Looking to usurp the king of adventure bikes, Triumph has brought out the brand-new 2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 and Tiger 800, in XC and XR versions. The Hinckley, UK-based firm claims the new Tiger 1200 is up to 10 kg lighter than the previous generation model, and delivers improved manoeuvrability and better off-road agility and handling.
The biggest make-over has come with the Tiger 1200, boasting of up to 100 improvements over the previous generation Tiger. Weight loss on the big Tiger was achieved with savings made in the engine, chassis and exhaust system.
According to Triumph, this translates to better responsiveness and dynamic capability both on- and off-road. In the engine room, power output from the 1,215 cc inline-triple is now 141 PS, with drive getting to the ground via shaft.
A full-colour TFT-LCD panel now graces the cockpit, and a full suite of riding aids is offered, including traction control with “Pro off-road” mode, optimised cornering ABS & traction control, hill hold, ride-by-wire throttle, and up to six riding modes. Other creature comforts on the Tiger 1200 are an improved seat with new foam compound -the seat can be set in two positions, 835 and 855 mm, and a 815 mm low seat height option is available.
Also in the equipment list is an electrically-adjustable windshield, LED lights with Adaptive Cornering Lighting, keyless ignition and cruise control. Braking for the Tiger 1200 is by Brembo with four-piston Monobloc callipers in front with integrated braking, and WP Suspension provides the semi-active front forks and rear monoshock.
For the Tiger 800, improvements for the 2018 model year include a full-colour TFT LCD in the cockpit, Brembo front brakes, and adjustable Showa front and rear suspension. Triumph says over 200 revisions have been made to the Tiger 800 series of adventure bikes, and one key change is the shorter ratio first gear for improved control and traction off-road.
Power from the 800 cc inline-triple mill is now 95 PS, and engine response is now improved. For rider comfort, a new five-position adjustable windscreen and aero diffusers is standard equipment, and a new seat compound gives all-day riding comfort.
The seat on the Tiger 800 is two-position adjustable for height, and both rider and passenger seats are heated. To add to rider comfort and control the handlebars are adjustable by up to 10 mm fore-and-aft, with cruise control now operated by a single button.
For Malaysia, the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 is expected to hit our shores some time in February or March, while shipment of the Tiger 1200 is pending. No pricing is known as yet, and will be determined in due course.
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Can we have any hope that among those 200 suposed improvements Triumph has finally adressed the overheating issue that curses its three cylinder?
lighter, faster and more power?
Ok. Great!
How about… cooler?!