What To Know
- While the Speed Twin offers plenty of grunt for everyday riding, the Speed Triple’s extra power and torque make it a more exhilarating ride on the open road.
- The Speed Twin’s traditional steel frame and twin rear shocks provide a comfortable and planted ride, while the Speed Triple’s aluminum frame and monoshock suspension offer a more sporty and responsive feel.
- The Speed Twin’s upright handlebars and forward-set footpegs provide a more relaxed and upright riding position, while the Speed Triple’s lower handlebars and rearset footpegs create a more aggressive and sporty riding posture.
The Triumph Speed Twin and Speed Triple are two of the most iconic motorcycles in the British manufacturer’s lineup. Both bikes offer a thrilling combination of power, agility, and style, but they have distinct personalities that appeal to different riders. This blog post will delve into the details of the Triumph Speed Twin vs Speed Triple to help you decide which one is the perfect ride for you.
Engine and Performance
The Speed Twin and Speed Triple are powered by different variations of Triumph’s legendary 1200cc parallel-twin engine. The Speed Twin features a “high-torque” version of the engine, which produces 97 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque. The Speed Triple, on the other hand, boasts a “high-output” version with 116 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque.
While the Speed Twin offers plenty of grunt for everyday riding, the Speed Triple’s extra power and torque make it a more exhilarating ride on the open road. However, the Speed Twin’s lower-revving engine provides smoother and more relaxed power delivery, making it a better choice for urban commuting.
Handling and Suspension
Both the Speed Twin and Speed Triple are known for their agile handling and precise steering. The Speed Twin’s traditional steel frame and twin rear shocks provide a comfortable and planted ride, while the Speed Triple’s aluminum frame and monoshock suspension offer a more sporty and responsive feel.
In terms of suspension, the Speed Twin comes with basic Showa forks and shocks, while the Speed Triple features fully adjustable Öhlins components. This gives the Speed Triple a clear advantage in terms of handling precision and cornering ability.
Design and Style
The Speed Twin and Speed Triple have distinct design aesthetics that reflect their different personalities. The Speed Twin is inspired by Triumph’s classic Bonneville models, with a retro-modern look that features a round headlamp, wire-spoke wheels, and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank. The Speed Triple, on the other hand, is a modern streetfighter with an aggressive stance, angular bodywork, and a single-sided swingarm.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The Speed Twin and Speed Triple offer different riding positions that cater to different preferences. The Speed Twin’s upright handlebars and forward-set footpegs provide a more relaxed and upright riding position, while the Speed Triple’s lower handlebars and rearset footpegs create a more aggressive and sporty riding posture.
In terms of comfort, both bikes have well-padded seats and good wind protection. However, the Speed Twin’s more upright riding position makes it a more comfortable choice for long rides.
Features and Technology
The Speed Twin and Speed Triple come with a range of modern features and technology. Both bikes have full-color TFT instrument clusters, ABS brakes, and traction control. The Speed Triple, however, offers additional features such as cruise control, quickshifter, and a more advanced traction control system.
Price and Value
The Triumph Speed Twin has a starting price of around $12,000, while the Speed Triple starts at around $14,000. For the additional cost, the Speed Triple offers a more powerful engine, better suspension, and more advanced features. However, the Speed Twin represents a better value for riders who prioritize comfort, style, and everyday usability.
Which One is Right for You?
The Triumph Speed Twin and Speed Triple are both excellent motorcycles that cater to different types of riders. If you’re looking for a classic-inspired bike with comfortable ergonomics, the Speed Twin is a great choice. If you prefer a more aggressive, sporty bike with thrilling performance, the Speed Triple is the one for you.
Ultimate Verdict: A Matter of Taste
Ultimately, the choice between the Triumph Speed Twin and Speed Triple comes down to personal preference. Both bikes are excellent in their own right, and there is no wrong answer. Whether you prioritize comfort, style, or performance, there is a Triumph Speed Twin or Speed Triple that will fit your needs perfectly.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which bike is more fuel-efficient, the Speed Twin or Speed Triple?
A: The Speed Twin is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Speed Triple, with an estimated fuel consumption of 50-55 mpg compared to 45-50 mpg for the Speed Triple.
Q: Can I customize the Speed Twin or Speed Triple to my liking?
A: Yes, both the Speed Twin and Speed Triple have a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available, allowing you to personalize your bike to your own unique style.
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance touring?
A: The Speed Twin’s more upright riding position and comfortable seat make it a better choice for long-distance touring compared to the Speed Triple’s sportier riding position.
Q: Can I ride the Speed Twin or Speed Triple off-road?
A: While both bikes have some off-road capability, they are primarily designed for on-road use. Riding them off-road may compromise their performance and durability.
Q: Which bike has a lower maintenance cost?
A: The Speed Twin and Speed Triple have similar maintenance costs, as they share many common components. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and brake pad replacements, should be performed at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.