Triumph Daytona 660 Test 2024

The Triumph Supersport is a comeback story that fans have been eagerly waiting for. With its powerful three-cylinder engine, this sports bike is back in the game, but with a twist. Positioned in the 95 hp sports bike class, it competes with the likes of the Yamaha R7 and Honda CBR650R. Triumph made a strategic decision to target this category, focusing on road use and everyday practicality. By catering to the market demand for road-oriented sports motorcycles, Triumph aims to increase sales volume compared to the niche of purebred super sports bikes.

However, this choice has one significant outcome: an appealing price.

Triumph has once again delivered a high-value proposition with the price of the new Daytona 660. In comparison to its competitors like the Yamaha R7, Honda CBR650R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Aprilia RS 660, and Suzuki GSX-8R, the Daytona 660 is priced similarly in the German market. While the competition offers advanced electronic packages, Triumph stands out with its unique three-cylinder engine. Here is a breakdown of the prices for the Daytona 660:

Moreover, there are over 30 Triumph original accessories to choose from, along with three different color options. The standard color is Snowdonia White / Sapphire Black, while Satin Granite / Satin Jet Black and Carnival Red / Sapphire Black are available for an additional cost.

If you want to make money, you have to sell a lot. This should not be a problem with the new Triumph Daytona 660. It offers super sporty looks with the ergonomics of a classic sports motorcycle and the dimensions of a mid-range bike. A combination very suitable for the masses, which genuine 600cc super sports bikes cannot offer. Sitting in the 810 mm high saddle, even small riders will have no problem reaching the ground, as the crotch arch is pleasantly low. However, the biggest difference to its technical sister Trident 660 is noticeable at the front. The high handlebars are replaced by two stub handlebars which, thanks to their elevation, only result in a slightly forward-leaning riding position. Sporty, but not too extreme. The same applies to the knee angle, which also strikes a balance between racing and commuter suitability. As long as you are not too tall, day trips on the Daytona 660 are absolutely no problem, although journalist colleagues who are 185 cm tall could not complain either.

Triumph Supersport enthusiasts can now celebrate: the same designers behind the iconic Daytona 675 have crafted the new Triumph Supersport 660. This ensures that the essence of sportiness that comes with the Daytona name is evident in both look and feel of the motorcycle. Apart from the technical upgrades, which we will delve into shortly, it is clear from the exterior that the Triumph Supersport 660 stands on its own - distinct from the Trident 660 with its fairing. Not only does it boast a sleek fairing with LED twin headlights, but the tank fairing and rear have also been revamped, now featuring two separate seats for rider and passenger. Despite the plastic construction of every visible part, the impeccable quality of craftsmanship, a trademark of Triumph, shines through. We are impressed!

Triumph has equipped the latest generation of the 660 cc three-cylinder engine in the Triumph Supersport. This engine now produces 95 hp at 11,250 rpm and a torque of 69 Nm at 8,250 rpm. These impressive figures were achieved through a comprehensive engine overhaul, which included enhancements to the airbox, crankshaft, cylinder, cylinder head, throttle valves, and cooling system. The transmission and exhaust system were also specifically designed for the Triumph Supersport. This level of attention to detail sets the Supersport apart from its siblings, the Trident and Tiger Sport 660. Additionally, a throttle kit can be requested to make the Triumph Supersport compliant with A2 driving licenses.

Triumph's 660cc three-cylinder engine has already proven itself in the Trident and Tiger Sport models, offering a blend of the best qualities from both twin and multi-cylinder engines. With updated torque and power enhancements, this engine now performs even better. Delivering smooth acceleration from 2,000 rpm, it builds up to a strong mid-range and revs up to over 12,000 rpm. The Triumph Supersport 660 encourages seamless riding, allowing you to tackle winding roads in third gear. For those who push it to the limit, the engine rewards with a glorious triple sound, highlighted by a powerful intake noise. It's a shame that the quickshifter, which works brilliantly on the Trident 660, is still an optional extra. Especially for the sportiest variant in the 660 lineup, it would have been ideal to have it as standard.

Triumph's focus on sport is evident in the Triumph Supersport's selection of riding modes. While the Trident 660 offered Road and Rain modes, the Supersport now includes the Sport mode as well. Each mode features different throttle response and traction control settings, which can be fully deactivated through the menu. The options are displayed on the TFT-LC screen, known from the Tiger Sport 660, which impresses with its user-friendly design. During our test, we didn't need the Rain mode, but we thoroughly enjoyed the Road and Sport modes. Road mode provides a smooth and relaxed throttle response, perfect for city commuting or leisurely rides through the countryside. The traction control kicks in early but is hardly noticeable, only becoming apparent when the warning light flashes. In Sport mode, the Triple engine reacts more responsively, offering a more spirited ride. The traction control intervenes later, allowing for slight slides when exiting corners.

The Triumph Supersport aims to excel in various aspects, offering a sporty experience on weekend rides while ensuring comfort for daily commutes. A key component for this versatility is the chassis, which features Showa elements on the Daytona 660 model. This includes an SFF Big Piston upside-down fork at the front and an adjustable shock absorber at the rear. Our test ride revealed the Daytona's ability to adapt to different riding conditions. The chassis provides a smooth and composed ride on straight roads, yet transforms into a sporty performer when tackling corners, offering precise feedback to the rider. The standard Michelin Power 6 tires further enhance the bike's performance, ensuring optimal grip in various conditions. Only under high-speed maneuvers with deep transverse joints does the Daytona 660's slightly comfortable shock absorber setting become noticeable, but it remains well within expectations for this class.

Our test ride on the Triumph Supersport covered approximately 170 kilometers, showcasing the appeal of the road-focused sports motorcycle segment. The aggressive ergonomics provide a nimble racing sensation without straining the wrists. Despite boasting one of the sportiest riding positions in its category, the Triumph Supersport still delivers the necessary comfort for everyday riding. With enhancements to the engine, the three-cylinder powerplant now offers a sportier performance, while the brakes have also been upgraded accordingly. The 310 mm dual discs are now clamped by radially mounted four-piston calipers, delivering a precise bite and smooth braking modulation. Not overly aggressive - just the right balance for a segment catering to both novice and seasoned riders. Indeed, the Triumph Supersport leaves little room for error, a crucial factor in a fiercely competitive market. Stay tuned to see how it stacks up against rivals throughout the 2024 season!