Triple-cylinder engine bikes or ‘triples' are rolling out in full force onto the Singapore highways. This exclusive engine configuration is the hallmark and legend of a true Triumph motorcycle - still viewed by many of our local riders as exotics of the British Monarchy. And with Triumph's latest introduction of the mid-range streetfighter Street Triple R, these bikes have truly moved out from the shadow of modern classics into the styling, technology and ability of modern high performance streetbikes.

With the success of the Daytona 675, Triumph strategically followed through with its naked version the Street Triple 675 and gained itself a substantial lead in the competitive streetfighter market. Not bothering to rest their efforts on the Street Triple's laurels, they raised the ante for competitors by refining it into the ‘R' version with higher race specifications. Performance has been boosted from the standard Street Triple with outright increase in power from 97bhp to 107bhp, and torque from 60Nm to 69Nm. The radial-mounted Nissan four piston brake calipers and radial-pump master cylinder, as well as fully adjustable KYB 41mm upside down forks and rear monoshock are virtually lifted entirely from the Daytona 675, making the middleweight's capability almost on par with its bigger naked brother, the Triumph Speed Triple.

At first sight the stealthy-looking Street Triple R does not seem to reflect the aggressive outlook of a typical streetfighter but on closer inspection reveals a subtle polished styling that exudes class rather than flamboyance. The unique tubular beam frame and swingarm, proven faultless on the standard model, are retained; their flowing lines helping to soften the image of the bike, along with the trademark bug-eyed headlights. Unlike some of the other naked bikes, the ‘R' is a true minimalist without any token plastic bits beyond an aerodynamically-shaped belly-pan. The seat is in a subdued two-toned grey and has a felt-like texture, looking plush and soft enough to sustain a daylong trip comfortably. Compacted underneath the seat are the short twin exhausts, giving the bike a svelte side profile. In all, it is obvious that sufficient attention has been paid to every aesthetic detail of the bike to give it a refined British charm. The Street Triple R will blend in beautifully with those luxury sedans along Shenton Way or 6th Avenue.

The ‘R' ultimately impresses with its ride quality. Its 3-cylinder configuration mates the low-end torque of a twin with the smoothness and top pull of an inline 4, allowing it unrivalled versatility; a stunt-capable bike and track-screamer all condensed in a single package. The exhausts lacks the menacing roar expected from a streetfighter, instead you get a quick, almost electronic buzzing that thrums addictively with every twists of the throttle. But do not mistake friendliness for a weakness! There is immense power that seems to come on endlessly regardless of what gear you are on, but unlike a typical twin that will kick you back in the butt at full grunt, the Street Triple R has a silkier and more civilised power delivery at the lower revs.

Want to spice up your everyday urban commute with some sports action? The ‘R' was launched and proven in the true road racing circuit, Isle of Man, so you can expect it to jump into those tight street corners and bumpy turns with ease as if on the track. No worries with those sudden red lights and weaving taxis; the race-spec braking system is sharp and the Magura tapered handlebar's super quick in steering, and with a dry weight of 167kg, the Triumph is even lighter than your average Honda CB400, making it one of the most agile Class 2 bikes on the market. This bike is perfect as a daily commuter, yet its supersports capability makes keeping up with the big boys a breeze on those weekend jaunts.

Triumph's Street Triple R may be the best mid-sized Class 2 naked bike for local city riding. The 675cc engine does not lumber in slow-moving traffic like litre bikes and its lightweight and narrow profile does not turn every ride into a sweaty workout. The unique powerband of the ‘R' has the civility to let you smoothly swoop past everyone on the expressway all day, but it also contains the brunt of a charging bull whenever you need to launch off at the traffic lights. Its overall performance trumps many of the mid-size competitors, but the attraction could simply be its continental glamour that distinguishes it from the more common Japanese rivals. Available in Matte Graphite and Matte Blazing Orange, the Street Triple R possesses the elegance to impress your discerning CEO while at the same time lets you power up some thrills with just a flick of the throttle.

MOTOR SHIOK! (WHAT WE LIKE!)
• The "Power and Torque Combo" triple engine.
• Excellent mix of components and built quality.
• Light and compact, yet with loads of power.
• Rider friendly; goes easy on beginners.
• Thrumming of the exhausts is hypnotically addictive.

MOTOR AIYOH! (WHAT YOU MUST CONSIDER LAH...)
• Change that exhaust note to match the resounding character of the engine!
• Lacks a typical streetfighter's menacing outlook.
• Nothing much.

For more information on the Triumph Street Triple R, contact Mah Motors at (65) 6295 6393.

This article was contributed by SpinAsia magazine, the Sports and Lifestyle Guide for Wheelers.

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