I can't compare the sped3 to the 696, since i have an S2R(800). A good friend of mine has the triple, and we have traded off bikes on many occasions. If i had to make the same choice, i would have still chosen my S2R over the triple.
The triple has great power delivery, very smooth and makes the front-end very light when you get on her. The riding position is more up-right(i am 5'7"), and you don't feel smashed into the tank, like i have heard about the 696(no FHE with the 696). The triple looks bad-ass, sounds unique in a different way as the triple employs a timing gear instead of chain for the potent inline 3, we call it the tea-kettle 1000 due to the whistle the gear makes. Even with a Mivv Gp-exhaust you can here the whistle of the engine. Another plus is that there is a good amount of knowledge on this bike as the user base is pretty large(
www.triumphrat.net). However, this user base doesn't compare to the DMF, you may wait days to get a response to a common issue on the T-rat board, just my experience(i am spoiled by the DMF).
Another thing i don't like about the sped3 is the suspension, sad to say my cheaper S2R handles like it wants to turn, the triple seems to react like a muscle car, it will turn but requires more effort. Perhaps this is a combination of geometry and suspension set-up, but it doesn't feel 'tight' like the S2R that inspires apex guidance. I won't go into the sound of the bike, because lets face it, nothing sounds as good as a duc. The sped3 also sits taller then the Monster, and seems to be most noticeable at tip-in. I like my seating position better on the S2R, and i understand the 696 is smashes some riders into the tank, but i have no FHE.
Don't get me wrong, i think the sped3 is a great ride, looks great, and has gobs of power. Suspension can also be corrected with enough money. I have already changed my sloppy stock forks out for full adjustable, and that made a huge difference.
Just my opinion, i have never ridden a 696.
