Boost and bling for new Rocket IIIs

Triumph has announced details of the 2013-spec versions of its Rocket III Roadster and Rocket III Touring, with the former receiving a performance boost and the latter benefitting from a longer list of standard inclusions.

While the Rocket III Roadster’s maximum power and torque figures of 146hp (109kW) and 221Nm remain unchanged, the model has received something a performance upgrade through the loss of its torque limiter – something that previously limited the bike’s output through the first three gears. While you have to wonder why the Roadster was electronically limited in the first place given the fanfare surrounding the feature's removal, the bottom line is owners of the 2013 Rocket III Roadster will get to sample the beast in its first three gears in all its unadulterated, neck-snapping glory. Triumph says the Roadster's 2294cc triple-cylinder powerplant now feels even stronger, and has a crisper, more responsive throttle.

The 2013 Rocket III Roadster also cops a mild update in the cosmetics department, with quite a number of components now finished in black instead of chrome. The vinyl seat features a new stitching pattern and the bike is also available in two new colours: Metallic Phantom Black with twin red centre stripes or Matt Phantom Black with twin white centre stripes.

The 2013 Rocket III Touring, meanwhile, still features the torque limiter but now comes standard with chrome engine bars, a quick-release sissy bar, a passenger backrest, and a quick-release luggage rack, in addition to its expansive quick-release screen and 36lt panniers. Two new colour options will come with coach lines hand painted by a former Meriden Triumph craftsman: back and red with a single coach line, or black with twin gold coach lines.

Both Rocket III models will be available in Triumph dealerships from March; the Rocket III Roadster is priced at $20,990 (plus ORC) while the Rocket III Touring will be priced at $23,990 (plus ORC). See your nearest Triumph dealer for more information.