Engine: 2458cc inline-3 DOHC
Transmission: 6 speed shaft drive
Power: 123kW
Torque: 163 ft/lbs @ 4000 rpm
Dry weight: 290 kgs
Seat height: 30.4 inches
Fuel capacity: 18 litres
Price: $35000 (est)
They may not be the Beatles or the Stones, but Triumph Motorcycles had their own British Invasion of sorts when they launched their 2020 Rocket 3 R and Rocket 3 GT at the all-American Sturgis Rally this year.
Like many, Triumph believe that bigger is better, and like a proud papa shamelessly paraded their utterly monstrous new edition Rocket 3,—which boasts more torque than any production motorcycle on this planet – or the next.
Available in two weapons of choice – the base Rocket 3 and the Rocket 3 GT – the Triumph’s new power cruisers claim a 2458 cc inline three cylinder motor. That amounts to 123kW at 6000 rpm on call – an 11% gain over the 2009 to 2018 versions of the Rocket 3.
Those numbers put the model well on top of the swinging contest amongst the other big boys. Neither Harley-Davidson, Indian, Ducati, or BMW, build a production bike with a displacement topping 2100cc – meaning the Rocket is basically in a universe of its own.
Of course this infamous motor comes with its support, matched to a reworked aluminum chassis, with Brembo superbike Stylema brake calipers, Showa suspension, and Avon tyres specifically designed for the Rocket’s monster 240 mm rear wheel.
But what good is relentless power without pilot aid? To stem the anarchy a little, there are safety and performance features like ABS and traction control, a torque assist hydraulic clutch, and four riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport and Rider-Configurable). The Brits even saw fit to provide onboard luxuries like sat-nav, GoPro, and heated grips.
Simply put, Triumph has never – in all its years of existence – made a more powerful bike. Released in January 2020, it won’t be cheap, but it will be ours (hopefully).
For the full article grab the December 2019 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
