The EBC CK5608 clutch kit is a complete engine set of seven cork-based friction plates for air-cooled Hinckley Triumph twins, including the Bonneville, Bonneville T100, Bonneville SE, Thruxton 900, Scrambler, America, and Speedmaster. It fits every 865cc air-cooled engine and 790cc engines from engine number 211133, and it replaces Triumph friction plate part numbers T1171365 and T1170907.
Made in the UK by EBC Brakes, the CK Series is an OEM-type replacement plate. It’s the right choice when your clutch slips under load, grabs, or has worn past its service limit, and you want stock-like feel and lever effort.
What’s in the EBC CK5608 Kit
- 7 friction plates: a complete engine set that replaces OEM T1171365 and T1170907 plates
- Not included: steel drive plates, clutch springs, and the clutch cover gasket
Key Features
- Cork-based friction material with alloy particles: EBC impregnates the cork facing with aluminum particles to improve wear life and heat resistance and to resist burn-up and slip.
- Highly compressed facings: the material resists swelling in oil, which helps prevent clutch drag and hard neutral finding.
- Stack-height controlled: every CK kit is matched and measured so the full pack restores the correct stack height. EBC recommends replacing the full set and not fitting individual plates.
- OEM-type feel: engagement and lever effort stay close to stock, which suits commuting, touring, and spirited road riding.
Fitment: Air-Cooled Triumph Twins
The EBC CK5608 fits air-cooled 790cc engines from engine number 211133 and all 865cc engines, including:
- Triumph Bonneville and Bonneville SE (865cc)
- Triumph Bonneville T100 (790cc from engine 211133, and all 865cc)
- Triumph Thruxton 900 (865cc)
- Triumph Scrambler (865cc)
- Triumph America and Speedmaster (790cc from engine 211133, and all 865cc)
Check your engine number first. Air-cooled 790cc engines up to number 211132 use a different plate set, the Triumph Bonneville/T100 (790cc) EBC Clutch Kit CK5597. For the 2016-on liquid-cooled Bonneville T100, T120, Thruxton 1200, Street Twin, and Bobber, use the Liquid Cooled Triumph EBC Clutch Kit CK5669.
Installation Tips
- Soak the new friction plates in clean engine oil before fitting. Dry plates can grab or glaze on first use.
- Check the steel drive plates for warping, blueing, or glazing. Replace them if they aren’t flat.
- Fit new clutch springs at the same time. EBC recommends it when you replace friction plates.
- Fit a new Cometic clutch cover gasket when you refit the clutch cover.
- Use the engine oil grade in your Triumph handbook. Use a motorcycle oil rated for wet clutches, not car oil with friction modifiers.
- Follow the clutch removal, inspection, and torque procedures in your Triumph service manual. Then adjust cable free play.
EBC CK5608 vs. Barnett Clutch Kits
Choose the EBC CK5608 when your steel plates and springs are still in spec and you only need new friction plates. If you want a complete clutch rebuild in one box, the Barnett Complete Clutch Kit includes friction plates, steel plates, and springs. For engines with performance upgrades, the Barnett Extra Plate Clutch Kit adds an extra friction plate for more clutch capacity.
Related Parts for Your Clutch Service
- Triumph Cometic Clutch Cover Gasket PN MBI-COM890060 (790cc and 865cc air-cooled twins)
- Venhill Clutch Cable for Bonneville/T100 PN MBI-01-3-116
- Venhill Clutch Cable for 2009–2013 Bonneville SE PN MBI-01-3-143
- Venhill Clutch Cable for 2009–2012 Thruxton PN MBI-01-3-122
- Triumph Bonneville/Scrambler Replacement Clutch Lever PN MBI-613-0486
Learn more about the friction material on the EBC Brakes Standard CK Series page.
The product images shown are for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product received. Manufacturers occasionally make minor cosmetic changes to items, such as color, finish, label, or design. These changes do not impact the item’s function or compatibility. Please contact us if you have specific concerns regarding appearance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Triumph models does the EBC CK5608 clutch kit fit?
It fits air-cooled Triumph twins with 790cc engines from engine number 211133 and all 865cc engines. That includes the Bonneville, Bonneville SE, Bonneville T100, Thruxton 900, Scrambler, America, and Speedmaster.
Which Triumph part numbers does CK5608 replace?
It replaces Triumph friction plate part numbers T1171365 and T1170907.
How many friction plates come in the CK5608 kit?
Seven. It’s a complete engine set, so all the friction plates in the clutch are replaced at once.
Does the EBC CK5608 include steel plates and clutch springs?
No. CK5608 includes friction plates only. Steel drive plates, clutch springs, and the clutch cover gasket are sold separately. If you need all of them, the Barnett Complete Clutch Kit includes friction plates, steels, and springs.
My Bonneville is a 790cc. Will CK5608 fit?
It depends on the engine number. 790cc engines from number 211133 use CK5608. Engines up to 211132 need the EBC CK5597 kit.
Does CK5608 fit the Thruxton 900 and Scrambler 900?
Yes. The air-cooled Thruxton 900 and Scrambler 900 use the 865cc engine, and CK5608 fits all 865cc air-cooled engines.
Will CK5608 fit my 2016-or-later liquid-cooled Bonneville?
No. Liquid-cooled 900cc and 1200cc twins use a different clutch. The EBC CK5669 kit covers 2016-on T100, T120, Thruxton 1200, Street Twin, Street Cup, Street Scrambler, and Bobber models.
What friction material does the EBC CK Series use?
Cork-based friction material impregnated with aluminum particles. It’s highly compressed to resist swelling and drag, and it gives an OEM-type feel.
Should I soak the new clutch plates before installing them?
Yes. Soak the plates in clean engine oil before fitting them so they don’t grab or glaze when you first use them.
Should I replace the clutch springs when I fit new plates?
EBC recommends fitting new springs whenever you replace friction plates. Tired springs reduce clamping force and can cause slip, even with new plates.
Can I replace just one or two worn plates?
No. EBC matches and measures each CK kit for correct stack height and recommends against fitting individual plates. Replace the full set.
What are the signs that my Triumph clutch plates need replacing?
Common signs are slipping under hard acceleration, engine revs rising without matching road speed, a clutch that grabs or judders, a burnt smell, or plates measuring below the service limit in your Triumph manual.
Review by Owner –
Pros
High-Quality Construction:
Durability: The friction plates are made from premium-grade materials, providing excellent resistance to wear and heat. This ensures the clutch kit lasts longer and performs reliably under various riding conditions.
Complete Kit:
Comprehensive Components: The kit includes friction plates, steel separator plates, and heavy-duty springs, providing everything needed for a complete clutch replacement. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective solution.
Enhanced Performance:
Smooth Power Transfer: Users report improved power transfer and smoother clutch engagement, leading to better overall performance and a more enjoyable riding experience.
Reduced Clutch Fade: The heat-resistant friction plates help to minimize clutch fade, maintaining consistent performance even during long rides or in demanding conditions.
Improved Clutch Feel:
Better Control: Riders note an improved feel and control of the clutch, which enhances the responsiveness of the motorcycle and makes for a smoother ride.
Ease of Installation:
User-Friendly: The kit is designed for easy installation, with components that fit perfectly and instructions that are straightforward, allowing for a hassle-free replacement process.
Cons
Initial Cost:
Price Point: While the EBC Clutch Kit offers high quality and durability, it may be priced higher than some other aftermarket options. However, the long-term benefits often justify the initial investment.
Compatibility:
Model Specific: This kit is specifically designed for air-cooled Triumph Bonneville and Thruxton models. It may not be compatible with other models or liquid-cooled versions, limiting its versatility.
Soaking Time for Plates:
Preparation Required: The friction plates need to be soaked in oil for a few hours before installation, which requires additional preparation time compared to some other clutch kits.
Professional Installation Recommended:
Skill Level: While the kit is designed for straightforward installation, those without mechanical experience might find the process challenging and may prefer professional installation to ensure optimal performance.