2008 Triumph Sprint Review

For the first half-decade after its debut, Triumph Motorcycles made little or no changes to the Triumph Sprint motorbike. However, when the 2005 model year arrived, the British automaker began implementing changes, ostensibly to keep it updated in a competitive sport-touring market. The changes were so significant that the 2008 Triumph Sprint needed no tweaks.

The 2008 Triumph Sprint is officially known as the 2008 Triumph Sprint ST. The ""ST"" suffix stands for ""sport-touring,"" which means that the 2008 Sprint was designed and marketed as a dual-purpose bike. It can appeal to performance enthusiasts and casual rides alike.

There are two variants of the 2008 Triumph Sprint: the regular Sprint, and one that has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) to prevent the wheels of the bike from locking up when braking. The regular edition has a manufacturer""s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $10,999, while the MSRP of the ABS variant is $11,799. The 2008 Sprint carries over the optional features that were made standard on the 2007 model year, such as handlebar risers and color-matched panniers for storage.

Each 2008 Triumph Sprint is powered by a four-stroke liquid-cooled horizontal inline three-cylinder engine, with a displacement of 1,050 cubic centimeters. With four intake valves on each cylinder, the engine generates 125 horsepower at 9,250 revolutions per minute (RPM) and 77 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 RPM. The bore and stroke of the engine is 3.11 by 2.81 inches (79 by 71.4 millimeters), and the compression ratio is 12 to 1. Each 2007 Triumph Sprint engine is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Each 2008 Triumph Sprint is made of aluminum, which makes it relatively light yet solid; and the bike is furnished with fenders and a full fairing. The bike is available in two color schemes: Graphite and Pacific Blue. Digital instrumentation consists of a tachometer, trip odometer, speedometer, and temperature warning and fuel level warning gauges. For storage, the 2008 Sprint has two side cases and a lockable compartment. Also included are a halogen headlight and pair of rearview mirrors for enhanced visual perception when driving, and a tinted windshield for warding off wind and flying debris.

The suspension on the 2008 Triumph Sprint comprises 1.7-inch (43-mm) telescopic fork in the front and a single-sided aluminum swing arm with shock absorber at the back to ensure a smooth ride. Brakes consist of a 12.6-inch (320-mm) dual disc at the front and a 10-inch (255-mm) single disc at the back, thus ensuring enhanced stopping power. Each 2008 Sprint rides on 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Each 2008 Triumph Sprint measures 83.2 inches (2,113.3 mm) in length, 29.5 inches (749.3 mm) in width and 47.8 inches (1,214.1 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 57.4 inches (1,458 mm). The seat is set at a height of 31.7 inches (805 mm). The dry weight of the 2008 Sprint is 462 lbs., or 209.6 kilograms.

Maintaining the upgrades of its 2005 and 2007 predecessors, the 2008 Triumph Sprint is one of the better model entries for the Sprint during the 2000s. If you want a high-performing bike that can be used for both sports-oriented and casual riding, the 2008 Sprint is worth considering.