You, too, can ride like Steve McQueen

BRITISH bike maker Triumph is to unveil two new machines — and one very special edition — at this weekend’s Motorcycle Live show.
Kicking off on Saturday the 19th and running until the 27th at the NEC Birmingham, it is the first chance for the public to see the Tiger Explorer and Speed Triple R models. Plus, an exclusive Triumph Steve McQueen Edition.
The Tiger Explorer is powered by a new 1,215cc three-cylinder engine which delivers 137PS and uses a ride-by-wire electronic throttle system. This has enabled engineers to add rider aids such as cruise control, switchable traction control and switchable ABS as standard. Designers have also developed a new drive shaft system for the Explorer which they claim allows virtually maintenance-free touring. The bike can also go 10,000 miles between services, a boon if you’re planning a grand tour.
An LCD instrument pack is thumb operated via switches on the handlebars and features a comprehensive onboard computer, including an ambient air temperature indicator with ice warning. A large range of accessories is topped by a high quality luggage range.
To back up the launch, one buyer will win a place on an exclusive adventure rout to Morocco via the Tiger Explorer microsite www.triumphadventure.com
Triumph’s legendary Speed Triple gets the ‘R’ treatment and is packed with top goodies such as Öhlins forks and Pirelli Supercorsa SP tyres.
A close working relationship with Öhlins has resulted in a superb suspension set-up, which combined with its low unsprung weight gives precise and agile handling. Thanks to a top spec Brembo brake package it stops quicker, too!
The Speed Triple R’s 1,050cc triple-cylinder engine knocks out 135PS to give plenty of punch for the sporting rider, all delivered via a new more accurate gearbox.
But possibly the cream of the new offerings at the show will be a limited edition special created with the estate of Hollywood legend Steve McQueen, who loved Triumph machines.
Built around the Bonneville T100, only 1,100 of the Steve McQueen Edition will be built and sold. The design was inspired by the Trophy TR6 which the actor insisted on riding during the famous stunt scene in The Great Escape movie. As well as a host of modifications, the bike comes with khaki green livery and the actor’s signature on the side covers. A solo seat, black luggage rack, rugged skid plate and small black-bodied headlamp are just some of the neat touches.
Each bike is numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity.