Triumph’s Dueling Duo: Speed Twin Vs Street Triple – Which One Will Triumph?

In the realm of motorcycles, the Triumph Speed Twin and Street Triple stand tall as two formidable contenders for street supremacy. Both bikes exude a captivating blend of power, agility, and style, leaving enthusiasts torn between these alluring options. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of these two Triumph masterpieces, exploring their key differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Aesthetics

The Triumph Speed Twin embodies a classic café racer aesthetic, with its sleek lines, low-slung stance, and exposed aluminum frame. Its retro-inspired design evokes a sense of nostalgia, while the Street Triple’s aggressive, modern lines exude a raw and athletic character. Both bikes feature a minimalist approach, with clean and uncluttered bodywork that highlights their mechanical prowess.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Speed Twin lies a potent 1200cc parallel-twin engine, renowned for its smooth power delivery and gutsy torque. It produces a thrilling 96 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque, providing ample grunt for spirited acceleration and effortless cruising. The Street Triple, on the other hand, boasts a rev-happy 765cc three-cylinder engine that unleashes a fiery 118 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque. Its higher rev limit and responsive throttle make it an exhilarating ride on winding roads.

Handling and Suspension

The Speed Twin’s handling is a testament to its café racer heritage, offering precise and nimble cornering. Its suspension setup provides a balanced ride, absorbing bumps with aplomb while maintaining stability at higher speeds. The Street Triple, with its sportier intentions, boasts a more aggressive suspension setup that prioritizes handling precision and feedback. Its agile handling makes it a joy to navigate through tight corners and technical sections.

Braking and Safety

Both the Speed Twin and Street Triple are equipped with high-performance braking systems that inspire confidence on the road. They feature dual front discs with Brembo calipers, providing excellent stopping power and feel. Advanced safety features such as ABS and traction control are standard on both models, ensuring peace of mind in various riding conditions.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Speed Twin’s low seat height and relaxed riding position provide a comfortable and upright stance. Its wide handlebars offer ample leverage for maneuvering through traffic. The Street Triple, with its higher seat and sportier ergonomics, favors a more forward-leaning posture. Its narrow handlebars enhance handling but may compromise comfort on longer rides.

Technology and Features

The Triumph Speed Twin and Street Triple offer a range of advanced technological features to enhance the riding experience. Both bikes come with full-color TFT displays that provide a clear and intuitive interface for accessing ride information and adjusting settings. Additionally, the Street Triple features a quickshifter for seamless gear changes and a lap timer for track enthusiasts.

Price and Value

The Triumph Speed Twin has a starting price of around $12,500, while the Street Triple starts at approximately $10,500. Both bikes offer excellent value for money, considering their performance, features, and build quality. The Speed Twin’s classic styling and comfortable ergonomics may appeal to riders seeking a more traditional riding experience, while the Street Triple’s sporty nature and technological advancements will likely resonate with those who crave a thrilling and engaging ride.

The Verdict: A Matter of Preference

The Triumph Speed Twin and Street Triple are both exceptional motorcycles that cater to different riding preferences. The Speed Twin’s classic café racer aesthetics, comfortable ergonomics, and torquey engine make it an ideal choice for riders who appreciate a balanced and stylish ride. The Street Triple, with its aggressive handling, high-revving engine, and advanced technology, is the perfect companion for those who seek an adrenaline-pumping experience on the streets. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual riding style, priorities, and budget.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Which bike is faster, the Speed Twin or Street Triple?
A: The Street Triple has a slight edge in top speed and acceleration due to its higher horsepower and rev limit.

Q: Is the Speed Twin more comfortable for long rides?
A: Yes, the Speed Twin‘s lower seat height and upright riding position provide greater comfort on extended journeys.

Q: Which bike has better fuel economy?
A: The Speed Twin‘s larger engine capacity results in slightly lower fuel economy compared to the Street Triple.

Q: Is the Street Triple better for track riding?
A: Yes, the Street Triple‘s sportier ergonomics, higher rev limit, and quickshifter make it more suitable for track use.

Q: Which bike has a more classic look?
A: The Speed Twin embodies a classic café racer aesthetic, while the Street Triple has a more modern and aggressive design.

Q: Is the Speed Twin more expensive to maintain?
A: Maintenance costs for both bikes are comparable, as they share similar components and service intervals.

Q: Which bike holds its value better?
A: Both the Speed Twin and Street Triple have a strong reputation for reliability and quality, resulting in excellent resale value.

Q: Is the Street Triple a good choice for beginners?
A: The Street Triple can be a suitable choice for experienced beginners due to its user-friendly handling and advanced safety features.

Q: Which bike has a better exhaust note?
A: Both bikes have distinct exhaust notes, with the Speed Twin’s twin-cylinder sound being more subdued and the Street Triple‘s three-cylinder exhaust note being more aggressive.

Q: Is the Speed Twin available in a limited edition?
A: Yes, Triumph occasionally releases limited-edition versions of the Speed Twin with unique styling and features.