Triumph Daytona 660 Review: A welcoming, A2-Compatible Introduction to Sports Bikes

Triumph Daytona 660 Stats:

• Price: From £8,595.00
• Power: 93.87 bhp 
• Capacity: 660 cc
• Weight: 201 kg

The Daytona name has been around since the '90s, originally representing Triumph's entry into the middleweight sports bike category. Models like the Daytona 675 showcased Triumph's commitment to sharp handling, impressive performance, and their signature triple-cylinder engine. But, as interest in supersport bikes waned, Triumph effectively retired the Daytona range in 2016.

Now, the Daytona 660 brings the name back, but with a modern twist. It's A2 licence compatible, making it a great option for new or intermediate riders who want a sportbike that’s fast but manageable. It’s got all the excitement of a performance machine without being intimidating, delivering a fun, approachable experience.

Sportbikes are all about speed, agility, and thrills, and the Daytona 660 nails that balance. It’s a lightweight, powerful package that’s easy to ride, making it an ideal entry into the world of sports riding while still capturing the essence of the classic Daytona.

A week in the saddle

I spent a week with the Daytona 660, putting it through its paces in London's urban sprawl, on bustling motorways commuting, and winding country roads. The bike felt comfortable and refined throughout and was great to live with. As a 6"2' rider it was a touch cramped, but still perfectly acceptable thanks to the bars not being too low and the seat being comfortable. 

The engine is a gem. It's rewarding to ride, offering enough grunt to keep things exciting without being overwhelming. The handling is forgiving, making it a perfect companion for novice riders entering the world of sports bikes, or the more "experienced" rider who wants something a bit more leisurely than say the old Daytona.

One pleasant surprise was the bike's performance at night. The lights were impressive, turning evening rides from a chore into something that could be enjoyed - a rarity in the sports bike market. 

Tech that's got your back

The Daytona 660's electronics package is a standout feature. With decent ABS and Traction Control Systems, I felt confident riding in both wet and dry conditions in Autumn. These systems aren't just add-ons; they're integral to the bike's character, enhancing the overall riding experience and making it a bike that you feel has your back. 

You have a fair amount of adjustability too in the riding modes. Choosing how aggressive you want the traction control to be lets you dial in the ride you want - max TCS for commuting in the rain, less for a sporty ride or track session. This continues to reinforce the Daytona's new rider compatibility. The bike can be dialled in to provide the right amount of support for the rider, meeting the rider where they are without placing unnecessary demands on them. 

A route for new riders

For those who remember the 600cc sports bikes of the late '90s, the Daytona 660 has similar power, but it's delivered in a much more civilised way. It captures most of the positives of those machines but with a modern twist. The power delivery is smoother, the handling more relaxed, and the electronics add a layer of safety that was unheard of back then.

Arguably the biggest "mistake" Triumph made was calling this bike a "Daytona". It's not the same bike as the old Daytona, and that's okay. It stands on its own as a 90-ish bhp sports bike that's more than enough for all but a committed super-sports/track rider. 

The future of sports bikes?

The Triumph Daytona 660 (along with all of its competitors) could be just what the doctor ordered for the sports bike market. It's an ideal gateway for new riders looking to enter the world of sport riding. With its approachable nature and reasonable price tag, it offers all the thrills of a sports bike without the intimidating power figures that can lead to trouble.

The Triumph Daytona 660 is a well-rounded package that brings the joy of sports riding to a wider audience. It's a bike that you can grow with, enjoy daily, and still get excited about every time you twist the throttle. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of sports bikes, the Daytona 660 deserves a second look. It has a lot to offer and, even in the crowded A2-compatible sports bike market, it's probably the one I'd choose to buy.