The Speed Triple was first released to the public in 1994 by Hinckley Triumph. Its name was an acknowledgement of the 1938 Speed Twin. The motorcycle popularized the streetfighter style—a race replica or modern sport bike stripped of its aerodynamic plastic fairings—a look originally created by bikers who rebuilt crashed motorcycles without replacing the bodywork.
The initial model was based on the Triumph Triple modular engine series, which also powered the Trident, Daytona, and Thunderbird. While a 750 cc version was produced for specific European markets, the Speed Triple was primarily equipped with an 885 cc water-cooled engine.
The first generation, designated the T300 series, featured a large single steel tube backbone frame that utilized the engine as a stressed member. These early bikes were carburetted and initially featured a five-speed transmission, though subsequent models were upgraded to six speeds.
Suspension was provided by Kayaba, a firm with a long-standing relationship with Hinckley Triumph. The setup included 43 mm multi-adjustable forks and a rear monoshock with a progressive linkage. Braking was handled by dual discs at the front and a single disc at the rear.
In 1997, Triumph released the T509, a complete redesign featuring fuel injection and an engine management system by SAGEM. Designed by John Mockett and Rod Scivyer, the T509 introduced a polished aluminium perimeter chassis and a single-sided swingarm. It featured Showa suspension components and Nissin four-pot front calipers.
In 1999, the model was officially upgraded to a 955 cc engine. By 2000, the series was referred to as the 955i. A 2002 redesign by Gareth Davies reduced the bike's weight by approximately 17 pounds through new engine casings and updated bodywork.
The fourth-generation Speed Triple was released in 2005 with a capacity increase to 1,050 cc via a lengthened stroke. Designed by Rodolfo Frascoli, this version utilized a Keihin fuel injection system and produced a claimed 129 hp. Technical updates included inverted forks and radial disc brake calipers.
In 2008, the model received Brembo front brakes as standard and a metal fuel tank replaced the previous plastic unit. A major update in 2016 introduced ride-by-wire technology, five riding modes, traction control, and 104 separate engine changes, raising output to 140 hp.
In 2021, the 1200 RS was introduced with a new 1160 cc engine producing 177 hp and 125 Nm of torque. This was followed in 2022 by the 1200 RR, a road-oriented sport bike with café racer design cues. The RR variant features a single round headlight, a bikini half-fairing, and electronically adjustable semi-automatic Öhlins suspension.
Between 1997 and 2004, the Speed Triple was noted for issues with its Nissin braking system. While initially praised, owners frequently reported "spongy" brake feel. This was attributed to inadequately coated caliper pistons that collected debris and corrosion, causing the pistons to catch on the seals and requiring excessive travel to apply force.
The 1997–1999 models also suffered from a known failure point in the electrical ground block. This led to the implementation of an improved wiring harness for the 2000 and 2001 production years.
The Speed Triple's performance has increased significantly over its production lifespan. The 1997 T509 produced a claimed 108 hp, while the 2021 1200 RS reached 177 hp. Weight management has also been a focal point of the model's development; the 2002 redesign cut 17 pounds from the previous iteration, and the 2021 1200 RS achieved a wet weight of 198 kg, compared to the 212 kg wet weight of the 2016 1050 model.
In 2010, Triumph marked the 15th anniversary of the model with a limited-edition Speed Triple. This version featured black paint with red trim and was the first production Triumph to bear the signature of company owner John Bloor.
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