TRIUMPH Street Triple R test

The little Brit is rebelling
With this new R version, Triumph is giving its Street Triple model an even more seductive and powerful makeover. With brakes and suspension from the Daytona, this already successful roadster now benefits from exceptional handling.




A esthetically there aren’t many changes. The familiar lines are still there, with two lights under the windshield and two exhausts under the seat that are redesigned for this model.

The matt grey paintwork and the orange markings help the R version stand out.

The 675cc engine is still capable of producing 96 horsepower at 12000 rpm. Injected and water cooled, this particular version also has the optional Arrow exhaust.

The replacement of the standard titanium parts with this option actually adds 4kg to the weight of the bike, but it’s worth it for the sound they make, which is much more violent than the original.

The frame itself is a robust double strut alloy construction. It hosts an inverted Kayaba fork, which can be adjusted in terms of the hydraulics. The radial brake callipers bring a greater sense of stopping power.

The reinforced radius arm guides a shock that is also fully adjustable.

The double headlamp, which has become something of a trademark fro Triumph roadsters, is gently frames, while it also better protected than previously.


On the dash, there are plenty of indicators. Note the red zone that starts at 12,500 rpm… All the usual controls are housed on a conical handlebar that certainly looks the part.
At the rear, there’s a bright LED light and elegant triangular indicators to finish things off.

After that quick summary, it’s time to get on the road with this little gem…

Learning the controls of the Street Triple R is child’s play. Precise like a 250 and light at just 180kg wet, you can move through town with ease. It goes exactly where you ask, and the suppleness of the three cylinders makes it a pleasure to ride.

It’s not bad out on the road, either. The weather for our test, while pretty atrocious, did allow us to demonstrate the full advantages of a torque-rich engine and the improvements to the bike itself.

The torque is present throughout the range and acceleration is handled easily. The Street R is powerful and playful, but never to the point of being distracting. Strong without being brutal, the engine responds to every request.

The roadholding is in line with the engine – stable and precise. The Street is reassuring in the trickiest of situations. The progressiveness and the comfort of the new suspension are a real joy.

The brakes are also excellent. But be careful, with this much power, they will inevitably lock on occasions. In wet conditions, you have to be gentle… The rear brake can be a bit too strong in these conditions.

A typical British roadster, this bike deserves to be a success.

Quick, efficient and fun, the R version is an excellent proposition. With its various additions, the R commands a premium of just 800 euros, ensuring it will find favour among many riders…

At 8800 euros, it’s not a lot of money. Quite the opposite in fact – it offers the prospect of a great deal of enjoyment. So, why not???