Triumph shelves 250s

TRIUMPH has shelved plans for Indian-built 250cc models, Visordown can reveal.

Two new models were on the way, a Street Triple-style naked bike possibly called the 'Street Single' and a faired version expected to called the 'Daytona 250'. Both were to use the same 250cc single-cylinder engine. They were due to be officially unveiled this autumn for production in 2015. 

What looked like near production-ready versions of the bikes were spotted undergoing tests as long ago as last year, while Triumph released a sketch of the Daytona at the 2013 Milan motorcycle show. 

However, in a surprise announcement, Paul Stroud, Triumph's director of sales and marketing, said: 'Following a review we have placed the 250cc bike project on hold for strategic reasons relating to its specific segment.

'During an exciting period for the brand, Triumph continues to invest and expand its model line-up and enter new markets, as demonstrated with our successful launches into Brazil and India.

'Through our expanding market presence and model offer we will continue to evolve our product range to reinforce our position as a premium motorcycle manufacturer and answer the requirements and demands of a global motorcycle audience with exciting and innovative products.

'We look forward to unveiling our model-year 2015 range at Cologne and Milan this autumn.'

The new 250s were due to be manufactured in Triumph's factory in Narsapur, central India.