New Triumph Speed Triple for 2016

November 2015

Euro4 emissions | Speed Triple R | Öhlins
 

It looks better than ever. That's our first impression, and Triumph Motorcycles has way too much at stake to screw this up. So we're convinced that the 2016 Speed Triple will perform better, ride slicker provide more rider feedback and will find itself in the hands and garages of a lot of fans.

The Euro4 emissions regulations are on the way. These rules, which come into force on 1st January 2016 (for totally new bikes, or 1st January 2017 for existing models) will further tighten exhaust gas limits and ensure that engine designers are ever more frugal with fuel. The regulations also require a motorcycle exhaust emissions to remain within prescribed limits after 20,000kms of use.

A less restrictive exhaust system (offering 70% more flow) will, says Triumph, deal more efficiently with spent gases. A slipper clutch will help ensure improved gearbox control and traction. And a smaller radiator looks more stylish and is claimed to be better at doing its job. Also, there's now an air intake over the headlights (we're not too crazy about that yet, but maybe the styling will slowly convert us).

The electronics have been improved with four pre-set riding modes, plus one more configurable mode. The pre-sets are: ROAD, RAIN, SPORT, TRACK. The fifth is whatever you can get away with. Switch-able ABS and traction control is a given.

The 2016 Speed Triple R will arrive with a carbon fibre front mudguard, fuel tank in-fills, a better Öhlins NIX30 inverted fork (no specifics given), and an Öhlins TTX36 RSU shock. Also, the handlebar clamps, risers, swinging arm pivot covers and rear wheel nut are machined from billet aluminium (or possibly some other appropriate alloy).

It's the same bike, but different. More powerful and torquier says Triumph (we're awaiting the numbers), and still at the top of its game.

Britain at its best, we say.

— Big End