2005-2011 Triumph Sprint ST

£3000-£5000 123bhp 155mph 210kg (dry) 1050cc inline triple

“Favouring simplicity over technology”

At the turn of the millennium, Honda’s top engineers were pulling all-nighters, desperately looking for a way to add grunt to their renowned but increasingly undersized VFR. Their solution was VTEC, a complex variable-valve-timing system that added weight, servicing time and a hacking cough right in the middle of the rev range. But no more torque.

Two years later, Triumph’s boffins were set the same task of beefing up their sports-tourer. Their answer? More engine. With a lengthened stroke, the Sprint ST’S 1050cc triple makes mountains more torque than the VFR (77lb.ft against 59lb.ft), and demolishes the V4 below 6000rpm. The Sprint has a roll-on drive and any-gear flexibility the VFR simply can’t dream of. There’s more power at the top end, too. It’s smoother. It’s cheaper to service. It’s even lighter. Hinckley 7, Honda 0.

Do I need to flesh this out any more? Apparently so. Fine: the Sprint is physically larger than the VFR, meaning more room, more comfort and better weather protection. It uses less fuel than the thirsty Honda. Pillions find the Triumph’s single chunky grabrail more reassuring than the Honda’s split, side-mounted handles. And, let’s be honest, the Sprint’s smooth, gently curved fairing looks far classier than the VFR’S pointy, jagged, overstyled plastic. Is there anything the Sprint lacks? Ah yes: linked brakes. Case closed.