Triumph’s new TF 450-E and TF 250-E put to the test

Triumph TF 450-E TF 250-E Enduro Review

In recent years, several Japanese brands have scaled back their presence in the high-performance enduro market, creating an opening that Austrian manufacturers have eagerly filled, moving huge volumes of both two-stroke and four-stroke machines. Despite this orange horde, the current sales leader in the enduro category is Yamaha’s perennial WR450.

Now, even traditionally road-focussed European brands are getting dirty. The Italians are making waves with the Desmo 450MX, which is sure to spawn an enduro variant. However, the Brits have already been on the podium in both the AMA Motocross and Supercross competitions, and have now beaten Ducati to the bush with the recent launch of Triumph’s new TF 250-E and TF 450-E.

Triumph’s high-profile arrival on the hard enduro scene was announced in style by Jonny Walker with an astonishing sixth-place finish at Erzberg. That a four-stroke, especially a 250 four-stroke, conquered the Iron Giant is a feat in itself. To do so on KTM’s home turf, in terrain long considered two-stroke territory, makes for some statement.

MCNews.com.au was recently invited to try out the new Brits on the block in what is almost home turf for us in the Victorian High Country. The test was held on a wet winter’s day at Bonnie Doon’s Star Glen Lodge, and if the conditions were meant to simulate real-world enduro riding, Triumph couldn’t have asked for a better testing ground.

One of the first things that stood out was the significant research and development that Triumph has clearly invested in these new bikes. This wasn’t a rushed job to catch the hype. Instead, Triumph has taken its time to get things right from the ground up. The TF 250-E and TF 450-E aren’t just motocross bikes with a sixth gear bolted on. Everything, from the chassis to the swingarm length, engine internals, and even the airbox design, has been explicitly tailored for enduro conditions.

The electronics package is as comprehensive as anything in the category. Both models come with launch control, traction control, a quick-shifter, and engine mapping modes. While many will undoubtedly appreciate the full suite, I personally found myself using only the mapping and traction control options.

What impressed me most, though, was the functionality of the switchgear. A single press activates each function, and a clear LED indicator light confirms the setting is simple, intuitive, and effective, even in muddy gloves.

Component quality is top-tier across the board. These bikes don’t just talk the talk they come straight from the crate feeling genuinely race-ready. The level of finish and factory-spec parts give you that “Ready to Race” setup that other brands often advertise but don’t always deliver.

The TF 450-E proved to be a confident performer. Its chassis delivers a planted feel that gives the rider instant confidence, particularly noticeable on descents where some bikes can get twitchy.

The horsepower is on par with what you’d expect from a modern 450 enduro bike, but what sets it apart is the progressive torque curve. There’s no sudden hit of power that throws you off balance, just smooth, usable drive that allows you to stay in control.

But it was the TF 250-E that really stole the show for me. I’ve ridden my fair share of small-bore four-strokes, and this one is unlike any I’ve ever thrown a leg over. With a crankshaft that boasts a 34 per cent increase in mass compared to its MX sibling, the 250E doesn’t stall or flame out at idle. It chugs like a tractor and delivers incredible torque in the bottom end and mid-range. This makes tight, technical riding and cornering significantly easier. I actually caught myself short-shifting and loading up the engine, more typical of riding a 300 two-stroke.

In wet, slippery conditions, the 250E’s torque and tractability gave it a distinct edge. It allowed me to ride smoother, with less clutch abuse and more precision. The end result is a small-bore four-stroke that performs with the heart of a bigger machine, but with all the agility you’d expect from a 250.

With the TF range, Triumph has shown they’re not entering the enduro market to play catch-up they’re here to set a benchmark. By designing a true enduro platform from the ground up, integrating rider-friendly electronics, and delivering genuine performance straight out of the box, Triumph has created bikes that appeal not only to racers but also to serious trail riders, including those who enjoy the more challenging and technical aspects of enduro riding.

Price-wise, the TF 450-E is listed at $18,990 ride-away, while the TF 250-E comes in at $17,590 ride-away. These figures reflect the premium components and performance offered but may deter the occasional weekend punter looking for a more budget-friendly option. When compared to other premium offerings in the segment, such as KTM’s EXC-F range or Husqvarna’s FE models, Triumph is positioning itself squarely in the top-tier performance category. That said, for those serious about their enduro riding, the value is certainly there.

Both models are now available from Triumph dealerships nationwide, making it easy for riders to get their hands on these highly anticipated machines.

The TF 250-E and TF 450-E don’t just look good on paper they ride every bit as well as they’ve been hyped. In fact, they may just be the most complete new entries into the segment in a decade.

Triumph TF 450-E Specifications

Triumph TF 250-E Specifications