System in Kanawha County, West Virginia,
called the Tornado Single Trax. Early morn-
ing rain made the red clay slick and greasy
for our first laps around the park. These
conditions were ideal for evaluating the
engine and electronics as we struggled for
traction on the tight trails. The Triumph's
engine remains among the smoothest in
its class, with an ultra-linear roll-on and a
connected feel from the right hand to the
rear wheel. TF-C doesn't exude a ton of
bottom-end, so you need to ride it higher
in the revs and maintain momentum. If
you're looking for a torquey tractor, the Tri
-
umph might not meet your expectations.
However, the slick conditions in West
Virginia didn't require massive torque,
and the 450-C's lightweight, free-revving
nature proved useful throughout the day.
Midrange is the engine's highlight. The pull
from mid to top felt lively and effective in
the faster sections. This is the same expe
-
rience we got from all Triumph's off-road
models, so it's no surprise that the mid-
range again stands out on the 450-C.
The soft map was my go-to during the
wet morning conditions, but I later switched
to the standard "full power" map as the
trails dried out. The softer setting signifi-
cantly reduces engine noise and makes it
easier to ride in tight spots. It reminded me
of a KTM 350: lively and easy to rev up, but
without the extra weight and bulk of a 450.
(Right) The TF
450-C is ready
for GNCC racing
right out of the
crate. (Below) The
Triumph's engine
relies on the
smooth pull from
the mid- to top-end
range. Low-end
torque is not one
of its priorities.
P96
RIDE REVIEW I 2026 TRIUMPH TF 450-C
