The headline news for the 2026 Triumph Trident 660 is power. In a world where upgraded models typically gain one or two bhp on their predecessors, Triumph has given its entry-level roadster 17% more horsepower and 20% more revs than before. Thanks mainly to the adoption of a new three throttle body arrangement, as previously found on the Daytona 660, the triple now spins to a lively 12,650rpm, with output jumping from 81bhp to 95bhp, while torque rises slightly to 68Nm. Triumph says 80% of that torque is on tap from 3000rpm, so the everyday rideability the Trident is known for remains intact. Price? At just over £8,000 it’s only a few hundred more than the outgoing bike.
Chassis changes are subtler. The Showa SFF-BP forks, twin 310mm discs, and Nissin calipers stay, but there’s a new Showa rear shock and a small frame modification to house three throttle bodies instead of one. Weight is up by 5kg, though the key geometry numbers are largely unchanged.
Electronics remain strong for the price, with lean-sensitive rider aids and multiple riding modes controlled through the basic but familiar dash. A few cosmetic tweaks and three new colour schemes round things out.
Triumph has been careful not to lose the Trident’s easy-going nature. It’s still aimed squarely at newer riders, younger riders and those stepping into the middleweight roadster class. Styling changes are subtle, but the new yellow paint pops, and the bike still looks every inch a proper Triumph, bearing a strong resemblance to its 800cc sibling.
Climb aboard and you’re greeted by the familiar circular dash first seen in 2021. It’s not cutting-edge, but it’s simple and clear. Three riding modes – Sport, Road and Rain – adjust throttle response and traction control, while the standard up-and-down quickshifter and cruise control are welcome additions.
The clutch is light, the throttle smooth and the riding position relaxed. With a modest 810mm seat height (or 785mm with the low optional seat) it remains incredibly approachable, and despite a small weight increase it still feels light and balanced.
The upgraded engine still pulls cleanly from low revs, but now there’s far more excitement up top. You could short-shift and ride the strong midrange, but I preferred not to. Hold on to a gear and let it spin towards 13,000rpm and the Trident comes alive. The throttle response is instant and the quickshifter is addictive – banging through gears at 11,500–12,000rpm makes it feel like a tiny naked race bike. It’s an absolute riot.
Handling reflects the bike’s target market. Steering is light, agility is excellent and the suspension setup is deliberately soft to keep the ride comfortable. Wider ‘bars help flick it through corners with minimal effort, and the Nissin brakes are progressive rather than aggressive.
Push harder, though, and the limits start to show. The forks remain non-adjustable and the overall setup is on the soft side. Charging into tight hairpins, I occasionally wanted stronger braking and more support from the suspension. The Michelin Road 5 tyres are great all-rounders but lack feel when really pushed.
To be fair, I was riding it harder than most owners ever will. With nearly 13,000rpm to play with, it’s hard not to. And that’s the thing: the engine now feels far more performance-focused than the chassis.
Fuel economy remains respectable at around 57mpg, giving roughly 150–180 miles of range from the 14-litre tank, and the ergonomics suit riders of pretty much all sizes.
So the 2026 Trident 660 delivers exactly what many riders asked for: more power, more revs and even more fun, while keeping the accessibility that made it so popular in the first place. The chassis may still favour comfort over outright sportiness but, for its £8k price point, the Trident remains one of the most entertaining entry-level nakeds around.
There are a couple of caveats. Riders keen to exploit the new engine’s full potential might want a little more from the chassis, and the dash – while clear and functional, won’t be to everyone’s taste. But with a big jump in performance for only a small price increase, the Trident suddenly looks like a bit of a bargain.
Competition from Europe and Japan is fierce, with plenty of A2-friendly naked bikes on offer. Even so, the Trident feels like one of the most exciting options out there, and just as easy to ride as ever.
Triumph Trident 660 specification
Price: From £8,095
Engine: 660cc three-cylinder, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, liquid cooled
Power: 95bhp (70kW) @ 11,250rpm
Torque: 68Nm (50.2lb-ft) @ 8250rpm
Transmission: Six-speed, chain
Frame: Tubular steel perimeter
Suspension: (F) 41mm USD Showa forks (R) preload and rebound adjustable Showa single shock.
Wheels: Cast aluminium, (F) 17 x 3.5in/ (R) 17 x 5.5in
Tyres: Michelin Road 5 (F) 120/70 x 17, (R) 180/55 x 17
Brakes: (F) 310mm disc, Nissin two-piston caliper, (R) 255mm disc, single-piston caliper. Cornering ABS
Weight: 195kg (kerb)
Wheelbase: 1,402mm
Seat height: 810mm
Fuel tank: 14 litres
Fuel consumption: 57.6mpg (claimed)
Service intervals: 10,000 miles/12 months
Warranty: 24 months unlimited mileage
Contact: https://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk
