Triumph Street Triple R 2017 — Specifications

Did the 2017 Street Triple R mark a turning point for Triumph against Japanese domination in the sporty roadster segment? By increasing the displacement of its triple to 765 cc, the British brand clearly responded to market expectations, offering a technical and emotional proposition that has indelibly marked people's minds. With 118 horsepower at 12,000 rpm and a torque of 77 Nm, this 166 kg dry weight machine establishes impressive physical foundations for a motorcycle in this category.

The heart of the beast is, of course, its three-cylinder engine, the increase in displacement compared to the previous 675 being immediately noticeable. Low-end flexibility has been noticeably improved, while retaining that characteristic howl that rises with electrifying liveliness in the rev range. The six-speed gearbox, precise and firm, contributes to this feeling of total control. The chassis, with its aluminum frame, is of exemplary clarity. The 41 mm Showa inverted fork and the gas-sprung rear shock absorber from the same supplier are fully adjustable, offering an ideal road compromise: supple enough for everyday use, but firm and communicative enough for winding roads. The braking, ensured by Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers at the front, is remarkable in terms of power and feel, with an ABS that can be deactivated at the rear for purists.

The electronic equipment of the 2017 Triumph Street Triple R was, for the time, very complete. Several riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport and a Customizable mode) are included, which adjust throttle response, traction control, and ABS intervention. The 5-inch color TFT digital dashboard is a success, both legible and rich in information. With a 17.4-liter tank and a consumption of around 4.7 L/100 km, autonomy remains correct for sporty or touring journeys. The riding position is typical of a sporty roadster: the handlebars are quite wide, the footrests are positioned for engagement without being extreme, and the 810 mm seat suits the vast majority of riders.

Compared to its contemporaries such as the Yamaha MT-09 or the Kawasaki Z900, the Triumph stands out for its refinement and a more accomplished and technical character. Its triple offers a more theatrical sound and response than the Kawasaki’s four-cylinder coupler, and it features a finish and chassis often perceived as superior to those of the Yamaha of the time. However, with a price approaching 10,300 euros at its launch, it was clearly positioned at the top of the range, targeting a demanding audience willing to pay for this versatility and British cachet. It will appeal to the sporty touring rider looking for a lively motorcycle for the weekend, capable of covering miles in comfort, but also the urban rider seeking a unique style and presence. The 2017 Street Triple R has solidly anchored the reputation of the range, proving that a motorcycle can be both incredibly efficient and deeply characterful.