Triumph Speed Triple R: The harder you ride, the better it gets

Triumph has added a dynamic new dimension to the hugely popular Speed Triple by giving it the ‘R’ treatment.

For an extra £2500 over the standard version (£8799), which was released (and heavily revamped) in 2011, you get Ohlins suspension, lightweight forged aluminium wheels, Brembo monobloc brakes, a host of cosmetic goodies and a 2kg reduction in weight.

It also has a completely redesigned gearbox. It’s turned Triumph’s feisty streetfighter into a hugely competent trackday tool. But is it worth the extra dosh?

Riding the bike at the Jerez circuit in Spain it behaves just like a racer. The addition of the lightweight wheels and Ohlins suspension alone are more than you’re allowed to do when creating a superstock racer.

Like the 675cc Street Triple R, which was released last year, the harder you push the Speed Triple R, the better it behaves. The sooner you release the brakes and the faster you roll in, the more g-force you pull and the better the front end feels.

To read the full first ride report, pick up a copy of the February 1 issue of MCN, out now.