2018 TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE
FIRST TEST
P82
INTO THE SKIN
Triumph put a lot of work into the new 1050 Speed Triple. With 105
new parts in the engine alone, Triumph has produced their lightest,
most powerful Speed Triple to date. The new triple-cylinder engine
features a lighter crank gear, lighter Nikasil aluminum cylinder
liners, lighter balance shaft, a smaller starter motor and a lighter
alternator. A new cylinder-head design with better porting and
newly reshaped pistons has raised the compression ratio from
12.25:1 to 12.92:1. The bore and stroke is now at 79 x 71.4mm.
They have also redesigned the oil pick-up sump for less crank drag
and re-routed the oil system, which now flows internally through
the motor, removing the external pipes which equals less weight and improved looks.
What you get is a faster and higher-revving three-cylinder powerplant with a new redline at 10,500
rpm, 1000 rpm higher than the previous Speed Triple. Throw in a new chassis and more advanced
electronics and you've brought the Speed Triple into the modern era. You can find the new 1050 Speed
Triple in two distinct colors. The S model comes in a Jet Black or Crystal White paint scheme with
a titanium-colored rear subframe. The RS comes in a Crystal White or Matte Jet Black color with an
aluminum subframe. Both models are fitted with Pirelli's latest Diablo Supercorsa tires. You get a lot of
bike in the new 1050 Speed Triple considering it's a stripped-down hooligan special but that's what you
want—something that looks the part but does the business even better.
Subtle but
numerous
changes
distinguish the
'18 Speed Triple
from the '17.
Even though it
wasn't designed
as such, the
Speed Triple
makes for a handy
track day tool.
