In 2004, the R&D team at Triumph had the idea that it was time to do something truly Triumphant. In a direct response to so many motorcycle enthusiasts"" desire for more power and performance capability, they put forth the Triumph Rocket III.
The 2006 Triumph Rocket III is a continuation of that response – a beastly cruiser that boasts the largest engine of any mass-produced motorcycle. Built from the popular Triumph three-cylinder chassis, the 2006 Rocket III pumps out an impressive 140 horsepower. The displacement is an intimidating 2,294cc, making it larger than some engines that power four-door economy cars.
The first question many ask with regard to the Triumph Rocket III is often, is it too much? Surprisingly, this bike is incredibly agile, and relatively lightweight when considering its robust nature. At just over 700 lbs., it is far lighter than many popular touring cycles, and when decked out with available accessories, the Triumph Rocket III is a capable cruising tourer in its own right. Handsome cruiser styling and wide custom-style tires mark this bike. Rarely can a 240 rear tire be considered a nice proportional fit to the rest of the bike, but that is precisely the nature of the Triumph Rocket III. The fenders hug the tires nicely, and the three-into-two manifold and exhaust set-up jump out at first glance.
The 2006 Triumph Rocket III may be the motorcycle manufacturing industry""s example of upping the conceptual ante, yet it remains completely functional – classic in styling, and incomparable in performance. The horsepower of the three-cylinder is matched by unbelievable low-end torque – 90 percent of which is available at 2000 RPM. With a twist of the throttle in any gear, this two-wheeled beast will offer a quick view of the taillights to fellow riders, or to slow traffic. The 2006 Rocket III presents riders with a smooth cruising experience. Anyone who has ever ridden long distance on a powerful V-twin is well aware of the vibratory sensation that continues through the hands, long after the ride has ended. But it""s all smooth sailing on the 2006 Triumph Rocket III.
The 2006 Triumph Rocket III also excels in the realm of price comparison. Triumph has remained impressive in getting more and more great bikes into the affordable mix. For the right rider, the 2006 Rocket III will be an affordable option. And when comparison shopping within the make and model, there are several colors to choose from: Mulberry Red, Cardinal Red, Monochromatic Caeruleus Blue, Jet Black, Graphite, and Scorched Yellow.
Walking around the 2006 Triumph Rocket III, eager riders will want to hop on and fire it up immediately. However, this bike is definitely reserved for the lion-hearted. Just as a new driver wouldn""t sit down behind the wheel of a 500-hp sports car, new riders should file the Triumph Rocket III away as a future dream machine. On the other hand, those who believe they have ridden everything in the cruiser kingdom owe it to themselves to test drive this beast from Great Britain. If it doesn""t end up in a garage, it will, at the very least, leave an indelible impression.