Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 vs. Triumph Speed Triple R 2016

The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS model year 2021 and the Triumph Speed Triple R model year 2016 are both naked bikes from Triumph, but they have some notable differences in terms of specifications and features.

Starting with the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021, it is equipped with an inline three-cylinder engine that delivers a powerful 180 HP of power and 125 Nm of torque. The engine displacement is 1160cc, and it is liquid-cooled. The bike features a telescopic upside-down fork suspension at the front, with Öhlins brand and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension is a single-sided swingarm with an Öhlins monoshock, also adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The frame is made of aluminum, and the bike has a dual-tube frame design. The front brakes are dual discs with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston radial monobloc Brembo calipers. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, and traction control. The dimensions include a front tire width of 120mm, a front tire diameter of 17 inches, a rear tire width of 190mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1445mm, a seat height of 830mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 198kg. The fuel tank has a capacity of 15.5 liters.

Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021

On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple R 2016 is also equipped with an inline three-cylinder engine, but it produces a slightly lower power of 140 HP and torque of 112 Nm. The engine displacement is 1050cc, and it is also liquid-cooled. The bike features a telescopic upside-down fork suspension at the front, with Öhlins brand and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension is a single-sided swingarm with an Öhlins monoshock, also adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The frame is made of aluminum, and it has a dual-tube frame design similar to the 2021 model. The front brakes are dual discs with a diameter of 320mm and four-piston radial monobloc Brembo calipers. The bike comes with ABS and traction control as rider assistance systems. The dimensions include a front tire width of 120mm, a front tire diameter of 17 inches, a rear tire width of 190mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1435mm, a seat height of 825mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 212kg. The fuel tank capacity is the same as the 2021 model, at 15.5 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 is praised for its incredible versatility, being easy to ride in city traffic while also being super-fast when needed. The powerful and rev-happy engine, top-notch gearbox, and quiet operation when required are also highlighted. The bike is described as lightweight and compact, with stable behavior even in fast corners, strong brakes, and precise handling. On the other hand, the Triumph Speed Triple R 2016 is praised for its powerful and unique three-cylinder engine, strong brakes, well-functioning electronics, excellent Öhlins suspension components, and traditional appearance.

Triumph Speed Triple R 2016

However, both models have some weaknesses. The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 is criticized for its slow load change reactions at low speeds, slightly low steering angle, narrow knee angle for tall riders, stubborn connectivity with mobile phones, squeaky brakes, overly defensive traction control even in track mode, handlebar vibrations, and suspension that doesn't respond with enough sensitivity due to a tight basic setup. The Triumph Speed Triple R 2016 is criticized for its somewhat slow handling and high price for the R version.

In conclusion, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS 2021 offers more power, advanced rider assistance systems, and improved overall performance compared to the Triumph Speed Triple R 2016. However, both bikes have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and priorities.