For riders graduating from their first motorcycle, the search for a “Beginner-Plus” bike—a machine that’s approachable yet exciting—is fraught with tough choices. The Triumph Trident 660 is a middleweight naked bike that’s been turning heads since its debut. But does its blend of style, tech, and triple-cylinder charm make it the ultimate upgrade? Let’s dive in.
What Makes the Trident 660 Shine
The Trident 660 isn’t just another motorcycle. It’s designed for riders who’ve outgrown entry-level bikes but aren’t ready (or willing) to wrestle a fire-breathing superbike. Think of it as the Goldilocks of motorcycles: not too tame, not too wild, but just right.
Key Selling Points:
- 660cc Triple-Cylinder Engine: Smooth, linear power delivery with 80 hp and 47 lb-ft of torque. It’s forgiving at low RPMs but rewards spirited riding with a thrilling top-end rush.
- 2025 Upgrades: Standard cornering ABS/traction control (thanks to an IMU), a bi-directional quick-shifter, and cruise control—all at the same $8,595 MSRP.
- Agile Handling: At 417 lbs wet, it’s nimble enough for city commutes yet stable on highways.
But specs only tell half the story. Let’s hear from riders: “The triple engine is butter. It’s fast enough to keep me grinning but never scary,” says a Rider who upgraded from a Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Read: 5 Surprising Features Packed in Trident Triple Tribute Now
One-Size-Fits-Most
A bike’s fit can make or break confidence. The Trident’s 31.7-inch seat height sounds tall, but its narrow chassis lets shorter riders plant their feet.
- Shorter Riders (5’2”–5’5” ): Some tip-toe or opt for one-foot-down stops. Platform boots or lowering kits (1–2 inches) help.
- Average Height (5’6”–5’11” ): Most flat-foot easily. A 5’9” owner raves about 300-mile days without cramps.
- Taller Riders (6’0” +): Adjustable levers and a relaxed riding position work wonders. A 6’4” rider calls it “surprisingly comfy.”
The rider triangle—slightly leaned-forward yet relaxed—strikes a balance between sporty engagement and daily comfort.
Tech: Savior or Quirk?
The 2025 Trident packs cutting-edge features, but not all are flawless.
Highlights:
- Rain Mode: Softens throttle response and boosts safety nets. Ideal for wet roads or shaky confidence.
- Quickshifter: “Buttery smooth” clutchless shifts reduce cognitive load in traffic.
- TFT Display: Clear and intuitive, though the MyTriumph Bluetooth system draws mixed reviews.
The Catch: Owners love the tech… when it works. Pairing phones to the MyTriumph app can be finicky, with reports of “convoluted” setups and navigation glitches. “I gave up and use a phone mount,” admits a frustrated owner. Still, for a tech-savvy rider, these are growing pains, not dealbreakers.
Rider Aids
The Trident’s IMU-enabled cornering ABS and traction control are game-changers. These systems adjust braking and power mid-lean, acting as a safety net for cornering mistakes—a boon for developing riders.
“The TC saved my bacon on a gravel-strewn curve,” shares a rider on TriumphTalk. Combined with adjustable riding modes, these aids let riders dial in aggression as skills improve.
How Does the Trident Stack Up?
The middleweight naked segment is crowded. Here’s how the Trident fares:
| Bike | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha MT-07 | Raw, playful twin-cylinder | Basic tech, less refined |
| Kawasaki Z650 | Budget-friendly, forgiving | Bland engine, dated components |
| Honda CB650R | Screaming inline-four, reliability | Heavy, power peaks high |
The Trident splits the difference: more refined than the MT-07, tech-rich next to the Z650, and torquier than the CB650R. “It’s the mature choice,” says a reviewer.
Ownership Realities
- Pricing: The 2025 model’s value is stellar. Used models ($6,500–$7,500) are plentiful but lack the latest tech.
- Accessories: Heated grips, crash guards, and windshields are popular add-ons. Avoid magnetic tank bags—the plastic tank requires ring-lock systems.
- Issues: Owners note weak headlights, grabby clutches, and mudguards that “spray dirt like a garden hose.”
Yet, most agree: “It’s a bike you’ll love, not just tolerate.”
The Ultimate Beginner-Plus Bike?
Yes… with caveats.
The Trident 660 isn’t perfect—its tech can frustrate, and suspension softness irks aggressive riders. But for those seeking a bike that grows with them, it’s a standout. The 2025 upgrades (IMU, quick-shifter, cruise control) elevate it from “great” to “exceptional” in its class.
Who’s It For?
- Riders craving premium Euro flair without the price tag.
- Commuters who dabble in weekend twisties.
- Skill-builders wanting safety nets and thrills.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- Track-day addicts (try a Street Triple).
- Budget-focused buyers (used Z650s are cheaper).
Ultimately, the Trident 660 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a confidence-building companion. And for the “Beginner-Plus” rider, that’s worth its weight in torque.
