2018 TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE
FIRST TEST
P80
OFF TO SPAIN WE GO
Our go was to take place in Almeria, Spain, where the weather is
always nice, right? Not so fast—this time around we got rained on, big
time. Fortunately, we got in plenty of dry miles on the roads, although
the track was another story.
When you first set eyes on the new Speed Triple, it looks very
similar to its predecessor. Of course, a closer inspection will reveal a
new frame, a smaller front cowl, and redesigned headlights. But more
importantly and less revealing is the host of motor updates, chassis
refinements and the new Ride-by-Wire electronic package.
First off, let's talk about the new five-inch TFT adjustable full-color
dash that's borrowed from last years' 765 Street Triple. This new instru-
ment panel offers three different tach and speedo layouts for the S
model, and six for the RS model. Each display features the usual infor-
mation like water temp, a fuel gage, gear position, ride mode symbol,
clock, total mileage, and so on, but also displays the menu for the new
rider modes, ABS and traction control. It's pretty simple to use with a
new five-way joystick toggle on the left handlebar cluster and a home
button located on the right cluster.
By accessing these switches, one can choose and customize the
four preset ride modes available on the S model—Street, Road, Rain
and Helmet—in other words "Rider Configuration." The RS features an
extra Race mode for max power and throttle response plus more pre-
cise traction control and ABS parameters and adjustments, and allows
(Clockwise from above) Both
models get these beautiful Brembo
monobloc calipers as standard.
Cruise control is a standard feature
on the Speed Triple. Unbelievably
(and thankfully), these Arrow
mufflers are street legal!
The RS is one hell
of a looker with
the hardware to
match, like premium
Ohlins and Brembo
components.
OHLINS
BREMBO
