Triumph Speed Triple 1050 (2011-2015): The Streetfighter That Redefined Naked Aggression

Introduction

The Triumph Speed Triple 1050 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. From 2011 to 2015, this British icon dominated the naked bike segment with a blend of brutish power, razor-sharp handling, and head-turning design. Whether carving canyon roads or prowling city streets, the Speed Triple earned its reputation as the "definitive streetfighter" by balancing raw performance with everyday usability. Having spent time with this machine, it’s clear why it remains a benchmark for riders who crave adrenaline without sacrificing practicality. Let’s dissect what makes this generation of the Speed Triple a legend.

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Design & Styling: Aggression Meets Refinement

The Speed Triple’s design screams rebellion. The 2011 refresh ditched the classic round "bug-eye" headlights for angular pentagonal units, giving the bike a futuristic, almost predatory glare. The twin high-mount exhausts and single-sided swingarm—a Triumph hallmark—keep the rear wheel exposed, emphasizing its mechanical honesty.

Color options evolved yearly, from the bold Blazing Orange (2011) to the sleek Phantom Black (2015). The 2015 "Speed 94" special edition paid homage to the original 1994 model with retro Racing Yellow paint and period-correct decals, blending nostalgia with modern aggression.

Despite its muscular stance, the Speed Triple feels surprisingly compact. The narrow seat (825–830 mm / 32.5–32.7 in) and sculpted tank create an intimate riding position, while the aluminum twin-spar frame showcases Triumph’s engineering prowess. This isn’t a bike that fades into traffic—it demands attention.

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Engine & Performance: The Soul of a Predator

At the heart of the Speed Triple lies its 1050cc liquid-cooled inline-three engine—a masterpiece of torque-rich delivery. Early models (2011–2012) produced 130 HP (94.9 kW) and 105 Nm (77.4 lb-ft), but by 2015, tweaks to the fuel injection and exhaust bumped output to 135 HP (99 kW) and 111 Nm (82 lb-ft).

Key Highlights:

• Power Delivery: The triple’s character is unmistakable. Throttle response is immediate, with a linear surge from 3,000 RPM that escalates into a ferocious howl past 7,000 RPM. It’s not just fast; it’s addictive.
• Exhaust Note: The 3-into-1-into-2 exhaust system delivers a symphony of growls at low revs and a metallic wail at redline—a soundtrack that rivals aftermarket pipes.
• Fuel Efficiency: Averaging 6.9 L/100 km (34 MPG), it’s surprisingly frugal for a bike this potent.

The 6-speed gearbox shifts with precision, though the clutch can feel heavy in stop-and-go traffic. Opt for the 2015 model’s Öhlins suspension, and you’ll notice smoother power transitions during aggressive cornering.

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Handling & Dynamics: Precision Meets Playfulness

Triumph reworked the Speed Triple’s chassis in 2011, shortening the wheelbase to 1,435 mm (56.5 in) and steepening the rake to 22.8°. The result? A bike that flicks into corners with the agility of a supersport but remains stable at highway speeds.

Suspension & Brakes:

• Front: Showa 43mm USD forks (adjustable preload/rebound) provide 120 mm (4.7 in) of travel. The 2015 SE’s Öhlins NIX30 forks add buttery-smooth damping.
• Rear: Showa monoshock (adjustable preload/compression) offers 134 mm (5.3 in) of travel, absorbing bumps without wallowing.
• Brakes: Brembo 4-piston radial calipers bite twin 320mm discs up front, delivering spine-tingling stopping power. ABS became optional in 2012 and standard by 2015—a welcome safety net for rainy commutes.

The cast aluminum wheels (17" front, 17" rear) wrapped in sticky 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 tires inspire confidence mid-corner. Push hard, and the Speed Triple feels like it’s rotating beneath you—a trait usually reserved for track-focused machines.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The Speed Triple’s rivals are formidable, but here’s how it holds its ground:

1. Yamaha MT-09 (FZ-09):

2. Lighter (189 kg / 417 lbs) and cheaper, but the MT-09’s CP3 engine lacks the Triumph’s top-end rush. Handling feels twitchy compared to the Speed Triple’s planted stability.

3. Ducati Monster 1200:

4. The Ducati’s V-twin delivers raw character, but its 150 HP comes with a price premium and higher maintenance costs. The Speed Triple’s inline-three is smoother for daily rides.

5. Kawasaki Z1000:

6. The Z1000’s inline-four screams to 140 HP, but its upright bars and stiff suspension make it less comfortable on long hauls. Triumph’s ergonomics strike a better balance.

Verdict: The Speed Triple isn’t the lightest or cheapest, but its combination of torque, handling, and streetfighter charisma is unmatched.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

Owning a Speed Triple requires diligence, but the rewards outweigh the effort:

Critical Service Intervals:

• Valve Adjustments: Every 16,000 km (10,000 mi). Intake valves: 0.10–0.20 mm, exhaust: 0.20–0.30 mm (cold).
• Oil Changes: 3.8L (4.0 US qt) of 10W-40 synthetic every 8,000 km (5,000 mi).
• Tire Pressure: 2.35 bar (34 psi) front / 2.9 bar (42 psi) rear.
• Coolant: Replace every 2 years using OAT-based fluid.

Common Upgrades:

• Exhaust: Swap the stock pipes for an Arrow or Akrapović system to unlock deeper tones and minor power gains.
• Suspension: Retrofit Öhlins TTX36 shocks (as on the 2015 SE) for track-day precision.
• Lighting: LED aux lights improve visibility and complement the bike’s futuristic look.

Pro Tip: Invest in a factory service manual and torque wrench—the single-sided swingarm’s eccentric chain adjuster demands precision during adjustments.

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Conclusion: The Streetfighter Legacy Lives On

The 2011–2015 Triumph Speed Triple 1050 isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a masterclass in balancing aggression with refinement. Its inline-three engine thrills without intimidating, its chassis dances through corners yet remains composed on highways, and its design still turns heads a decade later. While rivals may offer more tech or lower weight, none replicate the Speed Triple’s visceral charm. For riders seeking a naked bike that excites on every ride, this generation remains a timeless choice.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re here to help you keep your Speed Triple at peak performance—whether you’re chasing knee drags or Sunday cruises. Explore our curated selection of aftermarket parts and make this British icon truly your own.

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Specifications sheet

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