Rocket 3R vs Rocket 3 2018

[Dr.D]

I ended up getting the Rocket 3 2018 and I love it. I did couple a freeway rides nothing too long. Will I need a flyscreen or a windshield if I do long interstate say 1500 miles.

Congratulations on the new to you bike.

 

[Gregger]

There's no "right" answer to your question. I have a 2011 Roadster with Lush components and a 2020R. They're very different bikes and, therefore, I struggle to sell the Roadster. I see no advantage to getting a 2018 model IF you want to go the 2.3 route. There are lots of older (same, same) models (ABS being the major difference in later years) with low mileage to be had for $7,000 or less. But if money is no issue, then the question becomes what's the difference between the two bikes. The 2.3s have a more classic analogue feeling to them. They are less refined. Potentially equal in torque and power if you have upgrades, stop slower, and are less nimble. The 2.5s look and ride like a more modern bike, with lots of electronic "stuff" (stuff that I worry will go wrong and I won't be able to fix). Stop faster, corner better, and have less of a stealth factor. By that I mean most people don't know these bikes and if you pull up on a 2.3 in a group of bikes they will most likely be very surprised when you leave them in the dust. With the 2.5s it looks like it should perform that way. Finally, (maybe) the 2.3s have a lot of history on this site and a lot of wisdom for you to access. Mine has, knock, knock, never see a Triumph mechanic thanks to the combined wisdom of the old timers, for which I guess I am now one, on this site. The 2.5s are more of a mystery. We're still discussing different tires sizes, how to remove the tank, tunes, etc. Beyond that it's largely uncharted territory. I can say, having both, that either is a good choice. If you're into the twisties the 2.5 is probably the best choice. Into long cruises and the classic look (not to say they also don't do surprisingly well in the twisties, considering the extra weight) then the Roadster, Classic, or Touring model is your ride. Good luck with your decision....

Well said.... perfect response.

 

[suntosh]

1. Folks , My 2018 is sitting in the garage thru the winter for 8 months now and the battery is dead.
   
   Two questions. Can you use my car to jump the battery.
   How to open the seat to reach the battery underneath.

 

[Forrest]

Use the key for the ignition and look for a key insert on the rear-right side of the seat to remove the seat. One of my favorite features.

Regarding the dead battery, I would say you CAN use a car to jump it and it would work, I wouldn’t say that it’s the best way to jump the battery. Using a proper trickle charger overnight would be better for the life of the battery, at least that’s what I was told. Maybe I’m wrong.

 

[Journeyman]

Jump off the car battery but without the car running.

 

[Forrest]

Also, congratulations on the OBS model of these magnificent bikes. I would have picked the 2018 over the new model if I was you. Nothing against the new models. I think they look terrific. I’m just stuck in my ways and can’t help but modify these things.

 

[Kevin frazier]

So did you decide on 265hp or what?

 

[1olbull]

The difference in price is hard for me to swallow. Is the newer R3 substantially better and worth the extra 10k I am having to spend on a barely used 2018.

IMHO, due to reduced touring ability - no way. In 3 weeks I'm riding about 10 to 11K miles across USA & back. My body and luggage could not do this on a 2.5.

 

[suntosh]

So did you decide on 265hp or what?

Not yet. I may keep the stock for a while.

 

[suntosh]

IMHO, due to reduced touring ability - no way. In 3 weeks I'm riding about 10 to 11K miles across USA & back. My body and luggage could not do this on a 2.5.

I precisely like the 2018 model due to this - the chasis is a fine balance.