The latest entry into the power cruiser market is the 2019 Triumph Rocket 3 R
and its sibling the Rocket 3 GT. Boasting of the world’s largest production motorcycle
engine at 2,500 cc, the Rocket 3 takes the fight directly to the Ducati Diavel
and X Diavel.
In a world where manufacturers frequently boast of
superlatives, Triumph’s Rocket 3 comes with 221 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm,
which compares against the 235 Nm at 4,100 rpm of a 2019 Toyota Camry. Putting
it in perspective, the Rocket 3 R weighs 291 kg dry and the Rocket 3 GT 294 kg
– 40 kg lighter than the Rocket III – while the Camry tips the scales at 1,550
kg.
Meanwhile, power clocks in at 165 hp at 6,000 rpm,
up 11% from the previous generation Rocket III, all coming from the
liquid-cooled triple engine. Power gets to the ground via a torque-assist,
hydraulic clutch with six-speed gearbox and shaft final drive with first major
service coming at 16,000 km.
There are two versions of the Rocket 3 on offer, the
R and the GT. Main difference between the two is the Rocket 3 R favours the
sporty rider while the Rocket 3 GT is meant more for laid back cruising and
distance touring.
Suspension is with fully-adjustable Showa rear
monoshock while the front end uses 47 mm Showa forks adjustable for rebound and
compression. Braking is done with Brembo’s M4.30 Stylema four-piston callipers
clamping 320 mm discs, with cornering ABS.
Electronic aids abound on the Rocket 3, including
Triumph’s second generation TFT-LCD instrument panel, traction control, four
ride modes and all-round LED lighting. Also standard is hill hold control,
cruise control and keyless start.
Fuel is carried in an 18-litre tank, while seat height
is 773 mm on the Rocket 3 R and 750 mm on the Rocket 3 GT and wheel sizing is
150/80-17 in front and 240/50-16 at the back. The Rocket 3 R comes in Korosi
Red while the Rocket 3 GT comes in Silver Ice and Storm Grey with a Korosi Red
pinstripe while the Phantom Black paint option is available for both models.
