2020 Triumph Street Triple RS First Look Preview

The Street Triple occupies an interesting place in the moto market: smaller than a liter-size sport roadster but more powerful than a traditional middleweight. For 2020, the three-cylinder Street Triple RS gets endowed with greater midrange power, sharper bodywork, updated electronics, and nicer finishes.

The Street Triple debuted in 2007 with a revvy 675cc three-cylinder engine, but a 765cc platform hit the roads in 2017 in three trim levels, of which the RS was the top of the line. The bigger Street Triple wasn't as nimble as the original, but with a maximum output of 121 hp, it punched above its class.

For 2020, peak horsepower remains the same thanks to Euro 5 emissions regulations, but a new exhaust camshaft and a new exhaust system with better flow and a crossover pipe yields superior torque. Triumph claims a 9 percent boost in midrange torque and a 1.5 pound-feet increase in peak torque, now up to 58.3 pound-feet made at 9,350 revs instead of previously at 10,800 rpm. The factory also boasts improved throttle response as a result of a 7 percent reduction in rotational inertia from "higher precision machining on the crankshaft, clutch, and balancer."

Visually, the new ST RS gets a significant update. New LED headlights are topped with a new fly screen, and the side panels, tailsection, seat cowl, and bellypan are sharper and more angular. Nicer mirrors too.

The TFT color instruments receive new graphics in four styles and the ability to link navigation and a GoPro camera. Ride modes include Road, Rain, Sport, Track, and a rider-customizable setting. Self-canceling turn signals are a handy feature.

The Street Triple RS retains the premium components of its predecessor, including Brembo M50 Monoblock brake calipers, fully adjustable Öhlins shock, Showa Big Piston fork, and Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP rubber. Triumph Shift Assist adds an auto-blipping downshifter for 2020. Adjustable traction control and switchable ABS are standard equipment.

The 2019 Street Triple RS had a base price of $12,500. No word yet from Triumph about the new version's MSRP. Also yet to be released is whether the Street Triple line will still include the less-expensive S and R variants.