Quick notes
- In terms of torque, the S and RS are very close, with the S producing 82 lb-ft at 7,850 rpm and the RS producing 83 lb-ft at 7,850 rpm.
- The S is a more affordable and comfortable option, while the RS is a more powerful and sporty option.
- The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are both powered by the same 1,050cc three-cylinder engine, but the RS gets a slight edge in terms of power and torque.
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are two of the most iconic motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a thrilling blend of power, agility, and style, but they also have some key differences that make them suited to different riders. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Triumph Speed Triple S vs RS to help you decide which bike is right for you.
Performance
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are both powered by the same 1,050cc three-cylinder engine. However, the RS gets a slight edge in terms of power, with 150 horsepower compared to the S’s 148 horsepower. The RS also has a slightly higher redline, at 11,150 rpm compared to the S’s 10,500 rpm.
In terms of torque, the S and RS are very close, with the S producing 82 lb-ft at 7,850 rpm and the RS producing 83 lb-ft at 7,850 rpm. This means that both bikes have plenty of power for acceleration and overtaking.
Handling
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are both known for their excellent handling. Both bikes have a lightweight chassis and a well-balanced suspension system. However, the RS gets a slightly sportier suspension setup, with Öhlins NIX30 forks and TTX36 rear shock. This gives the RS a more planted feel on the road and makes it more capable of handling aggressive riding.
Braking
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS both have excellent braking systems. Both bikes have dual 320mm front discs with Brembo calipers and a single 220mm rear disc. However, the RS gets a slightly more powerful braking system, with Brembo M50 calipers on the front. This gives the RS shorter stopping distances and more feel at the lever.
Comfort
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are both relatively comfortable motorcycles. However, the S is slightly more comfortable, with a more upright riding position and a wider seat. The RS has a more aggressive riding position and a narrower seat, which can be uncomfortable for some riders.
Features
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS both come with a variety of features, including:
- ABS: Anti-lock brakes help to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking.
- Traction control: Traction control helps to prevent the rear wheel from spinning out during acceleration.
- Riding modes: Riding modes allow you to tailor the bike’s performance to different riding conditions.
- Cruise control: Cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed without having to constantly apply throttle.
- Heated grips: Heated grips keep your hands warm in cold weather.
The RS gets a few additional features over the S, including:
- Quick shifter: A quick shifter allows you to shift gears without using the clutch.
- Lap timer: A lap timer allows you to track your lap times on the race track.
- Öhlins steering damper: An Öhlins steering damper helps to reduce headshake at high speeds.
Price
The Triumph Speed Triple S starts at $14,400, while the RS starts at $16,900. This makes the S a more affordable option for riders on a budget. However, the RS offers a number of additional features that may be worth the extra cost for some riders.
Summary
The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are both excellent motorcycles that offer a thrilling blend of power, agility, and style. The S is a more affordable and comfortable option, while the RS is a more powerful and sporty option. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Triumph Speed Triple S and RS?
A: The Triumph Speed Triple S and RS are both powered by the same 1,050cc three-cylinder engine, but the RS gets a slight edge in terms of power and torque. The RS also has a sportier suspension setup, more powerful brakes, and a few additional features, such as a quick shifter and lap timer.
Q: Which bike is better for me, the Triumph Speed Triple S or RS?
A: The best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more affordable and comfortable bike, the S is a good choice. If you’re looking for a more powerful and sporty bike, the RS is a better option.
Q: How much does the Triumph Speed Triple S cost?
A: The Triumph Speed Triple S starts at $14,400.
Q: How much does the Triumph Speed Triple RS cost?
A: The Triumph Speed Triple RS starts at $16,900.
