Triumph announce new Rocket 3

Following on from the limited-edition Rocket 3 TFC, the volume-production version of the next-generation Triumph Rocket 3 has been revealed.

To be offered in ‘R’ and ‘GT’ forms, the new Rocket 3 (note the name change from ‘III’ to ‘3’) runs the same 2.5-litre (2,458cc) 3-cylinder engine as the TFC, but to preserve the desirability of the limited-edition version, maximum outputs from the standard Rocket 3 are 122kW and 221Nm, compared to the Rocket 3 TFC’s 133.8kW and 225Nm.

As well as the largest production motorcycle engine in the world, the new production Rocket 3s also get the TFC’s six-speed gearbox and a new ’torque assist’ hydraulic clutch for a lighter clutch action.

Already more powerful than the Rocket III it’s replacing, the new Rocket 3 is also more than 40kg lighter, with the Rocket 3 R listed at 291kg and the Rocket 3 GT at 294kg. Part of this lightweighting comes from features like the aluminium frame, single-side swingarm, multi-spoke cast aluminium wheels and an engine that’s lighter by 18kg.

Avon Cobra Chrome tyres (including a 240mm rear) were developed specifically for this model, with high-spec features including Brembo Stylema monobloc brakes (dual 320mm front discs and a single 300mm rear disc with 4-piston calipers), traction control, cornering ABS, hill hold control, four different riding modes, underseat USB charge socket and a second-gen TFT instrument display with multiple layout themes and the ability to be personalised to individual rider tastes.

Showa suspension at both ends includes compression and rebound-adjustable 47mm USD forks and a piggyback reservoir rear monoshock with remote preload adjuster. There’s 120mm of travel on the front end and 107mm on the rear on both the R and GT.

While the engine, frame and most of the cycle parts are common to both new Rocket 3 variants, there are differences in the ergonomics, detailing and finishes. The Rocket 3 R features a roadster rider and pillion saddle, with a low 773mm seat height, while the Rocket 3 GT features a touring rider and pillion saddle at an even lower 750mm height, with forward controls, a pull-back handlebar and pillion backrest added. Both versions can delete the pillion pad for a solo look.

Adjustable ergonomics include footpegs on the Rocket 3 R that can be lowered 15mm, while the Rocket 3 GT’s forward controls can be horizontally-adjusted by 25mm forward or back. The GT’s pillion backrest is also height adjustable.

In terms of colours, Phantom Black is common to both variants, with the R also available in Korosi Red, and the GT in Silver Ice and Storm Grey with Korosi Red pinstriping.

Optional extras include an up-and-down quickshifter and tyre pressure monitoring system, while a Bluetooth connectivity module allows turn-by-turn navigation (augmented by the downloadable My Triumph app), integrated phone and music operation and a world-first GoPro control system, which allows control of a GoPro camera through the switchgear.

Other accessories include various luggage, seat and handlebar options, a sports screen, alarm system and even an anti-theft tracker.

Australian delivery of the new Rocket 3 will start with the R version in January, 2020, followed by the GT in February. Local pricing has yet to be revealed but is expected to be over $30,000.