Updates
for 2008:
• New 2008 colour: Claret
THE ULTIMATE POWER CRUISER
The Triumph Rocket III has defined a unique niche in
the clone-like performance cruiser market where it sits
in a class of its own thanks to its striking looks,
stunning performance and incredible specification.
The Rocket III, with its fuel injected,
three cylinder, twelve-valve 2,294cc powerplant giving
147ftlbs of torque at 2,500rpm, is officially the world’s
largest capacity production
motorcycle. The incredible engine means that even two-up
the Rocket III accelerates incredibly hard without obvious
effort, and relentless forward motion is just a slight
twist of throttle away. But, despite the huge capacity
of this amazing machine, it was designed first and foremost
to be ridden. A good turning circle, seamless fuel injection
and a low centre of gravity combine to make manoeuvring
at low speed surprisingly easy, whilst the steering
geometry and overall length give a securely planted
and confident feel. Added to this is a generous ground
clearance, making the Rocket III a truly useable machine
that can cruise streets or hustle turns with equal and
effortless ability.
Twin butterfly valves for each throttle
body are used to give precise control over the engine
and this set-up allows the ECU to vary the mixture flow
and ignition map dependent on gear
selected and road speed. The torque curve is thus tailored
specifically for each gear ratio. And the result is
impressive – over 90% of the engine’s prodigious
torque output is available at just 2,000rpm, giving
incredible levels of flexibility and making the five-speed
gearbox (nearly) redundant.
The Rocket III’s chassis is
something quite special and centres on a large tubular
steel twinspine frame, which houses the motor. Maintenance-free
shaft drive lays power to the
massive 240/50-section rear tyre while 43mm upside down
forks and spring preload adjustable twin rear shocks,
built specifically for the Rocket III, add control,
composure and
supple compliance. The front brakes - twin four-piston
calipers mated with 320mm floating discs – are
built to sports bike specification and provide awesome
stopping power. The rear
brake, developed especially by Brembo, is a single twin
piston caliper and 316mm disc.
The ability to personalise the Rocket
III was integral to the original design philosophy of
the bike. Developed and tested in-house by accessories
engineers in collaboration with the
same Triumph design team and test riders responsible
for the bike, the Rocket III’s Accessory range
reflects the same close attention to detail and finish
as the bike itself. The choices a Rocket III owner can
make to customise and enhance their bike are huge and
for 2008 the accessory range has increased to include
adjustable chrome highway pegs and stylish chrome teardrop
shaped mirrors. The new patented adjustable rider backrest
can be used in conjunction with the classic touring
seat to allow the Rocket III to be ridden for longer
periods of time, reducing rider fatigue and enhancing
comfort.
For 2008, a new luxurious Claret
colour option joins Phantom Black.
The word ‘awesome’ is
often overused in connection with motorcycles. Except
when it’s used in connection with the Rocket III.
Then it’s barely adequate.
Colour Options:
Phantom Black
Claret
Specifications:
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