Street Triple vs Speed Triple: Which Triumph Reigns?
Looking for a thrilling ride that’ll get your heart racing? You’ve likely stumbled upon two titans of the motorcycle world: the Triumph Street Triple and the Triumph Speed Triple. Both are iconic naked bikes, celebrated for their performance, handling, and distinctive triple-cylinder engines. But which one is the ultimate champion?
This comparison dives deep into the heart of the matter, pitting the Street Triple against its more powerful sibling, the Speed Triple. We’ll explore their key differences, from engine specs and riding experience to features and overall value. Get ready to discover which Triumph motorcycle best suits your needs and riding style.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the world of performance bikes, this guide will provide you with the insights you need. We’ll break down the nuances of each model, helping you make an informed decision. Prepare to choose between the agile Street Triple and the raw power of the Speed Triple!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Street Triple | Speed Triple |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Inline-Triple | Inline-Triple |
| Engine Displacement | 765cc | 1160cc |
| Horsepower | 118-128 bhp | 177 bhp |
| Torque | 57-80 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Frame | Aluminum Twin Spar | Aluminum Twin Spar |
| Front Suspension | Showa or Öhlins | Öhlins |
| Rear Suspension | Showa or Öhlins | Öhlins |
| Brakes | Brembo | Brembo |
| Riding Modes | Rain, Road, Sport, Rider | Rain, Road, Sport, Track, Rider |
| Seat Height | 825 mm | 828 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.4 Liters | 15.5 Liters |
| Weight (Wet) | 188 kg | 198 kg |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine
- Street Triple: The Street Triple features a 765cc inline-three engine, available in various trims like R and RS, offering around 123 HP (RS). Known for its responsive throttle and playful character, it’s great for both city riding and spirited twisties. It might feel slightly less powerful on the open road compared to its bigger sibling.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple boasts a more powerful 1160cc inline-three engine, producing around 180 HP. This engine delivers massive torque and blistering acceleration, making it a thrilling experience on any road. However, the added power can be a bit intimidating for newer riders.
- Winner: Speed Triple
Power & Performance
- Street Triple: The Street Triple RS offers impressive performance for its class. The punchy 765cc engine provides brisk acceleration and excellent mid-range power, making it a blast to ride. Its lighter weight contributes to its agility, but it lacks the raw power of the Speed Triple.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple is a performance powerhouse. With significantly more horsepower and torque, it delivers exhilarating acceleration and top-end speed. It’s built for experienced riders who crave adrenaline-pumping performance.
- Winner: Speed Triple
Handling & Suspension
- Street Triple: The Street Triple typically comes with high-quality suspension components, such as Showa or Öhlins, depending on the trim. Its lighter weight and agile handling make it incredibly fun to ride in corners. The suspension is well-tuned for both street and track use.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple also features premium suspension, often with fully adjustable components. Designed for aggressive riding, it offers exceptional stability and precision. The slightly heavier weight provides a planted feel, especially at high speeds.
- Winner: Tie
Brakes
- Street Triple: The Street Triple usually comes equipped with Brembo brakes, offering excellent stopping power and feel. The brakes are powerful and progressive, providing confidence in various riding conditions.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple also features high-spec Brembo brakes. These brakes are designed to handle the bike’s increased power and weight, providing exceptional stopping performance even under extreme braking.
- Winner: Tie
Ergonomics & Riding Position
- Street Triple: The Street Triple offers a more upright and comfortable riding position, making it suitable for longer rides. Its lighter weight and narrower profile contribute to its maneuverability.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple has a slightly more aggressive riding position, leaning the rider forward. This stance supports performance riding, but it might be less comfortable for extended periods compared to the Street Triple.
- Winner: Street Triple
Technology & Features
- Street Triple: The Street Triple often includes advanced rider aids, such as ride modes, traction control, and a quickshifter. The TFT display provides clear and customizable information.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple typically offers a more advanced suite of technology, including a larger TFT display with more features, advanced cornering ABS, and more sophisticated ride modes.
- Winner: Speed Triple
Styling & Aesthetics
- Street Triple: The Street Triple has a modern and aggressive streetfighter design, with a distinctive headlight arrangement. It’s known for its sleek and compact appearance.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple has a more muscular and imposing design, with a wider stance. It’s instantly recognizable and exudes a premium feel.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Value
- Street Triple: The Street Triple is generally more affordable, offering excellent value for its performance and features. It’s a great choice for riders seeking a thrilling experience without breaking the bank.
- Speed Triple: The Speed Triple commands a higher price tag, reflecting its superior performance and premium components. It caters to riders who prioritize top-tier performance and features.
- Winner: Street Triple
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | Speed Triple |
| Agility | Street Triple |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | Speed Triple |
| Value for Money | Street Triple |
| Track Performance | Speed Triple |
| Street Riding Fun | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Engine Configuration: Both motorcycles feature Triumph’s signature inline-triple engine configuration, known for its unique sound and responsive power delivery. This provides a distinctive riding experience compared to inline-fours or V-twins.
- Aluminum Frame: Both bikes utilize an aluminum twin-spar frame, contributing to their lightweight construction and precise handling characteristics. This design enhances agility and responsiveness.
- Brembo Brakes: Both bikes are equipped with Brembo brakes, ensuring powerful and reliable stopping performance. This is crucial for both track and street riding.
- Modern Electronics: Both models offer advanced rider aids such as ABS and traction control, enhancing safety and control in various riding conditions. The electronics packages are generally comprehensive.
- Aggressive Styling: Both motorcycles share an aggressive and sporty design language, characterized by sharp lines and a muscular stance. This aesthetic appeals to riders seeking a dynamic and eye-catching motorcycle.
- High-Quality Components: Both bikes incorporate high-quality components, including premium suspension and brakes, contributing to their overall performance and riding experience. Triumph emphasizes quality across its range.
Street Triple Vs Speed Triple Buying Guide
Performance and Engine
The Street Triple, particularly the RS model, offers a thrilling and agile experience with its responsive 765cc inline-three engine. It delivers exhilarating acceleration and precise handling, making it a joy to ride on twisty roads and in urban environments. The Speed Triple, however, boasts a more powerful 1160cc inline-three engine. This translates to significantly more torque and horsepower, providing blistering acceleration and a more commanding presence on the road. The Speed Triple excels in straight-line performance and offers a more aggressive riding experience, suitable for experienced riders seeking maximum power.
Handling and Ergonomics
The Street Triple is celebrated for its exceptional handling. Its lighter weight and more compact dimensions contribute to its nimble feel, allowing for quick direction changes and confident cornering. The riding position is generally more relaxed, making it comfortable for longer rides. The Speed Triple, while still agile, feels more substantial due to its larger size and weight. It offers a more aggressive riding posture, placing the rider in a more committed position. Both bikes provide excellent suspension systems, but the Speed Triple’s components are typically more premium, offering greater adjustability and control at higher speeds.
Features and Technology
Both models come equipped with modern features, but the Speed Triple often includes a more advanced suite of technology. The Street Triple usually features a TFT instrument panel, riding modes, and potentially up-spec components depending on the specific trim level. The Speed Triple typically offers a more comprehensive package, including advanced rider aids such as cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and a sophisticated TFT display with connectivity options. The Speed Triple often includes a more premium lighting system and other high-end features that enhance the overall riding experience.
Price and Value
The Street Triple typically comes with a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for riders looking for a high-performance motorcycle without breaking the bank. It offers excellent value for the performance and features it provides. The Speed Triple commands a higher price tag due to its larger engine, premium components, and more advanced technology. However, it offers a superior level of performance and features that justify the increased cost for riders who prioritize maximum power and cutting-edge technology. Consider your budget and the features you value most when making your decision.
Intended Use and Riding Style
The Street Triple is ideally suited for riders who prioritize agility, handling, and a fun, engaging riding experience on various types of roads. It excels in urban environments and on twisty backroads. The Speed Triple is targeted towards riders who desire raw power, aggressive performance, and a more commanding presence on the road. It’s well-suited for spirited riding, track days, and riders who enjoy the thrill of maximum acceleration and high-speed performance. Consider your typical riding environment and desired riding style when choosing between the two.
Maintenance and Reliability
Both the Street Triple and Speed Triple are known for their reliability and relatively low maintenance requirements. Triumph motorcycles generally have a good reputation for build quality and durability. Regular servicing, as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, is essential for optimal performance and longevity. The cost of maintenance is typically comparable between the two models, but the Speed Triple might have slightly higher costs due to its more complex components. Consider the availability of service centers and the cost of parts in your area when making your decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Street Triple If…
- You prioritize agility and nimble handling in a lighter package.
- You want a thrilling, yet more manageable, power delivery.
- You’re looking for a more affordable option within the Triumph lineup.
- You prefer a bike that is easier to maneuver in city traffic.
Buy Speed Triple If…
- You crave maximum power and exhilarating acceleration.
- You regularly ride on the track or enjoy aggressive street riding.
- You appreciate the prestige and premium features of a flagship model.
- You desire a motorcycle with a more commanding presence and presence on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in engine size?
The Street Triple has a 765cc inline-three engine, while the Speed Triple houses a more powerful 1160cc inline-three engine. This larger engine in the Speed Triple delivers significantly more horsepower and torque, resulting in superior acceleration and overall performance. The Street Triple’s engine is still very capable and provides a thrilling ride, but the Speed Triple offers a noticeable step up in power.
Which bike is better for a beginner?
The Street Triple is often considered a better choice for beginners due to its more manageable power delivery, lighter weight, and more forgiving handling characteristics. Its agility and user-friendliness make it easier to learn and build confidence. The Speed Triple’s raw power and more aggressive nature can be overwhelming for inexperienced riders, making the Street Triple the preferred choice for those new to high-performance motorcycles.
How does the suspension compare?
Both bikes offer excellent suspension systems, but the Speed Triple generally features more premium components. The Speed Triple’s suspension often includes higher-spec forks and shocks, offering greater adjustability and performance. This translates to improved handling and control, especially at higher speeds and on demanding roads. The Street Triple’s suspension is still very capable and provides a comfortable ride.
What about fuel economy?
Fuel economy is generally similar between the two models, but the Street Triple might offer slightly better mileage due to its smaller engine and lighter weight. Real-world fuel consumption depends on riding style and conditions, but both bikes are relatively efficient for their class. Expect to get around 40-50 MPG depending on your riding habits and the type of riding you do.
Are there different trim levels available?
Yes, both the Street Triple and Speed Triple often come in different trim levels, offering various features and performance enhancements. The Street Triple typically has R and RS versions, with the RS being the top-spec model. The Speed Triple also has different versions, often including the RR and RS, with the RS usually offering the most advanced features and performance upgrades. Always check the specific trim levels for the exact model year.
Which bike is more comfortable for long rides?
The Street Triple typically offers a more comfortable riding position, making it better suited for longer rides. Its more relaxed ergonomics and less aggressive stance put less strain on the rider. The Speed Triple, with its more aggressive riding position, is better suited for shorter, more spirited rides. While both bikes can handle long distances, the Street Triple is often the preferred choice for all-day comfort.
What are the common criticisms of each bike?
Common criticisms of the Street Triple include its sometimes basic instrumentation on lower trim levels and a desire for more power from some riders. Speed Triple criticisms often include its higher price and sometimes a slightly less refined feel in urban environments due to its more aggressive nature. Both bikes are generally well-regarded, with criticisms being relatively minor.
Final Verdict
The Speed Triple stands out with its superior power, advanced technology, and premium components, offering a more exhilarating and refined riding experience for experienced riders. While the Street Triple remains a fantastic choice, particularly for its agility and value, the Speed Triple’s performance advantage is undeniable.
Winner: Speed Triple