Carrying on from the Rocket III, launched in 2004, the latest entry into the power cruiser market is the 2019 Triumph Rocket 3 R and its sibling the Rocket 3 GT. Boasting of the world’s largest production motorcycle engine at 2,500 cc, the Rocket 3 takes the fight directly to the Ducati Diavel and X Diavel.
In a world where manufacturers frequently boast of superlatives, Triumph’s Rocket 3 comes with 221 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, which compares against the 235 Nm at 4,100 rpm of a 2019 Toyota Camry. Putting it in perspective, the Rocket 3 R weighs 291 kg dry and the Rocket 3 GT 294 kg – 40 kg lighter than the Rocket III – while the Camry tips the scales at 1,550 kg.
Meanwhile, power clocks in at 165 hp at 6,000 rpm, up 11% from the previous generation Rocket III, all coming from the liquid-cooled triple engine. Power gets to the ground via a torque-assist, hydraulic clutch with six-speed gearbox and shaft final drive with first major service coming at 16,000 km.
There are two versions of the Rocket 3 on offer, the R and the GT. Main difference between the two is the Rocket 3 R favours the sporty rider while the Rocket 3 GT is meant more for laid back cruising and distance touring.
Suspension is with fully-adjustable Showa rear monoshock while the front end uses 47 mm Showa forks adjustable for rebound and compression. Braking is done with Brembo’s M4.30 Stylema four-piston callipers clamping 320 mm discs, with cornering ABS.
Electronic aids abound on the Rocket 3, including Triumph’s second generation TFT-LCD instrument panel, traction control, four ride modes and all-round LED lighting. Also standard is hill hold control, cruise control and keyless start.
Fuel is carried in an 18-litre tank, while seat height is 773 mm on the Rocket 3 R and 750 mm on the Rocket 3 GT and wheel sizing is 150/80-17 in front and 240/50-16 at the back. The Rocket 3 R comes in Korosi Red while the Rocket 3 GT comes in Silver Ice and Storm Grey with a Korosi Red pinstripe while the Phantom Black paint option is available for both models.
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Ducati Diavel’s arch nemesis..
I like the one-sided swingarm. But why no one-sided fork (for example Hossack style)? This would fit on a bike like that IMHO.