The Rocket III, a motorcycle from British manufacturer Triumph Motorcycles, struck quite the impression upon its release. With its three-cylinder engine displacing at 2294 cubic centimeters, the Rocket III had the largest displacement engine in the motorbike market at the time. But response in the United States was less than enthusiastic; apparently many customers in this part of the world preferred comfort to power. Thus the fourth model year of the bike--the 2007 Triumph Rocket III--retained its defining characteristics, while introducing some changes to make it more palatable to the U.S. market.
The 2007 Triumph Rocket III is split into three models: the regular version (Rocket III Base), the Rocket III Classic, and the top-of-the-line Rocket III Classic Tourer. The Classic had been introduced in the previous model year (2006), possessing “pullback"" handlebars, rider floorboards, and distinctively designed mufflers to set it apart from the Base. The Classic Tourer is really just a more comfortable version of the Classic, with the addition of saddlebags, a backrest, a luggage rack, and a windscreen. Also, it was only sold for the 2007 model year. Thus the Classic Tourer is also referred to as the Tourer Limited Edition or simply Tourer.
Powering each 2007 Triumph Rocket III is a four-stroke, liquid-cooled, longitudinal inline engine that generates 140 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm. The engine uses a double overhead camshaft valve train, with four intake valves placed on each of its three cylinders. The bore and stroke is measured at 4 by 3.72 inches (101.6 by 94.3 millimeters), and the compression ratio is 8.7 to 1. The engine uses fuel injection, and it can be ignited using an electric ignition. Paired with the engine is a five-speed manual, ideal for an exciting drive. Appropriate for its huge engine, the 2007 Rocket III gets a peak fuel capacity of 6.3 gallons (24 liters).
Using a steel frame with plastic covering and possessing a kick stand for parking, the 2007 Triumph Rocket III is available in Mulberry Red and Phantom Black. Although each model has a one-piece vinyl seat, the one on the Base model only accommodates the rider; the ones on the Classic and Classic Tourer can seat the driver and a passenger. (The seat on the Classic Tourer is detachable.) The digital instrumentation at the front of the Rocket III consists of a tachometer, trip odometer, speedometer, and a light indicating when fuel is running low. Also included are a pair of halogen headlights and a pair of rearview mirrors for increasing the rider's visibility.
The 2007 Triumph Rocket III uses Brembo® disc brakes. A 12.6-inch (320-millimeter) dual disc is installed in the front, and a 12.5-inch (316-millimeter) single disc is installed at the back. The implementation of all-wheel disc brakes is for superior braking; they provide greater braking prowess than if the Rocket III had the traditional front disc brake and rear drum brake. To absorb bumps and thus promote a smoother cruise, the suspension consists of a front inverted fork and a rear twin-sided swing arm.
The 2007 Triumph Rocket III is indeed a huge motorcycle. It has a length of 98.4 inches, a width of 38.2 inches, and a height of 45.9 inches, with a wheelbase of 66.7 inches. The seat of the bike is set at 29.1 inches. Its dry weight is measured at 704 pounds.
The sheer power and size of the 2007 Triumph Rocket III might scare some customers away, but it is perfect for those who are not in the least bit intimidated. Plus, the Classic Tourer is tame enough for customers who place less of a premium on power. With the availability of options, there’s something for everyone when it comes to the Rocket III.