Introduction to the 2023 Triumph Street Triple
Since its establishment in the early 2000s, the Triumph Street Triple has quickly gained a devoted following. Recognized for its distinctive twin circular headlights and powerful Daytona 675 engine, this middleweight naked bike has always commanded attention. The 2020 Triumph Street Triple 765 range was already highly regarded among naked bike enthusiasts. However, for 2023, Triumph has refined and enhanced this tried-and-true formula to introduce the new Street Triple 765 R and RS models.
Design Evolution
Regarding the design aspect, there have been some alterations made, although they are not drastic. Fortunately, the overall shape of the Triumph remains mostly unchanged, which is a positive aspect for me because I have always been a fan of its bug-eyed headlights and aggressive, compact appearance. Despite being minor, these changes contribute to enhancing the bike’s sharpness.
Fuel tank modification
For instance, there is now a more defined fuel tank with recesses that greatly improves my grip on the bike. Additionally, if tank grips are added, it becomes even better. However, it is essential to note that this design modification has resulted in a decrease in capacity; the new tank now holds 15 liters of fuel instead of the previous 17.4 liters.
Instrumentation and colors
Triumph’s Street Triple 2023 blueprint emphasized a greater emphasis on sharpness in its design. Additionally, the RS model offers an optional color-matched belly panel that is not available on the R model. The menacing bug-eyed headlamp unit remains the same, but with a shorter cowl resembling the one found on the new Speed Triple 1200 RS. The tail light has also been redesigned to complement the new design mantra.
As for instrumentation, the RS version features an updated five-inch color TFT unit, while the R model shares its instrument cluster with the Tiger Sport 660 and Trident 660. When it comes to colors, the R model offers a choice between two options. The first one is silver combined with grey and yellow graphics, while the second option is white paired with grey and flame graphics. On the other hand, the RS model provides three color choices.
Engine Enhancements
The brilliant minds at Hinckley have collaborated extensively on this particular project. They have made significant modifications to the engine derived from Moto2, enhancing its usability in every conceivable scenario. Triumph has applied the knowledge acquired from the previous Moto2 seasons, incorporating features such as a precision-machined combustion chamber and head, along with piston crowns that are identical to those used in the Moto2 bike.
Even the inlet ports boast the same design as the race bikes, with the only distinction being that the Moto2 bikes are hand-polished. These alterations have resulted in an increased compression ratio of 13.25:1, surpassing the previous ratio of 12.54:1. Triumph has successfully extracted more power, boosting the RS’s output from 121.36 bhp to 128.2 bhp and increasing the R’s power output to 118.4 bhp.
Furthermore, torque throughout the range has been elevated from 79 Nm to 80 Nm. To handle this additional power effectively, engineers have also developed a sturdier gearbox with revised ratios; the first gear is taller, and subsequent gears possess higher ratios.
On-Road Performance
In simple terms, the performance of the Street Triple is forgiving but powerful. From the moment you release the clutch to start moving, it feels lively. You can stay in first gear for longer periods, and there is plenty of torque to play with throughout the other gears. The midrange power is stronger, allowing you to use a higher gear than usual.
This was particularly useful for me as a beginner at Jerez, as I was trying to get used to the smooth nature of the track. During our on-track session, we only used the RS’s race mode, meaning electronic assistance was minimal and the throttle response was more aggressive. Only at low revs did I notice a slightly twitchy throttle response.
Chassis and handling
As I increased my speed, everything came together seamlessly. There was ample acceleration coming out of each corner, and even when I made mistakes in selecting gears while exiting corners leading to straight sections, I could easily reach speeds above 200 kmph before needing to brake for the next corner.
While on the road, the R doesn’t feel as energetic as the RS, but there’s only a slight difference in acceleration. We were exploring Jerez and Seville, primarily traveling on highways and narrow B-roads. After leaving the racetrack, we quickly reached speeds that could have attracted police attention, but we were fortunate.
On the open roads, surrounded by picturesque backgrounds reminiscent of Windows wallpapers, I experienced a crosswind and realized the necessity of a fly screen to deflect some wind resistance at speeds exceeding 140 kmph. In top gear, you can comfortably maintain a speed of 150 kmph with minimal vibrations and a calm tachometer reading.
The Ride Experience
Thanks to its newfound versatility, you can easily ride in fourth gear without losing speed in tighter sections. The Street Triple RS chassis incorporates subtle modifications that have a significant impact.
The RS boasts a steeper angle of 23.2 degrees, enhancing maneuverability for the already nimble bike. However, rest assured that this increased agility does not compromise the confidence or stability of the new Triumph. Additionally, an upgrade to the braking system includes Brembo’s top-of-the-line Stylema calipers.
Another modification is a higher rear end, achieved by introducing a spacer between the rear shock and its mount. This adjustment creates a more committed riding position, slightly tilting the rider forward. Both the R and RS models feature wider handlebars for improved control.
Suspension and Handling
The suspension setup remains unchanged, with Showa Big Piston Forks at the front and an Ohlins STX40 mono-shock at the rear, offering full adjustability for optimal performance. These modifications result in a bike that is both more responsive and stable on the track. When taking the first turn, you immediately notice how quickly this bike can change direction.
The increased angle of the front wheel is greatly assisted by the wider handlebars, which provide more control and allow you to lean the bike into turns earlier. This ultimately enables you to maintain higher speeds for longer periods, brake later, and execute precise turns at each apex.
Braking and tires
The exceptional performance of the Brembo Stylemas brakes further enhances this ability by effortlessly reducing speed. Throughout all three track sessions, I never had to forcefully apply the brakes because a gentle squeeze on the MCS 19 lever provided more than enough stopping power. The Pirelli Supercorsa SP V3 tires that come with the RS offer an exceptional level of grip, although it may be excessive for non-professional racers.
Despite riding on a slightly wet track initially, I felt confident thanks to the well-designed chassis. The taller rear end of the bike ensures there is more weight on the front wheel, resulting in improved stability even at speeds exceeding 200 kmph on straightaways. The suspension performs admirably on the track, providing excellent feedback and control. On public roads, the RS’s high-quality suspension setup offers a more refined handling experience when encountering uneven surfaces.
Comparing R and RS Models
The standard R is equipped with Brembo M4.32 calipers from Brembo, Showa Separate Function forks at the front, and a Showa mono-shock at the rear. Instead of Pirelli tires, the R comes with Continental ContiRoad rubber. The R also lacks the sharper rake and taller rear found in other models. However, this does not mean that the R is inferior in terms of handling.
On the Jerez twisties, the bike proved to be remarkably nimble, stable, and grippy. The M4.32 calipers provide ample bite, and the riding position is adequately comfortable as well. It’s only when you compare the R directly to the RS that you notice the RS’s more track-focused characteristics.
Electronics and Features
The electronics of both bikes have undergone a significant upgrade thanks to the addition of a reliable six-axis IMU. This update has brought about new features such as cornering ABS and traction control, which are now standard on both models. Another shared feature is the bi-directional quick-shifter, which functions seamlessly to provide swift and accurate gear shifts in both upward and downward directions.
The cornering traction control works exceptionally well without being overly intrusive. I can recall encountering two instances where I exited a corner at excessive speed, but the only indication that the traction control had engaged was a light on the instrument cluster, and thankfully, I emerged from those situations with all my skin intact. Speaking of instrument clusters, they have also been improved.
The RS model now boasts a five-inch color TFT display with updated layouts, while the rider-customizable mode offers even more precise adjustments. Although not as responsive as I would prefer, the instrument cluster performs more smoothly compared to those found on the Speed Triple 1200 and Tiger 1200 models. On the other hand, the R model features a combination of TFT and a digital console similar to that of the Trident 660.
Navigating through menus on both bikes is intuitive and hassle-free.
Additional Features and Accessories
As per usual, these Triumph motorcycles also offer a wide range of up to 50 additional features. These encompass luggage options, connectivity modules, body enhancements, and even cruise control (only available on the RS model). Regrettably, unlike previous versions, Triumph will not provide Arrow (or any other brand) exhausts for this bike due to the implementation of a single catalytic converter in its exhaust system.
Conclusion and Market Impact
The Triumph Street Triple range has always been highly capable and endearing. Triumph had already perfected the street fighter concept, ensuring that riders couldn’t help but smile on every ride. This new generation, released in 2023, takes the element responsible for creating those emotions and intensifies them to the maximum. At first glance, the changes may seem small, but they have a significant impact.
Despite using some components from the previous model, this bike feels completely fresh and new. The RS version was already precise, but now it’s even sharper. The R version feels more refined with updated engine parts and electronics. In the past, I didn’t notice many differences between the R and RS models of 2020, but now they each have their own distinct character.
Both bikes are exceptional for city riding, with the RS offering an additional dimension for track enthusiasts. While prices have not been announced yet, if Triumph can keep any price increases to a minimum, they will undoubtedly have two top-selling motorcycles that will shake up the middleweight naked bike market.
FAQ Questions:
Here are three possible FAQ questions for the Triumph Street Triple 765 R and RS:
Q: How much do the Triumph Street Triple 765 R and RS cost in India?
A: The Triumph Street Triple 765 R and RS have different prices in India, depending on the variant and the color option. The Street Triple R is priced at Rs. 9.97 lakh for the sapphire black color and Rs. 10.07 lakh for the matte silver ice color. The Street Triple RS is priced at Rs. 11.33 lakh for the matte silver ice color and Rs. 11.43 lakh for the crystal white color.
Q: What are the suspension and braking systems of the Triumph Street Triple 765 R and RS?
A: The Triumph Street Triple 765 R and RS have different suspension and braking systems, depending on the variant. The Street Triple R has Showa inverted forks at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear, both fully adjustable. The Street Triple RS has hlins inverted forks at the front and an hlins monoshock at the rear, both fully adjustable. Both variants have Brembo brakes, but the Street Triple RS has higher-spec M50 monobloc calipers at the front and a Brembo MCS lever.
Q: How does the Triumph Street Triple 765 perform in terms of fuel efficiency and emissions?
The Triumph Street Triple 765 has a fuel tank capacity of 17.4 liters and a claimed fuel efficiency of 20.4 kmpl2. The engine is compliant with the BS6 emission norms in India, which are equivalent to the Euro 5 standards in Europe. The engine also features a ride-by-wire system that optimizes throttle response, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
