News and stories from the world of Powersports business.
Triumph Reveals New Speed Triple 1200 RS – Addictive Performance and Razor-Sharp Handling
Triumph Motorcycles has unveiled the new Speed Triple 1200 RS for 2025, with unmatched triple power and torque, peerless handling and even more state-of-the-art rider-focused technology.
More powerful than ever before, Triumph’s 1160cc triple engine delivers relentless acceleration and performance with 183PS at 10,750 rpm and 128Nm at 8,750 rpm.
Thrilling and utterly addictive, the three-cylinder engine delivers the ultimate blend of low-end drive and top-end punch, giving cutting-edge performance on the road and on the track, coupling instant throttle response with an effortlessly smooth power delivery. This is further enhanced by a revised dynamic crankshaft balancing strategy, for a significant improvement in engine refinement.
Featuring Öhlins latest-generation SmartEC3 semi-active suspension, precision-focused dynamics, and a signature roadster riding position deliver razor-sharp handling, agility and control in every turn. Brembo Stylema® calipers and a Brembo MCS span and ratio adjustable lever offer serious stopping power and a customisable feel, even during the most demanding riding. Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 tyres deliver racetrack performance in a fully street legal tyre.
Carefully engineered to be just 199kg ready to ride, the Speed Triple also sports slightly wider, higher bars and features a bold, aggressive design with purposeful details. Its sporty, upright stance conveys power and presence while ensuring the perfect balance of agility and control. Combined with a narrow seat profile, the rider can feel an intuitive and effortless connection with the bike, delivering precise handling and real-world comfort.
The new Speed Triple’s rider-focused package of equipment and technology puts the rider in control, offering exceptional levels of adjustment. This includes the cutting-edge Öhlins Objective Based Tuning Interface (OBTi), which allows riders to easily adjust the suspension’s dynamic damping characteristics in different riding scenarios. The seven parameters that can be independently adjusted are:
- Front Firmness
- Rear Firmness
- Braking Support
- Acceleration Support
- Initial Acceleration Support
- Cornering Support
- Cruising Support
There is also new independently adjustable Front Wheel Lift Control, Engine Braking Control and Brake Slide Control, as well as fully adjustable cruise control.
Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “The new Speed Triple 1200 RS is now more refined, with a significantly improved electronics package, that makes it even easier for customers to exploit and enjoy the improved performance.”
MORE POWERFUL THAN EVER
With 183PS at 10,750rpm, the new engine delivers 3PS more than the previous generation of Speed Triple. Torque is improved too, with 128Nm at 8,750rpm, which is not only 3Nm more than the outgoing model but is delivered slightly lower in the rev range.
Incorporating learnings and expertise gathered during Triumph’s Moto2™ engine development, the Speed Triple 1200 RS engine has been engineered to be more powerful and durable, as well as being compact and lightweight.
A new, free-flowing exhaust system and compact, lightweight silencer streamline gas flow and centralise mass to improve performance, while maintaining the Speed Triple’s signature triple bark.
In addition, the must-have accessory for the new Speed Triple will be the new Akrapovič silencer, which features a titanium outer wrap and mounting bracket, finished with a carbon fibre endcap and laser etched Akrapovič logo.
RAZOR SHARP HANDLING
Featuring innovative ‘spool valve’ technology for even faster adjustment and improved comfort, state-of-the-art Öhlins® SmartEC3 semi-active technology delivers perfectly tailored, precise and dynamic handling.
This includes the Öhlins Objective Based Tuning Interface (OBTi), which continuously monitors and adjusts the suspension damping characteristics. So, whether riding in a straight line, braking for a corner, balancing the bike mid corner, or accelerating out of a corner, it adjusts the damping characteristics to give the desired performance in each scenario. Riders can now customise this performance using an intuitive menu system on the TFT instruments, so the bike continuously monitors and adapts the damping in real time to deliver the optimum performance for the conditions.
For the next level of precision and control, the Speed Triple 1200 RS also features an adjustable steering damper, delivering smooth and predictable handling in every situation, as well as a pair of Brembo Stylema calipers with an MCS lever, delivering impeccable stopping performance and a customisable brake feel. Completing the set-up, the Speed Triple 1200 RS has Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3’s fitted as standard, which have a bi-compound design for optimised grip, stability and durability.
Giving the perfect balance of agility and control, the bike is compact, with bars that are slightly wider and higher than the outgoing model, creating a sporty, upright roadster stance that delivers effortlessly precise handling, real-world comfort.
Where the yokes have been updated to accommodate the wider bars and the addition of the steering damper, the finish of these components has been updated to a sophisticated and understated black tone, creating a contrast with the gold Öhlins forks.
BOLD DESIGN AND AGGRESSIVE STYLING
With sharp lines and a purposeful stance, the Speed Triple 1200 RS has a strikingly handsome silhouette, with a sculpted tank and minimalist rear end that blends seamlessly with the rear light and numberplate hanger.
Taking cues from the 30 years of Speed Triple design DNA, the new model retains the signature twin headlights and single sided swingarm, which reinforce the bike’s modern and aggressive styling, as well as its serious performance capability.
Evolving the design for an even sportier look in 2025, the aluminum twin-spar frame and lightweight new wheels reduce gyroscopic forces for faster turn in and greater agility, making carving through corners effortless, while a new seat cowl sharpens the rear end of the bike.
Despite all the extra technology and the electronic suspension, the Speed Triple is still one of the lightest bikes in the class, at just 199kg wet weight with fuel. Contributing to this, is the Speed Triple’s new lithium ion battery, which is significantly lighter than a conventional battery.
From the bar end mirrors, to the meticulously sculpted swingarm, the attention to detail, build quality, and overall level of finish, are second to none.
RIDER-FOCUSED TECHNOLOGY
The 2025 updates also bring new performance electronics that are configurable by the rider and adjustable independently of the riding modes. The new front wheel lift control system, which incorporates inputs from the six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) to determine the pitch of the bike, offers four levels of adjustment.
Engine Braking Control is customisable according to the rider’s preference, complementing the adjustable throttle maps and allowing riders to adjust the engine feel to suit their own riding style and the conditions.
Brake Slide Assist, which is available in Track mode only, optimises the ABS calibration for track riding by allowing more front wheel slip and more rear wheel lift. This maximises performance on track and minimises feelings of being intrusive, all while providing a safety net in case of unexpected conditions.
With five distinct riding modes (Rain, Road, Sport, Track, Rider), Optimised Cornering ABS and switchable Optimised Cornering Traction Control, and the Triumph Shift Assist up and down quickshifter all fitted as standard, the Speed Triple has all the advanced features to maximise performance and safety in all conditions.
The design of the 5″ TFT instrument interface provides instant access to all key information, controlled by the intuitive 5-way joystick and backlit switches. The standard-fit My Triumph Connectivity System enables turn-by-turn navigation, as well as phone and music control.
There’s fully adjustable cruise control for longer rides, and a new Emergency Deceleration Warning feature activates a high-frequency flash of the brake light to alert other road users in case of hard braking and rapid deceleration.
The ignition, steering lock and fuel filler cap feature keyless operation on the Speed Triple 1200 RS. For added security, the wireless function can be disabled with a single button press.
THE ORIGINAL HOOLIGAN
Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Commercial Officer Paul Stroud commented: “In 2024 we celebrated the Speed Triple’s 30th Anniversary with owners, fans and collectors, clearly demonstrating how every iteration of this model has been as groundbreaking as that original hooligan we launched in 1994. Back then, it sparked the birth of a whole new category of naked sports bikes. Today, we are setting a new benchmark for triple powered performance with this new Speed Triple 1200 RS.
“Our customers will love the heart-racing acceleration and soul-stirring sound from this incredible triple engine, as well as the remarkable level of adjustment and control the new technology provides, giving riders the opportunity to truly tailor their ride to suit their style. Unmistakeably Triumph, the handling is exquisite, as is the level of quality and detail in every aspect of the design.”
ON THE ROAD
Available from £17,495 OTR, customers can choose from three eye-catching colours, including Jet Black, or the premium options; Granite and Diablo Red, and Granite and Performance Yellow, all with striking new graphics. With more than 25 Genuine Triumph Accessories available, owners can make the Speed Triple their own. Bikes will be arriving in dealerships from April 2025.
Find out more at triumphmotorcycles.co.uk.
SPECIFICATION – SPEED TRIPLE 1200 RS
| ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION | |
| Type | Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder |
| Capacity | 1160 cc |
| Bore | 90.0 mm |
| Stroke | 60.8 mm |
| Compression | 13.2:1 |
| Maximum Power | 183 PS / 180.5 bhp (134.6 kW) @ 10,750 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 128 Nm @ 8,750 rpm |
| Fuel System | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control |
| Exhaust | Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system with underslung primary silencer and side mounted secondary silencer |
| Final Drive | X-ring chain |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, slip & assist |
| Gearbox | 6 speed |
| CHASSIS | |
| Frame | Aluminium twin spar frame, bolt-on aluminium rear subframe |
| Swingarm | Aluminium, single-sided |
| Front Wheel | Cast aluminium, 17 x 3.50 in |
| Rear Wheel | Cast aluminium, 17 x 6.00 in |
| Front Tyre | Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 – 120/70ZR17 58W |
| Rear Tyre | Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 – 190/55ZR17 75W |
| Front Suspension | Öhlins 43mm fully adjustable USD forks, 120mm travel, SmartEC3 OBTi system electronic compression / rebound damping |
| Rear Suspension | Öhlins monoshock RSU with linkage, 120mm rear wheel travel, SmartEC3 OBTi system electronic compression / rebound damping |
| Front Brakes | Twin 320mm floating discs. Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, OC-ABS, Brembo MCS radial master cylinder. |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm disc. Brembo twin piston caliper, OC-ABS. |
| Instruments | Full-colour 5″ TFT instruments |
| DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS | |
| Length | 2090 mm |
| Width (Handlebars) | 810 mm |
| Height Without Mirrors | 1085 mm |
| Seat Height | 830 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1445 mm |
| Rake | 23.9 ° |
| Trail | 104.7 mm |
| Wet weight | 199kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.5 litres |
| SERVICE | |
| Service Interval | 10,000 miles (16,000 km) / 12 months (whichever comes first) and a 2-year Factory Warranty as standard |
| CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS (EU) | |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 litres / 100 km (51.4 mpg) |
| Emissions | 127 g/kmEURO 5+CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results. |
Polaris Slingshot Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary with Debut of 2025 Lineup, Delivering Fresh New Style
Turning ordinary drives into extraordinary moments, the three-wheel Polaris Slingshot 2025 lineup combines one-of-a-kind, head-turning style with open-air, adventurous driving experiences unlike anything else on the road. New for 2025, Slingshot introduces a fully redesigned front end, all-new eight-inch speakers for enhanced audio, improved drivability, and more.
“Ten years ago, we introduced a vehicle unlike anything else on the road. With three wheels and an open-air cockpit, the Slingshot has withstood the test of time and continues to stand out from the crowd with its one-of-a-kind style,” said Josh Hermes, Polaris Slingshot Vice President. “Since then, year-after-year, we have listened to our owners to continue to improve upon its style and design to deliver an elevated experience. And, in 2025, we’re bringing a fresh new look to the front end, upgraded features and even more options for personalization.”
Inspired by owner feedback, the 2025 Slingshot lineup features four models with loads of style and countless personalization opportunities – allowing drivers to make their mark each time they jump into the cockpit.
Redesigned Front End
For 2025, Slingshot has a completely redesigned front end, bringing a new look to the lineup. As drivers move up the lineup, they get enhanced front-end components and styling. For the S model, the new front end has a clean style with newly designed fascia components and a textured finish to enhance its look. The SL model adds graphics to the textured front fascia for a sportier feel, while still maintaining a clean look. Textured closeouts, lower accent lights and painted wing-like design elements are added to enhance the front end on the SLR model, while the front end on the top-of-the-line R model is fully painted and adds a lower splitter – complementing the edgy style of the Vented Sport Hood for a totally new, unique look.
Improved Drivability
Under-the-hood upgrades give the 2025 lineup a sportier and more refined driving experience. A modest bump in horsepower and a broader torque curve deliver more acceleration behind the wheel, while all-new tuning refines the AutoDrive transmission – providing a more intuitive and smoother driving experience.
Technical updates include updated suspension tuning for improved handling and greater confidence. In addition, the redesigned front end adds an inch of ground clearance to enhance driveability on the S, SL and SLR models.
Updated Audio
New for 2025, Polaris Slingshot introduces larger, eight-inch speakers for the left and right interior side panels delivering crisp sound quality to counteract road and vehicle noise with increased volume and more bass. The new Stage 2 Max Audio Package by Rockford Fosgate® is standard on 2025 SLR and R models and available as an accessory upgrade for Slingshots model year 2021 and newer.
Driver & Passenger Enhancements
Driver and passenger enhancements, such as a new key fob, gas cap tether, and improvements to security are made to upgrade the vehicle experience at every touchpoint. Each model in the 2025 lineup has refined fit and finish and offers a range of “mild-to-wild” paint options to give customers color choices that reflect their personal style.
Accessories
Personalization is half the fun of owning a Slingshot and key to the Slingshot ownership experience. To support a wide range of driver needs and style preferences, Polaris Slingshot offers a number of factory-engineered accessories – allowing owners to seamlessly upgrade their audio experience, customize their style, or enhance their comfort.
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- Audio: To achieve the ultimate level of audio and lighting, owners can enhance their Stage 2 Max Audio Package by Rockford Fosgate® with the Upgrade Kit to Light-Ready Speakers and Premium Interior Light Kit by XKGlow®. If upgrading a 2025 SLR or R model, where eight-inch speakers are already featured as standard equipment, the Upgrade Kit to Light-Ready Speakers and Premium Interior Light Kit by XKGlow® will allow driver and passenger to enjoy fully customizable lighting throughout the interior – across speaker grilles and footwells, under the seats, in the left-hand and right-hand side storage compartments and along the center console. With the easy-to-use “Slingshot LED” mobile app, available on the App Store® and Google Play® at no additional charge, Slingshot owners can select colors for two distinct light zones from a full spectrum of choices, apply preset themed patterns and strobe effects, synchronize to music, or design and save their favorite settings. With powerful 8” speakers from Rockford Fosgate® and vibrant lighting from XKGlow®, drivers will turn heads in their unique Slingshot.
- Style: Slingshot owners can provide a finishing touch to their Vented Sport Hood with the premium styling of the Vented Sport Hood Grille. They can also add color-matched and customizable styling to the upper front end with the Vented Sport Hood Upper Accent Panel (standard on R Models) or add the Front LED Accent Panel to the standard bodywork and give the Slingshot an even bolder look while illuminating the road ahead (standard on SLR and R models). They can upgrade their Slingshot’s front end with the new Painted Front and Outer Fascia Kits for a custom, eye-catching look, or add an aggressive look with the easy-to-install, textured Lower Front Fascia Accent Kit. With these accessory accents, they will enjoy premium, factory-quality paint that perfectly matches or contrasts their Slingshot’s colors and graphics.
- Comfort: For added comfort and sun protection, drivers can choose to add an Excursion Top to their ride and further customize their Slingshot by selecting one of three canvas color options. The Excursion Top Canvas is available with black, gray, or red Slingshot branding to match or contrast with the Slingshot’s overall design. Drivers can also choose a Slingshade to stay protected from the elements without sacrificing style. The Slingshade features vertical opening T-Top panels with friction hinge technology and superior fit and finish. Designed to seamlessly integrate, it boasts sleek lines and automotive-grade finishes, perfectly color-matched to your Slingshot or customizable with more than 30 colors to pick from.
2025 Lineup
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- Slingshot S: Starting at $24,999 for Manual and $26,849 for AutoDrive, S is available in Slingshot Red and Jet Black. For 2025, S is now standard with Technology Package 1, which includes Rockford Fosgate® audio with 2.7” display, security package with a passive security system and rear storage locks, rear center LED brake light, and a standard height clear windscreen for improved audio experience and wind protection.
- Slingshot SL: Starting at $28,299 for Manual and $30,149 for AutoDrive, SL is available in Jet Black and Liquid Lime. The SL includes additional features such as a 7-inch display powered by RIDE COMMAND, a 200w Rockford Fosgate sound system, and premium paint finishes and badging along with exterior illumination.
- Slingshot SLR: Starting at $31,399 for Manual and $33,249 for AutoDrive, SLR is available in Graphite Gloss and Royal Red. The SLR delivers upgraded performance with a 204 horsepower engine in addition to two-tone paint, full-body graphics, extra exterior lighting, a bigger 305mm rear wheel and sport interior.
- Slingshot R: Starting at $34,999 for Manual and $37,149 for AutoDrive, R is available in Royal Red Crystal and Nightfall. At the top of the lineup, the R model features progressive new machined wheels, a fully-painted front fascia and an eye-catching Vented Sport Hood along with premium multi-tone paint from tip to tail, integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay® and Brembo® brakes. RIDE COMMAND+ is now available on Slingshot R for three-years free. This platform provides added confidence and peace of mind with connected features like GPS turn-by-turn navigation, Vehicle Health, Vehicle Locator, Apple CarPlay® and more.
The 2025 Slingshot lineup will begin shipping to dealers by March 2025. Learn more about the 2025 lineup at Slingshot.Polaris.com, or follow Slingshot on social media: Facebook.com/PolarisSlingshot, @Slingshot on X and @PolarisSlingshot on Instagram. For information on Slingshot rental locations, visit Adventures.Polaris.com.
Answer Racing and ProTaper Launch New Dealer-Driven Rider Support Program
Answer Racing and ProTaper, industry leaders in off-road riding apparel, handlebars and control products, today announced a new rider support program which partners the companies with local dealerships to support today’s and tomorrow’s rising stars in motorcycle racing.
This innovative program allows qualifying dealerships to select talented local racers to represent both the dealership and the ProTaper or Answer Racing brands. Chosen riders will receive significant discounts on premium Answer Racing gear and ProTaper products, providing them with a competitive edge when they head to the track.
“We are thrilled to partner with our dealers to support the riders they select to represent their dealership and our brands,” said Brent Ash, Brand Manager for Answer Racing. “This program allows us to directly impact the local racing community and foster the growth of future champions.”
Dealerships are encouraged to select riders who have a proven track record of racing success or demonstrate exceptional potential. Active participation within the local racing community and a strong social media presence are also key factors in the selection process.
“Working with our dealers is crucial to ensuring we are partnering to support the top local talent and the true up-and-comers in all types of racing,” said Paul O’Brien, Brand Manager for ProTaper. “This program allows us to directly connect with riders at the grassroots level and cultivate the next generation of racing stars. These exciting new initiatives demonstrate Answer Racing and ProTaper’s commitment to supporting the growth of motorcycle racing, especially at the local level.”
Dealerships can qualify to participate in the program by making a qualifying purchase of ProTaper or Answer products. Dealers should contact their Turn 14 Distribution rep for more details on the program.
American Motorcyclist Association Connects AMA-Chartered Organizers with Industry-Leading Motorcycle Event Insurance
The American Motorcyclist Association announces the availability of liability insurance for AMA-sanctioned competition and recreation events for the new insurance cycle, which runs Feb. 1 through Jan. 31, 2026.
Policies in the AMA’s preferred insurance program will be written by Ren Specialty Insurance. Forms and rates are available now for AMA-sanctioned events from AMA Sanctioning Services at (614) 856-1900.
“Motorcycle events are at the heart of what we do, whether it’s our members’ lifestyle or how they make their living, and those events don’t happen without quality insurance coverage,” said AMA Chief Operating Officer James Holter. “The AMA is pleased to facilitate access to this comprehensive program exclusively for our chartered organizers.”
Unlike independent policies, coverage through the AMA’s preferred insurance program is issued with set premiums. Apart from certain sanctions that have unique characteristics or ancillary activities, such as rallies and other multi-day events, AMA organizers avoid a lengthy underwriting process.
In addition, AMA program premiums are generally lower than market rates thanks to the collective bargaining power of thousands of events. The AMA generates no revenue from insurance premiums, with 100 percent of negotiated savings passing to AMA organizers.
“Servicing the AMA calendar of events is always attractive,” said Don Birdsong, division leader at the AMA’s insurance broker Jones Birdsong Insurance Services. “While we have seen a rise in risk aversion among many major insurance providers in recent years, along with commensurate increases in rates, AMA-sanctioned activity remains an appealing market.”
Holter added that the AMA’s racing and sanctioning staff continues to work with organizers to identify ways to make events safer and more predictable.
“AMA-chartered organizers know that we are in this together, and we are always developing clear and comprehensive risk-management guidelines for clubs and promoters,” Holter said. “We encourage all of our organizers to contact the AMA to get involved in this process.”
The AMA sanctions thousands of competition and recreational motorcycle events each year. The events, owned and operated by independent motorcycle clubs and professional promoting companies, benefit from the AMA’s rules of competition, rider classification standards, potential recognition as AMA championship events and series, and opportunities for riders to advance to the professional ranks. Individual AMA members of all ages participate in these events, creating a rich culture of activity, sport and camaraderie while advancing the motorcycle lifestyle.
