Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RX Review

There are moments when a motorcycle is not just a vehicle, but a manifestation of an idea. As the morning sun casts its warming rays over the asphalt of the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, I stand before a machine that embodies just that: the new Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RX. Limited to just 1200 units worldwide. A motorcycle that blurs the boundaries between the realms of naked bikes and superbikes.

The first glance reveals its intent: In striking Performance Yellow, with carbon accents on the mudguard and side panels, distinctive RX logos, and lower-positioned clip-on handlebars, this motorcycle signals its ambitions. It doesn't want to be just another naked bike. It wants more.

The clip-ons are positioned exactly 69 mm lower and 52 mm further forward than on the Speed Triple 1200 RS. The footpegs have been raised by 14.5 mm and moved 25.5 mm to the rear. A clear statement: This is about focused, sporty riding. About precise control. About reducing to the essentials.

As I begin the first lap on the still slightly damp track of Portimão, it's immediately clear: This Speed Triple X is indeed a fascinating hybrid motorcycle. A crossover that tries to unite the best of both worlds. And a first glance at the speedometer after the last corner onto the start-finish straight reveals: In the very first stint, I'm 8 km/h faster than before with the Speed Triple 1200 RS – despite isolated wet patches on the asphalt. And a long day still lies ahead!

The third-generation electronic Öhlins suspension is at the heart of the riding experience. As the laps pile up on the challenging Portimão circuit, the depth of tuning options becomes apparent. "It's fascinating to set up your bike without having to compromise," I think, as I deliberately soften the fork damping in the braking zone at the corner entry to achieve better handling and easier access to the inside line.

The system calculates the optimal damping setting 100 times per second using various parameters: speed, lean angle, throttle position, and brake pressure. The trick is that each riding condition can be optimized separately. In fast sections with high rolling speeds, I increase stability by two clicks under the "Cornering Support" menu—and the suspension noticeably calms down without losing agility.

The electronic Öhlins SD EC steering damper is more than just an accessory. It is an integral part of the suspension setup, seamlessly integrated into the Smart EC3 system. The pressurized design eliminates any play and ensures precise steering feedback without disruptive influences. In tight corners, it offers freedom in front-end control, while in wheelie sections, it gives the feeling of having "a rock-solid and stable superbike beneath you." The electronic suspension is essentially identical to the "RS" system. However, the semi-active steering damper is exclusive to the "RX".

The seating position reveals the balancing act Triumph is attempting here: sporty enough for the track, yet just comfortable enough for longer rides. Despite the sportier orientation, even a full-grown Central European finds ample space. The forward-oriented posture forces you into a more dynamic stance, yet you still retain the freedom to move.

In fast corners, the altered geometry shines. The bike feels more stable and controlled. The new seat, covered with an Alcantara-like material and embossed with the RX logo, offers additional grip—a detail that is certainly appreciated during sporty riding.

However, the enhanced stability comes at a cost: in tight turns, the RX feels a bit less nimble than the handling marvel Speed Triple RS. The narrower handlebars offer less leverage than the wide bars of the Speed Triple RS, where the bike can be pushed into the radius with playful inputs. This playful agility is somewhat lost in certain sections with the RX. But let's be clear: the RX is the faster bike! Stability triumphs over agility—that was my conclusion after just a few test laps.

The three-cylinder engine with 1160 cc remains the heart of the machine. Delivering 183 HP at 10,750 RPM and 128 Nm at 8,750 RPM, it propels the mere 199 kg bike forward with vigor. The liquid-cooled triple, equipped with twelve valves and a compression ratio of 13.2:1, works harmoniously with the six-speed gearbox and the excellent quickshifter.

However, at top speed, a downside of naked bikes becomes apparent: at 250 km/h, it’s truly brutal in the saddle. Even the forward-leaning riding position can't save you here. The headlight cowl and small flyscreen offer no significant aerodynamic protection for the rider—a compromise that comes with this concept. The Speed Triple, even in the RX, is a true naked bike. It's elegant and beautiful, lacking aerodynamic elements. This look fits well with the harmonious overall concept. It's not a stripped-down superbike but a true naked bike that rides very sportily. But you can definitely feel it in the RX's saddle—this was always designed as a naked bike. This distinctly sets it apart from other power naked bikes.

The standard Akrapovič exhaust with its titanium body is not only a visual treat but also saves 700 grams compared to the standard version. The carbon accents on the fenders and side panels emphasize the sporty ambition, while the 5-inch TFT color display clearly presents all vital information. Readability was consistently excellent.

The electronic riding aids—from wheelie control to cornering ABS to traction control—operate at a high level in the background, providing a tight safety net. The RX and RS use an identical electronic system—with one exception: as mentioned, the RX also integrates the steering damper into the electronic system. For the fastest riders in the group, even the highest level of wheelie control was too conservative, prompting them to opt for extra firm suspension setups.

In the end, it was impressive how broad the motorcycle's range was. The lap time differences among the riders were certainly between 20-30 seconds per lap. There were both fast and rather slow riders present. Yet, everyone dismounted with a wide grin. The Speed Triple is simply a joy to ride and satisfies a wide audience. This capability is due not only to the excellent hardware but also to the software.

Priced at 21,695 euros in Germany (excluding additional costs), 25,595 euros in Austria, and 21,995 CHF in Switzerland, the Speed Triple 1200 RX firmly positions itself in the premium segment. However, considering the offered features, the price difference compared to the standard RS seems justified.

You don't feel like you're paying just for the badge; instead, you get top-notch hardware for your money: a high-quality Akrapovič exhaust, electronic steering damper, carbon accents, a beautifully crafted triple clamp, and not least, the altered ergonomics that significantly influence the riding dynamics.

The Öhlins Objective Based Tuning Interface embodies the essence of modern suspension technology—a digital evolution that doesn't replace the analog feel of motorcycling but elevates it. Instead of requiring the rider to deal with cryptic damping settings for compression and rebound, the system uses intuitive terms: more or less support in corners, stronger or weaker dive during braking, altered stability during acceleration. The real magic happens behind the scenes: 100 times per second, the electronics analyze the riding conditions and adjust the damping characteristics in real-time. What used to be the domain of factory riders and race engineers—finding the perfect setup—is now available at the touch of a button. The spool valve technology not only allows for significantly quicker adjustments than traditional needle systems but also offers a broader range between comfort and sporty stiffness. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RX thus becomes a chameleon, adapting its character in split seconds to the track's demands and the rider's preferences. The RX's suspension is identical to the RS in terms of hardware and software—with one exception: on the RX, the steering damper is also integrated into the electronic system.

When Triumph introduced the first Speed Triple in 1994, no one anticipated that it would establish a new category of motorcycles. With its iconic twin headlights, robust triple engine, and—yes—its clip-on handlebars, it was a forerunner of the streetfighter segment before that term was even coined. The irony in the evolution of the Speed Triple lies in its transformation over the years from a sporty, radical original to an increasingly comfortable naked bike, only to return to its roots with the RX. The sweeping clip-ons of the early models gave way over the generations to wider, taller handlebars, making the Speed Triple the epitome of the sporty naked bike. With the 2025 RX, this circle remarkably closes: the clip-ons return, but this time they wrap around a state-of-the-art aluminum twin-spar frame with electronic high-tech suspension instead of the original steel tube frame with conventional spring elements. What remains is the untamed character of the triple engine—now with 183 HP instead of the original 98 HP.

After extensive test rides at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, a clear picture emerges: The Speed Triple 1200 RX is once again a pure naked bike, not a stripped-down superbike. It is a high-quality evolution of the Speed Triple concept, consciously seeking a middle ground between these worlds while setting its own accents.

It also targets riders who fundamentally enjoy riding superbikes but no longer have the endurance to truly sit on one, whether on the road or track. It offers a superbike character with a relatively relaxed seating position—a balancing act that is remarkably well achieved.

The Speed Triple 1200 RX is not a revolutionary concept but rather the consistent advancement of a proven platform. It takes the strengths of the Speed Triple RS and refines them for riders seeking a bit more sportiness without completely sacrificing everyday practicality.

After 30 years of Speed Triple history, in a way, a circle closes: With the return of clip-ons, the series visually returns to its roots—while technically setting new standards in terms of control, precision, and focus.

Is the Speed Triple 1200 RX suitable for tall riders?

With a seat height of 830 mm, the RX offers a height typical for sport motorcycles. Riders over 1.80 m will find a suitable position, though the knee angle can become tight for very tall individuals over 1.90 m on longer rides. The sportier ergonomics with lower handlebars and higher footpegs work better for short, sporty outings than for long-distance tours.

How does the Speed Triple 1200 RX compare to the competition?

In the segment of sporty naked bikes, the RX competes with the Ducati Streetfighter V4, BMW S 1000 R, and Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory. While the Ducati offers more power and the BMW clinical precision, the Triumph scores with its characterful triple engine and a well-balanced package. The limitation to 1200 units, the Öhlins suspension, and the Akrapovič exhaust justify its premium price.

What colors are available for the Speed Triple 1200 RX?

The RX is exclusively offered in Triumph Performance Yellow with a Granite graphics scheme and white RX accents. This yellow-black combination highlights the exclusive character and is complemented by a yellow accent on the rear wheel. The color scheme harmonizes with the golden Öhlins components and carbon add-ons.

How does the Speed Triple 1200 RX differ from the previous model?

The RX doesn't really have a predecessor but is based on the 2025 Speed Triple 1200 RS, offering a sportier orientation. The clip-ons are positioned 69 mm lower and 52 mm further forward, the footpegs 14.5 mm higher and 25.5 mm further back. Additionally, it features the Akrapovič titanium exhaust, electronic steering damper, and a special performance seat. Carbon parts and the exclusive yellow paint finish the package.