The new 2012 Triumph Speed...
The new 2012 Triumph Speed Triple R
Triumph first dipped its toe in the “R” model pool with the Street Triple R and subsequently followed it up with the Daytona 675R, two models that have proved a resounding success. Half of Street Triple sales worldwide are R models and the same is true for the Daytona, meaning it was only a matter of time until the Speed Triple R emerged—so here it is.
Following the same pattern as the Daytona 675R, the Speed Triple R uses Öhlins’ NIX30 43mm forks and TTX36 shock to upgrade its suspension. However the naked bike also gets lightweight PVF five-spoke forged aluminum wheels and Brembo monobloc calipers. According to Triumph the wheels alone shed 3.8 pounds from the overall weight and insiders say the difference between the R and stock Speed Triple is like comparing the 2010 Speed Triple with the updated 2011 version…in other words, watch out!
Other neat touches include optional ABS, a few carbon details and styling features such as the red subframe, wheel tape and funky Triumph logo. Unlike the Daytona 675R the Speed Triple R comes in a choice of colors: white or black. It’s going to wheelie like nothing else…
The 2012 Triumph Explorer...
The 2012 Triumph Explorer features a three-cylinder engine "in excess of 1200cc" according to Triumph.
Triumph has unveiled its latest foray into the Adventure bike world – the Tiger Explorer. Designed as the flagship model in the Tiger range, the Explorer will not replace the current Tiger 1050 but instead runs alongside it as the bike of choice should you wish to circumnavigate the world—or just make a run down to the corner store in comfort.
Using a brand new triple-cylinder engine that is “in excess of 1200cc” according to Triumph, the Explorer is far more adventure-biased than the predominantly road-going Tiger 1050. As such, it comes with the more rugged Tiger 800 look as well as cast alloy wheels in the traditional globetrotter’s 17-inch rear and 19-inch front sizes.
Interestingly, the Explorer is the first of the Hinckley models to run a ride-by-wire throttle, something that has allowed the firm to include cruise control and traction control as standard, another Triumph first. As you would expect, switchable ABS is in the package and the Explorer also runs a shaft drive.
In keeping with the competition, Triumph has developed a huge range of touring inspired accessories for the bike including hard and soft luggage, high and low seat options and a range of heated and electrical accessories. A nice feature on the bike is that its 950w generator means that you can run several powered accessories in conjunction with each other.
Bonneville Steve McQueen Edition
The Steve McQueen Edition is officially licensed by McQueen’s estate and will be limited to just 1100 units worldwide. Styled on the Triumph Trophy TR6 that was used in the movie “The Great Escape”, the bike is based on a Bonneville T100; however, Triumph have actually had to re-homologate the machine due to the number of changes they have made creating the replica.
Featuring matte khaki green livery, the bike comes with a stencil-style triumph decal on the tank and a re-creation of the actor’s signature on the side covers, which is pretty cool in itself, but the single seat conversion and black luggage rack really finish off the look. Other styling touches include blacked out rims, hubs, bars, shock springs, mirrors and mudguard supports. Each bike comes with an individually numbered plaque and a certificate of authenticity.