First Ride: 2025 Triumph Trident 660 & Tiger Sport 660 Review

“Built for fun, made for new riders – these 2025 models could be your next step.”

If you’ve just passed your full licence or you’re looking to upgrade from a 125 or A2 bike, choosing your first proper ‘big bike’ is a big decision. You want something that’s exciting, capable, and looks the part — but without being overwhelming or hard to live with.

Enter the 2025 Triumph Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660.

We were invited to the official press launch at Triumph HQ in Hinckley, where we spent the day riding both bikes through some of the best roads around Rutland Water. It was the kind of day you’d dream up for a first big bike ride, smooth tarmac, light twisties, lakeside views and perfect early spring weather. Across 100+ miles, we got a proper feel for what both bikes are like in the real world, especially from a new rider’s point of view.

Here’s what stood out.

Triumph Trident 660 – Urban Style, Everyday Sportiness

The Trident has always had a reputation as a brilliant first big bike, and the 2025 version builds on that even further. It’s still the only triple in its class, meaning you get smooth, linear power delivery — which is ideal when you’re still building confidence and muscle memory.

New updates for 2025 include:

• Cruise control – a rare find in this category, now standard

• Quickshifter – seamless clutchless gear changes (great in traffic and when pushing on)

• Sport riding mode – adds extra punch when you’re ready for it

• Refined suspension – noticeably smoother ride over rougher roads
  
  

Out on the road, the Trident is a joy to ride. It feels light and easy to handle at low speeds, but with plenty of poke when you open it up. It’s sporty without being scary — perfect if you're stepping up from a 125 or a less powerful A2 bike.

The seat’s a bit on the firm side, but overall, this is a bike that makes every ride feel exciting without asking too much in return. Oh, and if you're not quite on your full licence yet — it's A2 restrictor-kit compatible with a simple add-on.

Tiger Sport 660 – Touring Comfort Without the Bulk

Looking for something a bit more adventure-flavoured? The Tiger Sport 660 might be more your vibe.

While it shares the same engine as the Trident, the Tiger Sport is built for longer journeys — with a more upright riding position, wind protection, and integrated pannier mounts for luggage. Think: weekend trips, commuting, or just clocking big miles in comfort.

2025 updates include:

• Cruise control and quickshifter now standard

• Revised suspension – more refined and stable over distance

• Same engine map as the Trident, so performance is smooth and familiar
  
  

Out on the open road, the Tiger feels planted, relaxed, and seriously comfortable. It’s not as flickable as the Trident, but it’s still incredibly manageable, especially considering it looks like a much bigger bike. The seat is plush, and wind protection is decent. For a lot of riders, this could easily be an all-year-round machine.

One note for shorter riders: the seat height is a bit taller, and in tight spaces (like car parks or stop-start traffic), that could be something to consider. But once you’re rolling, the Tiger is balanced and friendly.

Verdict: Two Great First Big Bikes — for Two Kinds of Rider

What Triumph have done here is clever. They’ve taken one brilliant platform and built two bikes that serve very different needs — without compromising on fun or approachability.

• The Trident is for you if you want a sporty, stripped-back roadster that feels sharp and responsive without being intimidating.

• The Tiger Sport is for those thinking about longer trips, comfort, and maybe even a bit of light touring.
  
  

Both are stacked with tech, come with a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty, and offer real bang for your buck — especially when you factor in Triumph’s class-leading service intervals and low maintenance costs.

If you're eyeing your next step post-CBT or post-mod 2, put both of these on your test ride list.

 2025 Triumph Trident 660 vs Tiger Sport 660 Specifications

Want to go deeper?

Read our full hands-on review of the 2025 Triumph Trident 660 – covering performance, handling, and what makes it one of the best beginner-friendly nakeds out there.

Or dive into our full breakdown of the 2025 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 – the perfect first step into the world of sport touring.