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Cruisers

2008Triumph Rocket III

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The 2008 Triumph Rocket III is a heavyweight custom cruiser built for riders seeking raw power and distinctive character. Its massive 2.3-liter three-cylinder engine delivers 140 horsepower and 147 foot-pounds of torque, making it one of the most powerful cruisers available. Best known for its unique triple-cylinder engine configuration and commanding presence, it appeals to experienced riders who prioritize performance and individuality over convention.

Capacity: 2294.0 ccm
Engine: In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 319.3 kg
Seat height: 739 mm
Power: 139.5 HP (104.0 kW) @ 5750 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

Other years 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding35%

Daily riding55%

Touring62%

Two-up65%

Track15%

Best for: Built as a muscle cruiser that delivers massive straight-line thrust and effortless overtaking power rather than nimble cornering.
Built for: A brawny, torque-dominant cruiser whose enormous inline-triple engine defines the riding experience with relentless low-end pull.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking a lightweight, flickable bike for tight twisties or off-road adventures.

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

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 739mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Triumph Rocket III, 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: 139.5 HP (104.0 kW) @ 5750 RPM
EPA Certificate No.: 8TDXC2.30BAT-002
EPA CO Emissions: 8.2 CO g/km
Torque: 200.0 Nm (20.4 kgf-m)
Engine type: In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.4369 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: 739 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: 150 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-R17
Rear tyre: 240/50-R16

Other

Color options: Claret. Phantom Black

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	2004	2005	2007	2008	2009
Capacity	2294 cc	2294 cc	2294 cc	2294 cc	2294 cc
Dry weight	320 kg	320 kg	319 kg	319 kg	320 kg
Seat height	740 mm	740 mm	740 mm	739 mm	740 mm
Fuel capacity	25 L	24.5 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 →