New limited-edition Triumph Rocket 3 Black unveiled

When I reviewed the Triumph Rocket 3 in November 2019, I began by telling you that this muscle-roadster was based on the limited edition TFC version revealed, and quickly sold-out, 10 months prior.

Little more than 12 months after the fabulous Rocket 3 R and GT versions hit the shelves, and after 8,000 global sales since with a 50:50 split between them, here we are with a limited-edition version of each. Please welcome the Triumph Rocket 3 R Black and Triumph Rocket 3 GT Triple Black.

Already a stand-out bike courtesy of that enormous, grunty 2.5-litre three-cylinder engine and a mesmerising myriad of enhanced electronical goodness, the two incarnations sure have a road presence and they’re a hoot to ride. Less so to manoeuvre at low or no speed but the imposing Triumph pair just had their cool-dial turned up to maximum each with a unique paint scheme and raft of dedicated black-out components.

While the engine, chassis, wheels, tyres, electrics, etc. all remain identical to the 2020 R and GT models, it’s the look and feel of them that have been upgraded adding a new dark level of mean and moodiness – appealing to a younger audience.

The R model gets a matt and gloss all-black paint scheme with black tank badges and new black branding. Meanwhile, the GT is called the Triple Black because, you’ve guessed it, it’s a three-shade paint scheme. On the engine, both variants get black painted exhaust headers, heat shields and end caps, and a crinkle black powder coated intake cover. Black anodised parts are plentiful and include swingarm guard, side stand, fork lowers, yokes, risers, handlebar clamps, brake and clutch levers, footpegs, gear and brake pedals among many others are fitted along with a carbon fibre front mudguard.

The Rocket 3 R and GT still make their huger power and torque figures of 165bhp (123 kW) at 6,000rpm and the monstrous 221Nm (163 lbft) at 4000rpm but now they’ll look even stealthier.

Unfortunately, nothing in terms of spec is changed. It would have been nice to see a quickshifter installed as standard.

How much are the new Triumph Rocket 3 R Black and GT Triple Black?

Each model is limited to just 1,000 units worldwide and they come with a ‘personalised certificate of authenticity detailing the VIN’ – which sounds a lot like the V5. For the certificate, the paint and the special parts, you’ll be parting with £1000 more than the RRP for the standard model so, according to the latest UK list prices that’ll mean:

• Triumph Rocket 3 R Black: £21,000
• Triumph Rocket 3 GT Triple Black: £21,700

And even though each will be in dealerships from April, customers can put deposits down right now.