Motorcycles > Triumph Trident 660 vs. BMW R 1300 GS
Many riders struggle to choose between the practicality of a mid-sized roadster and the adventurous spirit of a large-displacement adventure bike. This comparison highlights the key differences between the Triumph Trident 660 and the BMW R 1300 GS to aid in your decision-making process.
This comparison analyzes real-world performance, user feedback, and key differentiators to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Verdict
The Triumph Trident 660 is a great choice for riders seeking an affordable, agile, and stylish motorcycle, while the BMW R 1300 GS caters to those prioritizing power, advanced features, and long-distance capabilities, albeit at a higher price point.
- The BMW R 1300 GS offers significantly more power and torque than the Triumph Trident 660.
- The Triumph Trident 660 is considerably lighter and has a lower seat height, making it more accessible for some riders.
- The BMW R 1300 GS boasts a larger fuel tank, extending its range.
- The Triumph Trident 660 is substantially more affordable.
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose Triumph Trident 660 if:
Newer riders, urban commuters, and those on a budget will appreciate its accessible performance and nimble handling. Its stylish design and modern features make it a compelling option for everyday riding.
Choose BMW R 1300 GS if:
Experienced riders, long-distance tourers, and adventure enthusiasts will benefit from its powerful engine, advanced technology, and off-road capabilities. Its premium features and robust build quality justify the higher investment.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Triumph Trident 660 | BMW R 1300 GS |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type and Displacement | 660cc inline 3-cylinder | 1,300cc boxer twin |
| Maximum Power | 81 PS (80 bhp) | 145 hp (107 kW) |
| Maximum Torque | 64 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Wet Weight | 189 kg (417 lb) | 237 kg (522.5 pounds) |
| Seat Height | 805 mm (31.7 inches) | 850 mm (33.5 inches) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14 liters | 19 liters |
| Starting Price | $8,095 (in 2021) | $18,895 |
Overall Comparison
Pros and Cons
Triumph Trident 660
- Unique triple engine performance
- Class-leading technology
- Competitive pricing
- Comfortable seat for long rides
- Excellent, neutral handling
- Stable at high speeds
- Effective and user-friendly brakes
- Good balance between plushness and responsiveness in suspension
- Easy to navigate instrumentation
- Class-leading service interval of 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months
- No major disadvantages reported.
BMW R 1300 GS
- Smooth, direct power throughout the entire rev range
- Greater steering precision and ride stability
- Powerful braking system with Integral ABS Pro
- Suspension designed for greater off-road use
- 6.5-inch full-color TFT screen with smartphone connectivity
- Reliability and Maintenance information not available
User Experiences and Feedback
Triumph Trident 660
- Engine delivers a balance of low-down torque, mid-range, and top-end power
- Narrow width and accessible seat height make it suitable for riders of different heights
- Showa suspension provides a good balance between plushness and responsiveness, effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections
- Instrumentation is easy to navigate and adjust while riding, with a compact and uncluttered design
- No major complaints reported.
- Offers a unique triple engine performance advantage
- Class-leading technology
- Competitive pricing
- Over 90% of peak torque is available from 3,600rpm to 9,750rpm.
- Combines the low-end pull of a twin with the high-revving power of a four-cylinder.
- The ABS system is generally not too intrusive.
- Road mode is for everyday use, Rain mode softens the delivery for wet conditions, and Sport mode sharpens the power delivery.
BMW R 1300 GS
- Engine delivers nearly 85% of its maximum torque right off idle and maintains it until after 8,000 rpm.
- New EVO Telelever and revised EVO Paralever improves handling and stability.
- Optional Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) dynamically adjusts damping, spring rate, and load compensation.
- Integral ABS Pro applies brake force to both wheels when either the front or rear brake lever is activated.
- No major complaints reported.
- ARAI mileage of 21 kmpl
- Real world highway fuel economy was observed to be 17kmpl
- Overall average of 52 mpg
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bike is better for beginners?
The Triumph Trident 660 is more suitable for beginners due to its lighter weight, lower seat height, and manageable power delivery.
Which bike is better for long-distance touring?
The BMW R 1300 GS is better equipped for long-distance touring, offering a larger fuel tank, more comfortable ergonomics, and advanced rider aids.
Which bike has more advanced technology?
The BMW R 1300 GS features more advanced technology, including optional Dynamic Suspension Adjustment, Integral ABS Pro, and customizable riding modes.
Sources & Citations
- Official product specifications
- Expert reviews from tech publications
- User feedback from online forums
Information gathered through AI-assisted web search and analysis. Last updated: August 2025
Methodology & Transparency
Our comparison methodology combines multiple data sources to provide comprehensive, unbiased analysis:
- Data Collection: We gather information from official specifications, user reviews, and independent testing
- AI-Assisted Analysis: Advanced AI helps process large amounts of data while maintaining accuracy
- Human Oversight: All comparisons are reviewed for accuracy and relevance
- Regular Updates: Content is refreshed to reflect new information and user feedback
- Bias Mitigation: We strive for objectivity by considering multiple perspectives and sources
Versusly.ai uses AI-assisted content generation combined with human oversight to deliver comprehensive comparisons. We are transparent about our process and continuously work to improve accuracy and usefulness.