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The 2021 Triumph Speed Triple was a quantum departure from its predecessor with major improvements across hardware, weight and performance.
And with just a few months post-launch, Triumph has unveiled the sportiest iteration (at least looks-wise) of its naked litre-class machine. Enter the 2022 Triumph Speed Triple RR 1200- a stunning half-faired sibling of the hoot that the 1200 RS already was. We take a look at the upgrades if merely cosmetic or run skin deep.
Styling and ergonomics
While a visual comparison might not offer much to differentiate between the RS and the RR, the new half-fairing does extend a healthy dose of glamour and sportiness to the new motorcycle. On the practical side, shields the rider tucked behind the fairing while screaming across long straights at the track.
The twin bug-eyed headlight setup is now replaced with a classic round twin-beam setup with a single round DRL. The new clip-on handlebars have been dropped lower by 5.3 inches with rear-sets elevated and pushed back for a more forward canted aggressive riding stance. This should make the new RR a better corner-hugger with better aero while darting at high speeds. Triumph has also sprinkled the new RR with carbon fibre accents to add a sporty appeal to the motorcycle.
Upgraded components and electronics
Track tackling abilities is further augmented with the RR now sporting Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active electronic suspension capable of being adjusted on the fly against the Ohlins NIX30 fork and TTX36 shock on the RS. Surface bite has also been enhanced by Pirelli’s track spec’d Diablo Supercorsa V3 tyres, while traction control and cornering ABS have been further fine-tuned for precise handling and error-correction abilities.
Retained underpinnings
Other hardware and electronic tech have largely been carried over from the RS. There has been no tinkering with the motor and the new Speed Triple RR continues to be powered by the 1160cc three cylinder engine yielding 177 bhp of max power.
The user-configurable 5-incher instrumentation (featuring navigation, Bluetooth and GoPro connectivity, lap-timer), Brembo Stylema braking units, five ride modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Track and customisable), wheelie control, cruise control, keyless system and the Triumph Shift Assist bi-directional quick-shifter are all standard retained from the RS model.
Conclusion
The new inclusions have surprisingly confined the weight gain on the new Speed Triple RR 1200 to under a kilogram and the motorcycle does look eager to nail apexes with increased momentum and accuracy. The new fairing adds flair and stunning allure to the new Speed Triple. The uprated suspension and ergos should bait riders looking for a gorgeous looking Speed Triple with better performance on tap.
Prices start at $ 23,250 with a host of accessory upgrades on the list reading tyre pressure monitoring system, heated grips, scrolling turn blinkers and security system.