Triumph unleashes 2024 Triumph Rocket 3 Storm

Triumph has ripped the covers off the latest iteration of its mega-cube power cruiser, the 2024 Triumph Rocket 3, with the revision encompassing more performance, lighter wheels, and a styling refresh in line with model’s new Storm moniker.

Marking 20 years since the introduction of the first Triumph Rocket 3 and five since the arrival of the second-generation model, the two basic roadster and tourer variants introduced in 2019 continue, with the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R and Triumph Rocket 3 Storm GT essentially sharing the same engine, chassis and driveline. However, the major headline concerns a tuning revision for the model’s monster 2458cc triple, which has boosted output appreciably.

That’s right, the engine that already held titles for having the most torque and the largest capacity of any volume production motorcycle powerplant has jumped in performance yet again. The 2458cc triple now pumps out nine per cent more power, jumping by 15hp to a claimed peak of 182hp at 7000rpm, while peak torque has also increased by 4Nm to 225Nm at 4000rpm.

The gains have been made purely through “some clever tweaks to the engine management system”, says Triumph. The bikes also meet the latest Euro5b emissions standards and have slightly improved fuel economy, according to Triumph, while the weight of the two variants essentially remains unchanged (although Triumph says it recently switched to quoting wet weights, including all fluids, from dry weights, making direct like-for-like comparisons difficult).

Elsewhere, the Rocket 3 update sees new lightweight 10-spoke cast-aluminium wheels (now shod with Metzeler Cruisetec rubber, in lieu of Avon Cobras – a result of the recent closure of Avon's British production facility) shave 1kg of unsprung mass, while the forged aluminium chassis and suspension package (comprising Showa 47mm inverted fork and Showa piggyback monoshock) carry over.

The Brembo braking package also continues, with Brembo’s powerful Stylema four-piston calipers up front complemented by a large radial-mount monobloc caliper at the rear.

In keeping with the new ‘Storm’ label, the two variants also sport darker and moodier styling, with darker two-tone paint schemes and numerous blacked-out components throughout, contrasting with items like the brushed aluminium tank strap, Monza-style aluminium fuel cap, bright machined engine fins, and the aluminium airbox cover. “It’s a muscular and imposing yet refined look that conveys the explosive performance potential but with an air of restrained sophistication,” says Triumph.

The move also reflects customer feedback that strongly favoured a darker theme. Both bikes are available in three colour schemes – Carnival Red, Saturn Blue, or Sapphire Black – but each variant sports an inverted two-tone tank to its sibling.

Premium finishes and materials are found throughout, as well as clean, internally wired handlebars, concealed folding rear footpegs, and full LED lighting, including DRLs and a taillight that integrates seamlessly with the rear guard.

While the pair share the same underpinning and mechanics, there are a number of differences between the roadster ‘R’ and the more touring-oriented ‘GT’. The R features sportier mid-mount controls and roadster handlebars, while the GT has forward controls and grips that afford a more upright stance.

The seating is also different – the GT has sculpted touring seat plus a pillion seat that is larger and features a backrest – while the GT also has a fly screen for added wind protection. And the GT comes with heated handlebar grips as standard (they’re an extra-cost accessory on the R).

Underlining the versatility of the pair is the fact that each of the above aspects is interchangeable – you could potentially have forward controls on the R, for example – while customers can choose from over 50 genuine accessories to enhance their Rocket 3’s comfort, practicality, style or security. Standout items include Givi-developed luggage options, a bi-directional quickshifter, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The 2024 Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R is priced at $38,890 ride away while the 2024 Triumph Rocket 3 Storm GT is priced at $39,890 ride away, representing price hikes over the old model of $2340 and $2000 respectively. The pair will go on sale nationally in April. See your nearest Triumph dealership for more information.