[cycleworld.com] - 2024 Triumph TF 250-X First Ride

[Ninjette Newsbot]

Cycle World headed to Florida’s Gatorback Cycle Park for a first test of Triumph’s brand-new and first-ever 250cc motocross bike. Is the TF 250-X a contender?

Click here to view on their site.


Triumph’s TF 250-X is the first entry for the brand in the motocross space. It does not disappoint. (Triumph Motorcycles/)In the heart of northern Florida’s legendary Gatorback Cycle Park, the moto world’s eyes are fixed on Triumph’s latest marvel, the TF 250-X. After five years of tireless development and an investment surpassing hundreds of millions of dollars, the TF 250-X is finally ready to make its debut.

On the Stand

Aesthetically, the TF 250-X commands attention with its unmistakably “racy” design, reminiscent of a finely tuned sports car. From the hand-welded aluminum frame to the polished hubs and Brembo brake system, every detail exudes craftsmanship and precision. Ergonomically, the TF 250-X strikes a balance between comfort and performance, catering to riders of most sizes.


Triumph’s TF 250-X has an MSRP of $9,995. (Triumph Motorcycles/)Beneath its sleek exterior lies an all-new 250cc performance racing powertrain. Compact and agile, the DOHC four-stroke single engine boasts a Konig forged aluminum piston and Del West titanium valves with DLC-coated followers, capable of redlining at an impressive 14,000 rpm. With a compression ratio of 14.4:1 and Dell’ Orto EFI system, the TF 250-X is primed to deliver competitive power and responsiveness across its five-speed gearbox. Triumph claims the TF 250-X makes 47.3 hp and 21.1 lb.-ft. of torque, giving it a class-leading power-to-weight ratio. Power is transferred to the five-speed transmission via a Belleville spring clutch hydraulically actuated by a Brembo master and slave.


Triumph claims the TF 250-X has the best power-to-weight ratio in the 250 class. (Triumph Motorcycles/)Mounted on the left side of the handlebar, you’ll discover a suite of options: Launch Control (on/off), Quick Shift (on/off), Traction Control (on/off), and Engine Mapping (map 1/map 2). Now, these features might sound familiar, as they are becoming standard fare in the world of dirt bikes. With the desire to craft this bike from scratch, Triumph says it has seized the opportunity to refine and restructure these concepts that other manufacturers have honed over years, giving the TF an edge.


The left-handlebar-mounted mode, quickshift, launch control, and TC switch gear is nicely done. (Triumph Motorcycles/)The TF 250-X also has Triumph’s app-controlled engine management that lets riders access a whopping 10 factory maps, as well as fine-tune fueling and ignition setups—all from the convenience of a cellphone. Talk about putting the power in your pocket!


A KYB piggyback shock features high- and low-speed compression, rebound, and preload adjustment. (Triumph Motorcycles/)As mentioned, the frame is a hand-welded aluminum single spine fitted with Kayaba suspension at both ends. At the front, a 48mm upside-down coil-spring fork with compression and rebound damping stroking through 12.2 inches. At the back the linkage-equipped suspension provides 12 inches of travel through a piggyback monoshock with preload, high- and low-speed compression damping, and rebound damping adjustment.

On the Track

Now, let’s talk about track performance. From the moment the TF 250-X was unleashed on the Gatorback circuit, I knew I was in for a wild ride. Thanks to the seamless gear changes facilitated by Triumph’s quickshift technology, blasting through second to fifth is like slicing through butter. First to second is done the old-fashioned way. Charging through deep ruts and pushing the limits through every turn, the TF 250-X is balanced and predictable, even under the strain of heavy braking and high rpm.


Suspension settings are excellent right out of the box. (Triumph Motorcycles/)We got the KYB 48mm oil fork and rear shock nearly right on for my 155 pounds right out of the box. After becoming comfortable on the track, just a click here and there got the setup dialed in. On small bumps and sharp edges the suspension has the right amount of softness to be comfortable while still being able to soak up the big hits and jumps at Gatorback. So whether you’re hitting big jumps or railing through rough terrain, the TF 250-X’s suspension setup has got your back—and your front—covered.


Triumph’s TF 250-X soaks up big hits with control while being comfortable on small chop. (Triumph Motorcycles/)From the moment of the first click into gear on the track, the TF 250-X’s handling prowess is impressive. Whether hitting big jumps, blasting down high-speed straights, or carving through tight corners, this bike is an extension of the rider. Lap after lap, as we warmed up and learned the track, the TF 250-X just kept getting better. It stays glued to the ground, with the rear end planted firmly and the front end swallowing up everything in its path. Any line you choose, the TF will go there without more than just a thought, yet it is rock-solid stable at speed on chewed-up straightways.


Handling is sharp yet stable. (Triumph Motorcycles/)Now let’s talk about those brakes: Brembo components. With a twin-piston caliper up front and a single-piston unit at the rear paired to 260mm and 220mm discs, respectively, the TF 250-X stops on a dime, giving the confidence to push harder and faster in the corners.


Triumph fitted the TF 250-X with Brembo braking components. (Triumph Motorcycles/)Conclusion

Triumph did it’s homework when it built this machine, and it shows. From the top-of-the-line suspension to the high-performance brakes, every detail has been meticulously crafted to deliver the ultimate riding experience. So if you’re looking for a dirt bike that’s ready to take on anything you throw at it, the Triumph TF 250-X should be high on your list.


Triumph’s TF 250-X is a true competitor in the 250cc class. (Triumph Motorcycles/)What’s truly remarkable about the TF 250-X is the amount of time and effort put into building a motocrosser that is competitive right from the start. This isn’t just a “good first effort,” it’s a good bike period. It’s clear Triumph didn’t cut corners and rush into the market.

With a price tag of $9,995, Triumph has ensured that the TF 250-X isn’t reserved for the elite few, it’s a dirt bike for everyone. And as we look ahead to spending more time with the TF 250-X, exploring its electronic mapping system and putting it through its paces against the competition, one thing’s for sure: Triumph has unleashed a true competitor, a game-changer for the brand, onto the dirt bike scene. It’s a ride that’s sure to put a smile on the face of every rider who throws a leg over it—and possibly produce some trophies.


Ergonomics are just as you would expect from a top-shelf motocrosser: Everything is in the right place without putting your body in any odd positions. (Triumph Motorcycles/)2024 Triumph TF 250-X Specs

MSRP:$9,995Engine:DOHC, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke single; 4 valves/cylDisplacement:250ccBore x Stroke:78.0 x 52.3mmCompression Ratio:14.4:1Transmission/Final Drive:5-speed/chainFuel System:Dell’Orto EFIClutch:Wet, multiplate; hydraulically actuatedFrame:Aluminum spineFront Suspension:KYB 48mm fork, compression and rebound adjustable; 12.2 in. travelRear Suspension:KYB monoshock, fully adjustable; 12.0 in. travelFront Brake:2-piston Brembo caliper, 260mm discRear Brake:1-piston Brembo caliper, 220 mm discWheels, Front/Rear:Aluminum spoked; 21 x 1.6 in. / 19 x 1.85 in.Tires, Front/Rear:80/100-21 / 100/90-19Rake/Trail:27.4º/4.6 in.Wheelbase:58.7 in.Seat Height:37.8 in.Fuel Capacity:1.9 gal.Claimed Wet Weight:229 lb.Contact:triumphmotorcycles.com