Triumph only launched the TF 250-X in late 2023, and it's already finishing high in the standings of many motocross shootout comparisons. But, it has yet to finish as the overall best 250 in any of the shootouts this year. Now, Triumph has given it some updates that the English manufacturer hopes will pull it to the top of the food chain in 2026.
Yamaha's YZ250F has essentially been dominating the highly competitive class for the past few years, so Triumph has its work cut out to knock it from its pedestal. Most of the work has gone into engine performance, throttle response, and suspension. By the sounds of the engineers did the updates, it's going to be in with a shout next year.
The main updates to take note of are an all-new airbox and silencer to increase airflow, with enhanced engine mapping, which should provide improved power delivery and throttle response, plus updated suspension tuning and a new Exedy clutch.
The new airbox and silencer aren't just there to improve power delivery; they're also meant to ensure that the TF 250-X meets the latest FIM and AMA race round regulations.
According to Triumph, "The enhanced ECU mapping enhances power delivery and throttle response across the entire RPM range, enabling quicker launches and sharper corner exits, while the new high-performance Exedy clutch delivers more direct engagement, enhanced durability under extreme conditions, and significantly increased torque capacity."
Riders should notice improved power across the board, but dishing out more and more power has diminishing returns unless the bike can stay composed. So, thankfully, Triumph has updated suspension tuning to provide improved mid-stroke control, better chassis balance, along with better cornering stability. If you ride motocross, however, you already know you spend nearly as much time maintaining your bike as you do riding it, and that should be easier on the latest TF 250-X, too.
The latest model features a new layout for the battery tray to improve accessibility, and the Oil Level Sight Glass has been redesigned to further improve clarity and accuracy. Finishing off the updates is an all-new graphics scheme for 2026 and, of course, it's in Triumph Performance Yellow.
Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Officer, Steve Sargent, said, “The TF 250-X has already made a huge impact in the motocross world, delivering podium-finish performances in the 2025 AMA Supercross Championship, as well as the MX2 class in MXGP. This TF 250-X, built for 2026, is the result of relentless development and feedback from our factory riders. With sharper power delivery, refined suspension, and advanced electronics, it’s built to give riders the edge they need to win."
To all the dirt fiends out there: What do you think? Has Triumph done enough for you to consider making the switch to a TF 250-X in 2026?
