In one tank of gas I was able to clearly understand the 2022 Triumph Speed Triple RS is the objectively better motorcycle. It's cheaper, more usable, just as fast, has mostly the same tech, very good suspension, and that triple growl we've all come to know and love. But there is just one problem: I never really wanted to ride it.

On paper the Speed Triple RR is the opposite of everything I enjoy about motorcycling. Compared to my adv/naked bikes in the garage it's uncomfortable, has way too much power to use on the street, and is just generally impractical. In the 3 weeks I had the RR I didn't touch my GS Adventure, 790 Duke, or Speed Twin once. The draw of this bike is absolutely magnetic. And that's what I think helped me understand who this bike is for.

Modern motorcycles have become absolute weapons in the right hands, but I'll be honest, not mine. While I love going to the track I'm a front of the pack novice group rider on my best day and I'm ok with that. No matter what you are riding these days a spindly teenager on a Ninja 400 is bound to pass you on the outside of your favorite corner sooner or later and that's kind of my point. In a segment of motorcycles that are this capable (and more importantly this expensive) it's important to be honest with yourself. They are all good. Great even. So pick the one that gets you excited to ride. Get the one that you can't walk away from without looking back at it. In this class for me it would be the RR. Now who wants to lend me $21,000...

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