TRIUMPH SPEED FOUR (2002 - 2006) Review
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £390 |
| Power: | 97 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (31.9 in / 810 mm) |
| Weight: | Low (375 lbs / 170 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesThat engine still isn’t perfect but it ain’t half bad. A bit snatchy around town but, out in the open, it’s a dream. Alongside that handling and those brakes, you’re in for one hell of a ride on board the Speed Four. Incredibly capable and beautifully built, its distinctive looks are ideal for those who don’t want to go with the flow. And it sounds amazing...
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe TT600’s handling is legendary and so, therefore, is the Speed Four’s. With the same taut chassis and perfect dimensions, prepare to discover lean angles you never thought yourself capable of. The fully adjustable suspension is brilliant as are the brakes. Incredibly capable and huge fun yet wonderfully confidence-inspiring, too.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityThe Triumph Speed Four runs on the same engine that powered the much-maligned TT600 but only after numerous tweaks which ironed out that bike’s fuel injection problems. The Triumph Speed Four is still a bit snatchy low down but other than that, it’s fabulous: loads of power in the midrange, fantastic acceleration. You have to use the gears to milk it to the max but that makes for an involved ride.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueThe Triumph Speed Four is not built to a budget and it shows. It boasts excellent components and finish and is beautifully put together (although the looks are an issue for some… ). One recall is recorded: non-metallic fuel hose connectors were replaced by metallic ones to counter the possibility of fracture. Check it’s been seen to.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentOriginally far pricier than the rival Honda Hornets, Suzuki Bandits and Yamaha Fazers but the Speed Four is way above their league performance wise. Compare it with a Ducati Monster S2R and the Duke comes out heavier, slower, less powerful and more expensive… Find a Triumph Speed Four for sale
Equipment
With high pegs and a forward riding position, the Triumph Speed Four is sporty. The small cowl is good until around 80mph when the wind gets you. There’s a digital speedo and clock and analogue tacho: all very clear. Braided hoses are standard and colour-matched belly pan and radiator cowls are included. Pillions, however, will hate you.
Specs |
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| Engine size | 599cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 16v inline four, 6 gears |
| Frame type | Aluminium twin spar |
| Fuel capacity | 18 litres |
| Seat height | 810mm |
| Bike weight | 170kg |
| Front suspension | Preload, rebound, compression |
| Rear suspension | Preload, rebound, compression |
| Front brake | Twin 310mm discs |
| Rear brake | 220mm disc |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear tyre size | 180/55 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
|
| Average fuel consumption | 34 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £84 |
| Annual service cost | £390 |
| New price | - |
| Used price | £2,300 |
| Insurance group |
12 of 17 How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
|
| Max power | 97 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 51 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 136 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | 11.48 secs |
| Tank range | 135 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
2002: Triumph launch the Speed Four as a naked version of the TT600. It has twin headlights straight from the Speed Triple and mad-looking air intakes. No changes since.
2006: Fazed out to make way for a 675cc version of the Daytona Triple.
Other versions
None.
Owners' reviews for the TRIUMPH SPEED FOUR (2002 - 2006)
17 owners have reviewed their TRIUMPH SPEED FOUR (2002 - 2006) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your TRIUMPH SPEED FOUR (2002 - 2006)
Summary of owners' reviews |
|
| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
| Annual servicing cost: | £390 |
Year: 2006
Annual servicing cost: £150
Perfect amount of power for the road, excellent handling. It does annoy me slightly these often get their factory clip ons swapped out for bar risers and straight handlebars. Keep the clip-ons they're what make this bike, other than the noise!These are very very underrated I think. Why someone would pick a bandit or a hornet over these I would not know.
The brakes are the best i've ever tried out - it makes you realise what a good brake feels like without ABS. They come factory with braided lines, so i slipped some HH EBC pads in and the stopping power was immense.It's been one of the best handling bikes I can ever remember riding, the clip ons are above the yoke so it's not super wristy. I always find sports bikes feel like there's too much weight over the front and only works if you have super flowing and smooth A roads and other naked/street bikes the front feels vauge. For road riding I believe it's the ultimate compromise between the two positions. An absolute B road specialist!
Absolute peach of an engine - makes a lovely induction sound. You have to rev it to make the most out of it my GSXR 600 has more mid range but the engine goads you on without it being too silly for the roads. It feels like peak power isn't made until right up at the redline.The bike can cruise too, the fueling is great and it does have low speed manners.
I only ever had one issue in my 3 years of ownership and that was a stator, replaced with an upgraded one and haven't had an issue in the 12 months that followed. The bikes fit and finish is next to none.
Just the usual annual oil change and I did a 12,000 mile valve check and they were in all in the normal range so no adjustment needed for another 12,000 miles.
There isn't much to write about here. Fuel injected so that's nice but no ABS and certainly no traction control, anti-wheelie or anything of the sort. Not that you really need it on this bike.
Year: 2003
Annual servicing cost: £190
Worst features: Electrical issues are the worst. My S4 let me sit three times with dead charging circuit. I finally bypassed the factory wiring connectors to solve the problem. Best: 1. It is a beautiful machine. The air intakes give it an agressive look and it really commands attention. 2. The 599 cc inline four seems pretty bullet proof and provides plenty of power. Torque comes on a bit later than I'd like when normal cruising but it's adequate when keeping the revs higher. Valve clearances were still in spec at 9500 miles (a bit past the recommended service interval). 3. It handles very well and the brakes are more than adequate. I would recommend it to a friend if he's willing to chase some electrical gremlins.
Good all around if you don't mind the high pegs. Mine has aftermarket bars rather than clip ons so the ride is fairly comfortable. I also added a small windscreen for more comfort on the highway. It is very nimble.
I'd like more torque at lower rpms. Compared to a v-twin, for example, this inline four needs to rev to get the torque up.
Three break downs due to charging system failures when the wire connectors melted. Bypassing the connectors ultimtaley fixed it. It is well built.
I do my own maintenance. If I were taking it to a shop, the servicing costs would probably be about 4 x my estimate above.
I like the analog tachometer.
Buying experience: From a private seller. He was the 2nd or 3rd owner. I bought it in 2017 and it had about 7 k miles on it. I paid US $3400.
Year: 2006
Annual servicing cost: £350
I also have a 2006 Daytona 675. The Speed Four is more comfortable to ride by a long mile. One of my sons bought a second hand Speed Four and loved it and kept on at me to get one too. Covid lock-down, too much time on my hands and some spare cash saw me pick up my bright yellow Speed Four and I have not regretted it. Pillion riders had problems with the foot rests until I fitted rubber grips on them.
Sticks to the road like shit to a blanket and stops on a sixpence.
As per others I find a bit of a stutter around 3k in 1st & 2nd, which can be over come by changing up or clutch slip. Definably an open road bike. I live in the country and my only city riding is when I take the bike for a service - I have found a Triumph dealer in a town some 60 km away and will, in future, go there for servicing rather than have the hassle of the agent in the city 40km away (it will be quicker despite the longer ride),
No problems so far. 35,000 km on the clock. I was given a memory chip with serving details and it has had a new stator fitted.
NZ$.
The speedo, clock and info settings are the thing that shew the bikes age: things have improved greatly since. Another problem with the bikes age, plus its limited production run, is getting accessory parts such as a grab bar, radiator cowls, belly pan etc.
Buying experience: I bought this from Trademe (NZ's E-Bay) I won an action and paid NZ$4500. It cost me another $500 too get it brought up from the South Island. I bought during Covid lock-down and folk were selling bikes cheap due to uncertainty of employment: Two Speed Fours recently listed have been NZ$6-7000 each.
Year: 2004
Annual servicing cost: £197
Had this for 5 years now and will never sell, it is one of the best bikes I have owned.
Apart from the calliper leaking its been a great bike. I have ridden this for over 100 miles in one stint with little or no pains. I don't carry a pillion.
I find the engine a little snatchy when ridding slowly at 30MPH, you have to be in the right gear. But once out and into the national speed limit its a blast and puts the biggest smile on my face.
Had the Brake calliper start leaking which can't be fixed because they are put together under pressure in the factory.
That's including MOT. I usually get about 46 to 50 to the gallon.
Fitted a rear grab rail so I could hold it whilst putting onto a paddock stand. it also has bar risers and a beowolf exhaust silencer which makes the right noise.
Buying experience: Bought from Destination Triumph for £1050 with 28000Miles didn't haggle no need.
Year: 2003
Annual servicing cost: £1,506
Only thing lacking on my bike is aset of better looking fairings, as far as performance, it's the best bike I've drive...
Every 3 years approx.
Runs as good as a Ducatti..
The clutch bracket on my SF broke, hard to find to replace
All good, just regular oil/ filters..thumbs up.
Needs sides to cover engine.!!
Buying experience: 2700$ dollars, and paid that amount.
Year: 2003
Annual servicing cost: £150
I bought my Speed Four new in 03, (my first new bike). I have owned several other machines, and this one will stay with me until the end. I find the handling, acceleration and braking to be absolutely superb. The bike has an amazing combination of modern sophistication and old school grunt in a package that can be as tame or aggressive as needed. I have no trouble keeping up with the 1 litre bikes in challenging twisties.
It is a 600 with a sport bike chassis. As I move past 40 years old, I find that I need to stop and stretch more often, but who cares. The ride can be a bit stiff, but that is due to my setup and I don't mind the compromise. I never ride two up (seat cowl installed and rear pegs removed). Brakes are some of the best I have ever had on a bike.
I loved this little mill in stock form, nice mid range but a bit twitchy down low. Always feel it pulling through every gear all the way to redline. It just begs for it. i have added a Power Commander and had some mapping performed. You can always squeeze a little more out.
Fit and finish are excellent. Every component seems a bit nicer than the Japanese competitors. Fuel fittings have been replaced (recall item) and the stator crapped out at around 20k (not unusual).
I have found this bike to be relatively easy to service myself, and find that it asks very little of me.
I added the TOR exhaust and seat cowl from the dealer when new. Since then I have added a CF hugger, CF clutch cover, Pazzo levers, Gills rear sets. I run Battlax's, just my preference.
Buying experience: Dealer was Ok, did not use them for much service. Really did not need to.
Year: 2003
This is a timelessly styled machine that will never lose it's luster. Goes like hell and remains composed while doing it. If you've ever wanted to roll up to your local bike meet being piggybacked by a gentleman who is skipping, wearing a tophat, monocle, and smoking a pipe all while screaming at the top of his lungs then look no further. I almost don't want to write this review because for every one of these bikes someone else buys it's just one less that i can keep for myself.
This is an excellent sport bike to take touring. I have ridden 2 hours to the mountains, ridden around for a few hours, and gone home all in one sitting with little to no discomfort. As far as straight shot rides, it's very simple to turn a 3 hour haul into a 2 hour haul if you catch my drift. The brakes feel composed and capable. They have excellent stopping power while not feeling at all snatchy. Locking up the rear tire isn't hard and contributes to the rider focused, non electronic feedback the bike maintains throughout the ride. The front brake has no mush to it.
My bike has a full exhaust on it, and around 3k rpm in first gear it lurches at 1/8th throttle, but give it any more than than and it's smooth sailing. It has strong mid to low range acceleration and absolutely screams past modern triple triumphs when you're breaking through 10k rpm. With common modifications and a proper tune you can hang with modern full fairing 600s with ease. The feel of roaring to readline even in high gear is an amazing experience. This bike will DEFINITELY get you into trouble with the law considering how effortless it is when "getting up to highway speed"
Triumph fit and finish. No rattles, no plasticy bits that feel our of place, no engine problems, the only electrical problem that i've encountered with my bike is a burnt out stator which is common on any bike. Replace your oem rectifier regulator with a mosfet unit, better than stock stator and it will be the last time you deal with it.
Excellent value bike for the money. As rare as this bike is, both in production numbers and style [naked, high peg, clip ons, four cylinder 600 that doesnt handle like a pig] This bike will ruin you for any other 600. The only outrageous cost with this bike is that you will want more than one in your garage.
Beautiful, timeless speedo and tach. The analog feel of this bike is not lost, but is still sophisticated and modern and it will always feel that way. I went 5mm taller on my rear tire [diablo rosso 3s] and the bike turns in like a rabid pomeranian chasing it's tail.
Year: 2003
Annual servicing cost: £200
This is my third bike, going from a 75bhp Kawasaki zr-7 this is very light and flickable and great fun with a noticably more eager engine and suspension/chassis to boot.
I’ve ridden an hour, palms ache a little, planning to add riser bars, otherwise very comfy and could see doing a few hundred miles in a day
From 5000-12000 rpm the induction sounds great and it is quick. Low down it is a bit snatchy so I find myself pulling in the clutch at low speeds and letting it out gently to pull away at slow speeds smoothly.
For 22,000 miles cosmetically it looks brilliant. Though the stator had failed and was replaced under warranty from the garage I got it from 2nd Hand.
Not serviced yet, budgeting a bit more due to more to go wrong on it
I had to buy and fit a rear grab bar, which was fairly straight forward. No mounting points for panniers, you can tell it’s for Sunday blasts or track days, Clip on handle bars give a fun sporty position, but a bit more awkward at slow speeds.
Buying experience: Bought from a dealer. Went by condition, had no scratches from being dropped/no rust. 22,000 miles 2003 model paid £2200 when advertised for £2300. Not a lot of choice out there, I really wanted it in green and a tidy model.
Year: 2006
Beautifull bike. Is stealth black and have got a union jack belly pan which always gets commented on. have added Renthal fat bars and risers instead of the clip on bars and adjustable levers which again have had a lot of positive comments.
Am still new but so far so good
Plenty of useable power and the sweetspot is at around 11000rpm which is scary.
Bought this bike on 06 plate with 4k on clock. it was like it had come out of the showroom.
A bit thirsty if you ride hard but will still do 50+mpg for commuting.
Great. Everything you need. have had Acumen Tilt alarm fitted.
Year: 2006
Quirky and fun, I love mine
Perhaps at 6foot, im a little tall for the riding position
no issues to date
difficult not to get some stock parts - eg tail grab
Bought this form my Fiance as her first big bike and myself a CBR600F 2000. Comparatively, the CBR600 feels smaller, lower to the ground and feels much lighter (even though on paper they weigh the same) we are now selling the Triumph as around town 10-40 mph the fuelling is quite snatchy, as a learner you're trying to be smooth and build confidence and this snatchy throttle just gets in the way too much. The CBR600, is a 2000 so not fuel injected like the Triumph and thus will naturally have a smoother throttle delivery. Other than the weight and fuelling the ride is great, at higher speeds it's fantastic. So i'd say it's a great 600, especially for the money, for probably a slightly more experienced rider who can work around the fuelling. For a first big bike, the CBR (my only basis for comparison) is a much better choice.
Fantastic bike, the S4 is my first big bike since passing my test last June and it really is a jack of all trades. In only a year and a half of ownership i have done everything on it from going to Italy and back to commuting to work and college. It is only let down by a slightly clunky (Triumph) gearbox and iffy fuelling at low speeds which can be a bit of a hassle around town in traffic but otherwise it is a superb handling bike with excellent brakes and above 4000 rpm a great engine that sounds awesome. Some say that it is not for a new rider but I have found it perfect and my only previous experience is on a GPR50 and an old XL125 but it is probably more down to the individual than the bike. All in all the speed four is a great bike for anyone from new riders to experienced track hacks.
Handles like a dream, can even be used for a bit of touring if you're determined, but be warned it makes you want to take the long and twisty way where ever your going cos it's just to good on the twisties.
As you can tell by the title its my 2nd one,Killed the first one 2 years ago.Had all sorts of bikes from GS500 to SV1000s 11 in total (wife not to happy!)But this S4 came up 05 plate 2500 miles for £2500 had to have it.Looks wise there is nothing else like it which makes it cool to start with.Best handling bike so much better than other so called bugget 600 Hornet,SV,Fazer,CBF,Z750,Beats all of them hands down!Will give most sport bike 600 a run for there money.Its not wot you ride but how you ride it!
...or short legged (so I had mine lowered as I live on a hill, not a good combination). A superb handling machine with awesome brakes and excellent engine, aside from the flat spot at the 3k rpm mark - easily manageable by just changing gear/speed. Totally addictive. So a total shame that it's been discontinued and the gap filled by the Street Triple - because I can feel the money burning a hole in my pocket right now. Expect some real bargain S4s around this summer, as owners p-ex them for the new Street Triple.
Had my speed four now for two months and done over a thousand miles on her. Running in is always a pain but I could feel the true potential of the bike even then. After first service (which I was told to go over its better) at 650 miles I have really bonded with the little black beast. I swopped my SV 1000 for the Triumph and was a little worried I would miss the tourque, overtaking has been interesting until you start remembering to click down. But on the handling "boy" you only have to think of leaning over and it has done it for you. Engine again, horror stories of bad fueling. I have found the fueling to be faultless, guess they had it sorted by 2006 model. Brakes are awesome, back a little wooden (dont use much anyway). Comfort is up compared to the SV at least an hour and a half before numb bum time compared to 30 mins on SV. Strengths: Handling, Handling, Handling, Brakes, Retro style and looks English. Weaknesses: Back end looks dated.
Having rode a 2000 faired Bandit for my first year of biking, the Triumph is MILES away from the quality of the Suzuki. As soon as I rode away from the dealers having snapped up a brand new S4 for £3700 (plus alarm) (!!!) I knew instantly I was totally hooked. The sound of the engine is great, it sounds like a modern, tight engine, one to be proud of compared to the lazy, loose sounding Bandit. Although I'm still officially running it in, the pick up is very quick and responsive. Obviously being a 600, the gears dissappear pretty quickly, nonetheless when comparing to the Bandit, this feels 10 times quicker :) Brakes are superb, handles like a dream, goes around roundabouts lower than I ever imagined I could go, but am using nearly all of the tyre...eek. Sounds too good to be true.......It is. Just a shame you see the big name bikes like Bandit/Fazer/Hornet/Sv650 in the mags every week and the S4 is missed out...why? Probably because it's better :). Strengths: PRICE Quality of components Handling Looks Hooliganism. Weaknesses: Tank range only 100 miles ish.
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Side view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Front view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Side view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Side view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Side view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Front view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Rear view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Front view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Front view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Side view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Side view
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Riding
Triumph Speed Four motorcycle review - Riding
