The Triumph Trident 800 is here, and it's stirring up the motorcycle world! But is it a worthy successor to its iconic predecessors? Let's dive in and find out.
A Legacy Revived:
The Trident name holds a special place in Triumph's history. From the original Trident that challenged the Honda CB750 to the recent Trident 660, this lineage has left its mark. Now, the 2026 Trident 800 aims to continue the tradition, packing a punch with its 798cc inline-Triple engine.
First Impressions:
With a $9,995 price tag, the Trident 800 aims to impress. It boasts a smooth and torquey engine, delivering a thrilling ride above 5k rpm. The rider triangle is comfortable, and you get a lot of bike for your money. But there are some quirks. The elongated 'tank' and short seat limit movement, and the front brake's initial bite lacks feedback.
A Modern Roadster:
Triumph's design language shines through with a retro-inspired round headlight and contemporary bodywork. The 800's fuel tank and black side panels pay homage to the 660, while the flyscreen, belly pan, and side-mounted exhaust add a touch of modernity. It's a subtle evolution, but one that works.
Power and Performance:
The 798cc Triple engine is the star of the show, producing 113.4 hp and 61.9 lb-ft of torque. Triumph's engineering prowess is evident, with a twist-forged crankshaft and forged connecting rods enhancing both performance and sound. The result? A deep growl at low revs that transforms into a signature triple howl when pushed.
Tech-Savvy Features:
Electronics are a strong suit, offering ride-by-wire throttle with three modes (Road, Sport, Rain) and lean-sensitive traction control. A bi-directional quickshifter and cruise control are standard, and the round 3.5-inch TFT display adds a touch of class. But here's where it gets controversial—some might argue that the initial brake bite and clutch cable routing could be improved.
On the Road:
The Trident 800's neutral ergonomics make it accessible to riders of all levels. The wide handlebar and slim knee space provide a comfortable riding position. However, the lengthy 'tank' limits movement, especially when the pace picks up. The suspension is impressive, but fine-tuning the preload is essential for optimal performance.
Competitive Edge:
Triumph positions the Trident 800 as a contender against the BMW F900R, Kawasaki Z900, and Yamaha MT-09. With its powerful engine, modern electronics, and competitive pricing, it certainly has the potential to hold its own. But will it live up to the expectations set by its rivals? That's a question that only time and rider feedback can answer.
The Verdict:
The 2026 Triumph Trident 800 is a compelling middleweight motorcycle, offering a blend of performance, style, and value. While it has some minor quirks, its overall package is hard to ignore. And this is the part most people miss—the Trident 800 is not just a bike; it's a testament to Triumph's commitment to innovation and heritage. So, is it a must-have? The answer lies in the eyes of the beholder and the heart of the rider.
Specifications:
- MSRP: Starting at $9,995
- Engine: Liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder, 12-valve, DOHC
- Displacement: 798 cc
- Horsepower: 113 hp at 10,750 rpm
- Torque: 61.9 lb-ft at 8,500 rpm
- Fuel System: Bosch Multipoint EFI with electronic throttle control
- And more...
What do you think? Is the Triumph Trident 800 a worthy addition to the middleweight segment? Share your thoughts and let's spark a conversation!
