Triumph Street Triple S 2018 — Specifications

Is attempting to modernize a roadster that already has everything it needs a risk or a necessity? For Triumph and its Street Triple, the question was crucial. This model, often seen as a Daytona stripped of its fairing or a Speed Triple in a reduced version, is not just a motorcycle; it’s a cornerstone. So, when the third generation emerges, under the name Triumph Street Triple S 765, the approach is meticulous. The goal is clear: not to disappoint loyal customers, but to make a significant impact against a competition that has evolved. Yamaha with its MT-09, Kawasaki with the Z900, or even MV Agusta, they all have arguments. The new Street must therefore prove that it remains the benchmark in the mid-size segment.

Visually, the change is evident but measured. The face adopts oval eyes that unmistakably recall the larger Speed Triple, a nod to the family. The profile, on the other hand, is refined for weight reduction: more discreet radiators, a compact exhaust, a tapered rear line. The objective is not only stylistic; it is technical. This sleekness accompanies a gain in power and a controlled weight of 166 kg dry. You can feel that Triumph wants a more responsive, more agile machine, capable of meeting the expectations of demanding track and road riders. The 17.4-liter tank and a consumption announced at around 4.7 liters per 100 km promise range, but the essential elements are elsewhere.

The heart of the transformation lies in this three-cylinder engine boosted to 765 cm3. Triumph is playing with the numbers, a tribute to the previous 675? It doesn’t matter, the result is tangible. Based on the Daytona block, it has been deeply revised with a new bore and modified stroke. The S version, often considered for an A2 Triumph Street Triple S conversion, delivers here 113 horsepower at 11,250 rpm and 73 Nm of torque. This is a significant gain over the old 675, more accessible, with a gearbox whose first gears are shortened for acceleration. This engine remains square, it likes high revs and its character is one of the major assets of the motorcycle. Faced with a GSX-S 750 or a Monster 821, it stands out by this specific energy, this unique voice.

But the Street Triple S 2018 embraces its role as an entry-level model. Electronics make their entrance with a ride-by-wire throttle, two riding modes (Road and Rain), ABS, and a disengageable traction control system. It’s good, it’s necessary, but we remain far from the equipment offered on the R and RS versions. The dashboard is revised, the lights switch to LEDs, a windscreen appears. For the rest, the chassis also shows this differentiation. The aluminum twin spar frame is excellent, the new swingarm provides stability. But the suspensions are basic Showa: a 41 mm SFF inverted fork and a mono shock adjustable only in preload. This is sufficient for road use or light sporty riding, but a serious track rider will already be looking towards the high-end. The brakes, two-piston Nissin calipers on 310 mm discs, are effective without being exceptional. We are far from the Brembos of the older siblings.

So, who is the customer for this Triumph Street Triple S? With a price around 9000 euros at the time, it clearly targeted the rider seeking a complete, agile roadster, with an unmatched engine character, but without requiring ultimate adjustments or top-of-the-line equipment. It is perfect for those who want an extraordinary base, which they can then personalize with a Triumph Street Triple S accessory kit or a Triumph Street Triple S tank protector. It is also a very serious option for used bikes, a Triumph Street Triple S used remains a judicious future investment. On the other hand, if you want everything the best right from the start, the R and RS versions were there. The S, in the 2017, 2018, or even the Triumph Street Triple S 2020 and 2021 ranges, has always played this role of intelligent entry point. It offers the essentials of the Street Triple experience, this magical trio, this precise chassis, and this freedom. It proves that you can be an entry-level model without being a downgraded motorcycle.