In the world of middleweight naked motorcycles, two names consistently rise to the top of every buyer's list: the wildly popular Yamaha MT-07 and the sophisticated Triumph Trident 660. Both offer thrilling performance, manageable power, and head-turning style, but they deliver their excitement in distinctly different ways. One is a raw, torque-rich hooligan; the other is a refined, smooth, and feature-packed contender.
So, which one is right for you? Let's break down this clash of titans.
The Heart of the Matter: Engine and Character
This is where the two bikes diverge the most.
Yamaha MT-07: The Master of Torque
At the core of the MT-07 is Yamaha's legendary 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine. Famous for its "crossplane" crankshaft, this engine is all about instant, punchy torque. From the moment you twist the throttle, the MT-07 lunges forward with an infectious and playful urgency. It's an engine that encourages mischief, making city riding a thrill and lifting the front wheel with ease. It feels raw, mechanical, and alive. This character has made it a favorite for everyone from new riders to experienced stunt riders.
Triumph Trident 660: The Triple-Cylinder Gentleman
The Trident 660 takes a different approach with its 660cc inline-triple engine. Where the Yamaha is punchy, the Triumph is smooth and linear. Power delivery is incredibly predictable and refined, building seamlessly through the rev range. You get the best of both worlds: good low-end grunt like a twin and a screaming top-end rush like a four-cylinder. This engine is sophisticated, versatile, and feels more "premium." It’s just as fast, but it delivers its speed with less drama and more composure.
Verdict: If you want raw, visceral excitement and low-end punch, the MT-07 wins. If you prefer smooth, flexible power and a refined feel, the Trident 660 is your champion.
On the Road: Handling, Brakes, and Suspension
A great engine needs a capable chassis to match.
The Yamaha MT-07 is known for being incredibly lightweight and agile. It feels flickable and eager to change direction, making it a joy in tight, twisty corners and urban environments. However, its main cost-saving measure is in the suspension. While perfectly adequate for casual riding, the front forks and rear shock are on the softer side and can feel overwhelmed when pushed hard by heavier or more aggressive riders. The brakes are functional but lack the sharp, initial bite of a more premium setup.
The Triumph Trident 660, on the other hand, comes with a higher-spec chassis right out of the box. It features non-adjustable Showa suspension and Nissin brakes that provide a more controlled, planted, and confidence-inspiring ride. The bike feels stable and composed, absorbing bumps with more grace than the MT-07. While slightly heavier, the handling is precise and inspires confidence, especially for riders who are still building their skills.
Verdict: The MT-07 is the more playful and agile bike, while the Trident 660 offers a more refined, stable, and confidence-inspiring ride thanks to its superior standard components.
Tech, Features, and Style
In the modern era, technology matters.
The Trident 660 clearly leads in this department. It comes standard with a beautiful full-color TFT display, two riding modes (Road and Rain), switchable traction control, and ABS. It offers a premium experience that feels like it belongs on a more expensive motorcycle. Its styling is a blend of classic Triumph roadster DNA and modern, clean lines, giving it a neo-retro appeal.
The Yamaha MT-07 has evolved over the years, with newer models now featuring a full-color TFT display as well. However, it lacks features like riding modes or traction control (on most models/markets). The MT-07’s appeal is its simplicity and "get on and ride" nature. Its style is pure "Hyper Naked" aggression—sharp, minimalist, and futuristic, following Yamaha's "Dark Side of Japan" design language.
Verdict: For technology and standard features, the Trident 660 is the undeniable winner. For styling, it’s a matter of taste: aggressive futurism (MT-07) vs. modern classic (Trident 660).
The Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
There is no wrong choice here, only the right choice for you.
You should buy the Yamaha MT-07 if:
You should buy the Triumph Trident 660 if:
In short, the MT-07 is the passionate, wild-at-heart entertainer, while the Trident 660 is the polished, capable, and sophisticated all-rounder. Take a test ride on both, and one will surely speak to your soul.
