Triumph’s new Speed Triple 1200 RS brings huge performance and technology enhancements, positioning it firmly in the competitive ‘Super Naked’ category. See the bike in action here:
Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS/RR pricing and specs
Triumph has released its lighter, faster and more advanced Speed Triple 1200 RS, that is now in showrooms priced from $27,900 rideaway.
This means that the new Speed Triple is priced to compete with the likes of the BMW S 1000 R, the new Aprilia Tuono V4, and Ducati’s Streetfighter V4.
The new Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS outputs an extra 22kW and 8Nm compared to its predecessor, thanks to a larger 1160cc three-cylinder engine generating a total of 132kW and 125Nm.
As well as the boost to power, the new engine boasts a 650rpm higher redline, and according to Triumph, produces a superior sound as a result of new ‘free-breathing’ intake and exhaust systems.
Triumph promises enhanced handling from the 2021 Speed Triple thanks to its new chassis, which has helped dropped the bike’s weight by 10 kilograms to 198kg (wet), and resulted in a narrower, more ‘purposeful’ riding position.
The bike’s seat height is raised slightly to 830mm, while other ergonomic changes include 13mm wider handlebars, adjusted peg positioning for increased ground clearance and a new seat profile that is said to allow a more natural ‘tucked-in’ position.
Track performance is also bolstered by the inclusion of fully adjustable Ohlins suspension, Metzeler Racetec RR tyres and large Brembo stylema brakes.
Triumph will also offer fork protectors, adjustable Brembo brake levers and Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC2 tyres as dealer-fitted options.
Technology advancements for the new Speed Triple 1200 RS are headlined by a new 5.0-inch TFT instrument cluster with a refreshed user interface, giving access to smartphone mirroring, sat-nav and lap-timer, among other features.
Also new is a revised up/down quickshifter, a full keyless system (keyless ignition, steering lock, fuel filler cap), and a refreshed LED lighting package that includes self-canceling indicators as standard.
For 2021, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS features an enhanced six-axis electronics suite, with improved cornering ABS and traction control.
New switchgear, which is now illuminated, allows the rider to toggle five rider modes that tailor the intervention levels of the traction control, cornering ABS, power level and wheel lift control, among other parameters.
The ‘Rain’ rider mode drops the bike’s power output to just 73kW, while on the other end of the spectrum, the performance-focussed ‘Track’ mode is the least intrusive and is tuned specifically for fast track riding.
Available in two paint schemes, Sapphire Black and Matt Silver Ice, with a number of graphics options, the latest iteration of the Speed Triple is distinguished by new bodywork elements, black 17-inch lightweight aluminium wheels and a host of exterior touches.
Triumph will soon release a higher-spec Speed Triple 1200 RR variant that is distinguished by a retro-style bikini fairing, and uprated tyres and suspension, among other minor changes.
Pricing for the Speed Triple 1200 RR has been set at $32,490 rideaway in base Crystal White guise, while a Red Hopper paint scheme comes at a $400 premium, with a $32,890 pricetag.
The new 1200 RR variant swaps out the angry-eyed headlight signature of the RS for a single round lamp, housed in a new cockpit fairing that is complimented by sporty clip-on handlebars and tweaked footpeg positioning.
This new ergonomic setup sees the handlebars 50mm further forward and 135mm lower than its fully naked stablemate, while overall weight is increased from 198- to 199-kilograms (wet).
Triumph also distinguishes the RR with carbon-fibre detailing and new twin-colour candy paint schemes, Red Hopper and Storm Grey. The carbon-fibre treatment extends to the tank, side panels and front mudguard.
On the performance front, the Speed Triple RR gains semi-active Ohlins suspension as well as track-focussed Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 tyres.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
