The Michelins may offer longer life on the street, but the Bridgestones offer true sportbike grip. That fairing has classic looks although is less aerodynamic than the king of speed, the Kawasaki ZX11. The Daytona's plastic seems like a good compromise between practicality and style. The raked forward riding position is certainly more sporty than the rest of Triumph's range but touring is possible, although if you had to carry a passenger and luggage over any great distance you would probably be better off with the more luxurious accommodations of the standard styled Triumph Trophy. Even so, passengers were particularly impressed by the comfort of the seat and the plush suspension, which rated an 8 out of 10 from our daredevil pillion rider, Mel Mellis.
Controls are all very accessible and the bar mounted choke is a plus.
Mirrors are the usual fairing-mounted joke. The clocks are a gorgeous cream color highlighted by bright red needles. Nostalgia buffs will notice the prominent Triumph triangular patent plate, mounted above the rider's peg. It's just one more reminder of Triumph's history. You can get used to it - it's just a case of getting your feet down early and using body english around tight slow corners, although some smaller riders simply can't ride Triumphs.