05/08/2011
When considering a new motorcycle, one of the most common questions riders ask pertains to power output. For the highly acclaimed Triumph Trident 660, its performance figures are a testament to its design philosophy: accessible, engaging, and undeniably fun. While manufacturers often quote crankshaft horsepower, real-world performance is best understood through rear-wheel measurements, typically obtained on a dynamometer, or 'dyno'.
According to comprehensive testing conducted by Cycle World, the Triumph Trident 660 delivers a robust 72.05 horsepower at 10,200 rpm directly to the rear wheel. This figure is complemented by a healthy 42.85 pound-feet of torque, peaking at a more accessible 6,600 rpm. These numbers paint a clear picture of a motorcycle designed to offer a thrilling yet manageable riding experience, perfectly balancing everyday usability with spirited performance.
- Understanding Dyno Measurements: Rear-Wheel vs. Crankshaft Power
- The Significance of Peak Power and Torque
- The Triple Advantage: Engine Characteristics
- Real-World Performance and Riding Experience
- Power Comparison within its Class
- Factors Influencing Power Output
- The Triumph Trident's Performance Philosophy
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Triumph Trident's Power
Understanding Dyno Measurements: Rear-Wheel vs. Crankshaft Power
It's crucial to distinguish between horsepower figures quoted by manufacturers and those measured at the rear wheel. Manufacturers typically state 'crankshaft horsepower' or 'brake horsepower (BHP)', which represents the power the engine produces before any power is lost through the transmission, drivetrain, and final drive (chain/belt). This loss, often referred to as 'drivetrain loss', can account for anywhere from 10% to 20% of the engine's total output, depending on the motorcycle's design and efficiency.
Rear-wheel horsepower (RWHP), as measured on a dynamometer, provides a more accurate representation of the power that actually reaches the road. When Cycle World measured the Trident's 72.05 hp at the rear wheel, it means that after accounting for all mechanical losses, this is the true usable power available to propel the bike forward. This makes the Trident's output particularly impressive for its class, as it translates directly into tangible acceleration and top-end performance.
The Significance of Peak Power and Torque
The Trident's power figures reveal a well-engineered engine. The peak horsepower arriving at 10,200 rpm indicates an engine that loves to rev, delivering its maximum punch as the revs climb. This characteristic contributes to the 'engaging power delivery' often praised by riders; the bike encourages you to explore the upper reaches of its rev range for exhilarating acceleration.
Equally important is the peak torque figure of 42.85 pound-feet at 6,600 rpm. Torque is the rotational force that gets the bike moving and determines its responsiveness at lower and mid-range RPMs. A relatively low peak torque RPM for a triple means the Trident pulls strongly from the moment you twist the throttle, making it highly responsive in urban traffic and when exiting corners. This combination of strong mid-range torque and a willingness to rev high for peak power provides a broad and usable powerband, making the Trident both easy to ride smoothly and exciting when pushed.
The Triple Advantage: Engine Characteristics
The Triumph Trident 660 is powered by a 660cc liquid-cooled, 12-valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder engine. This 'triple' engine configuration is a hallmark of modern Triumph motorcycles and offers a unique blend of characteristics from both twin and four-cylinder engines:
- Torque of a Twin: The three-cylinder design typically offers more low-to-mid range torque compared to an equivalent capacity four-cylinder engine. This makes the Trident feel punchy and responsive without needing to constantly downshift.
- Rev-ability of a Four: While not quite as high-revving as some inline-fours, the triple can spin up quickly and deliver impressive top-end power, much like a four-cylinder. This gives it a broader powerband than most twins.
- Unique Sound: Triples are renowned for their distinctive, often described as 'howling' or 'growling', exhaust note, which is unique and adds to the riding experience.
The Trident's engine is specifically tuned for roadster duties, prioritising a flat torque curve and accessible power that makes it enjoyable for a wide range of riders, from novices to experienced enthusiasts. This engineering choice directly contributes to its 'fun-loving personality'.
Real-World Performance and Riding Experience
So, what do these numbers mean for the everyday rider? The 72.05 hp and 42.85 lb-ft translate into a motorcycle that is agile, responsive, and capable of spirited performance without being intimidating. For commuting, the strong mid-range torque makes pulling away from traffic lights effortless and overtaking simple. On twisty roads, the engaging power delivery allows riders to smoothly carry speed through corners and accelerate out with confidence.
The relatively light weight of the Trident (around 189 kg wet) further amplifies its power-to-weight ratio, making the 72 horsepower feel even more potent. This combination results in a bike that feels nimble and eager, perfectly suited for both urban adventures and weekend blasts through the countryside. The power is delivered linearly, meaning there are no sudden surges or dips, which makes the bike predictable and easier to control, especially for riders still building their confidence.
Power Comparison within its Class
To put the Triumph Trident 660's power into perspective, let's consider its position within the competitive middleweight roadster segment. While direct comparisons require specific dyno figures for each model, we can broadly categorise its performance:
| Motorcycle Segment | Typical Rear-Wheel HP Range | Trident 660 (RWHP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (e.g., 300-400cc) | 30-45 hp | 72.05 hp | Significantly more powerful, offering room to grow. |
| Mid-Weight Naked (600-700cc Twins) | 60-75 hp | 72.05 hp | Competitively positioned, often with a broader powerband due to the triple engine. |
| Mid-Weight Naked (600-700cc Fours) | 80-95 hp | 72.05 hp | Slightly less peak power than some fours, but often more accessible torque lower down. |
| Higher Performance (e.g., 900cc+) | 90-120+ hp | 72.05 hp | Designed for a different purpose, the Trident prioritises balance and usability. |
As the table illustrates, the Trident 660 sits comfortably in the heart of the middleweight naked bike category. Its power output is competitive with, and often surpasses, many twin-cylinder rivals, while offering a unique triple-cylinder character that distinguishes it from four-cylinder machines. This makes it an excellent choice for riders seeking a blend of performance, character, and everyday practicality.
Factors Influencing Power Output
While the dyno figures provide a baseline, several factors can influence the actual power a motorcycle produces:
- Maintenance: A well-maintained engine with clean air filters, fresh oil, and correctly gapped spark plugs will always perform optimally. Neglecting maintenance can lead to a noticeable drop in power.
- Fuel Quality: Using the recommended octane fuel is important. Lower octane fuel can lead to pre-ignition or 'knocking', which the engine's management system will compensate for by retarding ignition timing, resulting in reduced power.
- Environmental Conditions: Air density (affected by altitude and temperature) plays a significant role. Engines produce less power at higher altitudes or in very hot, humid conditions due to less oxygen in the air.
- Aftermarket Modifications: Exhaust systems, air filters, and ECU (Engine Control Unit) re-mapping can alter power output. While some modifications can increase power, poorly chosen or installed parts can actually decrease it or affect reliability.
The Triumph Trident's Performance Philosophy
Triumph's design philosophy for the Trident 660 was not simply to create the most powerful bike in its class, but rather to craft a motorcycle that offers a superior riding experience through a balanced combination of power, handling, and technology. The 72.05 hp is more than sufficient for exhilarating rides, while the accessible torque makes it incredibly user-friendly. This balance is key to its widespread appeal and why it consistently earns praise for its 'fun-loving personality'. It's a bike that encourages you to ride, rather than just race.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Triumph Trident's Power
Q1: Is 72 horsepower enough for a motorcycle?
A: Absolutely. For a middleweight naked roadster like the Triumph Trident 660, 72 horsepower at the rear wheel is more than ample for spirited road riding, comfortable touring, and even occasional track days. It provides strong acceleration and capable top speeds while remaining manageable for a wide range of rider skill levels. Many riders find that accessible, usable power is more enjoyable than raw, intimidating figures.
Q2: Why is rear-wheel horsepower (RWHP) important?
A: Rear-wheel horsepower is important because it represents the actual power available to propel the motorcycle forward after all drivetrain losses (friction in the transmission, chain/belt, etc.) have been accounted for. Manufacturer-quoted 'crankshaft' or 'brake' horsepower figures do not include these losses, so RWHP gives a more realistic indication of a bike's performance on the road. It helps in comparing bikes consistently.
Q3: What does 'engaging power delivery' mean for the Trident?
A: 'Engaging power delivery' refers to how the engine's power builds and feels to the rider. For the Trident, it means the power is smooth and linear, without sudden peaks or troughs, but also responsive and exciting as the revs climb. The strong mid-range torque ensures it pulls well from lower RPMs, while the willingness to rev high for peak power means there's always more to give when you ask for it. This makes it predictable yet thrilling.
Q4: How does the Trident's power compare to a 600cc sportbike?
A: While the Trident 660 shares a similar engine capacity with 600cc sportbikes, their power delivery philosophies are very different. Traditional 600cc sportbikes (like a Daytona 675 or a Japanese inline-four 600cc supersport) are typically tuned for significantly higher peak horsepower (often 90-110+ RWHP) at much higher RPMs (13,000-15,000 rpm). They tend to have less low-end and mid-range torque, requiring riders to keep the engine in its upper rev range for maximum performance. The Trident, conversely, offers more accessible torque lower down, making it more practical and enjoyable for everyday road riding, even if its peak power is lower.
Q5: Can the Trident's power be increased with modifications?
A: Yes, like most motorcycles, the Trident's power can be increased with certain aftermarket modifications. Common modifications include installing a less restrictive exhaust system, a high-flow air filter, and custom ECU re-mapping (often called a 'tune'). These modifications can typically yield a modest increase in horsepower and torque, often improving the power delivery across the rev range. However, it's important to choose reputable parts and experienced tuners to ensure reliability and optimal performance, as poorly executed modifications can sometimes degrade performance or cause engine issues.
In conclusion, the Triumph Trident 660's power output of 72.05 hp and 42.85 lb-ft at the rear wheel positions it as a highly capable and enjoyable motorcycle. Its triple-cylinder engine delivers an engaging and accessible powerband that caters to a wide spectrum of riders, solidifying its reputation as a genuinely fun and versatile machine.
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