We present a coupled-wave model for a triangular-lattice two-dimensional (2D) photonic crystal (PC) with a transverse electric (TE) polarization and derive a set of coupled-wave equations. We use these equations to obtain analytic expressions that describe the relations between the resonant mode frequencies and the coupling constants. We calculate the resonant mode frequencies for a PC composed of circular holes. These agree well with the frequencies calculated using the 2D plane wave expansion method. We also evaluate the coupling constants of fabricated samples using their measured resonant mode frequencies. Our analytic expressions allow the design and evaluation of feedback strength in triangular-lattice 2D PC cavities. (c) 2008 Optical Society of America.