I’ve ridden quite a few of middleweight naked motorcycles over the years, but few have struck a balance as close as Triumph’s Trident 660.
It doesn’t try to be the fastest or most aggressive, yet it nails something more important, character and usability.
From the moment I swung a leg over it, I knew Triumph aimed this machine squarely at real-world riders who want the premium feel without the intimidation factor.
The Trident looks unmistakably Triumph, clean, compact, and tastefully muscular.
The round LED headlamp, sculpted 14-litre tank, and tidy rear end give it a minimalist stance that recalls the brand’s classic DNA but with modern intent.
I like how everything feels purpose-built: the switchgear is solid, the TFT-LCD combo display is simple yet sharp, and the fit and finish are well above what you’d expect at this price point.
Even the paint quality is premium.
At 805mm, the seat height strikes a sweet spot for many height challenged riders.
The slightly forward-set foot pegs and the natural reach to the wide bar make for a neutral yet engaged riding position.
It’s sporty enough for spirited cornering but relaxed enough for commuting.
After a full day of mixed riding, I found the seat firm but not punishing, though I wouldn’t mind more padding for longer highway stints.
At the heart of the Trident is Triumph’s 660cc inline-triple, a beautifully balanced engine that bridges the torque of a twin and the rev-hungry nature of a four-cylinder.
It produces 80hp at 10,250rpm and 64Nm of torque at 6,250rpm.
Numbers aside, what matters is the delivery which includes linear, smooth, and full of personality.
The throttle response is crisp, the gearbox is slick, and the exhaust note carries that distinct triple growl without contributing to the noise pollution.
On highways, the Trident cruises effortlessly at 120kph, with enough torque and power for quick overtakes.
Roll-on acceleration is impressive; the midrange punch feels more powerful than the factory’s figures.
On twisty backroads, the bike comes alive with riders flickable, confident, and light on its feet.
In the mountains, I loved how the engine encouraged me to accelerate between 6,000 and 9,000rpm, where it truly shines.
Triumph got the chassis geometry spot-on.
The chassis is sturdy, and the bike tips into corners with precision.
On tight bends, it feels agile yet stable - a combination that gives newer riders confidence and experienced ones enjoyment.
The Showa suspension setup, 41mm USD forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock does a commendable job of balancing comfort and control.
On smoother tarmac, it feels planted and composed.
Meanwhile, on imperfect surfaces at high speed, it transmits a bit of hard cushioning to the lower back but I can live with it.
Braking is handled by twin Nissin callipers up front with 310mm discs, and a single rear disc.
The bite is progressive rather than sudden, which suits the bike’s approachable nature.
I might have preferred slightly stronger initial bite for sportier riding, but the overall feedback and modulation are excellent.
A must mention here, ABS intervention is smooth.
The Trident 660 features three riding modes, Rain, Road, and Sport.
Each altering throttle response and traction control sensitivity.
In Rain, the throttle is softened, and the ABS and traction control intervention are more noticeable, making wet commutes stress-free.
Road is the all-rounder responsive yet predictable, perfect for city and highway use.
Sport tightens the power, sharpening throttle input and easing electronic interference, giving the triple engine that lively, connected feel.
I found myself switching to Sport every time I hit the hills.
No bike is perfect, and the Trident isn’t without its faults but, that I can live with.
The small 14-litre fuel tank means frequent stops on longer rides, especially when you’re enjoying the midrange torque.
Wind protection is minimal, as expected of a naked, but a small flyscreen would help at sustained highway speeds.
The suspension, while excellent for most scenarios, can feel slightly firm over deep potholes.
Lastly, while the overall build quality is top notch, I would have preferred a richer exhaust tone making that triple standout.
After spending several days with the Trident 660, I can confidently say it’s one of the most well-rounded middleweights out there.
It’s engaging without being intimidating, refined without losing soul, and versatile enough for both weekday commutes and weekend blasts.
Triumph has managed to capture the essence of its brand, that blend of British style and mechanical charm, whilst offering a beautifully balanced package.
SPECIFICATIONS
Triumph Trident 660
Engine: 660cc, Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
Maximum power: 81hp at 10,250rpm
Maximum torque: 64Nm at 6,250rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front Showa 41mm upside down forks, 120mm travel; rear Showa monoshock, preload adjustment, 130mm travel
Brakes: Front twin 310mm discs, Nissin two-piston sliding callipers, ABS; rear single 255mm disc, single piston sliding callipers, ABS
Features: Three riding modes, optimised cornering ABS, traction control, Triumph Shift Assist, cruise control and My Triumph Connectivity (turn-by-turn navigation, calls, music, GoPro control)
Fuel capacity: 14 litres
Wet weight: 190 kg
Price: RM46,900.00 (excluding insurance, road tax)
