the more the bike is laid over where traction is reduced the greater the ABS intervenes reducing the chance of complete traction loss . Likewise in Rain Mode the power is reduced and TC intervention increased , stopping wheel spin . And with this great thrusting motor that is a real possibility in rain with careless and abrupt throttle opening . Mode adjustment is via buttons on the bars and choices followed on the TFT screen . All lights are LED . The Triumph Rocket 3 R is an awesome machine . It is not for the faint hearted . It is bloody quick and punchy ... but best used in anger in a straight line and respected in the turns . For my tall body , it is only comfortable on short rides , but it is still a lot of fun , exciting and without doubt a stunning head turner . Would I park one in the shed ...? Yes , but it wouldn ’ t be for every day riding . JOCK MCLAUCHLAN
SECOND OPINION There is little doubt in my mind that perhaps the finest showroom delivery for finish and quality consistently goes to Triumph ’ s Hinckley crew . I simply cannot go past the stainless steel ,
and quality materials that impart that design ethic and delivery of the Triumph Rocket 3 . Every viewing angle , oblique and acute , elevated or from ground-level , delivers a package of style and ‘ oomph ’. Paint , polish and presence ? Perfect . The detailing is exceptional , and every part contributes into a smooth whole-of-package feel . From the folding clamshell of the rear footpegs , to the strakes of the exhaust system echoing in the silencer shape and finish , it is complete and cohesive . Certainly the new R version creates head turning , and conversationstarting responses . With 165 horses the 2.5 litre engine has power enough , without being overwhelming and it ’ s clear they have given a great deal of thought to delivery . Yes , it will belt from 0-100 in 2.7 seconds , but this Big Dog is primarily a cruiser . On the road the weight and the size diminish into a firm and forthright handful , but you don ’ t feel like its going to tear the helmet off your nut , like the first iteration did nearly twenty years ago . Riding experiences of course are different for
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