Triumph Speed Triple, the original Streetfighter: 1994 vs 2021

Chris is back in the garage, this time he's taking a closer look at the 2021 Triumph Speed Triple RS, see how far it's come from the 1994 1st generation.
www.bikedevil.co.uk
#triumph #speedtriple #naked

[@afoolandhismoneychannel]

That original Speed Triple sounds GLORIOUS!

[@robbarr5300]

This guy has got to be the best bike tester/journalist out there at the moment.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Rob, we'll pass it on.

[@thomaslilge7867]

Totally agree! Chris is awesome!! He gets to the soul of the bikes and what they can give to us. And he gives a shit on the marketing speeches and pure spec values. Love him for this style 👍

[@stubbk3]

he is the chris harris of bikes,, both named chris .hmm

[@Jack908r]

I love the original speed triple. Its the one that got me super interested in Triumph again. Hard to believe it was that long ago now.

[@motorbikesandhacks]

Great video idea. I am sick of the embargoed Triumph media releases like the flood of Trident reviews that just came out. A nice comparison of old and new is great content, thanks!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks! We feel the same, more of these coming...

[@1ridgy]

Had two of them. A 2009 and a 2010 anniversary. Street fightered them both with Arrow 3/1, loved them and they howled along roads in Singapore and Malaysia. Happy days 😎😎

[@CCitis]

Ride my 95 Triumph Sprint all the time... same engine... great bike, and man when it takes off it still gives me a kick in the pants.

[@GarryMcGovern]

I had one of these for about 6 months when I lived in New York back in 97 (same colour, but no damper!). Thinking back now, I'm still aghast how a 25 year old 'foreigner' got finance over there to buy one (God Bless America!!! 🤣🤪) but I soooo adored it, I loved that bike with every cell of my being back then! I sold it for not much less than I paid for it (they were incredibly popular/desirable over there at the time), and even taking in to account the finance costs when repaying it, cost me very little to own over that period, especially when it was from around March to early October (permanent good weather!) that I ran it. Only sold it because I was returning back to the UK (after nearly 3 years away!), but this video LITERALLY has me on the classifieds looking at them right now! Funnily enough, after being back in the UK less than a year, 26 year old me managed to get finance on a brand new VTR1000 Firestorm in around September 98..... and I STILL have it!!! Granted, it hasn't been ridden in donkeys and is sat forlornly in the back of one of the sheds at the minute, having long been superseded by newer and shinier things, but I'll get it back on the road again some day....... right after I've added back in an original black Speed Triple in to the 'collection' again! 😉

[@raymorris952]

Those early Hinckley bikes were great bikes, A tank of a bike, very tough, very reliable, It's the T 800!

[@QBTO]

T300 !

[@raymorris952]

@@QBTO No as in the Terminator Cyberdyn systems model 101 T 800 😁

[@QBTO]

@@raymorris952 ah I thought you were referring to the MK1 Speed Triple which is part of the T300 line from Triumph, specifically a T309.

[@bruceleong9534]

I’ve stopped watching a lot of bike channels that, for one reason or another, predictably gush over every new model released. Triumph has been very clever to establish a network of bloggers who relay their “independent” messages straight from the corporate hymn sheet. This video is the reason Bike World is still at the top of my subscription list. Thanks for thinking.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Bruce, appreciate the support. That's why we've not loaded the Bonneville updates, too many spec sheeting readers.

[@michaelhayward7572]

Those first carb'd Speed Triples have now become cult classics, and are fetching top dollar for nice ones. An engineer friend of mine was looking for ages for the right one, in the end he bought a Japan import.

[@kempraten1]

Well depends where you live. I am trying to sell a mint one for about a year. Only request i get are what is your last price? And this without even having come to see the bike. Guess the non ABS is the killer.

[@Kodreanu23]

What a lovely sound of that old engine 😊

[@AustenARW]

Great review of the old Speed Triple!

[@JDelta87]

Outgoing model has up and down shift assist as well. Enjoyed the look back at all the evolution of the Speed Triple without all the marketing buzz words.

[@timothymills733]

Your willingness to give a balanced review is very refreshing. I own a current Triple, that I love, but even I get a bit worn out by the "cheerleading" of some of the publications when they review Triumph models.

[@andrewgibbs5135]

Proof that a good example of an early Hinckley triple can still provide smiles for miles. A bargain. A4067 Cray reservoir is a beautiful road too 😉. Thank you for posting.

[@thomaslilge7867]

Thanks Chris for this review!!! It put me back into 1994 when I've got this first Speed Triple. Yes, the riding position was challenging, in particular in the twisty alps. It was long and heavy with a high gravity point, but it was (relatively) nimble and stable in the corners. And I loved the sound of it. As always, great review!

[@khujaxx]

First time watching a video of yours.When you said "more than that, I think it depends on how the power is delivered" that's when you got me, because I feel like that's where the Speed changed the most. You clearly know what you're talking about, has a clear vision, and took in consideration everything, things the general public wouldn't have seen or considered themselves. Really satisfying to watch and hear. Also, so cool that the Speed Triple always had pops and bangs, so characteristic from them

[@davidelizabeth4933]

You're right, it sounds fantastic! 🎶🎵🎶👂 Can't wait for your ride report on the new one. 👍 👨‍👩‍👧❤

[@yepyep27]

That was absolutely fantastic to watch.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Aaron

[@jimbob67]

Really enjoyed that video. You know that would make a great series of videos. Comparing the original bikes to their modern versions.

[@lensoprezole5322]

Always enjoyable to hear you talk about bikes Chris. Waiting for the real test ride of the new speed 👍😉

[@jamief5873]

Cracking vid lads, refreshing after seeing all the usual videos on the new speed

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Jamie!

[@daytona955joop]

These old things are so satisfying to ride. On the road it’s as fast as you want and astonishingly nimble. Mine is a Daytona, same bike but with a fairing and the most enjoyable machine I have owned. Toured Wales this summer, ride it to work and scratch at weekends. Love it, all the bike I will ever need.

[@ChuckChrome]

Good job and thanks for emphasizing that you still had fun. That is the most important part.

[@S1000xrhp]

I loved this vid, such a great idea. I traded in an early 05 for a 16 Speed and really noticed how far Triumph had progressed with the breed. Keep up the great work!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, another one coming very soon...

[@UncleWally3]

Best sideways endorsement of Euro 5 I’ve ever heard @ 9:49

[@Schuey_M]

Great video and always enjoy your knowledge and enthusiasm.

[@georgeouthwaite5397]

Thank you for that , having ridden a gen one on the road and still owning and riding an 03 example I agree wholeheartedly in you description of the entire visceral experience! Ohh that noise.

[@sferreirac]

Actually the last version of the Speed Triple had an up & down quickshifter option. Not only up.

[@deanjohnson7350]

That's correct, I test rode one.

[@Steve-motorcycles]

Quality, Another great review. Entertaining and informative. Looking forward to the new speed triple review. 👍👍👍

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Stephen, hoping to get on one very soon.

[@derekgray7716]

Nice one Chris, looking forward to some more comparison vids. Great idea 🎯👍🏻

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Derek, more coming...

[@Neltheros]

If the new model had a round headlight instead of those insect eyebrows it would have easily been one of the prettiest motorcycles around

[@-DC-]

Chris is World Class at this the quality of content is incredible 👍

[@bimmerfan729]

Gotta love the sound of that triple. Miss my 06 1050!

[@petejay75]

Had a 96 Speed Triple myself and rebuilt it almost completely. The brakes can work well once they are fully overhauled but even then they are nowhere near as good as more modern stuff. The suspension also will work nicely after getting overhauled but also is nothing like more modern equipment. The thing you have to understand with them is that they are long, heavy and 20 something years old, nothing you do to them will change that. However, that doesn't mean they aren't up for fun whatsoever, it is just a bit more sedated than the current generations.

[@Metrobus271]

Brilliant review. Spot on accurate. I own both a ‘95 and 2011 Speed Triple. They’re both great machines but for totally different riding experiences.

[@malcomthewasp]

As always good work bike world... and excellent work Chris, we like you scruffy...👍🏽

[@kttmmedellin7138]

The old one was classy-the new one is flash.Each to their own

[@kttmmedellin7138]

@@devinbreeding5412in that case I'm a classy guy!

[@LemonWalrus546]

Brilliant review this

[@murdocampbell4858]

Interesting to compare old & new. I have a 2015 model, the last model before modes and electrickery took over. I’ve held on to mine because I prefer the rawness of having only ABS, without traction et al. Maybe I’m just an old hooligan fart. Mr Arthur Itis hasn’t struck yet, so all my modes are alive and kicking in my right wrist!

[@professorvoluck9311]

The more they up the power the more electronics they need to tame it. These new bikes are getting a little ridiculous.

[@Sean-oq3ox]

Great video! I can't wait for you guys to test it. I have a deposit on a 21, but just hope it's worth it. All we have to go on is the unveiling they did a month ago.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Sean, we're hoping to get on it soon...

[@kempraten1]

Lovely review. Still got my T300 Speed Triple :-)

[@johnykryll]

Good vid, enjoyed it

[@richardpearson4248]

Great video fantastic bike bet it was nice to ride would love to own one stay safe looking forward to next video's 🇬🇧👍

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

You too Richard, more like this one coming soon.

[@Jason-cl8hk]

Excellent review, thanks.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Jason

[@erikarneberg11]

Great review- loved seeing the original Speed Triple that I lusted after back in the day… still an amazing looking bike with so much character and presence! And that sound!!! How would you go about improving/upgrading the brakes without messing up the vintage/original looks too much? (No hideous “wavy” brake rotors that look like cheap serrated bread knives or circular saw blades, please!!!) If I remember, I think you could transplant the calipers & rotors from the larger Sprint or Trophy from the late 90’s/early 2000s that were still part of this “generation” of Triumph- they were almost “modular” back then, with a lot of shared frames, engines, suspension, wheels, etc. (actually they still are, but not to the same extent) across most of the range that enabled creative bodgers to swap out, replace, or upgrade many parts- I think there was a magazine article of a fella that swapped in one of the larger, more powerful triples with almost no mods (!), but that was so long ago I can’t remember which magazine it might have been, or what size it was… Engine swaps seemed to be a popular trend in the 90s- early 2000s- sticking a bigger engine in a smaller bike- does anyone remember the ZX-7/ZX-9 swaps, the FZR-750/FZR-1000s, and many others that Performance Bike, Super Bike, and other magazines used to do stories on all the time back then? Seemed like there was a different “reader’s special” every month, with varying levels of success & attention to detail! I guess with more modern electrics, E.F.I., etc. it’s not so simple anymore… Anybody care to weigh in with tales of strange/outrageous engine swaps, or practical knowledge of what will fit easily between that generation of Triumphs? Thanks for the memories, hope you’re all enjoying riding your bikes again!

[@scottastell9415]

Taa for an honest review. Love hearing your old triple burble!

[@CheapskateMotorsports]

I would have never guessed my speed four makes more power than the OG speed triple! Shows how far triumph have come in such a short space of time

[@deadbugdavey1744]

I have a jack lileys modded 2009 speedy and I love it! I prefer the old big eye head lights,for me it's the best looking and I will not be selling my 09 for a new one! I have a H2 for all out power! (Purchase was influenced by your H2 video!) great vid buddy

[@markgaylard2182]

Hi.... looks like an ex Speed Triple Challenge bike ? If that's yours try the Mk1 Speed Triple Owners Club on face book 😁 And if you would like to ride a more box fresh vintage Speed Triple to make the comparison give me a shout...cheers Mark

[@debenhamdave4314]

Have a Street rs but would love one of these if there as good as expected.

[@andrewbryceland2574]

The 2018 to 2021 rs did have an up and down quickshifter/ blipper

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks for the speedy correction, not even Chris is perfect.

[@andrewbryceland2574]

@@BikeWorldTVshow 👍😂

[@maybe5883]

I owned 3 of the sprint st 955 triples, one of two bike Models I regret selling. They were so rideable and fun, and well built too.

[@NudaMan]

This is why I ride a 2003 Aprilia RSV MILLE, the older bikes are an absolute blast! Never selling it lol

[@xxxyz721]

My brother in law had a yellow t309 and I do regret not buying it when I had the chance. I’m rocking a 2015 s3 in red now though and had a 955i in black before that :).

[@robbikebob]

I mainly ride older bikes and what they lack in adrenaline they make up for in enjoyment. You get all the adrenaline you need when you try and stop. The first time I tried radial brakes I couldn't believe how much power they had. I'd say its the biggest difference between old and new bikes!

[@benas664]

Great bike! I've made cafe racer out of one. The engine sound is pure orgasm. Love it and it's as much fun as my tiger 1050 sport. Breaks are ok, but suspension not so much...

[@MegaRacerDave]

I have a 98 Sprint Sport I converted to a naked bike, so basically the same as the original Speed Triple except the tail section is a bit more rounded off. The engine is the star with these bikes. Not the fastest, doesn't turn the quickest, but loads of torque and fun. Still one of the funnest street bikes out there, even 25 years later.

[@sjr999r]

885 engine a proper gruff triple. Great bikes 🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼

[@fizzy49cc]

I think there was a race series for these (original striple) & a certain J. Mcwilliams went rather quickly on one.

[@t_tsering]

That steering damper points straight into your knee cap???!!!

[@olivejuice1012]

more throwback rides please.

[@xorbe]

I've ordered one and I'm all in regardless, but somewhat concerned if off the line torque is gimped from the short stroke and low rotational inertia.

[@arrow0872]

I loved this bike when it came out back in the day. Great review! I’ve got a question though, it looks like it’s lowered, or am I mistaken?

[@chrisnorthover7582]

Excellent eye for detail there! I thought some something was amiss too and got the tape measure out - rear preload was wound off so far that the spring was loose and the forks were pulled 10mm further through the clamps than stock! Set it back to standard and it now looks right and steered considerably better!

[@Soned19]

Wow fab bike please it drools us here

[@digger8180]

Pure class, for those without any😉

[@lazartsaprev2580]

So weird I was checking the speed triple from 1994 few hours ago :)

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

There you go!

[@lazartsaprev2580]

@@BikeWorldTVshow regarding the riding position isn't this first speed triple called cafe racer by triumph?

[@eastbaymauiboy]

I LOVE Speedies, I've got my 13 S3R and I still love the s**t out of it after 8 years. That 96 looks a legit 10 years older than the Japanese scoots of the same era. I did have an 03 and an 05 Speed and I did really liked the 03. It had a bit-o Mad Max attitude that was pretty intoxicating, and I'm sure the literal fire breathing single low aftermarket can helped. I've got a good feeling about the new one, even though its hard to imagine a S3 with crazy Tuono power. Gonna be interesting, wish I could afford one bc the black one gots my name all over it, just wish that silver sub frame was decked in red

[@andrewlucas6214]

I hope they haven’t ruined the new one chasing power. Speed triple is my favorite bike... suits every mood, fantastic built quality and timeless style. I’ve had 02 955, 07 1050 currently 2011 1050....in the words of hot chocolate “everyone’s a winner”

[@paulthompson8613]

Any chance of you doing a crossover with 44Teeth channel i think you would fit right in and add something new

[@jayflash2035]

Better polish up on them dick jokes then

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

We did talk about it once, maybe one day we can join forces on specific project.

[@paulthompson8613]

@@jayflash2035 Yeah and Rats Muffs and Growlers

[@mclarnonc2002]

Is the original not so much better looking? The lights on the new one put me off. I regret so much not buying a 900 Trident in BRG back in the 90’s when I passed my test.

[@stephencroft6481]

Does it have a sight glass for checking the oil, those cantilever lugs dont look so strong

[@dadigz]

No sight glass, it's a dip stick.

[@jaymorris3468]

Love the 1994

[@michaelhayward7572]

Imho, the pinnacle of the Speed Triple was the last of round headlights. 2008-2010. Steel tank, Brembos, old style chassis, cable throttle. No TC, no rider modes Followed by the various 97-04 955i's. After that they list their way chasing the pack

[@adolfshitler]

That Speed Triple is actually a Daytona. It even says so on the top yolk 🙄 👍 18/20 radial master cylinder sorts the brakes out.

[@robertmaitland09]

I thought it didn't quite look right. Fairing stays near the bottom of the engine and the headlamp and of course the top yoke gives it away.

[@adolfshitler]

@@robertmaitland09 I've got a 96 trident in beautiful condition, they are all practically the same bike. Just a few cosmetics and a name change! And my mistake, the top yoke says Datatool not Daytona.

[@Tefloncoated]

Good stuff but my speed triple rs has qickshifter up and down. It's not new. Maybe you meant the "old one" doesn't have it.

[@Fee.1]

I’ll buy you dinner if you make a video covering in depth the speed vs. street triple for noobs

[@TheLiddleBigChannel]

Hmmm....Speed Triple RS has had an auto blipper since 2018!

[@michaelhayward7572]

Is that yours Chris?

[@chrisnorthover7582]

Sadly not, belongs to a good mate of mine, lovely thing; I rode it every day it was in my garage!

[@ScrapYardDog64]

Speed Triple MK1. You could say it's the original Thruxton R

[@karlosh2422]

My 2020 Speed Triple RS has a up and down quick shifter. Or it seems to. Maybe I am abusing the gearbox!

[@robnorth3162]

Pourquoi tu joue avec le starter ?!!

[@darrenbutler9261]

Choke lever don't they sell them on Love Honey .

[@QBTO]

Whilst modern bikes have amazing performance, I personally find them soulless machines, they don't have the character of an old carburetted bike.

[@lorquet21]

That 96 is a beautiful sounding bike and the clip-ons to a certain extent show how the modern speed triple has lost its way to purists..

[@davidgibson7234]

I’d buy a speed triple if it had a single headlight... the twin headlights are hateful things...

[@t.s.racing]

David I know this is a year old but there was a plug and play bolt on single light conversion. I did 2 of them a few years back. Good luck Sir. T. S. RACING

[@jimclements3190]

I have a 94 ,with 9000 genuine miles on it,mint condition, wannabe buy it?.😉

[@specialized500]

180 HP and no fairing ? Pointless .

[@xorbe]

Yeah it's a luxury street bike that has unnecessary power. If you don't like it, get the Duke 890 for sure.

[@MrNickelbrille]

The best speed triple? Sorry you guys are wrong. The 1994 was that. Arrrgg, look at this unbelievable ugly exhaust pipe. All this horsepower for what? I am very sorry to tell you my thoughts. This is...... (imagine any non friendly words here) Sorry fanbase

[@Free_Ranger_CT110]

Maybe I've turned into an old fart but I really dislike the current transformer, preying mantis, plastic fantastic style of bikes. The old school 1995 bike for me thanks. But the T160V, there's a bike!