In a world where modern classic motorcycles often come with a hefty price tag, the Brixton Cromwell 1200 has stirred curiosity by offering big-engine performance at an unexpectedly reasonable cost. Launched by Austrian-origin Brixton Motorcycles (a brand under the KSR Group), the Cromwell 1200 enters the premium retro space dominated by giants like Triumph, Royal Enfield, and Moto Guzzi.
But does it live up to its promise, or is it just another retro-styled motorcycle trying to play in the big leagues? In this detailed blog, we’ll break down every aspect of the Cromwell 1200—from performance and design to pricing and real-world experience.
Aesthetics: Retro British DNA with a Contemporary Touch
At first glance, the Cromwell 1200 looks unmistakably British. The styling feels inspired by the Triumph Bonneville T120, but Brixton has added enough original flair to avoid being a clone. The teardrop-shaped fuel tank, wide handlebars, ribbed seat, and round LED headlight scream vintage appeal, while modern elements like a TFT display, LED lighting, and USB ports quietly whisper “21st century”.
Color options like Timberwolf Grey, Backstage Black, and Cargo Green enhance the classic vibes, while the blacked-out engine and chrome accents strike a perfect balance between rugged and refined.
Design Highlights:
- Round full-LED headlight with daytime running light
- Dual peashooter exhausts
- Wire-spoke wheels (18-inch front, 17-inch rear)
- Retro badging and tank grips
- Dual seat setup with classic stitching
Engine and Performance: Built to Roar, Tuned to Cruise
Underneath the retro charm lies a 1,222cc parallel-twin engine that produces 83 hp at 6,550 rpm and a meaty 108 Nm of torque at just 3,100 rpm. This makes the Cromwell 1200 not only powerful on paper but also incredibly torque-rich in the real world. You get immediate grunt right from low revs, which means overtaking in city traffic or cruising on highways feels effortless.
Mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch, gear changes are smooth and forgiving. Brixton clearly aimed for a relaxed, torquey ride rather than a high-revving monster, and the result is a bike that feels calm, composed, and confident—ideal for long-distance cruising.
Engine Specs:
- Engine: 1,222cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin
- Power: 83 PS
- Torque: 108 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Fuel System: EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Ride Quality and Handling: Stable and Predictable
Weighing in at 235 kg, the Cromwell 1200 isn’t exactly lightweight, but the weight distribution is so well-balanced that you rarely feel its bulk once you’re rolling. The double-cradle tubular steel frame offers a rigid backbone, giving the bike excellent stability at high speeds.
Suspension duties are handled by KYB—a trusted name in the industry. The front gets conventional 43mm forks, while the rear is equipped with dual shock absorbers with preload adjustability. Together, they absorb bumps and undulations with ease, offering a ride that feels plush yet responsive.
Cornering is predictable, and while it may not be as agile as a naked sportbike, it handles sweepers and twisties with grace.
Brakes and Safety: Confidence on Tap
Braking duties are handled by Nissin calipers with dual 310mm discs up front and a 260mm disc at the rear, supported by Bosch dual-channel ABS. The feedback at the lever is solid, and stopping power is more than adequate, even under hard braking.
On the safety front, the Cromwell 1200 features traction control—a rare addition in this price bracket—and two riding modes: Eco and Sport. These tweak the throttle response to match your preferred style or riding environment.
Technology and Features: Modern Where It Matters
While it maintains a retro soul, the Cromwell 1200 isn’t shy about tech. The full-color TFT instrument cluster displays everything from speed and RPM to trip meters, gear indicator, riding mode, and traction control status. It’s simple and intuitive, though some might find it a bit basic compared to the infotainment-heavy dashboards of more premium bikes.
Other practical features include:
- USB-A charging port
- LED lighting all around
- Keyless ignition (in some markets)
- Slipper clutch
- Side-stand engine cut-off
Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for the Long Haul
With an 800mm seat height, the Cromwell is accessible to most riders. The wide handlebars and mid-set footpegs offer a natural upright riding posture, ideal for touring or everyday use. The seat itself is plush and roomy enough for both rider and pillion, although taller riders might wish for a bit more legroom.
Wind protection is minimal, as expected from a naked retro-style motorcycle, but that’s part of its charm.
Ergonomic Breakdown:
- Upright riding position
- Comfortable seat for long rides
- Easy-to-reach controls
- Slightly heavy in city traffic, but manageable
Fuel Efficiency and Tank Range
While this bike isn’t aimed at the fuel-conscious commuter, it still delivers respectable mileage for a 1.2L twin-cylinder machine. In mixed city and highway usage, riders report around 18-22 km/l, which means you can squeeze out up to 350-400 km from its 16-litre fuel tank—perfect for weekend road trips.
Competition: How Does It Compare?
Here’s how the Brixton Cromwell 1200 stacks up against its closest competitors:
| Motorcycle | Engine (cc) | Power (hp) | Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brixton Cromwell 1200 | 1,222 | 83 | ₹7.84 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Triumph Bonneville T120 | 1,200 | 79 | ₹11.39 lakh |
| RE Shotgun 650 | 648 | 47 | ₹3.59 lakh |
| Kawasaki W800 | 773 | 51 | ₹7.12 lakh |
As you can see, the Cromwell 1200 offers big bike specs at a mid-tier price, significantly undercutting Triumph’s T120 while offering similar engine capacity and features.
Who Should Buy the Brixton Cromwell 1200?
- Retro enthusiasts looking for an alternative to Triumph
- Touring riders who value torque and comfort
- New big-bike owners who want premium specs at a reasonable price
- Collectors or those wanting to stand out with a non-mainstream brand
The Final Verdict
The Brixton Cromwell 1200 is not just another retro-styled motorcycle—it’s a statement. It says that big engines and modern features don’t have to come with an eye-watering price tag. With its blend of torquey performance, classic looks, and value pricing, it carves out a unique spot in the modern classic segment.
Sure, it’s not from an iconic legacy brand, and yes, its dealer/service network may be limited in India for now. But if you’re looking for a motorcycle that turns heads, performs well, and saves you ₹3–4 lakhs over its rivals, the Cromwell 1200 might just be the sleeper hit of the decade.
RATING: 4.5/5
