A new version of the 2.3-litre three-cylinder
cruiser from Triumph may be launched in 2019, and an updated model may already
be in the works, if pictures and information from a Triumph dealer conference
are to be believed. A design sketch of a possible new model of the Triumph
Rocket III was briefly flashed on the screen at the dealer conference which was
held back in October. A bike, which may have been a prototype of the new model
was also ridden across the stage, but it didn't stop and so there are no
pictures available. So far, there's no concrete information, but the bike in
question could be an updated model of the Triumph Rocket III, which was taken
off production since it did not meet the latest emission regulations.
The 2019 Triumph Rocket is likely to get an updated,
Euro-IV-compliant version of the 2,294 cc three-cylinder engine that's made the
Rocket III the largest production motorcycle engine in the world. The last
generation Rocket made around 148 bhp, so the new 2019 Rocket is expected to
get a power boost, as well as more equipment, in terms of electronics. So,
expect riding modes, traction control, and maybe even wheelie control. And
power output could well surpass the 159 bhp peak output of the Ducati Diavel
1260.
At this point, there's no concrete information on
what exactly Triumph is planning with the new Rocket, but from the design
sketches, it seems likely that the updated bike will get a single-sided
swingarm, upside down forks with radial Brembo calipers gripping the twin
discs. The round twin headlights from the previous model will likely be
retained, but the suspension could see a deviation, with a move from the twin
shocks to a monoshock rear. So far, there's no news of a launch date, and the
new model hasn't been spotted undergoing test runs anywhere as well. In all
likelihood, more details will emerge by the second half of 2019, with a
possible unveil in the autumn of 2019.
