First impressions from the Triumph Speed Triple launch

Triumph’s class-leading Speed Triple has received a subtle but significant makeover.
Here’s what Roland Brown thinks of the result from the world launch in the Canary Islands.

“The old phrase ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ could have been coined just for Triumph’s Speed Triple.

Since its launch back in 1994 it’s remained THE naked bike par excellence with nearly 50,000 sold. And when a bike works that well, the temptation is to leave well alone.

“Which is why this new-for-2008 refined version looks virtually identical to the old, but actually boast a number of modifications in response to owner feedback.

“It has an up-rated front brake, new rear end while the restyle, by Italian designers Marabese, also includes new wheels with distinctively curved spokes, a roomier seat and 50mm lower pillion footrests.

“The front end has also been visually tweaked with a tapered aluminium Magura handlebar, plus new radiator shrouds to tidy up the engine area.

“The biggest change was fitting pair of four-pad, four-piston Brembo radial front brake calipers in place of the old model’s Nissin radial set-up.

“It all works well, too. It’s the same old unmistakeable Speed Triple, with the same old utterly distinctive and invigorating 1050cc triple at it’s heart – but tidier, better and more refined.

“The new brakes are excellent, it looks smart and, although difficult to evaluate after one 140-mile ride, I arrived back at the launch base without a hint of numb-bum syndrome, so first impressions are positive.”

Read Roland Brown’s full test report on the Triumph Speed Triple launch in next week’s MCN, available from Wednesday, February 13, 2008.