43,650 bikes · 494 makes Add a bikeLog inRegister
Cruisers

2008Triumph Rocket III Classic

Rate this bike
Click to vote

39 fields on record

The 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic is a cruiser designed for riders seeking raw power and distinctive character. Its massive 2294cc triple engine delivers 140 horsepower and 147 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful cruisers available. Best known for its unconventional three-cylinder engine and commanding presence, it appeals to experienced riders wanting something truly unique.

Capacity
2294.0 ccm
Engine
In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Dry weight
319.3 kg
Seat height
736 mm
Power
140.0 HP (103.0 kW)

What’s new for the 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic

vs the 2007
Spec20072008
Power 142.0 HP (104.4 kW) @ 6000 RPM 140.0 HP (103.0 kW)
Torque 200.0 Nm (20.4 kgf-m or 147.5 ft.lbs) 147.0 Nm (15.0 kgf-m or 108.4 ft.lbs)
Other years 2006 2007 2008 2009

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 61Agility 29Comfort 78Off-road 5Touring 75Road manners 68
Off-road & trail5%
Cornering30%
City riding35%
Daily riding55%
Touring78%
Two-up75%
Track15%
Best for
Built as a torque-monster cruiser for relaxed highway cruising and effortless roll-on acceleration rather than for cornering or track work.
Built for
The huge 2.3-liter inline-triple gives it a unique character, dominated by massive torque delivery, a deep exhaust growl, and a stately, unhurried demeanor.
Not ideal for
This is not the bike for riders seeking agility, off-road capability, or a lightweight, flickable ride through twisty roads.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 736mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
2294.0 ccm
Power
140.0 HP (103.0 kW)
EPA Certificate No.
8TDXC2.30BAT-002
EPA CO Emissions
8.2 CO g/km
Torque
147.0 Nm (15.0 kgf-m)
Engine type
In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.4385 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
101.6 x 94.3 mm
Compression
8.7:1
Cooling system
Liquid
Fuel system
Injection
Starting
Electric
Ignition
Digital - inductive type - via electronic engine management system
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder
4
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Shaft
Clutch
Wet. multi-plate
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1694 mm
Overall length
2499 mm
Overall width
970 mm
Overall height
1166 mm
Seat height
736 mm
Dry weight
319.3 kg
Fuel capacity
23.80 litres
Chassis & suspension
Frame
Tubular steel. twin spine
Front suspension
43mm upside down forks
Rear suspension
Chromed spring twin shocks with adjustable preload
Rake (fork angle)
32.0°
Trail
152 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Double disc
Front brakes diameter
320 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc
Rear brakes diameter
316 mm
Front tyre
150/80-17
Rear tyre
240/50-R16
Other
Color options
Cherry Red/New England White. Pacific Blue/Aluminum

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 2006200720082009
Capacity 2294 cc 2294 cc 2294 cc 2294 cc
Dry weight 320 kg 319 kg 319 kg 320 kg
Seat height 740 mm 740 mm 736 mm 740 mm
Fuel capacity 24 L 23.8 L 23.8 L 24 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 recall may apply
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEMSep 2007 · 07V455000

ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, WHEN THE ENGINE IS RETURNING TO IDLE IT MAY STALL.

Risk: IF THE MOTORCYCLE STALLS, THE RIDER WILL HAVE TO RESTART THE ENGINE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND DOWNLOAD NEW ENGINE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 678-854-2010.

These recalls cover some 2008 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.

Source: NHTSA. View all Triumph recalls →

Rider Reviews

—
☆☆☆☆☆
Be the first to rate

Common questions

What is the engine size of the Triumph Rocket III Classic?

The 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic has a Capacity of 2294.0 ccm (139.99 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Triumph Rocket III Classic have?

The 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic has a Power of 140.0 HP (103.0 kW).

How many gears does the Triumph Rocket III Classic have?

The 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

What is the torque of the Triumph Rocket III Classic?

The 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic has a Torque of 147.0 Nm (15.0 kgf-m or 108.4 ft.lbs).

How much does the Triumph Rocket III Classic weigh?

The 2008 Triumph Rocket III Classic has a Dry weight of 319.3 kg (703.9 pounds).

Shop this bike

Affiliate links

We may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Similar bikes

Same category, weighted similarity

More Triumph Motorcycles