The Indian middleweight motorcycle market just got more intense with the arrival of the 2025 Triumph Trident 660, directly challenging the well-established Honda CB650R. With new tech, design updates, and aggressive pricing, Triumph aims to disrupt Honda’s dominance in the naked streetfighter category. We delve deep into their specs, features, pricing, and performance to determine which bike stands out as the ultimate value-for-money middleweight naked in India.
🏍️ Design and Styling: Retro-Modern vs Aggressive Minimalism
2025 Triumph Trident 660
The Triumph Trident 660 carries its signature minimalistic, muscular design into 2025 with subtle yet important updates. The revised graphics, fresh paint schemes, and sleek tank extensions offer a refined visual upgrade. The sculpted fuel tank, compact tail section, and clean underbody lines still make it one of the most urban-styled bikes in the segment.
The addition of scrolling LED indicators and new handlebar grips with heating elements make it look more premium than ever.
Honda CB650R
The Honda CB650R draws heavy inspiration from Neo Sports Café styling, blending retro charm with futuristic lines. With its round LED headlamp, clean tank shrouds, and exposed frame sections, it maintains a distinctive streetfighter appeal. The golden USD forks, LCD display, and neatly packaged tail section give it a balanced yet aggressive stance.
Verdict: If you prefer a refined, minimalist premium look, the Trident 660 wins. For fans of retro-futurism and muscular streetfighter aesthetics, the CB650R appeals more.
⚙️ Engine and Performance: Inline-4 vs Triple-Cylinder Battle
Triumph Trident 660 Engine
Engine Type: 660cc, liquid-cooled, inline 3-cylinder
Power Output: 81 hp @ 10,250 rpm
Torque: 64 Nm @ 6,250 rpm
Gearbox: 6-speed manual with bi-directional quickshifter
Riding Modes: Road, Rain, Sport
Cruise Control: Newly added
The Trident’s triple engine offers linear power delivery, smooth mid-range torque, and a raspy exhaust note. Perfect for both city rides and weekend blasts, its balance of performance and accessibility makes it a strong contender in real-world usage.
Honda CB650R Engine
Engine Type: 649cc, liquid-cooled, inline 4-cylinder
Power Output: 94 hp @ 12,000 rpm
Torque: 62.3 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
E-Clutch Technology: Segment-first automatic clutchless shifting
The CB650R’s inline-four engine delivers thrilling top-end performance. With 13 more horsepower than the Trident, it thrives at higher revs. The inclusion of E-Clutch sets it apart, enabling clutch-free starts and stops—ideal for traffic-heavy cities or long-distance cruising.
Verdict: For track and top-end lovers, the CB650R’s engine shines. For daily usability with punchy torque, the Trident 660 is more practical.
🛠️ Features and Technology: Who Offers More Bang for the Buck?
Triumph Trident 660 Standard Features (2025 Model)
Cruise Control (new)
Bluetooth Connectivity
Bi-directional Quickshifter
TFT Instrument Console
Three Riding Modes
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Heated Grips
Scrolling LED Indicators
USB Charging Port
Showa SFF-BP USD Fork (Front)
Monoshock with Preload Adjustment (Rear)
These previously optional features now come standard, making the 2025 model richer in value.
Honda CB650R Features
E-Clutch Technology
Traction Control
Dual Channel ABS
LED Lighting System
LCD Instrument Cluster
TPMS Indicator
USD Front Forks
Retro LED Round Headlamp
Slipper Clutch
While the CB650R packs premium elements, it lacks a full TFT display, riding modes, or a cruise control system—all present in the new Trident.
Verdict: Triumph’s fully loaded feature list, especially now being standard, makes it technologically superior to the CB650R.
🧩 Suspension and Ride Quality
Triumph Trident 660
Front Suspension: Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks
Rear Suspension: Showa preload-adjustable monoshock
Riding Dynamics: Balanced between comfort and agility, excellent for urban roads and weekend touring.
Honda CB650R
Front Suspension: Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston USD forks
Rear Suspension: Monoshock with 10-stage preload adjustability
Riding Dynamics: Stiffer, sportier, aimed at enthusiastic riders and canyon carving.
Verdict: For day-to-day comfort with occasional spirited riding, Trident leads. Track-focused riders will lean toward the CB650R.
🛑 Braking Setup and Safety
Triumph Trident 660
Front: Twin 310mm discs with Nissin two-piston calipers
Rear: Single disc
ABS: Standard
Additional: TPMS, enhanced grip with Michelin Road 5 tyres
Honda CB650R
Front: Twin 310mm floating discs with radial-mount four-piston calipers
Rear: Single 240mm disc
ABS: Standard
Additional: Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
Verdict: Honda’s more powerful braking setup offers sharper response under aggressive riding. Trident’s system is perfectly tuned for urban and casual sporty use.
💸 Price and Value for Money
2025 Triumph Trident 660
Price: ₹8.95 lakh (Ex-showroom India)
Considering the long list of standard features, Triumph offers exceptional value for a premium middleweight.
Honda CB650R
Price: ₹11 lakh (Ex-showroom India)
While it packs performance and style, the premium pricing may not justify the missing tech features that the Trident now includes.
Verdict: In terms of value for money, Triumph delivers significantly more in a sub-₹9 lakh package.
📊 Spec Comparison Table
| Specification | Triumph Trident 660 | Honda CB650R |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 660cc Inline 3-Cylinder | 649cc Inline 4-Cylinder |
| Power | 81 hp | 94 hp |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 62.3 Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed w/ Quickshifter | 6-Speed Manual |
| Cruise Control | Yes | No |
| Riding Modes | 3 (Road, Rain, Sport) | No |
| Instrument Console | TFT | LCD |
| Price (Ex-showroom India) | ₹8.95 lakh | ₹11 lakh |
| Front Suspension | Showa USD SFF-BP | Showa Big Piston USD |
| Brakes | Twin Disc, ABS | Twin Disc, Radial Calipers |
| TPMS | Yes | Indicator Only |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Standard | No |
🏁 Final Verdict: Which Bike Should You Choose?
If you’re seeking a tech-loaded, premium middleweight naked bike at a highly competitive price, the 2025 Triumph Trident 660 is undeniably the smartest pick in the current Indian market. It excels in features, value, and daily practicality without compromising on performance or appeal.
However, if you crave raw power, top-end revving thrills, and a more aggressive streetfighter persona, and are willing to pay extra, the Honda CB650R remains a compelling alternative.
Winner in Overall Value and Features: ✅ 2025 Triumph Trident 660
