Main points
- This makes the S a more affordable option, but the RS offers a few additional features and a slightly more sophisticated suspension.
- The S is a more affordable and agile option, while the RS is more sophisticated and has a few additional features.
The Triumph Speed Triple 1050 has long been a favorite among riders who crave a combination of power, agility, and style. For 2023, Triumph has introduced two new variants of the Speed Triple: the S and the RS. While both bikes share the same basic platform, there are some key differences between them that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
Engine and Performance
Both the Speed Triple 1050 S and RS are powered by the same 1,050cc triple-cylinder engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque, giving both bikes plenty of power for both street riding and track days. However, there are some subtle differences in the way the engine is tuned between the two models.
The Speed Triple 1050 S has a slightly more aggressive tune than the RS, with a higher redline and more aggressive cam timing. This gives the S a bit more power and responsiveness, especially at high RPMs. The RS, on the other hand, has a more linear power delivery and a lower redline, making it easier to ride smoothly and controllably.
Suspension and Handling
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS also have different suspension components. The S comes with Öhlins NIX30 forks and Öhlins TTX36 rear shock, while the RS gets Öhlins NIX30 forks and Öhlins STX40 rear shock. The STX40 shock has a remote reservoir, which allows for more precise adjustment of the damping.
In terms of handling, the Speed Triple 1050 S is slightly more agile and responsive than the RS, thanks to its lighter weight and shorter wheelbase. The RS, on the other hand, is more stable and composed at high speeds, thanks to its longer wheelbase and more sophisticated suspension.
Brakes
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS both have Brembo brakes, but the RS gets slightly larger discs and more aggressive pads. This gives the RS slightly better braking performance, especially on the track.
Features
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS come with a similar range of features, including a full-color TFT display, cruise control, and traction control. However, the RS gets a few additional features, such as a quickshifter, launch control, and heated grips.
Price
The Speed Triple 1050 S starts at $14,450, while the RS starts at $16,550. This makes the S a more affordable option, but the RS offers a few additional features and a slightly more sophisticated suspension.
Which One is Right for You?
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS are both excellent motorcycles, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The S is a more affordable and agile option, while the RS is more sophisticated and has a few additional features. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one you prefer.
Engine and Performance
The Speed Triple 1050 S has a slightly more aggressive tune than the RS, with a higher redline and more aggressive cam timing. This gives the S a bit more power and responsiveness, especially at high RPMs. The RS, on the other hand, has a more linear power delivery and a lower redline, making it easier to ride smoothly and controllably.
Suspension and Handling
The Speed Triple 1050 S is slightly more agile and responsive than the RS, thanks to its lighter weight and shorter wheelbase. The RS, on the other hand, is more stable and composed at high speeds, thanks to its longer wheelbase and more sophisticated suspension.
Brakes
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS both have Brembo brakes, but the RS gets slightly larger discs and more aggressive pads. This gives the RS slightly better braking performance, especially on the track.
Features
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS come with a similar range of features, including a full-color TFT display, cruise control, and traction control. However, the RS gets a few additional features, such as a quickshifter, launch control, and heated grips.
Price
The Speed Triple 1050 S starts at $14,450, while the RS starts at $16,550. This makes the S a more affordable option, but the RS offers a few additional features and a slightly more sophisticated suspension.
Which One is Right for You?
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS are both excellent motorcycles, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The S is a more affordable and agile option, while the RS is more sophisticated and has a few additional features. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one you prefer.
The Verdict: Triumph Speed Triple 1050 S vs RS
The Triumph Speed Triple 1050 S and RS are both excellent motorcycles, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The S is a more affordable and agile option, while the RS is more sophisticated and has a few additional features. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one you prefer.
Top Questions Asked
What is the difference between the Triumph Speed Triple 1050 S and RS?
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS have different suspension components, with the RS getting slightly more sophisticated Öhlins suspension. The RS also gets a few additional features, such as a quickshifter, launch control, and heated grips.
Which Triumph Speed Triple 1050 is better?
The Speed Triple 1050 S and RS are both excellent motorcycles, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The S is a more affordable and agile option, while the RS is more sophisticated and has a few additional features. Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them and see which one you prefer.
How much does the Triumph Speed Triple 1050 cost?
The Speed Triple 1050 S starts at $14,450, while the RS starts at $16,550.
