Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS launched, priced at Rs 16.95 lakh

The new Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS has been launched in India, just a couple days  after its international unveil. The new Speed Triple is an all-new motorcycle that’s based on a brand-new chassis and features a new engine and suspension.

• Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS launched in India at Rs 16.95 lakh

• Bookings open across all India Triumph dealerships for Rs 1 lakh

• New 1160cc, inline-triple makes 180hp and 125Nm

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: Design and ergonomics 

Triumph has developed the new Speed Triple RS from scratch and the most obvious difference between the new bike and its predecessor, the Triumph Speed Triple 1050, is the new design.

The new Speed Triple 1200 RS looks slimmer than the previous motorcycle, which is evident from the compact-looking frame and sleek LED headlamp that’s inspired by the current Street Triple R/RS. What comes as a big aesthetic departure from the previous Speed Triple 1050 is the omission of the high-mounted twin exhausts. Instead, the new Speed Triple 1200 RS has a conventionally-mounted, single exhaust canister that looks less bulky and also contributes to the weight reduction, which we’ll get to later. 

The ergonomics have improved, with a more purposeful stance, says Triumph. The handlebar is wider by 13mm, while the footrest has been moved forward. The new perch is said to be more comfortable and set at a height of 830mm.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: Features

Moving on to the features list, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS gets a new 5-inch TFT display, with a unique user interface. It has been designed to offer greater ease in making on-the-go adjustments such as tinkering with the traction control settings, says Triumph.

Triumph’s ‘My Connectivity’ system also features as standard equipment, offering turn-by-turn navigation, GoPro controls and more.

Another big highlight of the new Speed Triple 1200 RS is the full keyless system, including keyless ignition and steering lock, as well as a new keyless fuel filler cap.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: Chassis 

Underneath the new bodywork is a brand new, cast aluminium frame that’s 17 percent lighter than the previous frame. In fact, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is a whole 10kg lighter than the Speed Triple 1050, tipping the scales at 198kg (wet). Triumph is even pegging the motorcycle as the ‘lightest and best handling Speed Triple’ ever.

Along with a lightweight chassis, the Speed Triple also gets lighter wheels, shod with new Metzeler Racetec RR tyres that are designed for both road and track use. The Speed Triple RS gets fully adjustable Ohlins suspension, to tailor the ride and handling as per the surface. 

When it comes to brakes, Triumph has equipped the motorcycle with Brembo Stylemas that bite on to twin, 320mm discs at the front; while at the rear, there’s a twin-piston Brembo caliper. 

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: Engine and electronics

Just as with the chassis, the engine is also brand-new, with increased displacement, power and torque over the engine in the previous bike. The new 1,160cc, inline-triple makes 180hp at 10,750rpm and 125Nm at 9,000rpm, which is 30hp and 8Nm more than its predecessor’s motor. Triumph has also managed to reduce the weight of the engine by 7kg and incorporated a new, free-breathing intake as well as exhaust system. The engine is paired to a new stacked 6-speed gearbox and has an up/down quickshifter as standard.

With all that power at hand, the Speed Triple 1200 RS is kitted out with a comprehensive suite of electronics. The 6-axis IMU assisted system consists of 5 ride modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Track and Rider) and lean sensitive traction control and cornering ABS. Besides these safety related electronic bits, the motorcycle also gets cruise control as standard.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: Price and availability