section on page 78.
Warning
Ensure all equipment that is required by
law is installed and functioning correctly.
The removal or alteration of the
motorcycle’s lights, silencers, emission or
noise control systems can violate the law.
Incorrect or improper modification may
adversely affect the handling, stability or
other aspect of the motorcycle operation,
which may result in loss of motorcycle
control and an accident.
Warning
If the motorcycle is involved in an accident,
collision or fall, it must be taken to an
authorised Triumph dealer for inspection
and repair. Any accident can cause
damage to the motorcycle that, if not
correctly repaired, may cause a second
accident that may result in injury or death.

8
Foreword - Safety First
Riding
Warning
Never ride the motorcycle when fatigued
or under the influence of alcohol or other
drugs.
Riding when under the influence of alcohol
or other drugs is illegal.
Riding when fatigued or under the
influence of alcohol or other drugs reduces
the rider's ability to maintain control of the
motorcycle and may lead to loss of control
and an accident.
Warning
All riders must be licenced to operate the
motorcycle. Operation of the motorcycle
without a licence is illegal and could lead to
prosecution.
Operation of the motorcycle without
formal training in the correct riding
techniques that are necessary to become
licenced is dangerous and may lead to loss
of motorcycle control and an accident.
Warning
Always ride defensively and wear the
protective equipment mentioned
elsewhere in this foreword. Remember, in
an accident, a motorcycle does not give the
same impact protection as a car.
Warning
This Triumph motorcycle should be
operated within the legal speed limits for
the particular road travelled. Operating a
motorcycle at high speeds can be
potentially dangerous since the time
available to react to given traffic situations
is greatly reduced as road speed increases.
Always reduce speed in potentially
hazardous driving conditions such as bad
weather or heavy traffic.
Warning
Continually observe and react to changes in
road surface, traffic and wind conditions. All
two-wheeled vehicles are subject to external
forces which may cause an accident. These
forces include but are not limited to:
• Wind draft from passing vehicles
• Potholes, uneven or damaged road
surfaces
• Bad weather
•Ridererror.
Always operate the motorcycle at moderate
speed and away from heavy traffic until
you have become thoroughly familiar with
its handling and operating characteristics.
Never exceed the legal speed limit.

9
Foreword - Safety First
Handlebars and Footrests
Warning
The rider must maintain control of the
vehicle by keeping hands on the
handlebars at all times.
The handling and stability of a motorcycle
will be adversely affected if the rider
removes his hands from the handlebars,
resulting in loss of motorcycle control and
an accident.
Warning
The rider and passenger must always use
the footrests provided, during operation of
the vehicle.
By using the footrests, both rider and
passenger will reduce the risk of
inadvertent contact with any motorcycle
components and will also reduce the risk of
injury from entrapment of clothing.
Warning
The bank angle indicators must not be
used as a guide to how far the motorcycle
may be safely banked. This depends on
many various conditions including, but not
limited to, road surface, tyre condition and
weather.
Banking to an unsafe angle will lead to loss
of motorcycle control and an accident.
Warning
When banking and the bank angle
indicator, attached to the rider’s footboard,
makes contact with the ground, the
motorcycle is nearing its bank angle limit.
A further increase of the banking angle is
unsafe.
Banking to an unsafe angle may cause
instability, loss of motorcycle control and
an accident.
1. Bank angle indicator
1

Warning Labels
10
WARNING LABELS
Warning Label Locations – Thunderbird LT
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.
DAILY SAFETY CHECKS AND SEAT CARE
CONTRÔLES DE SÉCURITÉ QUOTIDIEN ET NETTOYAGE DE LA SELLE
COMPROBACIONES DIARIAS Y EL MANTENIMIENTO DE SU ASIENTO
DAGELIJKSE VEILIGHEIDSCONTROLES EN ZADELONDERHOUD
TÄGLICHE SICHERHEITS KO NT ROLLEN UND PFLEGE DES SITZES
DAGLIGA SÄKERHETSKONTROLLER OCH VÅRD AV SADEL
CONTROLLI DI SICUREZZA GIORNALIERI E PULIZIA SELLA
日常安全点検とシートのお手入れ
Coolant
(page 74)
Daily Safety
Checks
(page 48)
Windscreen
(page 113 )

Warning Labels
11
Warning Label Locations – Thunderbird LT (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. Therefore, any attempt to remove the warning labels will cause damage to
the paintwork or bodywork.
P
b
Unleaded Fuel
(page 35)
Helmet
(page 6)
Engine Oil
(page 71 )
Tyres
(page 96)
Drive Belt
(page 90)

Warning Labels
12
Warning Label Locations – Thunderbird Commander
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.
DAILY SAFETY CHECKS AND SEAT CARE
CONTRÔLES DE SÉCURITÉ QUOTIDIEN ET NETTOYAGE DE LA SELLE
COMPROBACIONES DIARIAS Y EL MANTENIMIENTO DE SU ASIENTO
DAGELIJKSE VEILIGHEIDSCONTROLES EN ZADELONDERHOUD
TÄGLICHE SICHERHEITSKONTROLLEN UND PFLEGE DES SITZES
DAGLIGA SÄKERHETSKONTROLLER OCH VÅRD AV SADEL
CONTROLLI DI SICUREZZA GIORNALIERI E PULIZIA SELLA
日常安全点検とシートのお手入れ
Coolant
(page 74)
Daily Safety
Checks
(page 48)

Warning Labels
13
Warning Label Locations – Thunderbird Commander
(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. Therefore, any attempt to remove the warning labels will cause damage to
the paintwork or bodywork.
P
b
Unleaded Fuel
(page 35)
Helmet
(page 6)
Engine Oil
(page 71 )
Tyres
(page 96)
Drive Belt
(page 90)

14
Parts Identification
PARTS IDENTIFICATION
Thunderbird LT
1. Front indicator
2. Headlight
3. Clutch cable
4. Fuel tank
5. Allen key (behind side panel)
6. Handbook/C-spanner (beneath
pillion seat)
7. Brake/Rear light
8. Rear brake disc
9. Rear brake caliper
10. Gear change pedal
11. S i d e s t a n d
12 . R a d ia t o r
13. Front brake caliper
14. Front brake disc
12 3456
14 13 12 11 10 9 8
7

15
Parts Identification
15. Rear suspension unit (behind pannier)
16. Battery (beneath seat)
17. Fuel filler cap
18. Front brake fluid reservoir
19. Coolant pressure cap (beneath fuel
tank)
20. Horn
21. Fog light
22. Front fork
23. Rear brake pedal
24. Rear brake fluid reservoir
25. Oil filler cap/Dipstick
26. Coolant expansion tank (behind
drive belt pulley cover)
27. Silencer
28. Drive belt pulley
29. Rear indicator
15 16 17 18 19 20 22
29 28 23
27 26 25 24
21

16
Parts Identification
Thunderbird Commander
1. Front indicator
2. Headlight
3. Clutch cable
4. Fuel tank
5. Allen key (behind side panel)
6. Handbook/C-spanner (beneath
pillion seat)
7. Brake/Rear light
8. Rear brake disc
9. Rear brake caliper
10. Gear change pedal
11. S i d e s t a n d
12 . R a d i a t o r
13. Front brake caliper
14. Front brake disc
12 3456
14 13 12 11 10 9 8
7

17
Parts Identification
15. Rear suspension unit
16. Battery (beneath seat)
17. Fuel filler cap
18. Front brake fluid reservoir
19. Coolant pressure cap (beneath fuel
tank)
20. Horn
21. Front fork
22. Rear brake pedal
23. Rear brake fluid reservoir
24. Oil filler cap/Dipstick
25. Coolant expansion tank (behind
drive belt pulley cover)
26. Silencer
27. Drive belt pulley
28. Rear indicator
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
28 27 22
26 25 24 23

18
Parts Identification
Thunderbird LT Shown
1. C l u t c h l e v er
2. Headlight dip switch
3. Fog lamp switch
4. Clutch lever adjuster
5. Speedometer
6. Front brake fluid reservoir
7. Engine stop switch
8. Front brake lever
9. Scroll button
10. Starter button
11. Odometer
12. Fuel gauge
13. Horn button
14. Indicator switch
TRIP
12
1234 5
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67
91011121314
8

19
Serial Numbers
SERIAL NUMBERS
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is stamped
into the steering head area of the frame. It is
also displayed on a plate, riveted to the
frame, on the engine’s left hand cradle tube.
Record the vehicle identification number in
the space provided below.
Engine Serial Number
The engine serial number is stamped on the
upper engine crankcase, towards the rear,
and is visible from left hand side, behind the
starter motor.
Record the engine serial number in the space
provided below.
ciid
cfbw

20
Serial Numbers
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