Triumph has taken one of the largest capacity motorcycles on the road, its Rocket III, and given it just what it needed – more power! The monolithic three-cylinder, 2294cc mill has received a claimed 15% boost in torque, pushing output
Could Triumph make the Rocket III even more formidable? With more torque, a new braking system, upgraded suspension and new ergonomics, the venerable British marque may have outdone itself with the 2010 Rocket III Roadster.
numbers to a gaudy 165 lb-ft. In accordance to its boost in torque, more horsepower can be expected, yet Triumph is mum so far on its exact numbers.
To rein in all that power, the 2010 Triumph Rocket III Roadster is outfitted with the British marque’s proven anti-lock braking system. The Roadster is the first Rocket model to sport ABS standard. The ABS will support the Rocket Roadster’s twin 320mm floating discs with Nissin 4-piston fixed calipers front set-up and single 316mm fixed disc with Brembo 2-piston floating calipers on the rear.
Ergonomics on Triumph’s power cruiser have been reconfigured with the footpegs moved further back, lower down, and more inboard. The Roadster has a new seat that’s a bit higher and further forward than before, which shortens the reach to the handlebars as a result. Triumph has attempted to make the riding position more comfortable and relaxed in order to make the big bike easier to handle. New Kayaba rear suspension should also improve the ride quality.
To go along with its updated engine, the 2010 Triumph Rocket III Roadster has a three-into-one exhaust similar to the
Rocket III Touring model. New cans, one on each side, have been redesigned to “release more power and torque and optimize the aural experience.” Aiding in its transition from cruiser to muscle bike, the Roadster has a sporty little smoked wind shroud on the front and a less bulbous, more tapered, angular tank design. The new Rocket also
Move over V-Max, the 2010 Rocket III Roadster is coming through!
makes its move to the dark side, as the fork, yokes, radiator shroud and rear springs all receive the blacked-out treatment, which ties right in with the two color options – black, or black. The first is what Triumph touts as metallic Phantom Black and the other is Matte Black.
The 2010 Triumph Rocket III Roadster reportedly will hit dealership floors in early 2010. No US price has been listed yet, but it retails for £10,949 ($17,462 US). More power, better brakes, new ergos and a more streamlined design are signs that Triumph is looking to directly compete with Yamaha’s muscle bike, the V-Max.
