Triumph Motorcycles’ all-new Trident naked bike is expected to be the least-expensive model in its range when it hits showrooms next year.
The British bikemaker revealed a prototype version of the Trident at a private media event last week, providing a good look at what we can expect from the segment-breaking model.
Triumph is open about its intentions with the Trident, as it looks to take on the popular middleweight naked bike class that is dominated by the likes of the Yamaha MT-07, Kawasaki Z650 and Suzuki SV650. Therefore, the Trident will launch in both full-power, and learner-approved guises overseas, while a LAMS-approved version is all but confirmed for the local market.
Given the success of other LAMS models in this segment, and the company’s drive to capture a younger audience, INFO MOTO expects that Triumph Motorcycles Australia will make the most of its learner-friendly credentials.
While exact pricing and specification details will be released as the production bike is unveiled, Triumph confirmed that the bike will compete with the Yamaha MT-07 and Kawasaki Z650, both in terms of performance, and price.
For reference, the current MT-07 is available from $11,849 rideaway in LAMS trim, or $12,599 with the beefier engine tune, although the Triumph badge will surely come at some premium.
Triumph says that the Trident will stand apart from its rivals thanks to its triple-cylinder engine and unique British styling cues.
Currently, Triumph’s only LAMS offering comes in the form of the Street Triple S (now discounted to $12,390 rideaway), which is motivated by a 660cc three-cylinder engine developing 35kW and 60Nm.
It’s unclear how much the Trident will share with the Street Triple S, however, Triumph chief product officer Steve Sargent confirmed that the new model features a completely new frame and a specially built engine.
The static prototype shown to press reveals a sleek and muscular naked bike that distinguishes itself from its roadster stablemates with its minimalist design and heritage-inspired tank.
It also shows a round LED headlight and small digital dash, and buttons to toggle heated grips and various technology features.
“The Trident design prototype marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Triumph, where the brief was all about fun, from the look to the ride,” said Triumph chief product officer Steve Sargent.
“With its pure minimalist form, clean lines, Triumph design DNA and more than a hint of our Speed Triple’s muscular poise, this gives the first exciting glimpse at the full Trident story to come.
“Ultimately our aim was to bring a new take on character and style, alongside the accessible easy handling and quality Triumph is known for – at a price that’s really competitive.”
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
