Triumph’s revolutionary Speed Triple 1200 RS is all-new for the British manufacturer. From design, engineering, and execution, the Speed Triple 1200 RS establishes a new benchmark for the factory streetfighter.
The Speed Triple made its debut in 1994. Then, it was considered a factory streetfighter, a performance-driven naked sportbike with hooligan looks and charm. It received a makeover in 2005. The makeover was more of a refinement of the bike’s raw qualities while embracing its performance boosted abilities. The current generation of the Speed Triple was released in 2018. Since 1994, over one hundred thousand units of the bike have been sold. Triumph’s latest offering intends to build on that winning record. Enter the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS.
The 2021 Speed Triple looks every bit the weapon that it is. Presented in a tight, compact yet brawny package, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is dripped in the essential details. Note the linework and angles of the fuel tank, the new compact tail section, and the sleek, aggressive new LED lights. The bright LED headlights feature a new daytime running light. The taillight is a new design and self-canceling turn signals come standard.
The Speed Triple 1200 RS is equipped with a suite of tech and performance-driven components that clearly establishes its lane in the naked sportbike class. Appreciation for these new elements continues with its liquid-cooled, 12 valve, inline three-cylinder powerplant.
The 1160cc engine revs 650rpm higher and is completely redesigned to be more powerful and to weigh less than any of the prior Speed Triples. Housed in a mass centralized, 17% lighter cast-aluminum chassis, it is the lightest, most compact Speed Triple engine. It weighs a considerable fifteen pounds lighter than its predecessors. Horsepower and torque output have been cranked up to 177hp at 10,750rpm and 92-foot pounds of torque at 9,000rpm. These improvements mark an increase of 29HP and 6-foot pounds of torque, respectively.
When you consider the Speed Triple 1200 RS’s wet weight of 437 pounds, 22 pounds lighter than the former, and its power output, you realize the impressive 25% increase in power to weight ratio possessed by the 2021 model over previous versions. That’s double the ratio compared to the 1994 introduction model.
The six-speed gearbox employs a multi-plate, wet slip and assisting clutch that utilizes the least amount of clutch plates needed thanks to a new friction compound. This setup further reduces weight and provides smooth shifting and feel with a 12% decrease of inertia.
A new twin tip spark plug ignition system enhances performance with durability and reliability. Then there is the new lithium-ion battery that weighs 60% lighter than a typical lead-acid battery, reducing the overall weight by 5 pounds.
The elements of ergonomics offer an exciting riding position. The handlebars are 13mm wider. The footrests are moved inward, compared to the 2020 model, for improved ground clearance. Combined with the seat height of 32.7 inches, you can comfortably tuck in when the ride becomes more spirited.
The 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS’s suspension set features high-performance Öhlins components. The suspension is tuned for the lower weight, structure and increase in power of the 2021 model. At the front, you find a set of Öhlins NIX30 upside forks with full adjustments for pre-load, rebound and compression damping. At the rear, sits an Öhlins TTX36 twin tube mono-shock, also with pre-load, rebound and compression damping adjustabilities.
Rolling on cast aluminum seventeen-inch wheels, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is equipped with a set of Metzeler Racetec RR tires. Brembo brakes provide ample stopping power. The front brakes consist of twin Brembo Stylema radial monobloc calipers, with a pair of 320mm front discs while a single Brembo twin-piston caliper takes up the rear.
Rider interface is heavily complimented by a comprehensive electronic package that elevates the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS to the smartest and most advanced Speed Triple produced to date. Features include the new Triumph shift assist up-and-down quickshifter, cornering ABS, and switchable cornering traction control as well as wheelie control and cruise control. There are five riding modes: Rain (reduces the power down to 98HP), Road, Sport, Rider and the new Track mode. The Track mode is ideal for circuit riding, as it minimizes while not eliminating the level of electrical engagement.
The My Triumph Connectivity System is included as standard equipment and allows you to access turn-by-turn navigation via the free My Triumph app. The app also allows GoPro control, phone control and music operation all through the switch cubes with data, settings and info displayed on the new optically bonded five-inch TFT screen. At the handlebars, the switch cube cluster of controls now features an amber glow for easy visibility in low light or night riding.
The 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS features a fully keyless system. A first for Triumph. A wireless key fob replaces the traditional key and lock operation. The fob operates ignition, steering lock, and the new keyless fuel cap.
Priced at $18,300, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is available in two colorways: Sapphire Black, with red and silver graphics, and Matt Silver Ice, with black, silver and yellow graphics.
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