2012 Triumph Speed Triple R

2012 Triumph Speed Triple R

One of the most iconic bikes in Triumph’s range, the Speed Triple is the bike on which ‘Hinckley Triumph’s’ foundations have been built, and has sold over 70,000 units since its launch in 1994.

But this year will herald the arrival of the Speed Triple R, the ultimate performance roadster.

This new model is dripping with beautiful engineering and is lavished with the most desirable components from the biggest names in the motorcycle industry. The Speed Triple R delivers the most intense and engaging ride of any Triumph roadster to date, delivering true racetrack performance to satisfy the needs of even the most discerning motorcyclist.

To fully understand the incredible performance of this machine, we break down the facts and figures that help take agility, control, precision, response and good looks to another level on the sportiest Speed Triple yet.

Features

The Öhlins suspension has been developed specifically for the Speed Triple R with both Öhlins and Triumph development riders involved in extensive evaluation tests of the units on the bike. The NIX30 forks, which separate the compression and rebound damping between the legs, have specific internals to suit the Triumph, as does the TTX36 shock.

The Speed Triple uses uprated versions of Brembo’s monobloc four-piston radial caliper. With 5% more stopping power than the Brembo units on the stock Speed Triple, the R’s calipers feature a tough anodised finish. ABS will feature as an optional extra. Pirelli Super Corsa SP tyres also provide added grip ideal for both road and track.

The lightweight wheels are developed specifically for the Speed Triple R. Created from an 18.9kg solid lump of aluminium alloy, the rear wheel is forged by German company Otto Fuchs and finally machined by PVM into a 3.82kg wheel, with the front wheels also forged in the same way. Weighing 1kg less than the stock wheel, such a reduction is achieved by the forged wheel’s greater strength, meaning the rim can be reduced in thickness from 4mm to just 2.5mm. With the front 0.7kg and rear 1kg lighter than stock, tests have shown the wheels’ inertia are reduced by 16% and 25% respectively due to the reduction in unsprung mass.

Of course, every Triumph ‘R’ model comes with some added touches for that extra touch of quality. Paint options are classy metallic Phantom Black or Crystal White and subtle details include black anodised taper handlebars, plus the signature red sub-frame which all make the Speed Triple R stand out distinctively. Add to that a carbon fibre tank cover, radiator shrouds, and inner radiator from the same company that makes Lamborghini’s carbon components, and you can see this bike is ready for the road.