Triumph Tiger Sport 660 (2022) Review: Triple-Powered Versatility Redefined
Introduction
The Triumph Tiger Sport 660 arrived in 2022 as a bold statement in the middleweight adventure-sport segment. Designed to blend sporty agility with touring capability, this British triple-cylinder machine aims to redefine expectations for what a 600cc-class motorcycle can deliver. After spending time with this bike on twisty backroads, highways, and urban jungles, it’s clear Triumph wasn’t just chasing specs – they were chasing feel. Let’s break down why this Tiger might just be the most compelling all-rounder in its class.
Engine & Performance: The Charismatic Triple
At the heart of the Tiger Sport 660 lies Triumph’s 660cc inline-three engine – the same powerplant that garnered praise in the Trident 660 but tuned for adventure-sport duties. With 81 HP @ 10,250 RPM and 64 Nm of torque @ 6,250 RPM, this liquid-cooled mill serves up a delicious spread of accessible power.
Riding Impressions:
- Low-End Grunt: From standstill, the triple pulls eagerly from as low as 3,000 RPM. There’s none of the high-strung temperament some parallel-twins exhibit – just linear surge.
- Mid-Range Punch: Between 5,000-8,000 RPM is where the magic happens. Overtaking requires just a twist, not a downshift.
- Top-End Zing: While peak power lives at 10k RPM, the engine remains vibration-free thanks to its 240° firing order. The soundtrack evolves from bassy growl to metallic wail – addictive doesn’t begin to cover it.
The slip-and-assist clutch pairs beautifully with the 6-speed gearbox, offering light lever action perfect for stop-and-go traffic. Triumph’s ride-by-wire throttle delivers crisp response in Road mode, while Rain mode softens the curve without feeling neutered. Fuel economy hovered around 5.38 L/100 km (43.7 MPG) during mixed riding – translating to a 380 km (236 mi) range from its 17.2L tank.
Chassis & Handling: Confidence Is Key
The Tiger Sport’s tubular steel perimeter frame strikes a perfect balance between rigidity and compliance. Paired with Showa’s 41mm USD forks and monoshock with remote preload adjustment, this setup eats up everything from pockmarked city streets to aggressive corner carving.
Key Dynamics:
- Flickability: At 206 kg (454 lbs) wet, the Tiger changes direction with sportbike-like eagerness. The Michelin Road 5 tires (120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear) provide tenacious grip.
- High-Speed Stability: Despite its agility, the 1,418 mm (55.8") wheelbase and 23.1° rake keep things planted at triple-digit speeds.
- Suspension Tuning: The 150mm travel at both ends handles small bumps gracefully yet resists bottoming out during hard braking. Preload adjustment is a godsend when loading panniers.
Braking performance from the 310mm dual front discs (Nissin 2-piston calipers) and 255mm rear disc inspires confidence. ABS intervention is subtle, only making itself known during panic stops on slick surfaces.
Touring Capability: Small Tiger, Big Appetite
Don’t let the middleweight designation fool you – this Tiger was born to roam.
Long-Distance Comfort:
- Ergonomics: The 835mm seat height accommodates most riders, with a narrow midsection for easy flat-footing. The stepped seat supports without punishing over hours.
- Wind Protection: The manually adjustable screen (1315-1398mm height range) channels air cleanly over a full-face helmet. Buffeting is minimal even at 130 km/h (81 mph).
- Luggage Readiness: Integrated pannier mounts accept Triumph’s 47L top box (fits two helmets). Loaded with 30kg of gear, the chassis remains composed.
The upright riding position strikes a Goldilocks zone – not too leaned forward for commuting, not too relaxed for spirited riding. Heated grips (accessory) extend the riding season comfortably.
Technology & Features: Smart Without Gimmicks
Triumph’s color TFT display sets the class standard. At 5” diagonal, it’s legible in direct sunlight and pairs seamlessly with the My Triumph Connectivity System (accessory) for navigation and media control.
Standout Tech:
- Riding Modes: Road and Rain modes alter throttle maps and TC intervention. Traction control can be fully disabled – a rarity in this segment.
- LED Lighting: The twin headlights throw an impressive beam pattern, while self-canceling indicators add polish.
- USB Charger: The under-seat port (accessory) keeps devices juiced without cockpit clutter.
While missing cruise control (a glaring omission for touring), the tech suite focuses on essentials rather than bloat. Menu navigation via handlebar controls becomes intuitive within minutes.
Competition: How the Tiger Stacks Up
1. Yamaha Tracer 7 (MT-07 Tracer)
- Pros: Lighter (199 kg), slightly lower seat (810mm), $1k+ cheaper
- Cons: Less power (73 HP), basic LCD dash, no preload adjustment
- Verdict: Better for budget-focused riders; the Tiger dominates in tech and touring refinement.
2. Kawasaki Versys 650
- Pros: Proven reliability, centerstand included, longer service intervals
- Cons: Heavier (217 kg), carbureted-like throttle response, dated aesthetics
- Verdict: The Versys plays it safe; the Tiger rewards with superior electronics and engine character.
3. Honda CB500X
- Pros: Ultra-efficient (3.5 L/100 km), A2-ready out of the box, Honda build quality
- Cons: Anemic 47 HP, budget suspension, limited wind protection
- Verdict: Ideal for new riders; the Tiger offers proper middleweight performance.
The Tiger’s Edge: That triple-cylinder engine. It bridges the gap between twin-cylinder accessibility and inline-four top-end rush, wrapped in a chassis that forgives novice errors yet rewards expert inputs.
Maintenance: Keeping the Tiger Purring
Triumph recommends service intervals every 16,000 km/10,000 miles or annually – impressive for a performance-oriented machine. Key considerations:
Critical Service Points:
- Oil Changes: Requires 2.8L of 10W-40/50 (API SH-rated). Consider synthetic blends for extreme temperatures.
- Chain Maintenance: The 122-link X-ring chain needs cleaning every 500 km. MOTOPARTS.store offers premium chain kits with alignment tools.
- Valve Checks: Every 32,000 km. Shim-under-bucket design requires specialist tools – best left to professionals.
- Tire Pressures: 2.3 bar (33 PSI) front / 2.5 bar (36 PSI) rear when solo. Drop 0.1 bar for aggressive cornering.
Recommended MOTOPARTS.store Upgrades:
- NGK CR9EK Spark Plugs: Optimize combustion for better throttle response
- Michelin Road 6 Tires: Successors to the stock Road 5s, improved wet grip
- EBC HH Sintered Brake Pads: For riders frequently carrying luggage
- Pivot Pegz Adjustable Footpegs: Reduce fatigue on long hauls
The Tiger’s radiator guard and fork protectors are wise investments given its adventure aspirations. All fluids (DOT 4 brake, 2.2L coolant) should be flushed biennially.
Conclusion: The Swiss Army Knife of Middleweights
The 2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 isn’t about being the best at any one thing – it’s about being damn good at everything. That triple-cylinder engine alone justifies its existence, but when paired with class-leading tech, adaptable ergonomics, and Triumph’s build quality, it becomes a motorcycle that’s greater than the sum of its specs.
For riders torn between sportbike thrills and touring practicality, this Tiger offers a compelling third path – one where backroad blasts, cross-country tours, and daily commutes coexist harmoniously. Two years on, it remains a benchmark for how to balance performance and accessibility in the middleweight arena.
Ready to make your Tiger Sport 660 truly yours? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of upgrades – because even the most versatile machine deserves a personal touch.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 60 kW | 80.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 64 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control |
| Max power @: | 10250 rpm |
| Displacement: | 660 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 6250 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 74.0 x 51.1 mm (2.9 x 2.0 in) |
| Configuration: | Inline |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 12.0:1 |
| Emission standard: | Euro 5 |
| Number of cylinders: | 3 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Lighting: | Full LED (headlights, taillight, indicators) |
| Windscreen: | Adjustable height |
| Clutch type: | Slip and assist wet multi-plate |
| Instruments: | Colour TFT screen |
| Riding modes: | Road, Rain |
| Factory warranty: | 2-year unlimited mileage |
| Traction control: | Switchable |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1418 mm (55.8 in) |
| Wet weight: | 206 |
| Seat height: | 835 mm (32.9 in) |
| Overall width: | 834 mm (32.8 in) |
| Overall height: | 1398 mm (55.0 in) |
| Overall length: | 2071 mm (81.5 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 17.2 L (4.5 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 122 |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Rear sprocket: | 51 |
| Front sprocket: | 16 |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 10W40 |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR9EK |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.6–0.75 mm |
| Coolant capacity: | 2.2 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 2.8 |
| Chain maintenance interval: | Every 500 km for lubrication, 1,000 km for tension check |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 16,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.3 bar (33 psi) |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Rake: | 23.1° |
| Frame: | Tubular steel perimeter frame |
| Trail: | 97.1 mm (3.8 in) |
| Rear tire: | 180/55-17 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-17 |
| Rear brakes: | Single 255 mm disc, Nissin 1-piston sliding caliper (ABS) |
| Front brakes: | 2 x 310 mm discs, Nissin 2-piston sliding calipers (ABS) |
| Rear suspension: | Showa monoshock RSU with remote hydraulic preload adjustment |
| Front suspension: | Showa 41mm upside-down separate function cartridge forks |
| Rear wheel travel: | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
| Front wheel travel: | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
