Rocket III Classic 2008
Updates for 2008:
  • New 2008 colours: Cherry Red/New England White with a gold coach line, Pacific Blue/Aluminium Silver with a gold coach line.

CRUISER STYLE, ROCKET PERORMANCE
The Rocket III Classic is a real cruising motorcycle with a firm focus on rider and pillion comfort. It’s aimed squarely at those who prefer a more laid back approach to motorcycling and features a relaxed riding position with forward set footboards, pull-back handlebars and a supremely comfortable stitched touring seat as standard.

The incredible levels of flexibility offered by the 2.3 litre engine makes for effortless riding whether two-up, fully loaded with luggage or solo. Sophisticated fuel injection feeds in power seamlessly, with controlled acceleration on tap at the twist of a throttle, while a maintenance free shaft drive delivers forward motion to the rear rubber.

Excellent lock-to-lock movement, an incredibly light clutch and a low centre of gravity make low speed manoeuvring a dream. The steering geometry and overall length give a securely planted feel at all speeds. Supple 43mm upside down forks and twin rear shocks add composure; twin front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and single disc rear give incredible stopping power. Generous ground clearance completes the package and the relaxed, comfortable ergonomics allow the rider to take full advantage of the range provided by the 24 litre fuel tank (6.3 gal US) making the Rocket III Classic the perfect long distance cruiser.

For 2008, two brand new two-tone paint schemes are available; Cherry Red/New England White with a gold coach line and Pacific Blue/Aluminium Silver with a gold coach line. The black-finished engine with its deep-chromed cam cover sets off the stunning paint, while the three cone silencer end finishers add a final flourish to what is a truly distinctive machine.

ENGINE

Type

 

Liquid-cooled, DOHC, in-line 3-cylinder

Capacity

 

2,294cc

Bore/Stroke

 

101.6 x 94.3mm

Compression Ratio

 

8.7:1

Fuel System

 

Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection twin butterflies, progressive linkage on primary butterflies

Exhaust

 

3 into 1 into 3. Tandem large-volume catalysts in centralised catbox. Stainless steel header and catbox, chrome-plated mild steel silencers

Ignition

 

Digital-inductive type via electronic engine management system twin spark plugs per cylinder
TRANSMISSION

Primary Drive

 

Gear 1.034:1 ratio, with backlash eliminator

Final Drive

 

Shaft

Clutch

 

Wet, multi-plate

Gearbox

 

5-speed

Throttle body diameter

 

52mm

Gear Ratios

 

1st 2.929:1
2nd 1.947:1
3rd 1.435:1
4th 1.160:1
5th 0.964:1
secondary ratio 1.043

Oil Capacity

 

5.9 litres (1.6 US gals) dry fill
5.4 litres  (1.4 US gals) oil & filter change
5.1 litres (1.3 US gals) oil change only
CYCLE PARTS

Frame

 

Tubular steel, twin spine

Swingarm

 

Twin-sided, steel (houses drive shaft)

Wheels

Front

Cast alluminium alloy 5-spoke 17 x 3.5in

 

Rear

Cast alluminium alloy 5-spoke 16 x 7.5in

Tyres

Front

150/80 R 17

 

Rear

240/50 R 16

Suspension

Front

Kayaba 43mm upside down forks 120mm travel

 

Rear

Kayaba chromed spring twin shocks with 5 position adjustable preload 105mm wheel travel

Brakes

Front

Twin 320mm floating discs, Nissin 4 piston fixed calipers

 

Rear

Single 316mm fixed disc, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper

Instrument display/functions

 

Analogue speedometer featuring LCD odometer, trip information and analogue tachometer
DIMENSIONS

Length

 

2,500mm (98.4in)

Width (Handlebars)

 

970mm (38.2in)

Height

 

1,165mm (45.9in)

Seat Height

 

740mm (29.1in)

Wheelbase

 

1,695mm (66.7in)

Rake/Trail

 

32º/152mm

Weight (Dry)

 

320kg (704lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity

 

24 litres (5.3 gal)
PERFORMANCE

(MEASURED AT CRANKSHAFT TO DIN 70020)

Maximum Power

 

142PS (140bhp/104kW) at 6,000rpm

Maximum Torque

 

200Nm (147ft.lbf) at 2,500rpm