Review
By Mario
Theres never been a better time to be a learner rider.
We said last years change to the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) opened up all manner of interesting machine choices for learner riders. But we couldnt have foreseen how the manufacturers have started to adapt and get behind it.
The prime example has to be Triumphs new 660cc Street Triple. A shorter stroke reduces the capacity from 675cc to sneak in under the LAMS limit and detuning drops the output to 55 PS, or just over 40kW.
Other than that, its just like any other Street Triple. Same burbly soundtrack, same sharp handling, same good looks. And almost certainly just as much fun. The torque has been clipped at 54.6Nm compared to 68Nm on a standard bike, but the peak happens at 5,155 rpm rather than 9,750. It would be safe to say its not going to be gutless.
Good on Triumph for doing it. The LAMS spec currently only applies in NZ and Australia, so its not exactly a huge market opportunity, and the re-engineering required is bit more involved than a different ECU.
Has there ever been a better time to be a learner? Add in the fact that a days Ride Forever Bronze-level training can be yours for $20, and its hard to argue otherwise.
May 29, 2018
SC-Project is a popular exhaust choice in MotoGP and Moto2. Although most closely associated with MV Agusta, they offer a massive range for other road bikes. We tried some new cans on Triumph’s Speed Triple.
Dec 15, 2017
Italian-made go-anywhere adventure bike has its quirks but is a distinctive, endearing machine to ride. We got to ride the Superdual from recently resurrected brand SWM.
Dec 15, 2017
The machines we usually review are box-fresh and set up by the distributor. Which is fine for knowing how a brand-new machine will feel when you take delivery. But what will it be like a few years and many kilometres down the road? We tried a well-used V-Strom to find out.
