The synthesis and characterisation of a series of ruthenium polypyridyl complexes containing pyridyltriazole ligands in different coordination modes are described. The electrochemical and electronic properties of the compounds are reported and discussed with respect to the coordination mode of the pyridyltriazole ligand. Upon photolysis of the complex containing the 1-methyl-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-1,2,4-triazole ligand irreversible ligand isomerisation is observed.