Part 4: Triumph Trident 660 – Gateway to the Triple World

 Part 4: Triumph Trident 660 – Gateway to the Triple World


 Overview

Launched in 2020, the Triumph Trident 660 is a middleweight naked motorcycle designed to compete with bikes like the Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650, and Honda CB650R.
It became Triumph’s most affordable motorcycle, making the brand accessible to new riders without losing its premium DNA.

The Trident balances performance, practicality, and everyday usability – a perfect first step into the Triumph family.


 Engine & Performance

The heart of the Trident is Triumph’s legendary inline-triple engine, tuned for balance and smoothness.

Engine Specs:

  • Type: Liquid-cooled, 12-valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
  • Displacement: 660 cc
  • Bore x Stroke: 74.0 mm × 51.1 mm
  • Compression Ratio: 11.95:1
  • Max Power: ~80 hp (59 kW) @ 10,250 rpm
  • Max Torque: ~64 Nm (47 Lb ft) @ 6,250 rpm
  • Transmission: 6-speed with optional Triumph Shift Assist (quick shifter)
  • Top Speed: ~130 mph (210 km/h)

 Smooth power delivery across the rev range – forgiving for beginners but exciting for experienced riders.


 Chassis, Suspension & Brakes

The Trident 660 was designed with simplicity & agility in mind.

Chassis Specs:

  • Frame: Tubular steel perimeter frame
  • Front Suspension: Showa 41 mm upside-down separate function forks (non-adjustable)
  • Rear Suspension: Showa preload-adjustable Mono shock
  • Brakes: Nissin twin 310 mm discs front, single 255 mm rear with ABS
  • Wheels: 17-inch cast aluminum
  • Tyres: Michelin Road 5 (sport-touring grip & wet performance)

Dimensions:

  • Seat Height: 805 mm (very beginner-friendly)
  • Wet Weight: ~189 kg
  • Fuel Tank: 14 liters
  • Wheelbase: 1,401 mm

 Electronics & Features

Even though it’s the budget Triumph, the Trident 660 includes class-leading tech:

  • Ride-by-wire throttle
  • Two Riding Modes: Road & Rain
  • Switchable Traction Control
  • ABS (standard)
  • TFT display (hybrid LCD + color section)
  • Full LED lighting
  • Optional extras: Quick shifter, My Triumph connectivity (turn-by-turn navigation, phone & GoPro integration)

 Riding Character & Ergonomics

  • Neutral upright seating, making it very comfortable for city commuting.
  • The triple engine ensures linear torque – no sudden jerks, ideal for new riders.
  • Light clutch, smooth gearbox, predictable handling.
  • Agile in traffic, fun in corners, and still comfortable for short touring.

 Pros & Cons

Pros:
 Most affordable Triumph model
 Friendly yet exciting triple engine
 Lightweight & agile for urban use
 Premium build compared to Japanese rivals
 Beginner-friendly seat height

Cons:
No adjustable front suspension
 Small fuel tank (14L) limits long touring
 Lacks top-end power compared to 4-cyl rivals like CB650R
 Some riders may outgrow it quickly if they want extreme performance


 Availability & Manufacturing

  • Manufactured in Thailand (Triumph’s global facility).
  • Available worldwide – Europe, USA, Canada, Australia, India, and Asia-Pacific markets.
  • One of Triumph’s best-selling modern motorcycles.


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