Triumph Daytona 600

 

Triumph Daytona 600

Overview

The name Triumph Daytona 600 refers to two fundamentally different motorcycle models produced during two distinct eras in the history of the British manufacturer.

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1. The Classic Meriden Model (1983)

Manufactured at the historic Meriden factory, this original version was designed to attract younger riders by offering a lower insurance premium bracket than the larger 650cc models.

• Engine & Performance: It was a shorter-stroked, twin-carburetor variant of the Triumph TR65 Thunderbird. Featuring an 8.5:1 compression ratio, it was claimed to exceed 100 mph (160 km/h).
• Design & Styling: Unveiled at the 1982 National Exhibition Centre (NEC) bike show, it featured unique rear-set footrests, a plastic "ducktail" rear section borrowed from the Triumph T140 TSX, and a short chromed rear mudguard. It utilized a front disc brake combined with the drum rear brake of the TR65.
• Rarity: Only two prototypes were ever built before the Meriden factory closed down in 1983. The only surviving unit (a kick-start version used for factory road-testing) has been displayed at the London Motorcycle Museum since 2010.

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2. The Modern Hinckley Model (2003–2004)

Following the original company's bankruptcy, the resurrected Triumph brand based out of the new Hinckley factory revived the nameplate to create a far more famous and mass-produced sportbike.

• Specifications: This modern supersport machine is powered by a high-revving, liquid-cooled 599 cc inline-four engine.
• Successor: Production of this successful variant ended when it was superseded by the Daytona 650 starting in 2005.