·         Two new paint schemes - Phantom Black; Mulberry Red

The Rocket III has defined a unique niche in the clone-like performance cruiser market and exists in a class all on its own with its striking looks, stunning performance and incredible specification.  

But while it may be the largest capacity production motorcycle in the world it’s designed first and foremost to be ridden.  Good turning circle, seamless fuel-injection and a low centre of gravity combine to make low speed manoeuvring surprisingly easy, while the steering geometry and overall length give a securely planted and confident feel.  Added to this is generous ground clearance, making the Rocket III a truly useable machine that can cruise streets or hustle turns with equal and effortless ability.  

The Rocket III is not only the world’s largest capacity production motorcycle, it’s also a bike without peer, a complete one-off and at its core is the handsome, black-finished longitudinally mounted inline three-cylinder engine.  The fuel injected, twelve-valve powerplant has a cubic capacity of 2294cc – that’s 140 cubic inches – and makes 147ftlbs of torque at 2500rpm. This incredible output means even two-up the Rocket III accelerates incredibly hard without obvious effort, and relentless forward motion is just a slight twist of throttle away.  

Twin butterfly valves for each throttle body are used to give precise control over the engine and this set-up allows the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 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 2000rpm, 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 and 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 are sports bike specification – twin four-piston calipers mated with 320mm floating discs – and provide awesome stopping power. The rear brake, developed by Brembo especially, is a single twin piston caliper and 316mm disc. 

The ability to personalise the Rocket III was integral to the bike’s original design philosophy.  Developed and tested by in-house accessories engineers in collaboration with the same Triumph design team and test riders responsible for the bike, the Rocket III’s accessories reflect 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; street-rodders can add exhaust pipes and a host of chrome parts including sissy bars, engine dresser bars and side panels.  The leather panniers are constructed from the highest quality 4mm aniline leather, and feature triple themed detailing and quick release chromed buckles.  A clear sports screen, new for 2007, is also available. 

Two new standard paint options are available in 2007, Phantom Black and Mulberry Red while further customisation is possible with the custom-painted ‘Tribal’ and ‘Flame’ designs for the tank and bodywork. 

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. 

Mulberry Red

Phantom Black