2002 Triumph Speed Triple
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From its new chassis and
bodywork to the modified new generation Daytona engine, the 2002 Speed
Triple takes the concept of the factory street fighter to new levels.
There's more power for 2002, up 10hp to a punchy 120hp. Derived from the new 955cc Daytona 955i motor, the Speed Triple's powerplant now runs cooler and produces comfortably more power than its predecessor. With high-pressure die-cast crankcases for strength and lightness, the DOHC 12-valve liquid-cooled engine's new cylinder head contains 1mm larger inlet valves and 1mm smaller exhaust valves, set at a narrower included angle. Both inlet and exhaust ports are redesigned for better gas flow and the new cast pistons run in steel liners. The compression ratio is raised from 11.2:1 to 12:1 while crankcase breathing is revised to minimise power loss. A larger, reshaped airbox feeds the new closed-loop fuel injection system, which features smaller, lighter injectors. The closed-loop system features an oxygen sensor that monitors and adjusts the air/fuel ratio at varying engine speeds to optimise engine performance, while compact, light plug-top ignition coils provide high intensity sparks. The injection mapping is tuned for mid-range torque. As with the new Daytona 955i engine, the alternator is now located on the left-hand end of the crankshaft and the starter motor drive is located on the right. This layout, reduces noise, especially at idle as it eliminates the need for a gear train to drive the alternator. A revised claw-type gear-change mechanism gives a much smoother and more positive shift action. The exhaust system has new headers and a new silencer. Cooling and lubrication systems have been revised with new circuits for coolant and oil. The radiator uses a thinner core, which increases efficiency without adding size or weight. The new engine is a substantial 2.5kg lighter than its predecessor. Wheelbase for 2002 has been reduced by 11mm to 1429mm, steering geometry is steepened for increased agility with rake and trail figures of 23.5 degrees and 84mm (previously 24 degrees and 86mm). The rear of the bike is raised to increase ground clearance, which at the same time accentuates the aggressive stance of the new machine. A new lightweight 17-inch front wheel (same as on the TT600) saves 450g of unsprung weight and further improves steering response. The tubular aluminium frame has been revised and a new rear subframe has been fitted. Showa 45mm diameter forks with dual-rate springs and multi-adjustable damping take care of the front suspension, whilst at the rear the single-sided swingarm and multi-adjustable rear shock are retained. The front brake discs are now secured by five instead of six mounting bolts but are the same combination of 320mm floating discs and four-piston calipers fitted to the 955i. The rear brake is unchanged. Available in Neon Blue, Jet Black and Nuclear Red, the Speed Triple bodywork has been restyled. The twin headlights are moved closer together for a slimmer, meaner frontal aspect and a new lightweight, slimline digital instrument console mounted on an aluminium subframe cleans up the new front end look even further. Speed Triple Specifications
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