Choosing the right tyres is hugely important, and so far I’ve sampled two options from Metzeler’s current catalogue aboard the Speed Triple .
I was keen to see how their latest performance-orientated options would hold up against the Triumph’s claimed 180.5bhp.
As standard, the RS uses track-focused Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3s, which sadly only lasted around 700 miles before a huge screw went through the rear and the damage was just too big to safely patch.
I had every intention of keeping these (Pirelli Supercorsa tyres) for their entire lifespan as we moved into the summer months, but with my hand forced I decided to equip Metzeler’s Racetec RRs instead – a rival option with the same trackday intent, priced at around £389.
As you might expect, they were right at home on the Triumph, feeling slightly softer than the Pirellis they replaced. They worked on the road on days above 10°C or so, but I’d be lying if I said I really trusted such a minimal tread pattern in anything more than drizzly conditions.
The ultimate test for the RRs was a trip to Donington Park for a trackday on the 2.49-mile GP layout. A fast, flowing circuit with plenty of hard braking and highspeed straights saw them perform admirably – requiring a couple of laps to get warm (I had no tyre warmers) and working with the electronic suspension and rider aids to keep things feeling safe and secure across the day.
My track sessions were punctuated by an hour or so of rain, and here I was less keen – venturing out for only a couple of laps before deciding it was best to go for a cup of tea while the tarmac dried out.
Next came Metzeler’s Sportec 01 – their latest sporty road-biased tyre that’s designed to sit just above the existing M9 RR – offering a little more tread and everyday usability.
Priced in the region of £365, they delivered fantastic feedback through the front end and ample stability at any sensible speed. They also warm quicker than the Racetecs and have a wider operating window – giving me more confidence to use the bike in a wider range of weather conditions.
For the vast majority of time, they are a better option than either the Racetec or the OE Supercorsa – sacrificing a tiny smidge of cornering accuracy in favour of a far wider range of accessibility.
They’ve lasted well too – now in situ for over 4000 miles – however the rear is noticeably squared, and is in need of replacement soon.
Using the turn-by-turn navigation through the Triumph app without in-ear audio can be difficult to follow in built-up areas, as the directions are quite basic (a direction arrow and a road name).
It’s also not up-to-date on certain road layout changes, and I would expect a more advanced display for the money you’re paying.
Dan is a fully-trained journalist, with a Gold Standard Level 3 Diploma from the National Council for the Training of Journalists. He has a passion for motorcycles of all capacities, but feels at home aboard a sportsbike. He's been working for MCN in print and digital for the best part of 10 years, with regular contributions to RiDE Magazine on the side.
News Editor, trackday fan, lover of 90s sportsbikes