Triumph Motorcycles have been teasing us with the new Rocket 3 for months now, firstly with a special ‘limited edition’ TFC version, boasting a 2500cc motor and an almighty number of torques. Now, they’ve just released all the specifications and details for the new ‘2019’ models – the Triumph Rocket 3 GT and Rocket 3 R.
The new Rocket 3 GT is their ‘touring’ version, while the R is the ‘ultimate muscle roadster’, both of which are based on the all-new 2500cc triple-cylinder motor that produces 221Nm and 165hp. Improvements have been made all over the new bikes compared to the previous model, including an all-new aluminium frame, with premium cast and forged components, specially made tyres, and class-leading electronics, the new Rocket 3’s are an astounding 40kg lighter than the previous model too.
‘Instantaneous world-leading torque’ describes the Rocket 3 R, with an instantly recognisable profile and ‘aggressive’ cruiser styling. Available in a hot-rod red, or ever-popular black, it is big and imposing. Featuring a minimalistic front fairing (it’s not even really a screen) above the signature twin headlights, and a simple and clean double perch seat, the ‘R’ is the bare essentials version of the two new models. Blacked out wheels and a distinct lack of any extra styling features makes the bike look bold and purposeful. Lighting is all-LED, and includes Daytime Running Lights (DRL), all providing excellent visibility and a distinctive light profile.
By comparison, the Rocket 3 GT has been fitted with swept back handlebars, a touring rider and pillion seat that has a backrest, and a taller windscreen for added wind protection and improved comfort. The Rocket 3 GT is also slightly lower in the seat height, at 750mm compared to the Rocket 3 R’s 773mm. Available in a cool silver with red and black detailing, or straight black, with silver and black wheels, the Rocket 3 GT is aimed to be a comfortable tourer. Both bikes can be enhanced further to each individual owner’s preferences with over 50 individual accessories, to add more style, practicality, and touring capability.
Along with the new and improved motor, the 2019 Rocket 3’s share a new lighter aluminium frame and multi-spoke aluminium wheels, which are wrapped in Avon Cobra Chrome tyres, developed especially for the new Rocket 3, measuring 150/80 on a 17-inch wheel at the front and 240/50 on the 16-inch rear wheel. Both bikes also share a comprehensive suite of electronics, starting with the second-generation TFT instrumentation, and stemming from the fitted Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), that allows for Optimised Cornering Traction Control and Optimised Cornering ABS, increasing the overall safety of the extremely powerful motor. Other features include Hill-Hold Control, Cruise-Control, four riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport, and Rider-configurable), along with comfort fitments like keyless ignition, two-mode heated grips (standard on the GT, and an accessory on the R), and a 5v USB charger port under the seat. Triumph Shift Assist can be added as an accessory, enabling both up- and down-quickshifts through the 6-speed gearbox.
The TFT dash can be upgraded with Triumph’s proprietary GoPro control system, turn-by-turn navigation (powered by Google), as well as incorporating phone and music operation via an accessory Bluetooth adapter. Riders can download the ‘My Triumph’ app from either the IOS store and Google store, giving even more control of the navigation features, as well as being able to input places of interest into the bike through their phone. For enhanced rider safety and control, the Rocket 3 models can also be fitted with an accessory Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Suspension duties front and rear are taken care of by Showa, with 47mm upside-down 1+1 cartridge front forks, with compression and rebound adjusters. The rear shock has a piggyback reservoir with a remote hydraulic preload adjuster. Brembo M4.30 Stylema 4-piston monobloc calipers clamp onto the dual 320mm front discs and single 300mm rear disc, working in tune with the Cornering ABS. Dry weights are claimed at 291kg for the Rocket 3 R and 294kg for the Rocket 3 GT.
