2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS First Look Preview

Triumph has announced an all-new Speed Triple 1200 RS for 2021, with a ground-up redesign touching nearly all major components of the machine. There’ll be more power, better handling, lighter weight, and a whole lot more to consider if you find yourself in the market for a new naked bike this year.

Related: 2020 Triumph Street Triple RS MC Commute Review

Triumph utilized lessons learned in its Moto2 race engine program to develop an all-new 1,160cc triple for the Speed Triple. It’ll pump out 177 hp at 10,750 rpm and provide 92 pound-feet of torque at 9,000 rpm. The redline was raised by 650 rpm and the entire powerplant weighs 15 pounds less than its predecessor. All told, Triumph claims the highest power-to-weight ratio ever in the entire history of the Speed Triple.

The new engine warranted a completely revised intake and exhaust system, ensuring instant response the moment you touch the throttle. It also contributes to what Triumph claims is the best-sounding Speed Triple it’s ever made.

There’s a brand-new slip and assist clutch with a reduced number of clutch plates and a new stacked six-speed gearbox. Changes to the powertrain total a 12 percent loss in inertia. The cooling system is more compact for lighter overall weight as well, and a new ignition system utilizes twin spark plugs for better performance at high rpm.

In addition to saving weight in the engine, Triumph managed to shave pounds from the chassis as well. The new bike in total is 22 pounds lighter than last year’s model. The new cast-aluminum frame helped reach this goal while also providing better weight distribution, placing the bulk of the bike’s mass lower and more forward.

The bike will be suspended by a fully adjustable Öhlins NIX 30 USD fork and fully adjustable Öhlins TTX 32 twin tube monoshock. The suspension package comes tuned for the new geometry, power profile, and lower weight.

Brembo Stylema radial monoblock calipers and 320mm discs provide stopping power at the front while a Brembo twin-piston caliper and 220mm disc slows the bike at the rear.

Its 17-inch cast-aluminum, V-spoke wheels will come fitted with Metzeler Racetec RR tires or you can have the factory fit a pair of Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC2 tires if you’re aiming to head straight to the track.

The chassis updates are complemented by new bodywork which aims to make the already aggressive-looking machine even more formidable. The tail portion is more compact, there is a new carbon fiber front mudguard, new bellypan, and seat cowl, and attention to the finer points of detail throughout.

As with any motorcycle worth its cost these days, the Speed Triple 1200 RS will feature a complete host of electronic aids and conveniences.

You’ll get all the pertinent info displayed on a new 5-inch TFT instrument panel, which features a new interface and greater on-the-go adjustability options.

The bike is packing a Triumph Shift Assist quickshifter, Optimized Cornering ABS, switchable Optimized Cornering Traction Control, upgraded front wheel lift control, cruise control, new LED lighting, fully keyless design, and five ride modes.

Ride modes include Rain, Road, Sport, Track, and Rider. Many settings of each of these modes can be adjusted on the fly.

The 2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS promises to be one heck of a ride. It will price at $18,300 and be available in US dealerships starting late March. It will come in either Sapphire Black with red and silver graphics or a Matte Silver Ice with black, silver, and yellow graphics.

Loads of accessories are planned for the bike too, including accessory luggage, frame protectors, tank pads, accessory battery chargers, and more.