The 2021 Triumph Trident 660 Is the Brand’s New Cheapest Bike
While classic-looking motorcycles like the Bonneville are arguably Triumph’s most popular models, they’re not the British brand’s only ones. In addition to adventure bikes, it also makes naked bikes like the Speed and Street Triple. However, while Triumph’s bikes are good, they can also be pricey. Which is why it’s bringing back a classic name as its most affordable motorcycle: the 2021 Triumph Trident 600.
The 2021 Triumph Trident 660 brings a classic nameplate into the modern-day
We previously reported on the 2021 Triumph Trident 600, but at the time, it was only a prototype. But the naked standard bike was recently shown in full production detail—and those details are intriguing.
Like the original Trident, the 2021 model has a three-cylinder engine, albeit with fuel injection, not carburetors. It’s a 660cc three-cylinder engine based on the 675 Daytona sportbike’s engine, Cycle World reports. In the Trident 660, it makes 80 hp and 47 lb-ft, and it’s linked to a 6-speed transmission.
That’s a decent amount of power for a 417-lb motorcycle. Plus, Triumph reports the Trident 660 makes the majority of its torque low in the rev range, Bennetts reports. That’s one of the major benefits of three-cylinder engines, Cycle World reports, and is a boon to city riders.
The 2021 Triumph Trident 660 has several more beneficial features, though. It has a standard slipper-assist clutch, and a quick-shifter as an optional accessory, RideApart reports. The Trident 660 also comes with ABS, traction control, two riding modes, Nissin disc brakes, and Showa front forks and rear shock.
The bike only has one gauge, a multi-function TFT display, Roadshow reports. On top are the tachometer, speed display, gear indicator, and fuel gauge. The bottom half, meanwhile, is configurable.
Normally, it shows the time and odometer and lets you swap between riding modes. But with the optional Bluetooth module, it also provides turn-by-turn directions, phone and music control, and GoPro connectivity, Rider reports. And if you get it as part of the Triumph Technology Pack, it’s bundled with the quick-shifter and an under-seat USB charger.
It’s the most affordable bike in the British brand’s lineup
The 2021 Triumph Trident 660 isn’t just the cheapest three-cylinder motorcycle the brand offers. When it hits US dealerships in January 2021, it will also be the cheapest bike there, period.
The Trident 660 starts at $7995, with the Technology Pack adding $255. The next-cheapest Triumph is the Street Twin, which starts at $9300. The Triumph Street Triple, meanwhile, starts at $9950. That leaves you with a bit of cash for accessories like a flyscreen, heated grips, and luggage.
How does the naked bike competition compare?
Without riding the Triumph Trident 660, it’s difficult to gauge if it’s better or worse than its naked bike rivals. But on paper, purely in terms of cost and features, it might make the other motorcycles nervous.
One of the Trident 660’s main naked bike rivals is the Yamaha MT-07. At $7599 it’s slightly cheaper than the Triumph, and it’s 14 pounds lighter. But, while its 689cc two-cylinder engine makes slightly more torque, it’s a bit down on power compared to the Trident, Cycle World reports. Plus, while it has ABS and an LCD dash, the MT-07 lacks traction control or riding modes. Also, as of this writing, the only Yamaha naked bike that offers an optional quick-shifter is the $9399 MT-09.
The 2021 Triumph Trident 660 will also compete with the Suzuki SV650 naked bike. With ABS, it’s $100 cheaper than the MT-07, and its 645cc V-twin makes 75 hp and 47 lb-ft, Revzilla reports. Plus, it has a low-RPM assist feature to curb potential stalls. However, it lacks the Trident’s riding modes and traction control, and it’s 20 pounds heavier. And it doesn’t have a TFT dash.
Finally, there’s the 2021 Kawasaki Z650. The Kawasaki naked bike is 5 pounds lighter than the Trident, and its 649cc parallel-twin makes 68 hp and 49 lb-ft, WebBikeWorld reports. It also has a 6-speed transmission with a slipper clutch, a fully-adjustable fork, and after its 2020 update, upgraded electronics, Cycle World reports. The Z650 has a TFT dash with similar features to the Trident’s display, including Bluetooth connectivity, as well as multiple riding modes, Motorcyclist reports. And with ABS, it costs $7749.
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