2011 Triumph 675R - First Look

Want the ultimate trackday middleweight? Triumph hopes it has created it for you with the new 675R. Its engine tune is identical to that of the standard 675, so the action is instead in the suspension, brakes and bodywork.

In place of Showa components, the 675R gets some racier Öhlins pieces: an NIX30 fork and a TTX36 shock, both similar to, if not better-performing than, what was used on some factory racebikes just two or three years ago. Continuing to rely on suppliers famous in racing, Triumph went to Brembo for radial-mount Monobloc four-piston front calipers and a radial master cylinder. A quick-shifter is standard on the R, as is carbon-fiber bodywork replacing the rear-tire hugger, silencer heat shield and front fender. With the belly pan in black, the subframe red and metallic white bodywork, the 675R looks immediately suited for the track.Triumph has yet to confirm if the bike is coming to the U.S. market; if it does, assume it will be at a substantial premium to a standard 675.