Triumph’s TT600R spied

Caught on camera: Triumph’s new TT600R, and you can tell the factory test-rider’s not very happy about it.

You can see all the pictures and read the details on Triumph’s new TT600R in the latest issue of MCN, out May 1, but here’s our first impressions:

*Ignore the old-style nose cone and fuel tank used as a disguise – mechanically this bike is a TT600R, and it even sports the R version’s seat unit.

*This shows how the TT is swopping its jelly-mould curves for a much sharper style.

*At the front, the headlights are expected to reflect the rear light’s shape, with two angular lamps in a ” fox-eye ” style.

* On the final version, it will have much sportier suspension.

*The engine itself is expected to be make around 100-105bhp at the back wheel.

*The firm is also believed to be trying to cut weight significantly. The TT weighs 170kg (374lb), but a GSX-R600 is just 163kg (359lb).

*Triump still intends to keep the existing bike in production as a softer option –much like Honda’s CBR600 and CBR600 Sport. The new bike may be called the Daytona 600 to emphasise the different specs.

It is set to be launched in September and was originally due to go on sale in Spring 2003 for around £7250.

Tell us what you thinkof the new TT600R, and whether you’d buy one, by clicking on the link on the right and posting your thoughts in our News section.