Triumph TF 250X

I got to ride a Triumph 250 yesterday for the first time and here are my thoughts. A little about me first I am a local Colorado pro that does some AX and a few pro nationals every year. I currently ride 2023 Honda 250s. 

First impression of the Triumph 250 was highly positive. Coming into the test, I was very skeptical since it is a first-year motorcycle, and there often seems to be a stigma surrounding first-year models. However, I was pleasantly surprised by this bike. The first thing I noticed was how playful it felt, which I attribute to the comfortable frame and KYB suspension. The frame responded predictably to pressure applied by my feet, inviting me to stand up more in corners while maintaining a stable front-end feel as I entered the turns.

In longer ruts, where I had to sit, the bike maintained its lean angle very easily. The engine was also impressive for a first-year bike in stock form, feeling very free and encouraging revving. Often, at elevation, a bike, especially a 250, feels choked up, almost like a rag is obstructing the airbox; however, I did not experience that sensation with the TF 250-X. The bike felt as though each gear was long and preferred high RPMs, producing most of its power at the top of the range.

When comparing it to the Honda CRF 250R, equipped with a vortex ignition and minor engine modifications, I felt that the Triumph TF 250X actually produced more power overall. While the initial hit of the Honda was superior, the pulling power of the Triumph compensated for this. Additionally, while the Honda easily tips into turns, it tends to stand up in longer ruts during the middle to end of the turn, whereas the Triumph remains very planted.

In conclusion, I would say the Triumph is a highly competitive bike right out of the box, and I am thrilled to see another manufacturer producing a solid dirt bike with a softer, more comfortable frame.