Just when you thought the 600 class couldn't get any hotter, along comes the all-new Daytona 600 from Triumph.
Designed as a race-ready replacement to the maligned (yet still surprisingly capable) TT600, the Daytona is bristling with new components and upgraded tech.
Let's get the numbers out of the way first. Triumph is claiming 363 pounds dry ( a seven pound reduction from the TT) and 110 hp at the crank. Even though these numbers are typically suspect, it's worth noting the new Kawasaki ZX-6R claims to weigh 355 pounds and produce 123 hp at the crank.
Numbers aside, the Daytona 600 is the result of incredible scrutiny from Triumph engineers, who examined the TT600 under a microscope in an effort to improve, refine and recreate the company's sole inline-four machine.
The most notable new component of the Daytona 600 is its angular, wind-tunnel inspired bodywork and its central ram-air duct. Triumph says the new inlet pumps 15 percent more air to the 8.5 liter airbox than the TT's vacuum tube attachments, which feed 38mm throttle bodies.
The frame is also all-new, and is lighter than the previous unit while being just as stiff. The 43mm fork now has aluminum internals, which reduces unsprung mass and quickens steering, but also offers a more taut ride and improved damping.
Like the previous bike, suspension is fully-adjustable at both ends and it wears a 120/70 17-inch front and a 180/55 rear, shod with Pirelli Dragon Corsa rubber.
Read all about it in an upcoming issue of Motorcyclist, and in the meantime enjoy these delectable images.