Bike Review | Triumph TF 250-E and TF 450-E enduro launch

The new Triumph TF 250 and 450-E models are built as a competition-ready enduro bikes with more torque at lower revs than the moto models, a six-speed gearbox, larger fuel tank, comprehensive electronics, and more. We head to the Aussie launch and test both bikes.

The 2025 Triumph TF 250-E and TF 450-E launch was held at Star Glenn Lodge, in Bonnie Doon, Victoria.

After a short drive to the northeastern suburbs of Victoria, I arrived at Star Glen Lodge. Upon arriving I got to hang out with this Triumph Australia team before the presentation, giving me the chance to pick some of their brains about their new TF 250-E and TF 450-E, as well as have a good look at the brand new TF250-E they had on display next to the fireplace.

Dan Thomerson rated the 250 highly, and was eager to ride the 450. The high score speaks for itself…

Check out our Triumph TF 250-X test here and TF 450-RC test here…

Triumph’s Chris Harris.

Star Glenn Lodge, Bonnie Doon, Victoria.

TF 250 and 450-E lineup.

Tech rundown, huge fireplace.

The presentation consisted of all the details and tech talk about both the 250 and the 450 as well as a video call with Scott Lanzi (off-road product lead) and Ricardo Casanova (global off-road product marketing manager). These two experts had in-depth knowledge on the build and development of the enduro models. This was an awesome opportunity to pick the brains of two people that played a big role in the production of Triumph’s TF250-E and TF450-E.

Both bikes have more accessible power and torque curves, a six-speed gearbox, enduro wheels and tyres and a host of other changes from electronics to ADR compliance. The 250 costs $17,590 R/A and the 450 costs $18,990 R/A.

After the presentation was dinner followed by dessert and some more conversations before heading to bed and trying to get some sleep to be well rested before a big day’s ride. The following morning it was a nice wake up and breakfast at Star Glen Lodge, where we were all a little worried about the massive downpour that occurred during the night.

But that didn’t stop us. After breakfast we geared up and walked up to the undercover shed and were greeted with a lineup of Triumph’s 250cc and 450cc enduro models ready for us to ride.

The Ride

After breaky it was finally time to test Triumph’s TF 250-E and TF 450-E enduro bikes. After finding out in the presentation that Triumph’s enduro models aren’t just motocross bikes with a headlight, I was eager to find out what the differences were in both the power delivery and handling.

Heading out for testing, the first bike Dan rode was the grunty TF 450-E with it’s stump pulling torque and power…

The first model I had the privilege of riding was the mighty TF 450-E. Once I was ready I hit the ignition button and started up the 450cc powerhouse. The note was not as dominating as Triumph’s motocross model but still has that bark a 450cc should have. Once warmed up I threw my leg over the 450 and went for some sighting laps around the track and enduro loop sections built around the lodge.

“The smooth yet crisp throttle making it easy to control and get the power to the ground when needed”…

The first thing that I noticed was the 450cc torque, being smooth yet powerful, and the smooth yet crisp throttle making it easy to control and get the power to the ground when needed. After a couple of laps I started changing some of the maps and controls. I found Map 1 (full power map) was to my liking and paired with the TC (traction control) on the wet day it worked well and allowed the TF 450-E to handle with little slippage while riding.

After a ride on the 450 it was time to get on the TF 250-E. Straight away I was impressed yet again. The note of the exhaust still provided a crisp bark even with the extra resonator to decrease sound. Paired with a smooth crisp throttle, the reduced capacity engine that powers the TF250-E is super smooth, controllable and just a really nice and friendly engine to experience in these slick conditions.

“Traction control came in handy with the rain we had the night before making it easy to control on the trails.”

While I was on the TF250-E we went out on a trail ride, where I was able to put the TF250-E to the test. Traction control came in handy with the rain we had the night before making it easy to control on the trails. The QS (quick-shift) came in handy as well as it allows you to shift without losing any momentum, which on some of the hill climbs was a big help on both bikes, especially the 250.

The 250 still has plenty on tap to loft the front wheel over anything out on the trails…

The KYB forks and shock offer a smooth and comfortable ride on both the TF 250-E and the TF 450-E, giving you optimal control. Throughout the day of riding I put the suspension to the test on a range of hill climbs and various surfaces. The KYB offered amazing handling while soaking up all the harsh impacts allowing for a smooth ride.

The Brembo brakes paired with the KYB suspension provide amazing and controllable stopping power allowing for optimised handling and controlled descents down steep hills, while the Michelin Enduro 2 tyres handled the wet and slippery terrain with ease even up some steep hill climbs and over wet logs, making it feel like I was riding on a dry summer day.

Both the TF 250-E and TF 450-E come with a Pyramid gripper vinyl seat, which provides excellent grip with a rubbery consistency that allows you to hold on to the bike in both wet and dry conditions all while being comfy for those long rides.

Triumph went all out with their enduro range and have come out with the TF 250-E and TF 450-E that tick every box needed to be an amazing off-road bike. Overall, I was very shocked yet very impressed that Triumph didn’t simply put a headlight on their motocross model, but jumped straight in and fully developed an off-road range that will not only challenge but give a run for their money among the other brands that already dominate the off-road industry.

I found that each model had its strengths, the TF 250-E I found very maneuvrable, and easy to handle on those tight twisty single trail sections and easy to control over logs and uneven surfaces. It went well on the hill climbs although on some of the longer climbs it did struggle, but eventually made it with a couple of stops.

The TF 450-E I found ticked every box for myself. Even with that little extra weight the 450cc handled with ease making it over every obstacle in front of me, with that 450cc torque making hill climbs effortless and allowing me to get out of any sticky situation with ease.

Both the TF 250-E and TF 450-E are perfect bikes for riders of all capabilities, with their smooth and lineal power delivery and confidence inspiring handling and control. The hardest decision is whether you go the 250cc or the 450cc. As the day came to an end with some more rain, I just wanted to get back out there and keep going.

Tech Highlights

The TF450-E comes with a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder which delivers a linear power curve with controllable torque and impressive power, that allows for smooth and controllable power across any terrain, from tight technical single trails to wide open straights and not to forget those steep hill climbs.

The TF250-E comes in with the most powerful engine in its class…

The TF250-E comes in with the most powerful engine in its class. Providing 32kW of power and 27.8Nm of torque, with a broad power curve and a strong bottom end, which delivers a responsive, smooth and controllable power that is perfectly suited for tight enduro sections and ideal for any rider seeking fun and manageable power.

Triumph TF 450-E engine.

Triumph TF 250-E engine.

Both powertrains have been developed to have more inertia than the motocross engine, which provides a stable and controllable power delivery across the various terrains. This is paired with a six-speed gearbox and Exedy racing clutch, with enduro specific optimised gear ratios. The quick-shifter allows smooth and clutchless shifts making it easy to maintain momentum whether you’re on wide open sections or in the tight and technical sections of the trail.

The throttle-body is identical across both models, a Bespoke Dellorto 44mm item. There’s an air bypass system for cold starts and a manually adjustable idle speed ensuring reliability and throttle response throughout those demanding rides. Both models come with an 8.3L enduro fuel tank, for extended range with an ergonomic Triumph design to fit in with the minimalist design of the bodywork.

Large fuel tank for range.

Enduro ergonomics.

Stainless-steel header.

Stainless-steel muffler.

Each model has its own lightweight unique exhaust system, tuned for both performance, noise attenuation and compliance. The TF250-E has an integrated Helmholtz resonator in the header pipe, tuned to boost peak power while also providing more torque at lower rpm. The TF450-E has a side -resonator in the silencer for targeted noise reduction, which provides a deep exhaust note.

“The TF450-E has a side -resonator in the silencer for targeted noise reduction, which provides a deep exhaust note.”

Both models feature Triumph’s lightweight aluminium spine frame with twin cradle design. To optimise balance, performance, mass and agility. This provides high speed stability while delivering sharp directional control. With post fabrication machining for dimensional accuracy, also featuring in house hand TIG welded craftsmanship.

Both the TF250-E and TF450-E come equipped with KYP 48mm upside-down forks with compression and rebound adjustment and 300mm of travel, held on to the chassis by Neken 7075-T6 forged and fully machined lightweight aluminium triple-clamps.

KYB shock, 313mm travel.

KYB forks, 300mm travel.

Neken triple-clamp.

Pr Taper bars.

The KYB 3-way piggyback shock has a 50mm piston and is fully adjustable, while the swingarm is alloy. This ensures accurate front-end feedback and delivers a confidence inspiring ride. All suspension comes equipped with enduro spring rates and tunes to ensure you are getting the best suspension to support you on your next adventure. The brakes comprise of Brembo calipers, master-cylinders and levers, with a front twin 24mm piston floating caliper paired with a Galfer 260mm disc, while the rear is a single 26mm piston floating caliper paired with a Galfer 220mm disc.

Brembo front brake.

Brembo rear brake.

Both models come fitted with the D.I.D DirtStar 7000 series aluminium rims, with a black anodised finish and Triumph designed lightweight cast and machined aluminium hubs with Michelin Enduro 2 tyres that feature an innovative tread pattern that provides top of the line grip and traction allowing you to tackle any terrain with confidence.

Both models come fitted with the D.I.D DirtStar 7000 series aluminium rims, with a black anodised finish and Triumph designed lightweight cast and machined aluminium hubs with Michelin Enduro 2 tyres.

Both the TF 250-E and TF 450-E come with Pro Taper EVO ‘bars. Constructed of 4mm proprietary 7000 series aluminium alloy for impact strength and impact absorbing flex, with a Triumph/Pro Taper bar pad, paired with ODI half-waffle lock on grips for the best comfort.

ODI lock on grips, handguards.

Lightweight sprocket.

Twin Air airfilter.

Brembo front master-cylinder.

The left hand control module of the enduro models is identical to that of the motocross models with four buttons for easy selection. The first being LC launch control, for holeshot winning starts, by managing torque delivery to maximise traction off the line. The second QS quick-shift, to enable clutch-less upshifting between 2nd and 6th gear for uninterrupted power delivery to maintain momentum.

The left hand control module of the enduro models is identical to that of the motocross models with four buttons for easy selection…

The third TC for traction control, which uses an advanced traction control system that monitors rear-wheel slip and modulates power output to provide consistent grip on those tricky uneven surfaces. Traction control can be adjusted via the app. The 4th is M for maps, with selecting between one of two maps. Map 1 being full power delivery and Map 2 being a less aggressive power delivery, with a solid blue light indicating that Map 2 is selected.

Launch Control, Quick-Shift activation, Traction Control and Ride Mode buttons are on the left block, plus for the E models, the lights and horn.

Triumph and Athena have worked side by side to combine their extensive off-road experience, in order to develop new software strategies for both mx and enduro platforms. With a high focus on drivability, rear wheel connectivity and tractability for enduro models. There are 6 additional maps available via the MX Tune App. In order to have access to the app and some of the other customisations, you will have to purchase the Wifi Com module separately which comes in at $370.

Triumph has styled their enduro models with sharp lines and an aggressive stance. They feature aggressive yet minimalistic bodywork, which is developed and manufactured in-house by Triumph. With racing-inspired graphics in Triumph Performance Yellow, Black and White and magnesium engine covers.

2025 Triumph TF 250-E Specifications

triumphmotorcycles.com.au

Price: From $17,590 Ride Away
Warranty: Two-Years
Colours: Triumph Racing Yellow/Black/White
Claimed Power: 32kW[47hp]@12,800rpm
Claimed Torque: 27.8Nm@8000rpm
Wet Weight: 114.2kg
Fuel capacity: 8.3L

Engine: Liquid-cooled four-stroke, DOHC, four-valve, 78 x 52.3mm bore x stroke, 249.95cc, 14.4:1 compression, Dell’Orto EFI, electric start, five-speed gearbox with quick-shifter, Wet, multi-plate Belleville spring clutch, 13/48 final gearing.

Chassis: Frame: Aluminium, with side-stand.
Rake: 26.8º  degrees Trail: 118mm
Suspension: KYB 48mm fork, fully adjustable, 300mm travel (f) KYB coil, compression adjustment (H and LS peed),rebound adjustment, 313mm travel (r).
Brakes: Brembo twin 24mm piston, 260mm disc (f), Brembo single 26mm piston, 220mm disc (r),
Wheels & Tyres: D.I.D DirtStar rims, 90/90 – 21in (f), 140/90 – 18in (r), Michelin Enduro 2 tyres.

Dimensions:
Seat height: 955mm
Ground clearance: N/A
Overall width: 836mm
Overall Length: N/A
Overall height: 1264mm
Wheelbase: 1488mm

Instruments & Electronics: Digital speedo, multifunction switch cubes, dual engine maps, launch and traction control, quick-shifter, optional WiFi tuning via Triumph MX Tune Pro app, headlights, taillight.