2009 Triumph Speed Triple
It's hard to be as sophisticated as a cup of afternoon tea and as obnoxious as a Sex Pistols tune at the same time, yet the Triumph Speed Triple has been doing it for years. While some look to it for traits of tradition and heritage, others are attracted by its bad-boy tendencies and general hooligan potential.
Sounds like a volatile mix-and it is.
Just when you think you've got the Speed Triple figured out it'll show you another hand and confuse the issue all over again. Is this good or bad you ask? It's great.
The Speed Triple is quite likely the only bike that's readily accepted by Sunday morning canyon clubs, afternoon caf racers and bike night stunters alike.
When the Speed Triple was reintroduced in 2005 the legend was reborn. Gone was the old chassis and 955cc engine and in their place was an all new bike with a bigger 1050cc motor. There have been only mild updates since then, and for '09 the Triumph gets Brembo calipers, Magura fat bars and black forks. Though it might not sound like much, it hasn't needed it.
With a motor that mixes the best traits of the V-twin and inline-four configurations, the bike can easily pull off all the literal tricks a streetfighter should, but also keep pace with more focused sportbikes.
Though there's not a lot that's new to report, the Speed Triple still remains at the top of the food chain in its class and has even managed to cross into realms where other streetfighters can't hang.
Buyer's Box
MSRP: $11,299
Engine: Liquid cooled, 1050cc three cylinder, 118 HP
Suspension:
Front: 43mm fully adjustable USD forks
Rear: Fully adjustable monoshock
Brakes:
Front: 320mm discs, 4-piston Brembo calipers
Rear: 220mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 56.2 inches
Weight: 416 pounds (dry)
Fuel Capacity: 4.6 gallons
Contact: http://www.triumph.co.uk
 |  "The Speed Triple ain't the...  "The Speed Triple ain't the easiest on the eyes, but it's like the girl next door who's always been at your side despite the dogging you've given her. Yet, against the odds this Brit easily comes out on top. If I were laying down the green, this is where it'd go. Did I mention how sick the motor sounds?"- Justin |  "In my book this was the best...  "In my book this was the best bike hands down after only 30 seconds and two near misses with Johnny Law. From the baddest motor of the bunch, to the brakes, to the all around build quality, it was so fun I'm trying to conduct a more longterm test! "- Teach |