presentationof the 2500 Rocket III GT Evel Knievel Limited Edition 2025
With so many special series on the market, you'd think Triumph wouldn't be able to surprise us any more. And yet, with the Rocket III GT Evel knievel, surprise is the order of the day. The manufacturer brings together a light-as-air celebrity with a machine that's heavy on meaning and power. An unlikely and above all sensational marriage.
The colors of the show
The most exceptional custom on the market takes its cue from the American stuntman. The white suit, with its star-spangled neckline, leaves the shoulders to clothe the tank. Although chrome-plated, it's willing to cover some of its shine with large decorative stripes in homage to Robert Craig Knievel.
An almost sober design, and far less striking than another special creation to honor the same protagonist. In September 2024, Triumph USA celebrated the 50th anniversary of Evel's jump in Twin Falls, Idaho. For the occasion, a Bonneville T120 and a Rocket III GT were customized - just like the "Color Me Lucky" bike Knievel used for his stunts. With a beautiful consistency of blue and red.
However, this limited edition is not lacking in symbolism. It features the American coat-of-arms on the tank, of course, plus a sticker with the initials EK on the front mudguard; Knievel's signature on the radiator sides, as well as embroidered on the saddle and, as a symbol of exclusivity, on a plate on the engine (overhanging the serial number); a special animation on the dashboard when the power is switched on; and plenty of time to reminisce.
Each owner will also receive an exclusive hardback book recounting the story of Evel Knievel and his iconic link with Triumph. Written by renowned author and Knievel expert Stuart Barker, each book will be individually numbered to match the bike and signed by Triumph CEO Nick Bloor.
Owners will wait until evening to leaf through it. Now it's time for the exuberance of the monstrous engine, with 2458 cm3, three bowls the size of a large Coke bottle, 182 horsepower and a colossal torque of xx mkg. A buffalo! The GT version is very comfortable. The passenger has a small backrest, while the rider benefits from a windshield. Compared to the R model, the saddles are better padded, the footrests are further forward and feature 3-position adjustment, the handlebars are further back and the seat lowered by around 20 mm.
Outstanding performance
The Rocket III also boasts an impressive chassis (47 mm inverted fork, Brembo Stylema brakes, monobracket with integrated universal joint, adjustable suspension, advanced electronics) and a substantial weight of 320 kg. A far cry from the flimsy Bonneville with which Evel performed on numerous occasions, including the famous 43-meter jump in front of Caesar's Palace in 1967, the 15-car jump at Ascot Park Speedway (both unsuccessful), the 19-car success at Ontario Motor Speedway in 1971, and 172 other aerobatics throughout his career. Unsurprisingly, this busy, bouncy life also led to a series of long hospital stays. Legend has it that Knievel broke 433 bones (many of them the same).
Steve McQueen, Elvis Presley, Ewan Mc Gregor, James Bond, Bud Ekins, Harley Quinn, Paul Smith... These celebrities have all had the right to a special Triumph series. For their name, for their image, for a certain idea of freedom and passion. The Rocket III continues this tradition by adding a celebrity to the list. 250 examples of this Rocket III GT Evel Knievel edition will be offered. With all the power of the 3-cylinder, you won't be able to reach the sky like the Montana showman, but you'll be able to chase after him, spitting chunks of asphalt behind you.
The safety of your rider and the performance of your motorcycle are paramount. At our partner 'Revzilla', you'll find everything you need, from equipment to spare parts, to maintain your machine to perfection.
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