and a huge vista of untapped excellence
awaiting my own skills to improve and reach
towards. These both have larger CC ratings,
however, by at least a third again; the Aprilia
Tuono 1100 and the Triumph 1050 Speed Triple.
It’ll be interesting to compare the 1050, with its
astoundingly capable smaller sister. I suspect
that there’s nothing in it, except the ego of
engine capacity.
Comfort wise the seat is good although I’d
defy anyone to ride as pillion for more than a
couple of km’s. Finish is at the highest level of
Triumph skill and is exemplary. World beating?
Yes, I think that’s fair.
So. Big question. Would I buy the 765 or the
1050? Value for money, and bang for buck?
The 765, no question.
Weight, maneuverability, nimbleness, economy?
All the 765 again.
Power, performance and tractability, 50/50.
Cool factor? probably the 1050.
But, with a fly screen addition, I think the RS
would smooth some of the naked airflow a little,
I’d look at a tail tidy option, and add a couple of
bobbins. Then the cool factor might slide
towards the 765 once more.
Would I take this to the track? Hell yes, and
probably before the 1050, just because of the
exciting nimbleness fun-factor and less
intimidation from the 1050’s brute of an engine.
All in all, if I was in the market for a street bike,
this would be my pick, it’s a freaking bullet,
handles superbly, it is built and finished brilliantly,
and it’s light enough to really throw around. Plus,
it’s more fun to ride than a superbike, less
intimidating and probably no less quick on your
favourite twisty section of road. I reckon they’ll
be racing them soon. On a track, of course.
56 KIWI RIDER