2018 Triumph Speed Triple has all new feel to it and has everything to take on its rival which have been ahead for quite some time
The new generation Speed Triple S and RS incorporate a major engine development and advanced engineering for performance enhancement and a weight saving. All 105 new engine components play a role to offer more power and torque throughout the rev range and a smoother, more linear power delivery. Peak power is now 7% higher than the previous generation at 150 PS and peak torque is up 4% at 117 Nm.
To enhance performance, engine updates include new lighter crank gear, lighter Nikasil-plated aluminium cylinder liners, a smaller starter motor, and lighter battery and alternator. New profile pistons and a new cylinder head with optimised exhaust ports improve gas flow and deliver an even higher compression ratio to achieve the increased power output. A new sump lowers the oil level in the engine, reducing drag and improving weight distribution. The re-routed oil system now runs the oil internally through the head gasket to the cylinder head, allowing for the removal of external oil pipes, improved styling and reduced mass.
A new freer-flowing exhaust, larger catalyst and lighter header system improves gas flow and performance in both models. The restyled high-level silencers on the Speed Triple S and lightweight sports silencers as standard on the RS bring a significant improvement to the roar of the Triple engine. An improved gearbox and slip-assist clutch combine to improve rider comfort and help to deliver that perfect Speed Triple ride.
Both models now feature angle adjustable full-colour 5-inch TFT instruments to ensure optimum visibility. A new dedicated Speed Triple logo animation is integrated into the start-up sequence of both models, while the different themes and styles available alter the layout of the information, linked to the riding modes. The new ergonomic switchcubes incorporate illuminated buttons to enhance rider interaction in all lighting conditions.
The advanced ride-by-wire system enables the configuration of the bike’s character to suit riding preferences using variable throttle maps, linked to up to five selectable riding modes. The new cruise control feature improves long distance rideability and is now standard on both models, while Daytime Running Lights incorporated into the headlights enhance visibility. This is in addition to the Speed Triple’s core technology package including switchable ABS, switchable traction control, and a USB charging point.
The new Speed Triple RS takes the model’s technology to a whole new level with optimised cornering ABS and traction control ensuring the optimum distribution of brake force, slip rate and torque control, improving both straight line riding and cornering. This is delivered through its advanced inertial measurement unit (IMU), developed in partnership with Continental, which takes constant measurements of roll, pitch, yaw, lean angle and acceleration rates, and responds with appropriate active safety features.
The Speed Triple RS also features a new keyless steering lock and ignition system, electronically activated by the lock button on the switchcube, with an option to disable the keyless function for even greater security. Both Speed Triple models now deliver the most agile and focussed ride ever, through new advanced rider aids and Triumph’s trademark neutral and precise handling. This is further enhanced on the RS with a weight saving of 3 kg. The new RS also comes fitted as standard with an adjustable Brembo brake lever and matching clutch lever, plus a new comfort seat.
The new models retain the distinctive single-sided swinging arm and twin spar aluminium frame of the previous generation, optimised for stiffness for the perfect blend of rigidity and feel. The new models also retain the high level of specification across the bike, with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa tyres and twin front brake discs with Brembo 4-piston 2-pad M4.34 radial Monobloc calipers.
Both models feature high specification fully adjustable suspension which can be set up for road-focussed riding and track use.
Speed Triple RS: 43 mm Öhlins NIX30 upside-down forks and Öhlins TTX36 twin tube rear monoshock, both fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping.
Speed Triple S: 43 mm upside-down Showa forks and Showa monoshock rear suspension unit, both fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping.
The new models now feature all new high-gloss ten-spoke wheels for a more premium and contemporary look, while retaining the instantly recognisable aggressive, nose-down, focussed attitude that the Speed Triple is loved for. The new race-style upswept twin silencers on the Speed Triple S have a larger bore and are fitted with aluminium heat shields, a black-painted body and a more slender stainless-steel end cap. The high-level Arrow Sports Silencers on the RS have been re-styled to be more angular and sporty with a brushed titanium finish, a carbon fibre heat shield and end cap, and reduced weight over the base silencers.
The Speed Triple RS also has a higher level of finish and premium detailing with lightweight carbon fibre bodywork on the front mudguard and radiator cowls, and new RS decals. A new colour-coded belly pan and key-release pillion seat cowl are fitted as standard, in addition to a new matt aluminium rear subframe, in keeping with the Street Triple RS theme. Both new models retain the signature Speed Triple features and detailing, like a billet machined rear wheel finisher, signature headlight profile and fly screen with integrated air intake, aluminium bar end mirrors, sleek fuel tank, narrow radiator and slim two-piece seat design with embossed Triumph logo.
Both models are available in two different colour combinations:
Speed Triple S – Jet Black or Crystal White, both with a titanium rear subframe, graphite wheel pinstripes, silver seat stitching and graphite decals
Speed Triple RS – Crystal White or Matt Jet Black, both with a matt aluminium rear subframe, red wheel pinstripes, red seat stitching, and more premium RS decals.
With over 50 accessories available through Triumph’s online configurator, riders can take their Speed Triple S or RS to an even higher level of specification with official accessories, covering style, performance and practicality. Designed to the highest levels of quality and reliability, customers can specify accessories including black anodised CNC-machined brake reservoirs, machined wheel finishers, slim LED indicators, and contemporary lightweight carbon fibre fuel tank infills. For more practicality there’s also a low seat, frame and fork protectors, radiator guard, fly screen visor, passenger grab rail, luggage options and heated grips.
