When Triumph first launched the Trident 660, it rewrote the rulebook for middleweight nakeds by blending approachable performance with British charm.
Now, the 2026 Trident 660 Triple Tribute edition takes that formula further, packing upgrades that’ll make even seasoned riders do a double take. From race-bred tech to heritage flair, five features that redefine what a sub-$9K motorcycle can deliver.
Features Packed in Triumph Trident 660 Triple Tribute
1. Bidirectional Quickshifter
A quick-shifter isn’t just for track bikes anymore. The Triple Tribute comes standard with Triumph’s Shift Assist system, allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts. The auto-blipper matches revs seamlessly, syncing with your riding style.
Why it’s surprising: Until recently, this tech was reserved for premium models. Riders on forums rave about how buttery-smooth shifts feel even at low RPMs. One rider noted, “It’s so intuitive, I forgot I wasn’t using the clutch!” Paired with the Trident’s 80 hp triple engine, it transforms the riding experience from “fun” to “addictive.”
2. Cornering ABS & Traction Control
The Trident now has the brains of a liter bike. Triumph added a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to the 2026 model, enabling cornering-sensitive safety tech. The bike adjusts braking and throttle based on lean angle, offering a safety net when you’re knee-down or caught in a sudden rainstorm.
IMUs are still rare in this price bracket. Competitors like the Yamaha MT-07 or Kawasaki Z650 skip this feature entirely. As one reviewer said, “You’d need to spend $3K more just a few years ago to get this level of electronic finesse.” It’s like having a co-pilot who’s really good at physics.
3. Cruise Control
The Triple Tribute now includes standard cruise control—a rarity in its class. Operated via handlebar buttons, Critics initially questioned its utility on a “playful” naked bike.
However, as owners of older Trident models shared online, “Not having cruise control was a pain on longer rides.” Triumph’s move not only answers those issues but also steals a march on rivals like Honda’s CB650R and Suzuki’s GSX-8S, which still lack this feature.
4. Slippery Sam’s DNA
The Triple Tribute isn’t just a name—it’s a homage to Slippery Sam, the Triumph Trident that dominated the Isle of Man TT in the 1970s. The 2026 model wears a Sapphire Black base with cobalt blue and red racing stripes, ’67’ tank graphics, and fiery Diablo Red wheels. Even the flyscreen and belly pan, though mostly aesthetic, echo the racer’s minimalist aggression.
Triumph didn’t just slap on decals. This design taps into actual history. Slippery Sam won five consecutive TT races, even beating larger bikes in 1975. For $150 over the base Trident, you’re buying a rolling tribute to one of motorcycling’s greatest underdog stories.
5. Sharper Throttle, Zero Extra Cost
The Trident’s triple engine has always been a gem, but the new Sport mode cranks up the excitement. Unlike the mellow Rain or balanced Road modes, Sport delivers a punchier throttle response, perfect for blasting out of corners.
While some test riders wished for an even more aggressive map, the inclusion of Sport mode—at no extra cost—shows Triumph’s commitment to rider customization. As one journalist noted, “It’s like getting a free software upgrade that unlocks hidden personality.”
More Tech, More Soul, Same Price
The 2026 Trident 660 Triple Tribute isn’t just another special edition. It’s a masterclass in value, bundling advanced tech (IMU, quick-shifter, cruise control) and emotive design into a package that undercuts rivals like the Honda CB650R ($9,399) and SuzukiGSX−8S ($8,999). At $8,745, it’s a mere $150 pricier than the base Trident.
Ready to see it in person? The Triple Tribute hits U.S. dealers in June 2025—but with limited numbers, you’ll want to move fast.
