Triumph Daytona 660 Review: A Road-Focused Evolution
The Triumph Daytona 660 has arrived with a fresh perspective, moving away from the track-focused legacy of its predecessor, the Daytona 675. Positioned as a sportbike with a road-friendly character, the Daytona 660 aims to attract riders seeking style, comfort, and performance in an approachable package. It blends the DNA of a supersport machine with everyday practicality, appealing to riders who want a thrilling yet manageable experience. The Daytona 660 sets itself apart in the mid-capacity sportbike segment, from its striking design to its balanced ergonomics. In this detailed review, we explore every facet of this motorcycle and assess whether it meets the expectations set by its legendary lineage.

Specifications at a Glance
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine | 660cc inline-triple |
Power | 95 hp @ 10,250 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm @ 6,250 RPM |
Weight | 206 kg |
Suspension (Front) | Non-adjustable |
Suspension (Rear) | Preload adjustable |
Brakes | Dual-disc front |
Seat Height | 810 mm |
Price (Ex-showroom, India) | ₹9.72 lakh |
Design: Aggressive Yet Inviting
The Daytona 660 stands out with its sharp, angular styling that exudes aggression while retaining a connection to the iconic Daytona 675. Its bold front fairing, sleek LED headlights, and aerodynamic profile are designed to grab attention. The layered fairing, sculpted tank, split-seat setup, and wide 180-section rear tire enhance its big-bike appeal. For riders looking for an even sportier aesthetic, Triumph offers an optional single-seat cowl that adds a race-inspired touch.



However, cost-cutting measures are evident. The rectangular axial brake master cylinder, non-adjustable front forks, and steel tubular frame with plastic cladding highlight its budget-conscious construction. While purists may note these compromises, the overall design remains captivating and modern, making it a head-turner in urban environments and on highways alike.
The attention to detail, such as the neatly integrated exhaust and quality paint finish, adds to its premium appeal. Despite being positioned as a more accessible model, the Daytona 660 retains enough visual drama to uphold its sporting heritage.
Ergonomics: A Comfort-Oriented Sportbike
Triumph has struck a fine balance between sporty and comfortable ergonomics. The clip-on handlebars are positioned for a semi-committed stance, allowing riders to enjoy a sporty feel without undue strain on their wrists or back. The footpegs are not excessively rear-set, ensuring a riding position that caters to spirited rides and relaxed commutes.
The approachable 810mm seat height is a boon for shorter riders, while the plush seat ensures comfort over extended journeys. This makes the Daytona 660 suitable for touring and daily rides. Unlike the aggressive stance of some entry-level sportbikes, such as the Yamaha R15, the Daytona 660 offers a more forgiving setup, striking a balance between form and function. Even during longer rides, riders will appreciate the well-padded seat and ergonomic placement of controls, which minimize fatigue.
The bike’s ergonomics are designed with versatility in mind, making it equally adept at slicing through city traffic and cruising on open highways. It offers an experience that is accessible yet engaging, appealing to a wide range of riders.
Engine and Performance: Triple Delight
At the heart of the Daytona 660 lies a 660cc inline-triple engine, derived from the Trident 660 but with several upgrades. It features a new cylinder head, updated pistons, and a higher redline of 12,600 RPM. These changes result in a robust output of 95 horsepower and 64 Nm of torque, delivering a thrilling performance that caters to both enthusiasts and casual riders.
In city conditions, the engine offers smooth and manageable power delivery, with ample mid-range torque for effortless overtakes. But the real thrill begins at 7,000 RPM, where the engine roars to life, delivering an exhilarating top-end performance. This characteristic makes it versatile enough for everyday commutes while also satisfying the adrenaline rush during spirited rides. Sport mode sharpens throttle response, enhancing its dynamic character on open roads or twisty mountain passes.
However, there are minor downsides. The engine tends to heat up in slow-moving traffic, and the limited ground clearance requires caution over sharp speed breakers. Despite these niggles, the Daytona 660 offers an engaging ride that’s hard to match in its segment. The inline-triple engine’s unique sound and linear power delivery make it a standout performer.
Suspension and Ride Quality: Comfort Over Precision
The Daytona 660’s suspension setup consists of non-adjustable front forks and a preload-adjustable rear mono-shock. While this might disappoint track enthusiasts, it’s tailored for real-world conditions. The suspension absorbs potholes and uneven surfaces with ease, making it suitable for Indian roads and other countries with similar conditions.
On twisty roads or racetracks, however, the softer suspension reveals its limitations. It lacks the precision and feedback of a dedicated supersport bike. Enthusiasts seeking razor-sharp handling may find the setup less than ideal, but for everyday riding and spirited weekend outings, the Daytona 660 strikes a commendable balance between comfort and handling.
The ride quality is further enhanced by the bike’s 206 kg weight, which adds a sense of stability without making it feel cumbersome. The suspension tuning ensures that riders remain comfortable even during long hours in the saddle, making it a practical choice for those who value versatility.
Features and Technology: Functional, Not Flashy
The Daytona 660 inherits its LCD and TFT combo display from the Trident 660. While functional, the display feels dated compared to the fully digital dashboards of its competitors. Key readouts, including speed, gear position, and fuel levels, are clear and legible, but the overall interface could benefit from a modern refresh.
Optional features like Bluetooth connectivity and an up-and-down quick-shifter enhance its appeal but add to the cost. The quick-shifter, in particular, is a valuable addition for those who enjoy spirited riding, offering seamless gear changes without using the clutch.
One standout feature is the tight turning radius, which is rare for sportbikes and makes the Daytona 660 highly maneuverable in urban environments. This practical nature extends to its manageable seat height, user-friendly controls, and accessible performance, making it an excellent choice for riders transitioning from smaller bikes.
Market Position: A Mixed Proposition
Priced at ₹9.72 lakh (ex-showroom), the Daytona 660 is positioned as a premium offering in the mid-capacity segment. Its closest competitor, the Honda CBR650R, has been absent from the Indian market, leaving the Suzuki GSX-8R and Triumph’s own Street Triple R as alternatives.
Interestingly, the Street Triple R costs just ₹45,000 more and offers superior performance, better components, and a more premium experience. This pricing overlap creates a dilemma for buyers, particularly those seeking a sportier machine. The Daytona 660, however, distinguishes itself with its comfort-oriented design and accessible performance, appealing to riders who prioritize real-world usability over outright performance.
Ideal Buyer Profile
The Daytona 660 is best suited for:
- Riders transitioning to mid-capacity sportbikes.
- Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, comfortable, and road-focused sportbike.
- Urban riders prioritize practicality over track-ready performance.
It’s not for hardcore racers or those looking for cutting-edge technology but excels as a versatile, everyday sportbike. Its approachable nature makes it a compelling choice for a wide audience.
Verdict: A New Identity
The Triumph Daytona 660 carves a distinct identity as a road-friendly sportbike with sporty aesthetics and approachable performance. While it doesn’t match the track-focused legacy of the Daytona 675, it appeals to a broader audience with its comfort, style, and practicality. For riders seeking a blend of sporty flair and everyday usability, the Daytona 660 is a compelling choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While manageable, its price and performance are better suited for intermediate riders rather than absolute beginners.
The Daytona 660 offers more power, sharper styling, and a sportier character, making it a logical upgrade for Trident owners.
Yes, its compliant suspension makes it capable of handling uneven road conditions comfortably.
For those seeking style, comfort, and versatility in a sportbike, it offers good value. However, track-focused riders may find better alternatives.
The Suzuki GSX-8R and Triumph Street Triple R are its closest competitors, each catering to slightly different preferences.