Brixton Motorcycles has finally slapped on a pair of chaps and landed right in the middle of the heavyweight cruiser segment with its new Cromwell 1200, and it’s raising hell both in sound and soul. Famous for making retro-styled bikes that have been designed with modern engineering, Brixton has gone a step further this time and come out with something that is a mix of brute force + style + daily usability.
The Cromwell 1200 Another one of Brixton’s retro offering? Stop, it’s not just another retro looking motorcycle, the Cromwell 1200 is a statement from Brixton; a statement that they can stand tall in comparison to the big guns of the game now.
The Cromwell 1200 is powered by a substantial 1222cc twin-cylinder engine, not just tuned for speed but for a torque laden driving experience, giving riders maximum low-down power in every gear.
With attention-grabbing finishes and high-end paint, they’re having the ultimate show and tell, and launching a whole new viewing session From the muscular approach for a stubborn line of motorcycles to the gorgeous lines.
Old-school style you are a fan of old-fashion style, or you are addicted to classic roadsters with strength supporting their looks, the Cromwell 1200 has your nailed it.
Retro Styling that Demands Attention
A Throwback to the Ways of Old One of the first things that jump out at you as you look at the Brixton Cromwell 1200 is the classic look of machine crafting. With its round headlamp, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, flat ribbed seat, blacked-out mechanical bits, the bike seems inspired by the British roadsters of 1960s and 70s.
Still, Brixton has not traveled too far into the past. There’s a contemporary set of LED lighting, including DRLs and turn signals, which contribute to its premium appearance without stripping it of its retro soul.
The bare minimum of bodywork, two-into-one exhaust and frame covers in black, and this motorbike looks clean and muscular, appealing to purists but also contemporary riders.
The stance is bold and yet premium while the tall handlebar and low seat-height of approximately 800mm means most riders will easily adopt a comfortable and confident riding position.
Heart-Pounding 1222cc Engine
For the true magic of the Cromwell 1200 comes when you roll on the throttle. This bike comes equipped with a 1222cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin that’s been tuned to churn out huge low-end torque and seamless power across the rev range. Making nearly 82 horses and more than 100Nm of spending money, the Cromwell 1200 promises serious performance for highways and twisty backroads.
It’s not a screamer of an engine, but that meaty midrange makes overtaking a cinch and rolling on the throttle in a high gear all the more enjoyable. It’s connected to a slick 6-geared gearbox, and a slipper clutch provides you with easier downshifts and less hand ache over long distances.
Whether you are traveling at, say, 80 km/h, or you are stretching it out a little on a long open straight, the bike just has stability, confidence and power delivery that does not feel frantic. It is a genuine gentleman’s torque machine.
Premium Suspension and Braking Setup
Front Suspension and Brakes The Cromwell’s suspension set up comes in the form of telescopic front forks, sourced from KYB and twin KYB shock absorbers at the rear both of which are preload and rebound adjustable.
That suspension means the machine floats over rough terrain while never losing touch with the road. Single or two-up, the suspension is good for comfort and handling.
Deceleration is provided by a pair of 310mm front discs with radial-mount Nissin calipers and a 260mm disc at the rear. The bike also comes equipped with dual-channel ABS to offer better safety.
They added a progressive feel at the lever and a solid, strong stopping power even under hard braking. Add wide 160mm rear tires and good weight balance and the Cromwell 1200 provides stable and easy handling.
Modern Features with Classic Soul
The Cromwell 1200 is disguised as a retro motorcycle, but comes with all kinds of modern trickery. It gets the dual pod instrument cluster that consists of an analogue speedometer and a digital display, which provides information such as trip meter, gear position indicator, and fuel range. It also features ride-by-wire throttle for a choice of riding modes, including Eco and Sport, for those times when you need the extra burst of speed.
The LED headlamp and taillight provide clear view, while the adjustable levers, USB charging port and quality switchgear demonstrate Brixton’s attentiveness to rider experience. The bike is also equipped with traction control and cruise control, making both the Cromwell 1200 is really value for money proposition in its segment.
Comfort Meets Capability
Despite its powerful engine and aggressive looks, the Cromwell 1200 is a rider-friendly machine. That throne is generously padded and wide, good for hours in the saddle.
The upright riding triangle, wide handlebar and mid-set foot pegs make sure your back and hands aren’t under unnecessary pressure. On city commutes and weekend tours alike, the bike feels balanced and approachable even on tiptoe for shorter riders.
Another thing that impressed me was the bike’s vibration damping. Not to mention the large parallel-twin motor, yet Brixton has somehow tamed sensations from the engine very well, and the ride is smooth and refined even at speed.
Price and Market Position
The Brixton Cromwell 1200 enters a market dominated by the likes of the Triumph Bonneville T120 and the Royal Enfield 650 twins, but it does so with a unique proposition that has aggressive pricing. Outside of the country you can find this bike ranging from €10,000 to €12,000, depending on the region.
Assuming it will be launched in India at some point of time, the ex-showroom price is expected to be between ₹ 8.5-9 lakh which makes for a great option for those looking for a retro bike which doesn’t compromise on serious performance.
What’s more, the Cromwell 1200 provides that feel of a big-bike, real road presence and top-end features without the need to pay that premium-badge price. For motorcyclists tired of the normal British twins, this Austrian engineered motorcycle is quite an offering.
Conclusion
The Brixton Cromwell 1200 is not just a new bike, it’s a gauntlet thrown down by a marque that means business when it comes to performance, design and rideability. Thanks to it’s powerful and torquey 1222cc engine and old school cruiser styling combined with a bit of modern tech, it really does offer a bit of both worlds.
It is designed for riders who care about style but refuse to sacrifice performance. Whether you’ve always been into vintage motorcycles or you’re young, but dig that old school style bike that just doesn’t seem outdated, the Cromwell 1200 is a great option.
In a marketplace where bikes are continually growing more alien and angry, Brixton has proved that there’s room for elegance, soul, and personality, even without the dare-to-be-different rush. And it is the proof of that.