
Triumph whipped the covers off three new models at the Milan Motorcycle Expo this week, with the highly-anticipated 1200cc triple-cylinder Explorer adventure machine, a tasty up-spec R version of the Speed Triple and Steve McQueen Edition of the long-standing Bonneville.
The Explorer boass electronic goodies like ride-by-wire throttle system, cruise control, as well as a traction control system and ABS which are both switchable.
The engine has 16,000km servicing intervals which is highly-suited to long-distance touring, as is the fully-adjustable screen and handlebar.
The shaft-drive and single-sided swingarm also aid in maintenance reduction and the 19” front wheel makes the Explorer a versatile go-anywhere machine.
Joining the list of features is a all-new instrumentation which is operated via thumb controls mounted to the switchgear and has an onboard computer, which includes an ice warning feature.
The 2012 Tiger Explorer will be available in three colours, Sapphire Blue, Graphite and Phantom Black.
TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE R
Following on from the Daytona 675R, the brand’s long-standing Speed Triple is the latest model to benefit from the R treatment.
Receiving the latest in suspension and braking packages from Öhlins and Brembo, the Speed Triple R gets the top-of-the-line radial-mounted, four-piston monobloc calipers and is available with optional ABS. Suspending the new machine is the up-spec 43mm NIX30 Öhlins fork and the TTX36 rear shock at the rear. All-new five-spoke forged aluminium wheels are 1.7kg lighter than the standard offering and, combined with the new Brembos, offers a five percent increase in braking performance.
The engine remains unchanged from the current model, albeit matched to Triumph’s latest gearbox for a more positive actuation.
Cosmetically, there’s a trick-looking red subframe, a branded black alloy tapered handlebar, plenty of carbon fibre and Pirelli Supercorsa SP tyres.
The Speed Triple R will be available in two colours, a black version or a white version, with pricing yet to be announced.
STEVE McQUEEN EDITION BONEVILLE
With only 1100 units produced worldwide, the all-new Steve McQueen edition Bonneville pays homage to what was possibly Steve McQueen’s most famous scene – jumping the fence in the movie, The Great Escape.
There’s a swag of military-inspired styling cues with the khaki-green paint scheme, stencilled decals, a luggage rack, a solo seat and a bash plate.
The bike’s rims, hubs, rear suspension, mirrors and headlight have all been blacked-out, while McQueen’s own signature appears on the sidecovers.
Each bike bears a plaque on the handlebar clamp which is individually numbered and owners will also receive a certificate of authenticity.