In a major milestone for British motorcycling, the legendary Stowe Circuit at Silverstone recently played host to a behind-the-scenes look at the future of racing: the 2019 Triumph Moto2 Prototype. This test session marks a pivotal transition for the Moto2 class as it prepares to adopt Triumph’s engineering for the upcoming season.
The Heart of the Machine
The centerpiece of this prototype is the 765cc inline-three engine. Featuring a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) and 12-valve configuration, this powerhouse is built to rev. During the test, it was noted that the engine spins up to 14,000 RPM—roughly 1,500 RPM higher than the standard street-legal 765 engine found in the Street Triple.
Interestingly, for this development phase, Triumph housed the Moto2-spec engine inside a Triumph Daytona chassis rather than a bespoke, ultra-rigid racing frame. While the chassis is street-derived, it has been heavily modified with track-specific suspension to handle the increased power and the demands of the circuit.
Grip and Handling
One of the most critical components being tested was the Dunlop Moto2 spec tire. Described as “super rigid,” these tires are designed to provide the extreme stability required for world-class racing. Testing these tires on the tight, technical Stowe Circuit—which sits inside the main Grand Prix layout—allowed riders to feel exactly how the engine delivers power while spent deep on the side of the tire in long, slow corners.
Insights from the Pros
The test wasn’t just about the hardware; it featured a lineup of seasoned experts and racing personalities.
- Neil Hodgson, former World Superbike Champion, was on hand to put the bike through its paces. He noted that despite the technical nature of the Stowe circuit, the engine’s character really shines through.
- The atmosphere was high-energy, with plenty of “English manufacturer pride” fueling the excitement for Triumph’s return to the world stage.
Final Impressions
The takeaway from the day was clear: the Triumph Moto2 engine has tons of power and a distinct personality that promises to make the racing season incredibly competitive. While the test took place on the inner Stowe complex rather than the full 3-mile Silverstone Grand Prix circuit, the performance data gathered is invaluable for the final stages of development.
For fans of British engineering and Grand Prix racing, the sound of a Triumph triple screaming at 14,000 RPM is a sign that a very exciting era of Moto2 is just around the corner.
