TRIUMPH STREET TRIPLE R (2008 - 2012) Review

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Annual servicing cost: £190
Power: 107 bhp
Seat height: Medium (31.7 in / 805 mm)
Weight: Low (368 lbs / 167 kg)

Prices

New N/A
Used £4,000 - £4,300

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

Triumph’s standard Street Triple mixes Triumph Speed Triple style with the tech of a Triumph Daytona 675 engine. It's light, fast, fun, agile, stylish and cool... and it just got even better. The 'R' version comes with fully-adjustable suspension and fiercer radial four-pot Nissin front brakes, making it the perfect bike to tempt UK riders away from their sportsbikes. Triumph have been planning this uprated version since the launch of the standard Street Triple, so it's no after thought. If you're looking for a high-spec middleweight that blows the competition away, the Triumph Street Triple R is in a class of one.

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The standard Triumph Street Triple is a very nice handler, but the R version is even better. 41mm USD forks and piggy-back rear shock are from Kayaba and are both fully adjustable, so you can set the bike up to suit. Compared to the standard Triumph Street Triple the forks are shorter and the shock is longer and firmer, pitching you over the front more and giving a more aggressive riding position. It also results in a slightly taller seat height, up 5mm on the standard bike. Steering lock is slightly limited, but at only 167kg the bike is a lightweight and easy to manoeuver.

Engine

Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The 675cc, 12-valve three-cylinder motor is unchanged from the standard Triumph Street Triple, with peak output staying at a healthy 107bhp at 11,700rpm. This is 16 ponies less than theTriumph Daytona 675, but offers more than enough power to keep most riders entertained. Torque remains the same as the standard model also at 51ftlb, which it makes at 9100rpm. The 675cc lump is a gem and stands up to any task, from town riding to back road thrashing. The problem is that it sounds so good at full throttle it could get you into trouble!

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Some recent Triumphs, including the Triumph Daytona 675 have had questionable reliability and durability, which is why we haven’t given it a 5/5 rating, but overall none of this should put you off if you’re considering a Triumph Street Triple R. It has some nice touches and good quality parts as standard.

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

For the extra dosh over the standard model you get fully adjustable suspension, magura handlebars and a new seat cover. If you like to venture on track occasionally and push the limits, then you'll probably find it's worth the premium. Find a Triumph Street Triple for sale

Equipment

3 out of 5 (3/5)

The Triumph Street Triple R is a naked bike in the true sense of the word, so there's not a lot of unnecessary clutter. It comes with Magura handlebars like its big brother the Speed Triple (although the shape is the same as the standard Triumph Street Triple). The instrument panel features analogue tacho, digital speedo and clock, lap timer and gear indicator, plus a series of gearchange warning lights. 

Specs

Engine size 675cc
Engine type liquid-cooled 675cc, DOHC, 12v, in-line triple. Fuel injection, 6 gears.
Frame type aluminium beam frame
Fuel capacity 17.4 litres
Seat height 805mm
Bike weight 167kg
Front suspension preload, compression and rebound.
Rear suspension preload, compression and rebound.
Front brake 220mm disc with single piston caliper
Rear brake Four-pot radial Nissin calipers with 308mm twin discs
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 180/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 38 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £190
New price -
Used price £4,000 - £4,300
Insurance group 14 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 107 bhp
Max torque 51 ft-lb
Top speed 141 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 11.93 secs
Tank range 145 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

2007: Triumph Street Triple launched.
2008: Triumph Street Triple R launched.

Other versions

Standard Triumph Street Triple, features more basic suspension and brakes, plus lacks Magura handlebars.

MCN Long term test reports

MCN Fleet: With the Street Triple - ‘Track’s a great place to learn’

MCN Fleet: With the Street Triple - ‘Track’s a great place to learn’

I had planned for my first time on track with the Triumph Street Triple Rx to be at Folembray in France later in the year but when the opportunity arose to visit Cadwell Park I couldn’t resist. I’m finding the Rx is much lighter, more nimble and generally swifter than the middleweights I’ve ridden i

Read the latest report

Owners' reviews for the TRIUMPH STREET TRIPLE R (2008 - 2012)

20 owners have reviewed their TRIUMPH STREET TRIPLE R (2008 - 2012) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your TRIUMPH STREET TRIPLE R (2008 - 2012)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Engine: 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Equipment: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Annual servicing cost: £190
5 out of 5 Best bike I've ever owned
23 May 2020 by Pouchy750

Version: R version

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £100

Great looking all round bike, plenty off torque from such a small engine. Sounds great with Arrow underslug exhaust. Handles very well. I'm sure the brakes on the standard Street Triple aren't up too much. R version has better front brakes & suspension. Revs to 13500!

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Brakes could have better initial bite, even on the R model. Seat comfortable with well placed footrests & handlebar. Optional extra screen deflects some wind. You do notice the decrease in acceleration when a pillion is onboard. Best solo on twisty roads.

Engine 5 out of 5

Only thing I don't like is the lack of flywheel effect, initial response very on / off when accelerating or slowing down. Maybe fuel injection? Lots of torque for a small engine, can pull without stirring the gearbox.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Build quality is very good, although I've heard Triumph scrimped on the hose clips. Rectifier replaced under warenty. Never let me down.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

The bike looks & sounds much better with the Arrow underslung exhaust. Screen provides some wind protection. Belly pan looks cool.

4 out of 5 4 years with a Stripler.
25 April 2020 by BleB

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £100

Would have been 5 out of 5 apart from the starting problem. It has had a new battery, starter motor, clutch cut out switch, but still suffers fairly regularly.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Saddle padding is collapsing.

Engine 4 out of 5

Gear change shaft, seal & bearing had to be replaced as emulsion build up rots it. A consequence of living on a small island with low speed limits.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Problem starting when hot. Like a dead battery, but not that.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Self service the bike. I may book it in for a memory scan later this year though.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Arrow pipes sound great, but dedicated rack needed modifying to fit with them.

Buying experience: Private, but dealer employee.

5 out of 5
10 April 2020 by Ali

Year: 2010

Great naked bike with midsize sportbike feeling both on track or road

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great engine, superb adjustable suspension, and good upgraded brakes

Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 All you need, is a Street (R)
23 January 2018 by Thomas

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £150

Best New Classic ever. you think it, the bike does it. it's that good.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

It's the perfect allrounder. i'm 1.85m and i can ride it comfortly all day. 600k on the highway, no problem. but the twisty backroads, thats where you want to be. its steering is so very precize and light. suspension gives you huge amounts of feedback. you think, bike does. it brings the best out of you. at least any normal human that hasn't got the nickname "the doctor" or is at same levels of riding a bike at speeds of a jet fighter. and then, still the bike may surprise you. for me at least, its so agile and versitile it convinced me that i don't need a 150hp+ bike to go insanly fast. you dont need launchcontrol, wheelie control, traction control, lean angle measuring abs, riding modes or anything. its a pure bike. all you need. brakes are superb. and also very dosable so you won't catapult yourself over the front end.

Engine 5 out of 5

preformance is great! the 3-cilinder has got such an unique sound. that howl on the throttle puts an smile on my face, everytime. this bike is about fun.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I do the service jobs myself, so normal things, like oil changes, filters, brake pads etc. only the tires are done by the dealer. but nothing special that broke down on me since i own the bike.

Equipment 5 out of 5

dash is simple and decent. love the shift indicators, wich are programmable in various blipping options. i do recommand aftermarket silencers ( arrow or SC-project) for some extra growl. also i love the looks of the bike with full body parts, the flyscreen + visor make it look mean. the bellypan finishes it. it gives it that feeling that it looks like a bigger bike than it is. ove got the seatcowl as well. gives it an even sportier look. for tyres i have michelin 2ct sports. they work great for me. then again, tyres are such a personal thing i guess.

Buying experience: Bought the bike in 2017, privately from the second owner. only 12600km ridden. price was just over 4000euro. best bargain ever.

5 out of 5 All the bike you will ever need.
02 December 2017 by Ritchie W

Year: 2011

Recently passed my test on an MT-07 and thought that was the bike for me. Then I got asked to hold that thought until I'd had a test ride on a Street Triple R. The MT never got a second glance! The Triple R has smoother handling, especially at lower gears/speeds but when you need to go, boy it's gone (I'm thinking the 'R' stands for rocket!). Love the digital display and coming from a 125 that had a gear shift indicator, it was an added bonus finding the Triple had this too. Only drawback is that it's not the most economical as far as trips to the gas station goes but for the thrill and excitement it gives me, I think I can forgive that.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
3 out of 5
16 March 2017 by Bobbydigital

Year: 2008

Best part was the sound, worst was terrible mpg and living at the petrol station.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

I guess this is my fault for picking the R version but it's way too harsh for the British streets. To the point where I'd adjust the suspension​ to make it softer and think, I could have just got the standard version. It's a comfortable bike, smooth as well, I could ride it all day and going quick on some twisty roads it all makes sense but in the urban potholed landscape you had better brace yourself for impact. It's very light weight and leans superbly at speed but for slow stuff the bike feels like it was to fall down, radial mounted Nissins do a good job up front and bite pretty hard right away.

Engine 4 out of 5

After 6k the power kicks in and the engine sounds beautiful and dare I say it, there's a certain smell from these engines that I love, even on a new 800 Tiger I could smell that almost porridge scent! Superbly smooth gear box, tight as well. I didn't really like needing to rev it so much, I wasn't expecting to, I'd heard people talk of its solid liner torque performance but it just felt like the engine is a bit lazy low down in the rev range. It just didn't excited me in terms of power delivery, like a tamed v-twin low down but a tame inline 4 up top, even though it does pull nicely in the mid range. I found it quite a thirsty engine, low 30s mpg in the winter and 35mpg in the summer time, that's just cruising and actually trying to take it easy, they did improve it I believe on later models.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

I know this was the first of its kind, 08 675 Street triple r and you expect issues but my experience was very poor, more so than expected. Clutch switch failed constantly, new switch, few months later same issue. Paint on the engine cases, someone with some black spray from Halfords could have done a better job, they corroded so baldy and it still happens on new triumphs. A lot of electrical issues with the dash not working properly and batteries being drained due to a rectifier issue. Powder coating on switch arm cracking. It did not weather well at all but was reliable when riding.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

12k service, puts me off triumphs, it's a years riding, my Yamaha can do 25k before a valve check is needed. The rest is basic stuff that I did myself​ with a service kit for eBay, probably forty pounds worth. A certain lust for huge gulps of fuel could get expensive.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Gear indicator is a nice thing to have but no fuel gauge on these earlier models, should be a basic thing, awkward to use kickstand to but not too bad, it has wheels, engine and some brakes, all the rage back in 2008 before the electronics became so lusted after. I'd only buy the later bikes with better mpg but most importantly a fuel gauge! Terrible ignition barrel, extremely exposed to scallywags who might try and steal your bike, to top it off no immobiliser on the early models either... Super easy to steal it seems, they are the most stolen bike in the UK.

Buying experience: It was private, 4k back in 2015. Depreciated quite badly, maybe due to how many of them are for sale, flooded market.

5 out of 5 street triple r does it all
18 June 2016 by biker blue

Year: 2012

Annual servicing cost: £200

does everything with pleasure

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

horn failed after 4 years and thats it

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

likes petrol and tyres but it might be the way i ride because it encourages to ride that way

Equipment 3 out of 5

Buying experience: main dealer from new interest free , free accessories £400 . £150 on free kit

5 out of 5 Nearly perfect
19 June 2015 by OrangeAgent

Version: R

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £400

Have had the 2009 R version for about a year and a half now. There are times I'd rather ride this than my girlfriend. + It sounds brutal, pulls like a train, handles like it's on rails and stops on a dime. Then there's the looks, the amount of power and torque, the customisation available for it, it's reliability (so far anyway), the aggressive but not wrist breaking riding position and on top of that it's a piece of piss to ride around town. No ABS or traction control on the 2009 model but it's so well set up and planted that I've never needed it and I'm shit! - It's crap on a motorway. Naked bikes don't really give you much wind protection. It's thirsty, I get about 38mpg. Triumph servicing can be pricey but not obscene. Summary: Brilliant. I'd take this over any mid weight sports bikes, it makes more sense on the road with the wider bars and better seating. As easy to ride fast as it is slow and does exactly what you tell it to. And just look at it!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5

Revs to 13,500 rpm. Or what I call the "new minimum".

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Apart from some loose seals on the coolant pipes which was sorted with a screwdriver, nothing else has gone wrong (touch wood)

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Well the serviced it. They serviced it like I service one's matriarch. But one's matriarch doesn't give much change.

Equipment 5 out of 5

It's got bugger all in the way of rider aids but you don't need them.

Buying experience: I went in to the shops, gave them £5000 and in exchange I received a motorbike. But the best part was when I saw the jelly bean machine and it was only 20p. They're normally 50p in most places. But nobody knows about this because everyone is still up in arms about Cream Eggs and Freddo's.

5 out of 5 Wheelie machine
21 March 2013 by IgWannA

Coming straight from a GSX-R 750 the Street Triple R feels very different but in mostly good ways. The engine feels almost as powerful as my 750 due to there being so much usable torque way down in the revs. And although the standard cans aren't the loudest, you'll instantly fall in love with the induction sound only Triumph can make. Handling is sweet, with track-worthy adjustable KYBs, Daytona frame and powerful 4 pot brakes. The instrument display is excellent, showing MPG, gear, lap timer, adjustable rev lights. The torque and rear bias means the Streety really loves to wheelie. The handling is fantastic, and at the same weight as my 2004 Gixxer the Street feels more nimble. It does lack a steering damper, which would have been nice. The fairings, what little there are, tend to rattle a bit over bumps, and the seat isn't very comfy where the sides stick out at the front. Overall great bike. Let's not forget how damn good the Street Triple looks. It's probably the best looking factory Streetfighter on the market, and it also happens to go fast, handle well, sound great and fairly priced to boot!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Amazing!
15 February 2013 by johnlondon82

Someone on here has said the build quality is poor. No, complete tosh, it's great. Anyway, on with the review. I managed to get a 2010 Street Triple R with less than 4k on the clock. It's the phantom black and gold wheel combo (best look by miles) with fly screen, rear hugger, fender extender, extended/aluminium radiator cover, belly pan, heated grips, hand guards and new rear Metzeler M5 tyre. All I can say is I love this bike, it's so trackable, handles so amazingly...so confidence inspiring, the sound is great (it's the induction you're hearing not the exhaust!) and it's not bad on fuel either! The only thing I've had issues with is the seat, it's very, very firm and gives you numb bum in no time. I'll probably try getting gel pads inserting and if that doesn't work, buy an eye wateringly expensive Courbin or Sargent seat. Doubt I'll be letting this bike go for at least a couple of years, it's got great handling, sound, fuel economy and (so far) reliability. Love it! BUY ONE!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
3 out of 5 good fun
13 December 2012 by yammy2011

had one for a while in 2011, not my cup of tea, good fun at lower speeds and tighter roads, first gear wheelies and a cool engine sound, but quickly becomes breathless when chasing your mates on sporty inline fours, very exposed and a top speed that seems to take a lifetime to achieve.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 2 out of 5
5 out of 5 Street Triple R
23 May 2011 by street3r

I've had this bike for nearly two years. It's been great fun. I've changed the OE Qualifiers (rubbish) to Sportsmart and I'm ordering a Sargent seat to improve the ride comfort. Those are my only changes. Great fun, great bike and Made in Britain.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Mini Marathon
04 September 2010 by glynipig

The short version is that I love this bike. I traded in a Sprint St for it and find the Street way more comfortable, apart from the seat. I have written a much longer review on my blog here: http://glyniblog.com/?p=1250 with bags of photos.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Brilliant British Bike !
31 March 2010 by greybiker58

Owned and loved a Daytona 675 from 06 to 09, then the Street Triple R came out and exchanged the Daytona for the R.Just as good as the Daytona, but as I am now 58, the R is more comfortable and every bit that all reports say !!! I would only change it for an improved R. Keep making them "Hinckley" !!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Great ride if I can have it.
20 October 2009 by calicant

Enjoyed riding my Orange R for 4 weeks around the streets, through the canyons and along the sweeping bends of Pacific Coast Highway until the headlights burned out from some electrical anomaly. Handed the bike into the dealer a week ago. Don't know whats happening as I have heard nothing. Hope I get it back soon and not after weeks and months like others have experienced. I'll try to test ride the Ducati Streetfighter and the Monster 1100s while I am bikeless.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 1 out of 5
Value vs rivals 2 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 Love it!
05 July 2009 by weemull

This bike is a blast, very useable torque at low end and quick as you need for road use. Great commuter bike! Amazing!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Love it!
05 July 2009 by weemull

This bike is a blast, very useable torque at low end and quick as you need for road use. Great commuter bike! Amazing!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Flawed genius
04 June 2009 by u407420

I bought a Street Triple R and its an absolute blast. The engine, handling and brakes are stunning, but there are some really naff bits. The speedo can't be seen because of reflections from the shiny bars and clamps. Also, Triumph seem to have forgotten how to make mudgards. I rode through some rain on a farmer muddied road and ended up with a mud splattered back and the centre section of the radiator became blocked. Not good enough.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 A Six
20 February 2009 by neiliss

I love my new Street Triple R. From the sound which is amazing to the ride which is so inspiring. Everything about this bike makes me happy.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Triumph Street Triple R
08 December 2008 by Leeharding1969

I love this bike it has tons of power to hand all the time with a amazing sound track. The brakes and suspension feel like they will never be out of their depth no mater how hard you push them. The magura bars and adjusters on top of the forks give the controls a touch of class. Only try if you can buy, because you will want one if you do !.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
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