I’ve watched Triumph push the limits of big-bore triples for years. But the 2025 Rocket 3 Evel Knievel Limited Edition feels different—like a final salute to pure, unfiltered V-tri power.
Limited to just 500 units, draped in stars-and-stripes, and packing a 2,458 cc engine, it might be the last of its kind before emissions rules and modern trends push giants like this toward history. Let’s break down why this Rocket 3 could mark the end of an era.
1. Only 500 Units Worldwide
Triumph isn’t messing around with exclusivity. Just 250 units of the R model and 250 of the GT model will ever be built globally. That’s it. In the motorcycle world, such strictly limited runs often signal a celebration – or a farewell.
2. Tribute to Evel Knievel
This isn’t just any tribute. It taps into the deep connection between Triumph and the ultimate daredevil, Evel Knievel, who famously used Triumph Bonnevilles for his death-defying jumps. Honoring this legacy now, with such specific reverence, Triumph is paying homage to its audacious past and the daring spirit embodied by the Rocket 3 itself.
3. Unique Design Elements
This Knievel edition isn’t just stickers. It boasts a stunning chrome fuel tank adorned with Knievel’s signature stars and stripes graphic on a white base. Look closer, and you’ll find laser-etched cam covers, Matte Sapphire Black accents, and unique leather seats embroidered with Knievel’s signature. These aren’t mere bolt-ons; they’re bespoke touches crafted for collectors.
4. The Pinnacle of Power
Beneath that iconic paint lies the world’s largest production motorcycle engine, a 2,458cc inline triple. It churns out a staggering 180 horsepower and a class-leading 166 lb-ft of torque. This represents the absolute zenith of the Rocket 3’s performance evolution within its current ICE formula.
Triumph engineers squeezed every drop, but future emissions regulations (like looming Euro 6/7 standards promising drastic CO cuts) make squeezing more from this giant incredibly difficult and costly.
5. Premium Positioning
Reflecting its exclusivity and bespoke nature, the Evel Knievel commands a premium: $27,495 for the R and $28,295 for the GT. That’s significantly above the already premium-priced Storm models ($24,995/$25,795). This pricing screams “collector’s item,” not mass-market appeal. It positions this Rocket 3 as a luxury artifact.
6. More Than Just a Bike
Triumph understands this isn’t just a ride; it’s an investment in legend. Each bike comes with an exclusive, signed, numbered hardback book detailing Evel Knievel’s story with Triumph, autographed by CEO Nick Bloor. This transforms the purchase into owning a curated piece of motorcycling heritage, significantly boosting its long-term value proposition for collectors.
7. Community Mixed Reactions
There’s immense admiration for the bike’s audacity and tribute. Owners rave about the Rocket 3’s “absolutely addictive” torque and surprisingly manageable nature despite its near-700lb weight. Yet, alongside the awe, there’s a palpable concern.
Rumors about the Rocket 3’s discontinuation are rife, fueled by its niche appeal, high cost, and the immense challenge of making its colossal engine compliant with future emissions laws.
8. Potential Discontinuation
Triumph’s Chief Engineer, Stuart Wood, has mused about a future electric “eRocket” (once battery tech catches up). Industry trends indicate that iconic, large-displacement internal combustion engine (ICE) models are increasingly being replaced by new technology under familiar names. This Evel Knievel edition feels like a glorious final victory lap.
So, is this the last Rocket? Probably not forever. But is this the last of the pure, unadulterated world’s biggest engine, Rocket 3s? All signs point to yes.
