-''Not sure what makes Triumphs "iconic" any more; the story does not say which models they'll be rolling out in India.''

well, the same thing that has always made them iconic , they've always, been just a little off and out of the mainstream,
and always provided either a performance (and as in the case of your 74' Daytona - lack thereof) or styling that sets them apart. check out the website and have an objective look - from a design standpoint - they are unique and consider maybe of the performance models they are also making statements. Triumph has had a brilliant run at marketing this , the market claim they staked (the iconic image they've created) - they've been able to maintain for a great many years.

but to ask that question - i think you also need to ask - what makes ANY motorcycle iconic ? what makes MVAugusta it is an icon, or even HD ? and have they all really maintained that public perception ?
interesting question. it's something that seems to lack more and more , or is it that we simply see it less in China ?