What You Should Know About the Different Types of Triumph Motorcycles — From Your Local Sales Manager

I'm Brody Miller, Sales Manager here at Pilson Powersports with over four years of experience helping riders find the perfect motorcycle fit. I’ve come across a lot of customers curious about Triumph motorcycles — what kinds they offer, which models stand out, and how to choose the right one. Whether you’re browsing in Mattoon, Charleston, or anywhere around Illinois, I want to share what I’ve learned about Triumph’s lineup and give you practical insights to help you make an informed decision.

First off, if you want to chat about Triumph models or schedule a test ride, feel free to call me anytime at (217) 258-2000 or stop by our dealership at 1616 Lake Land Blvd, Suite A, Mattoon, IL 61938. We carry a solid selection of new Triumph motorcycles and also have some excellent pre-owned Triumph bikes if you want to explore more affordable options.

Let me tell you about the main types of Triumph motorcycles and what makes each special.

Triumph’s motorcycle range is diverse, covering everything from the classic roadsters and naked bikes to adventure tourers and scramblers. The company is known for combining British style, engineering precision, and a passion for performance, which is reflected across their lineup.

You’ll find these main categories in Triumph’s current offerings: 

Roadsters and Naked Bikes — These are versatile, everyday motorcycles, perfect for city riding and highway cruising. The Street Triple series, especially the 675cc Street Triple, is Triumph’s best-selling model. It’s lightweight, agile, and powered by a smooth triple-cylinder engine that balances power and control. Riders in nearby Charleston and Mattoon appreciate this bike for its responsiveness and sporty feel without being intimidating.

Classic and Retro-Inspired Motorcycles — This group includes the famous Bonneville line, which has been a defining model for Triumph since the late 1950s. The Bonneville’s heritage traces back to the original Speed Twin, and its design pays homage to classic British motorcycles with a modern touch. The Bonneville T100 and the Bobber variant are popular here for those who want a motorcycle with vintage charm but modern reliability. From my experience at the dealership, customers often tell me these bikes offer a smooth ride with a relaxed torque curve, ideal for weekend cruising around Mattoon and Effingham.

Adventure and Dual-Sport Bikes — If you’re the type who likes to explore beyond paved roads, Triumph’s Tiger series is designed for you. The Tiger 800 and its successor the Tiger 900 are highly capable adventure tourers with upright ergonomics, adjustable suspensions, and tech like traction control and multiple ride modes. They excel both on the highway and on dirt trails. These motorcycles have gained a strong following among riders in nearby Charleston and even further afield, who want a bike that’s comfortable for long rides yet rugged enough for backcountry adventures.

Scramblers — The Scrambler 900 model blends retro styling with off-road capability. It features a high-mounted exhaust and a torquey 900cc engine, making it great for light trail riding or city streets with a flair for adventure. If you’re around Mattoon and like the idea of a classic look combined with the ability to handle gravel roads or dirt paths, the Scrambler 900 is a great candidate.

Cruisers and Muscle Bikes — For riders who want a bigger presence and a laid-back riding style, Triumph’s Rocket III series offers massive displacement engines and powerful torque. The Rocket III is notable for having one of the largest production motorcycle engines — a 2,294cc triple-cylinder powerhouse designed for smooth, torque-rich cruising. While these bikes are more niche, they represent Triumph’s muscle bike heritage and appeal to riders looking for a commanding ride.

Talking about what’s popular, the Triumph Bonneville has a legendary status. It’s arguably the most recognizable British motorcycle ever produced, known for its blend of heritage and modern engineering. The Bonneville lineage connects back to the original Speed Twin, with each generation refining the design and performance. If you want to see the legacy firsthand, check out our new Triumph motorcycles here at Pilson Powersports.

On the other hand, the most sold Triumph bike today is the 675cc Street Triple. Its triple-cylinder engine strikes a sweet spot in the mid-range category, offering enough power for spirited riding but maintaining control and agility for everyday use. The Street Triple is practical for riders around Mattoon, offering a balanced ride with modern features like ABS and ride modes. We often recommend it to riders stepping up from smaller bikes and looking for something with versatility and real street presence. You can explore our used inventory for some great deals on pre-owned Street Triple models.

For those newcomers asking about affordability, the Triumph Speed 400 ranks as the most accessible model without compromising the brand’s signature quality and style. This lightweight, 398cc motorcycle delivers a manageable power profile with modern safety features like ABS and slipper clutch, making it perfect for new riders or commuters in towns like Mattoon or Decatur. The Speed 400 also carries the iconic Bonneville-inspired aesthetics, so you get that premium look at a friendly price point. If you want a bike that's affordable and practical, this is the one I often suggest to first-time buyers. You can view our new Triumph Motorcycles selection to find a Speed 400 and other beginner-friendly models.

Now, when it comes to choosing between the Speed 400 and the T4 model, many riders wonder which offers better value for city commuting. From my experience, the T4 provides superior low-end torque, which can make stop-and-go traffic and urban riding smoother and more comfortable. However, the Speed 400 offers additional features like upgraded suspension and better brakes, which some riders find worth the price difference. Both bikes have a fuel efficiency range hovering around 20-26 miles per gallon in city conditions. Riders who prioritize easy handling and low-speed control often lean toward the T4, while those looking for a bit more tech and refined ride might prefer the Speed 400. If you want to discuss which bike suits your needs best, our team is ready to help you test ride both models.

Maintenance and parts availability are crucial, especially for keeping your Triumph running smoothly over the years. At Pilson Powersports, we stock a wide range of genuine parts in our Parts Department to service your Triumph quickly and reliably. Our factory-trained technicians provide expert care, and you can easily schedule service with us whenever maintenance or repairs are needed.

If you’re considering a trade-in or want to explore different Triumph models, don’t forget to look through our full Used Inventory. We regularly have a variety of well-maintained Triumph motorcycles, giving you options whether you want a newer model or something more budget-friendly.

Beyond motorcycles, we also offer an extensive lineup of side x sides, golf carts, and ATVs, including brands like Kawasaki, Can-Am, Segway, and EZGO, all available for you to browse at our location in Mattoon, Illinois. Whether you’re looking for something for work, play, or getting around town, our inventory covers a wide spectrum.

From my perspective as a sales manager, the key to choosing the right Triumph motorcycle is matching the bike to your riding style, experience, and local riding conditions. For example, riders in Mattoon and surrounding areas who enjoy twisty roads and weekend trips often gravitate towards the Street Triple or Bonneville lines. Those who need adventure-ready performance for off-road trails prefer the Tiger 900 series. And new riders or commuters typically find the Speed 400 or the T4 to be excellent choices.

If you’re nearby, come by Pilson Powersports at 1616 Lake Land Blvd, Suite A, Mattoon, IL 61938, and let’s talk about which Triumph motorcycle fits your lifestyle best. Our team is here to provide honest advice, expert insights, and a no-pressure environment. You can also call us at (217) 258-2000 to start the conversation.

Finding the right Triumph motorcycle is about blending passion with practicality, and I’m confident we have something that will excite and inspire you to hit the road with confidence.

© 2026 Pilson Powersports