Up until recently, we could only speculate just a how fast the Triumph Rocket 3 could go. Now we have hard numbers regarding its performance. Just recently, Triumph Motorcycles put their Rocket 3 to the test on a race track to find out.
The test took place on the Cartagena track in Spain. Triumph also sought to use a bike that’s as stock as possible. As such, only the mirrors and number plate holder were removed as required for the racetrack environment. The tires used for the attempt — Avon Cobra Chrome — were provided by British tire manufacturer Avon.
In the video, the motorcycle is pit against a McLaren 720S supercar on the main straight of the track. The McLaren 720S is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 340 km/h. It boasts of 720 Ps and 770 Nm of torque as opposed to the Rocket 3’s 167 Ps and 221 Nm. Nonetheless, the Rocket 3 still managed to out-accelerate it, going from 0-100 km/h in just 2.73 seconds.
“Our goal was to showcase the exceptional performance of the Rocket’s unique, all-new 2,500cc triple powerplant,” said Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer for Triumph Motorcycles. “With the new Triumph acceleration record achieved by the Rocket 3 R, we again enter uncharted territory because never before has a Triumph motorcycle reached such an incredible acceleration.”
After the 0-60 record, the team were also able to enjoy taking the Rocket to its limits on track, sliding it into corners at speed.
“It is remarkable how easy it is to take the new Rocket through corners. This bike handles more like a Speed Triple rather than a muscle roadster,” said the rider of the record-breaking Rocket 3.
“The record would not have been possible without our partners, Avon has been our tire partner for the Rocket 3 project and ensured the necessary grip and stability. The Avon Cobra Chrome tires already used on the Rocket 3 line-up were developed especially for this model and offer exceptional grip and incredible durability,” said Triumph’s Chief Engineer, Stuart Wood.
A 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 2.73 seconds is certainly astounding. Of course, we still have no figures on its top speed. It’s certainly looking like Triumph has its sights set on the Kawasaki Ninja H2, which boasts of an unofficial 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 2.6 seconds and top speed of 332. Or maybe even the new Z H2.
Will the Rocket 3 manage to beat it? We just might find out in the coming months.
The Triumph Rocket 3 is available for reservation in the Philippines. It’s offered in 3 R (PhP1,590,000) in Korosi Red or Phantom Black, or in 3 GT trim (PhP1,650,000) in Silver Ice and Storm Grey or Phantom Black.
