Road test: 2004 Triumph Thruxton

Exiting a particularly greasy roundabout on London's North Circular road, it is time to feed in some throttle. Ahead of me, the sound of the old British Twin roaring up through the gears means I had better do it quick.

With the light snowfall turning to water as it hits the ground, I straighten up the new Triumph Thruxton 900 and spin the Parallel-Twin up to redline. The rear Metzeler keeps me honest as I dive for a gap in the fast moving traffic, keeping my eyes firmly attached to the Triumph Triton's license plate ahead.