When it comes to middleweight naked sportbikes, the Triumph Street Triple 765 is widely considered the king of the class. With its Moto2-derived engine, incredible handling, and unique three-cylinder sound, it is a favorite among motorcyclists worldwide.

However, potential buyers face a difficult question: Should you save money and buy the Street Triple R, or spend the extra cash for the top-spec Street Triple RS?

Here is a simple breakdown of the differences to help you decide.

The Heart of the Beast: The Engine

Both bikes use the same 765cc triple-cylinder engine, which is famous for combining the low-end torque of a twin with the top-end power of a four-cylinder. However, they are tuned differently.

• The R Variant: Produces roughly 118 horsepower (120 PS). It offers fantastic punch in the mid-range, making it perfect for overtaking cars and blasting out of corners on city streets.
• The RS Variant: Is tuned for more aggression, producing roughly 128 horsepower (130 PS). While it feels similar to the R at low speeds, it pulls harder and longer when you rev it high, making it more exciting for the racetrack.

Suspension and Handling

This is where the differences become very noticeable.

The Street Triple R comes with Showa suspension on both the front and rear. It is fully adjustable, meaning you can soften it for bumpy roads or stiffen it for fast riding. It is high-quality equipment that is more than enough for 95% of road riders.

The Street Triple RS takes it to a premium level. It uses Showa Big Piston forks at the front and an Öhlins STX40 shock at the rear. Öhlins is considered the "gold standard" in motorcycling. This setup provides better feedback and stability, especially when you are riding very aggressively or on a race track.

Breaking Power

• The R: Uses Brembo M4.32 calipers. These are excellent brakes that offer strong stopping power and good feel. You will rarely feel like you need more on the street.
• The RS: Uses Brembo Stylema calipers. These are top-tier brakes usually found on superbikes costing twice as much. They offer immense power and incredible precision. If you do track days, you will appreciate these.

Technology and Dashboard

One of the most visual differences is the dashboard.

The Street Triple R uses a hybrid display. It has a small TFT screen for speed and menus, combined with an LCD section. It is functional and easy to read, but it looks a little simpler compared to modern rivals.

The Street Triple RS features a full-color 5-inch TFT display. It looks modern, offers different layout themes, and allows for more connectivity options (like turn-by-turn navigation if you add the Bluetooth module). If you love modern tech, the RS wins here.

Ergonomics (Comfort)

The geometry of the bikes is slightly different. The RS has a steeper rake angle and a slightly higher rear end to help the bike steer faster. This puts the rider in a slightly more "nose-down," aggressive position.

The R is ever-so-slightly more relaxed. While both are sport naked bikes and not tourers, the R is arguably a tiny bit more comfortable for daily commuting.

The Price Factor

The RS is the more expensive bike. Depending on your region, the price gap can be significant. You have to ask yourself: Are the gold suspension, fancy screen, and extra 10 horsepower worth that extra money?

The Verdict: Which One is for You?

Buy the Street Triple 765 R if:

• You ride mostly on the street for commuting or weekend fun.
• You want to save money for gear or fuel.
• You prefer a slightly more compliant ride over bumpy city roads.
• You don't care about having a fancy color screen.

Buy the Street Triple 765 RS if:

• You plan to take the bike to the track (this is where the RS shines).
• You are an experienced rider who can actually feel the difference in premium suspension.
• You love having the "best of the best" components (Brembo Stylema/Öhlins).
• You want the modern look of the full TFT dashboard.

Summary

There is no bad choice here. The R is arguably the best "real world" street bike on the market, offering incredible value. The RS is a precision scalpel designed for riders who demand maximum performance.

Whichever you choose, you are getting that addictive three-cylinder engine note that makes every ride a thrill.