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ROCKET III
Updates for 2008:
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 maneuvering 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 twin-spine 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.
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