Triumph Launches '02 Road Rocket

TRIUMPH LAUNCHES '02 ROAD ROCKET

When it burst on the scene in 1997, the 1595 Daytona was the first Hinckleybuilt Triumph designed to go head to head with repli-racers from Japan and italy. Now, the British bike-maker has unveiled its next-generation flagship sportbike, the 2002 Daytona 955i. Displacement remains 955cc, but the liquid-cooled, dohc, 12-valve, fuel-injected Triple has a new cylinder head, redesigned pistons and connecting rods, and smaller crankshaft bearing journals, among other changes. Triumph claims 147 crankshaft horsepower at 10,700 rpm. Chassis mods are equally extensive, with steeper steering geometry, a half-inch-shorter wheelbase, an aluminum subframe, a more rigid double-sided swingarm and revised suspension settings. As for aesthetics, restyled bodywork, new headlights and digital instruments complement more rearward handlebars, a larger-capacity gas tank and narrower seat. Though its price has not been set, the 955i wi be at dealerships in May.

Matthew Miles