The new Triumph Daytona-inspired engine has 90cc greater displacement than the Street Triple’s previous generation’s 675cc power plant. The 2018 models, available now, include the everyday-ride Street Triple S starting at $9,900, the more determined Street Triple R starting at $11,200, and the Street Triple RS, starting at $12,500. Triumph suggests the RS belongs on a race track.
Let’s start with what the 2018 Triumph Street Triples have in common, in addition to the core liquid-cooled 765cc three-cylinder engine. They all have 6-speed transmissions, chain drive, traction control, and ABS with dual-disc brakes in front and a single disc in the rear. They share a 56-inch wheelbase, 31-inch laden seat height, and 17-inch wheels front and rear. Each model weighs 366 pounds without fuel or fluids, also known as “dry weight.”
All three Street Triple versions have ride-by-wire controls for varying modes of throttle response and ABS and traction control settings. The Street Triple S has two modes: Road and Rain. The Street Triple R has four modes, adding Sport and Rider Programmable. Rider Programmable mode lets you set ABS and Traction Control to “off.” The RS adds Track mode, for a total of five settings. The R and RS Street Triples have a torque-assist slip clutch to help with low-speed shifts.
The base model Street Triple S engine develops 111 horsepower and 54 pound-feet of torque at 9,100 rpm. The front discs are from Nissin, while Brembos provide bite for the rear. The front and rear suspension are made by Showa.
The R model’s 116 horses pull 57 lb-ft of torque at a higher 9,400 rpm. The R has Brembo brakes front and rear. The R’s front and rear suspension are both adjustable. The R also adds an LED headlight and new body work. There is also a low height model available for the Street Triple R.
The all-in Street Triple RS has 121 hp and 57 lb-ft of torque at 10,800 rpm. In addition to the extra power, the RS has an upgraded suspension with Showa components in front and Ohlins in back, a lower chain guard, and a quick shifter for clutch-less shifting.
You’ll have to decide your level of street-fighter aggressiveness to choose among Triumph’s Street Triples. The brand’s Speed Triples have a larger 1,050cc engine but weigh more, making them a better choice for highways and open roads. If you’re on the larger side yourself and don’t mind muscling a heavier bike around town, the Speed Triple variants may be appealing, but for many riders, the 765cc will have enough power and entertainment value.
