Triumph Street Triple 675 [2008-2010]: The Middleweight Streetfighter That Redefined Naked Bikes

Introduction

When Triumph unleashed the Street Triple 675 between 2008-2010, it didn’t just create another motorcycle – it sparked a revolution in the middleweight naked segment. Borrowing the Daytona 675’s beating heart and wrapping it in the Speed Triple’s rebellious attire, this machine became an instant icon. After spending a week with a meticulously maintained 2010 model, it’s clear why this generation remains sought-after by riders who crave character without compromise. Let’s dissect why this British streetfighter continues to turn heads and twist throttles with equal fervor.

Design & Ergonomics: Brutal Beauty Meets Everyday Practicality

The Street Triple’s design language shouts "factory hooligan" with its twin bug-eye headlights and muscular tank lines. Unlike later generations that softened the edges, this original iteration maintains raw, mechanical honesty. The 3-into-1 exhaust – mounted low and growling like an angry wolverine – gives the tail section a clean, aggressive taper.

With an 800mm (31.5") seat height, it accommodates riders from 5'7" upwards comfortably. The wide Renthal-style handlebars (740mm/29.1" width) create a natural, upright riding position that somehow manages to feel sporty and relaxed simultaneously. At 189kg (416lbs) wet, it disappears beneath you at stops yet telegraphs every input with telepathic precision when moving.

The minimalist digital dash – a stark white-on-black display – keeps things focused. It’s all business: speed, rpm, fuel level, and essential warnings. No frills, no distractions – just like the bike itself.

Engine & Performance: The Triple’s Savage Symphony

At its core lies the legendary 675cc liquid-cooled inline-triple, producing 105hp @11,850rpm and 68Nm (50ft-lbs) @9,750rpm. But numbers don’t capture the experience. From the moment you thumb the starter, the engine barks to life with a distinctive metallic snarl that’s equal parts MotoGP wail and industrial machinery.

• Low-Range: 3,000-6,000rpm feels like a big twin – torque-rich and lazy
• Mid-Range: 6,000-10,000rpm transforms into an angry hornet swarm
• Top-End: 10,000-12,650rpm redline screams with manic intensity

The magic lies in the flexibility. Need to lug through traffic in 6th at 50km/h (31mph)? No problem. Suddenly crave a 139mph (223km/h) top-speed rush? Just twist and hang on. Fuel injection (a novelty in 2008) remains crisp, though modern riders might find the throttle response slightly less refined than current ride-by-wire systems.

Handling & Dynamics: Ballet Dancer in a Boxing Ring

Triumph’s aluminum twin-spar frame and tuned suspension create handling that’s simultaneously precise and forgiving. The 41mm Kayaba USD forks (120mm/4.7" travel) and preload-adjustable shock (126mm/5" travel) strike a perfect balance between sporty responsiveness and real-world compliance.

Key geometry figures tell the story: - 24.3° rake - 95mm (3.75") trail - 1,410mm (55.5") wheelbase

This setup allows razor-sharp turn-in while maintaining stability at autobahn speeds. The Nissin 2-piston calipers biting 308mm discs up front provide strong, progressive stopping power – though modern radial setups offer more initial bite.

Shod with 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear Dunlop Qualifiers, our test bike carved corners with the confidence of a track tool. The wide bars provide incredible leverage, making tight U-turns and parking lot maneuvers surprisingly easy for a bike with this performance pedigree.

Ownership Experience: Living With The Triple

Practicality surprises in this focused machine. The 17.4L (4.6gal) tank delivers 250-300km (155-186mi) ranges, depending on right wrist enthusiasm. The seat, while firm, proves tolerable for 2-hour stints. Vibrations are noticeable but never numbing – part of the triple’s visceral charm.

Accessory options abounded even in 2008: - Flyscreens for wind protection - Arrow exhausts adding 4-6hp - Heated grips for colder climates

The underseat storage fits a wallet and registration documents – barely. This is a bike that prioritizes riding over touring luxuries.

Competition: How It Stacks Up

In its era, the Street Triple faced formidable rivals:

1. Yamaha FZ8 (2010):
2. More upright, less powerful (78hp)
3. Softer suspension, better pillion comfort

4. Lacked the Triumph’s exotic triple character

5. Ducati Monster 696 (2008-2010):

6. 80hp L-twin with iconic styling
7. Higher maintenance costs (desmo service)

8. Narrower powerband, more vibey

9. Suzuki GSX750 Inazuma (2009):

10. 75hp inline-twin, budget-focused
11. Heavier (215kg/474lbs), softer chassis
12. Reliable but forgettable

The Triumph’s unique selling points? That addictive triple-cylinder engine, race-derived chassis, and factory-custom styling that required no aftermarket tweaks to look special.

Maintenance: Keeping The Legend Alive

As MOTOPARTS.store’s in-house expert, here’s your essential maintenance cheat sheet:

Critical Service Intervals
- Oil Changes: Every 6,000km (3,700mi) using 3.1L of 10W-40/50 (API SH+)
- Valve Clearances: Every 12,000km (7,500mi)
- Intake: 0.10-0.20mm (0.004-0.008")
- Exhaust: 0.275-0.325mm (0.011-0.013")
- Coolant: Replace every 24,000km (15,000mi) – 2.2L capacity
- Chain: 116-link 525 chain with 16/47 sprockets – adjust slack to 25-35mm (1-1.4")

Common Wear Items
- Spark Plugs: NGK CR9EK @0.7mm gap
- Brake Pads: Nissin-specific shape – upgrade to sintered compounds
- Fork Seals: 41mm USD – consider progressive springs for heavier riders

Pro Tips
- Use DOT4 brake fluid with annual flushes
- Maintain tire pressures at 2.35bar/34psi (front) and 2.9bar/42psi (rear)
- The clutch basket wears around 30,000km – upgrade to billet aluminum

Conclusion: Timeless Thrills

Fifteen years haven’t dulled the Street Triple 675’s appeal. It remains a masterclass in balancing everyday usability with unadulterated performance. While later models added sophistication, this raw original delivers pure, undiluted motorcycling joy. From blasting through canyon roads to drawing crowds at bike nights, it’s a machine that satisfies on every level.

For owners looking to enhance or maintain their Street Triple, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from OEM-spec maintenance kits to performance upgrades. Whether you need valve shims, race-spec brake pads, or that iconic Arrow exhaust, we’ve got your British beast covered.