3-Cylinder Bikes in India: Models, Prices & Picks

We’ve discussed various types of motorcycles and bikes here, including twin-cylinder bikes (among others). Now the time has come to discuss another important segment: the three-cylinder bikes, or as they are known most commonly as “inline-3” or “triple engines”. 

So what are they? Put it simply, they offer a sweet spot between the two and four-cylinder bikes. These are compact yet powerful and are known for their engines having strong midrange torque, smooth power delivery, and a distinct exhaust note that stands out.

In India, these bikes have gained popularity over time, especially with Triumph’s expanding lineup and the occasional premium import brands.

Aiming to buy a bike? Don’t worry. This article dives into all the 3-cylinder motorcycles currently sold or rumoured for India. From budget-friendly options like the Triumph Trident 660 to high-performance machines like the Street Triple RS and Rocket 3. We will cover all relevant models that suit your tastes.

We’ll also compare models, prices, use cases, and help you identify the best and most realistic picks for Indian roads. 

If you’re looking to make an informed choice, this blog will cover all the bases.

So let’s start reading.

Model	Short Note (Segment & Availability)
Triumph Trident 660	Roadster; Available in India
Triumph Tiger Sport 660	Sport-tourer; Available in India
Triumph Street Triple 765	Sport roadster; variants sold; Available in India
Triumph Rocket 3	Muscle cruiser; flagship segment; Available in India
MV Agusta F3	Supersport; CBU, limited availability
MV Agusta Brutale 800	Naked; CBU, limited units sold previously
Yamaha MT-09 (rumoured)	Naked streetfighter; Rumour/Expected (no official launch)
Yamaha Tracer 9 GT (rumoured)	Sport-tourer; Rumour/Expected (global model)

What are the Best 3-cylinder bikes? Here are the Best options

1. Triumph Trident 660: Best all-rounder: accessible price, usable power, modern tech.
2. Triumph Street Triple RS: Pure sport handling: high-spec suspension and electronics.
3. Triumph Tiger Sport 660: Touring + commuting balance with comfort and wind protection.
4. MV Agusta F3: High-revving supersport with exotic Italian design and racing character.
5. Triumph Rocket 3: Ultimate torque monster with unmatched cruiser presence.

Some 3-cylinder motorcycles like the Yamaha MT-09 or older MV Agusta Brutale 675 are considered relatively affordable. In India, steep import duties on Completely Built Units (CBUs) and Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits significantly raise their prices. 

The taxes involved with this, as well as combined handling, insurance, and registration costs, make ownership far more expensive. Especially much more than the international markets.

What’s a good example of this? It’s the Triumph Trident 660, currently among the most affordable 3-cylinder bikes officially available in India. 

Despite being an entry-level model in Triumph’s lineup, its on-road price starts at around ₹9.2–9.5 lakh, depending on the state. In comparison, the same motorcycle is priced much lower globally—closer to the ₹6–7 lakh equivalent.

This pricing gap highlights the premium Indian buyers must pay, even for mid-segment bikes. Prospective owners should factor in these costs, along with servicing and accessories, when budgeting for a 3-cylinder motorcycle in India.

1. Yamaha MT-09 (~₹7.5L ex-showroom internationally)
2. Triumph Trident 660 (~₹7L ex-showroom globally)
3. MV Agusta Brutale Rosso (660–800cc variants; rare imports)

Note: Always check updated quotes from local dealers to confirm final on-road prices and current availability.

Spec Element	Typical Range / Note
Displacement	660cc – 1200cc
Power/Torque	80–180 bhp; strong midrange torque, linear throttle response
Sound/Character	Unique triple-cylinder exhaust growl; smoother than twins
Maintenance	Moderate; valve checks vary by brand (12,000–20,000 km intervals)

1.  Triumph Trident 660 

Triumph Trident 660 Specification	Details
Displacement	660cc inline-3
Power / Torque	~81 bhp / 64 Nm
Seat Height	805 mm
Use Case	Urban commutes + weekend fun
On-Road Price	₹9.2 – ₹9.5 lakh (depending on city)
Pro	Value-for-money entry into the Triumph triple lineup
Con	No adjustable suspension, basic electronics vs rivals

2. Triumph Tiger Sport 660 

Triumph Tiger Specification	Details
Displacement	660cc inline-3
Power / Torque	81 bhp / 64 Nm
Seat Height	835 mm
Use Case	Long-distance touring, daily city use
On-Road Price	₹9.45 – ₹10.1 lakh (Delhi, Mumbai range)
Pro	Windshield, luggage options, rider aids make it versatile
Con	Slightly top-heavy in traffic

3. Triumph Street Triple RS 

Triumph Street Specification	Details
Displacement	765cc inline-3
Power / Torque	~128 bhp / 80 Nm
Seat Height	836 mm
Use Case	Track days, aggressive road riding
On-Road Price	₹13.5 – ₹14.3 lakh (city dependent)
Pro	Class-leading handling, top-tier brakes and suspension
Con	Not ideal for beginners or city-only riding

4. MV Agusta F3 / Brutale 

MV Agusta Specification	Details
Displacement	798cc inline-3
Power / Torque	Up to 148 bhp / 88 Nm
Seat Height	830 mm
Use Case	Exotic sport performance
On-Road Price	₹18 – ₹25 lakh (limited units/import)
Pro	Visceral performance + exclusive Italian styling
Con	Costly to own; limited support/service

5. Rocket 3 

Rocket 3 Specification	Details
Displacement	2458cc inline-3 (world’s largest production motorcycle engine)
Power / Torque	~165 bhp / 221 Nm
Seat Height	773 mm
Use Case	Premium cruiser, highway hauls
On-Road Price	₹22 – ₹23.5 lakh
Pro	Monumental torque, head-turning looks
Con	Massive weight, niche audience

• Commuting: Check seat height, heat management, low-speed comfort (Trident, Tiger)
• Weekend Touring: Prioritize luggage options, wind protection, pillion comfort (Tiger Sport 660)
• Track/Spirited Riding: Go for high-spec suspension, power-to-weight (Street Triple RS, MV F3)
• Cruising: Consider long-distance stability, relaxed geometry (Rocket 3)
• Check Service: Triumph has better dealer spread; MV Agusta has limited presence
• Resale: Popular models like Trident, Tiger have better resale than rare CBUs

Owning a 3-cylinder motorcycle in India often comes at a premium, primarily due to factors such as high import duties—especially for models brought in as Completely Built Units (CBU) or Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits—along with insurance costs that typically range between 3–4% of the bike’s invoice value. Additionally, maintenance and servicing for these bikes are generally more expensive than for single- or twin-cylinder models, further increasing the ownership cost.

Take the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 as an example—a well-regarded mid-range touring motorcycle. Its on-road price can be around ₹9.45 lakh, depending on the state and applicable taxes. However, once you factor in insurance, optional accessories like panniers or crash guards, and any dealer handling charges, the total cost can easily exceed ₹10 lakh.

Before purchasing, it’s wise to compare on-road pricing across dealerships, as it may vary by region. Also, inquire about available service plans or extended warranty packages, which can offer added value and reduce long-term maintenance costs. These extras can make a significant difference in ownership experience, both in terms of convenience and savings. Always calculate the total cost of ownership—not just the sticker price—before making your decision.

1. Yamaha MT-09 – Popular triple-cylinder naked; rumoured for India in updated 2025 form
2. Yamaha Tracer 9 GT – Sport-tourer based on MT-09; rumour/possible import
3. MV Agusta 9.5 ADV (Concept) – Adventure triple teased globally; CBU likely if launched
4. Bajaj-Triumph 660 expansion? – Unconfirmed speculations on localised triple-cylinder models

1. Which 3-cylinder bikes are available in India?

Key Triumph models like Trident 660, Tiger Sport 660, Street Triple; MV Agusta F3/Brutale via CBU.

2. Are 3-cylinder bikes reliable?

Generally reliable; depends on service access and brand support.

3. Is there a cheap 3-cylinder bike in India?

Not really — even “affordable” triples like the Trident cost over ₹9L due to import duties.

4.  Which 3-cylinder is best for touring?

The Tiger Sport 660 balances comfort, luggage, and wind protection best.

5. Do 3-cylinder engines sound different?

Yes — they have a unique growl between twin and four-cylinder tones.

6.  What’s the service cost like for 3-cylinder bikes?

Expect ₹10K–₹15K per major service; depends on bike and interval.

In India’s growing premium motorcycle landscape, 3-cylinder bikes offer a distinct blend of performance, character, and versatility. 

Whether you’re a first-time big bike buyer eyeing the Triumph Trident 660 for its all-round value, or an experienced rider drawn to the sharper handling of the Street Triple RS or the sheer presence of the Rocket 3, there’s a triple to suit every style.

All you have to do is best understand your needs, and see if your budget allows it. Don’t make the choice to impress others. 

Make the right one to impress yourself. Keep on following Ecozaar and exploring its insight to be constantly aware of how. Happy riding!