Star spangled specials! Triumph launch Evel Knievel tribute Rocket 3 range

Triumph Motorcycles are continuing their recent run of limited-edition bikes, with a pair of Rocket 3 cruisers paying tribute to stunt rider Evel Knievel.

Available as either a £26,195 Rocket 3 GT, or £25,495 Rocket 3 R, just 500 special models will be built globally – featuring a stars and stripes paintjob that some might argue is a touch understated to truly reflect Knievel’s flamboyance.

“Evel Knievel performed many stunts on Triumph motorcycles during the 60s, but his jump at Caesar’s Palace on a T120 TT, was the moment he created a legend that has inspired generations of fans,” Triumph Chief Commercial Officer, Paul Stroud said.

• Related: Triumph Bonneville T120 review

Knievel used his T120 to complete the 141-foot jump over the Caesar’s Palace fountains in Las Vegas on December 31, 1967. In 1972, a T120 strapped with a pair of wings was also used to promote his Skycycle X-2 Rocket stunt jump attempt over Twin Falls, in Idaho.

“With just 250 of each model available globally featuring beautiful Knievel design touches and with a specially commissioned book celebrating his achievements with Triumph, these Rocket 3 Limited Editions will appeal to collectors, fans and the thrill seekers among us,” Stroud continued.

• Related: Triumph Launch Elvis edition Bonnevilles

The 2500cc three-cylinder Rockets hold the accolade of being the torquiest mass production bikes ever built – chucking out 166lb.ft at just 4000rpm.

Each special bike will also come with a unique start-up screen animation, plus a numbered black and gold cam cover plate, laser-etched with the Evel Knievel signature logo.

The bike will come with an individually numbered hardback book, too – written by Stuart Barker and signed by Triumph CEO Nick Bloor.

Watch: Triumph Rocket 3 video review