triumph tiger 800 tft display brands
Since its inception in 2010, the Tiger 800 has continually been changing the face of the middle-weight class. ADVMoto spent a few months on the 2011 gen-one models. There was a lot to like about the Tiger even in its first go-round. With more than 68,000 units sold to date, it’s gathered quite a following in the seven years it’s been on the market. For 2018 the model received a host of improvements, making the riding experience even better. Triumph claims their bikes have more character and charm than most brands, and after spending a few days playing around the Atlas Mountains of Morocco with the beloved triple, it’s easy to see why the little Tiger is so addicting!
A big effort went into mass optimization of the engine and, in the process, backlash gears have been removed to create an overall more free-flowing engine with fewer moving parts. With 94 horsepower on tap and max torque of 58 ft.-lb. being produced at just 2,000 rpm, this creates an incredibly linear power band all the way to redline. Most ADV bikes have a tall first gear, which for some riders makes navigating technical off-road trails challenging. Triumph made first gear shorter by 10 percent, which makes riding slower, technical off-road terrain much easier.
The engineers continued on the less-is-more track. They took a good look at an area most manufacturers overlook—the exhaust. Over the last 10 years, motorcycle exhausts have become humongous because of strict emission laws. Triumph wanted to drop some additional weight so the engineers did a total redesign of the exhaust system, creating a more free-flowing, better sounding, and visually smaller system that sounds incredible right off the showroom floor.
WP suspension front and rear on the XC line really make the new Tiger shine no matter what terrain you find yourself on. Fully adjustable rebound and compression on the front allow for quick fine tuning adjustments based on the conditions at hand.
Handling is surprisingly nimble even with the 21/17 combo on the XCA mounted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally tires, while the XRT runs 19/17 fitted with Metzeler Tourance rubber. Due to inclement weather we didn’t get to drag knees on the road day. But, like most Triumphs I’ve ridden you become one with the bike and it does what you want it to do.
The little Tiger felt confident in the air, but I wasn"t sure how the landing was going to play out. Coming up short, I hit the face of the landing. The WP suspension soaked up everything. There was no clanking of the suspension bottoming-out, and I was able to keep on cruising. The compliant chassis and excellent suspension did very well to keep the 470 lbs. bike with a 200 lbs. rider in control.
Triumph uses a new 3D Net Foam technology for added comfort while riding long stints in the saddle. I can tell you it works nicely since we were in the saddle for the better part of five-plus hours. Seat height is adjustable in two positions by moving a bar up or down on the front of the seat to either the low (33") or the standard position (33.8").
For 2018 Triumph decided to move the bars back 10mm which makes for a more comfortable riding position. Being 5’8", I found the bar height acceptable for my size. Taller riders may benefit from a small riser if you plan to ride mostly off road.
Brand new for 2018 is the five-inch TFT display with a choice of two themes with both high and low contrast options, and a total of six different screen configurations (XCA and XRT only). Permanently on display are the speedometer, rpm, riding mode, gear position, fuel level, clock, and ambient temperature. You can customize the display with additional information like fuel consumption, trips, service information and coolant temperature. It also has an auto mode that switches between night and day modes for perfect viewing in all light conditions.
Controls are thoughtfully laid out for ease of navigation while in motion. The left-hand switch cube (back-lit on the top-spec XCA and XRT) controls the TFT display via a five-position joystick allowing you to scroll left, right, up and down through all six riding modes: Road, Sport, Off-Road, Off-Road Pro, Rain and Custom. Once the desired mode is found, simply roll off the throttle and push the mode button to select and that’s it. The Off-Road and Off Road Pro modes can only be selected when the bike is completely stopped. An updated electronic cruise control is easily accessed via the right-hand switch cube which features a home button for accessing and exiting the main menu.
Every bike in the Tiger family is born with the true spirit of adventure. It"s been in our bloodline ever since the very first Triumph Tigers won three gold medals in the 1936 International Six Days Trial, and this started the first chapter of the world"s longest-running adventure motorbike story.
With their trademark agile handling, commanding riding position, purposeful silhouette and premium equipment specification, every Tiger delivers the highest standard of style, comfort and control.
The refreshed, 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 has been launched in India and prices begin from Rs 11.76 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the XR variant. Just like before, the 2018 Tiger 800 is on offer in three variants, including the XRX priced at Rs 13.13 lakh that sits above the XR, both of which are road-biased adventure tourers, while the XCX, priced at Rs 13.76 lakh (both prices ex-showroom, Delhi) is the more off-road capable version. More variants are expected to be launched later.
Interestingly, the 2018 Tiger 800 is not an all-new bike but is a midlife update for the motorcycle. But the changes to the design, powertrain, rider aids and suspension are extensive. While the road-focused XR family gets new Showa suspension upfront, the XC line-up gets a new, Off-road pro mode to help improve the bike"s off-road abilities.
All variants of the 2018 Tiger 800 feature LED DRLs and the XRT and XCA versions get all-LED headlamps too. Except for the base XR, all variants also feature the new, fully-digital 5-inch TFT display screen that has replaced the older bike"s analog-digital instrument cluster. The digital dashboard was first seen on the Street Triple RS and offers a plethora of information in a highly legible manner that"s easy to process on the go.
Triumph said that 2018 Tiger 800 features over 200 changes including significant ones to the engine and gearbox as well. Outputs for the 800cc triple cylinder engine remain unchanged at 95 PS and 79 Nm but the engine is smoother, while revised gearing means peak torque is available at lower speeds.
As far as the competition is concerned, the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 faces off against machines like the BMW F 750 GS, BMW F 850 GS, Ducati Multistrada 950 as also the Honda Africa Twin CRF1000L.
If you purchased a 2017 Street Triple or Tiger 800 and are upset about missing out on riding the whole ‘smartphone connectivity wave’, Triumph has a solution for you. As of December 21st, 2020, the company will offer a package to retrofit the Triumph Connectivity System to your older model Triumph motorcycles.
As of right now, this upgrade will be available to 2017-2019 Street Triples and 2018-2019 Tiger 800s (that feature TFT displays). If you own one of the larger bikes (i.e. Speed Triple and Tiger 1200), expect your package to land later next year.
The package brings some sweet features to your TFT display to make your riding safer and more convenient. The My Triumph Connectivity System allows for your phone to be paired with the motorcycle as many OEMs are currently shifting to smartphone compatibility with their new models.
Google paired up with Triumph to bring the same intuitive navigation system from your smartphone to your motorcycle’s TFT display in seamless integration. Your display will also allow for full control of your GoPro unit, and you will have phone calls and music selection operated right from your motorcycle handlebars. The final feature is the ‘My Garage’ feature that keeps track of your motorcycles services and will let you know when your next service is.
Triumph Motorcycles has launched the brand new Tiger 800 XC and XR line-up – one of its best-loved and most critically acclaimed motorcycles ever. The longest running adventure story, with a bloodline that began with the gold-medal winning Tigers of the 1936 International Six Day Trial, continues with a new generation that incorporates all of the trademark Tiger spirit and takes capability to a whole new level.
The new, significantly updated Tiger 800 XC and XR family has once again pushed the boundaries of this world-renowned range with over 200 chassis and engine upgrades. These are complemented by a suite of major off-road improvements that work hand-in-hand with carefully crafted on-road enhancements.
Triumph has specifically targeted improvements to technology, comfort, and style alongside the introduction of a new generation engine that maximizes the rider experience. As a result, the new Tiger 800 is better in every way — both on the road and off road.
Major technology advances: Every new Tiger 800 represents a huge step-up in rider technology with improvements including full-color TFT instruments, up to six riding modes, high-specification Brembo front brakes, optimized suspension configurations, handlebar-mounted switchcubes incorporating elegant backlit buttons, distinctive signature all-LED lighting, updated cruise control, enhanced chassis, and premium bodywork.
Next generation engine: A mass-optimized 800cc Triple engine now gives more immediate power delivery and a peak power output of 95PS. It has even more character and a lighter exhaust system with a sportier soundtrack that together transform the new generation engine. There is a new, shorter ratio first gear to enhance off-road traction, all-road low speed responsiveness, and more immediate acceleration that gives the rider a truly thrilling feel. In addition, the new Off- Road Pro riding mode on the XC models allows an advanced rider to take complete control off road.
An added dimension to comfort: Triumph has enhanced the rider ergonomics across the whole Tiger 800 range. This includes moving the handlebars back by 10mm for a more commanding riding position, higher specification Brembo front brakes and Showa adjustable suspension, new handbook- approved off-road tire specification fitment, new five-position adjustable windscreen and aero diffusers for segment-leading aero protection, and a new seat compound giving all-day riding comfort.
Premium style: Tiger signature styling is now even stronger across the latest 800 range. New premium bodywork includes high quality painted finishes with updated side panel designs, along with higher quality badges, graphics and detailing to deliver real presence. This also gives each Tiger a more contemporary and dynamic stance that highlights the on and off-road bias of each model, while retaining the distinctive and instantly recognizable Tiger 800 silhouette.
Tiger 800 core technology: The Tiger 800’s trademark handling and category-defining core technologies are the foundation of this bike"s superb riding experience. All the Tigers" essential adventure standards are maintained with ABS, traction control, ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control, heated seats and grips, power sockets, and a two-position seat height (810-830mm on XR models, 840-860mm on XC models) adjustable by 20mm to suite riding style and terrain, and a low ride height XRx model variant that at 760 mm is 50mm lower than the standard XR range of seats.
Tiger 800 models: From the road-focused Tiger XR, mid spec XRX and range topping XRT, to the off-road hungry Tiger XCX and fully-loaded XCA — not forgetting the XRx low ride height model – there is a Tiger 800 for every person, every ride and every adventure.
Paul Stroud, chief commercial officer for Triumph Motorcycles said, "We"ve developed a host of major new technology and performance updates designed to enhance the new Tiger 800"s capability both on and off-road. With developments that complement the Tiger"s accessible and agile, easy riding style, as well as its existing distinctive Tiger poise and presence, the new 800 line-up is built for maximum adventure — every single day."
Triumph Motorcycles has launched the brand new 2018 Tiger 1200 XC and XR line-up, the most advanced Tiger models ever. The all-new range is the latest addition to a legendary bloodline that began 80 years ago and has been purpose-built to handle the ultimate in on-road adventures and off-road challenges, with every single new technological innovation, engine enhancement, premium specification, and style update designed specifically to help deliver a perfect ride.
Triumph"s brand-new Tiger 1200 range has taken major steps forward with significant engineering and technological updates – the result is an even more responsive adventure bike that combines both maximum enjoyment on the road with complete confidence off-road.
Purposeful, muscular and distinctive, the legendary 80-year Triumph Tiger bloodline is unmistakable. The 1200"s silhouette now carries even more style with new premium bodywork details and finish, so there"s a Tiger for every road, every rider and every adventure.
Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer for Triumph Motorcycles said; "The new Tiger 1200 range is so advanced it has taken a full four years to develop, and today we"re proud to launch a family of motorcycles that altogether boasts significant class-leading engine characteristics, rider-focused technological innovations and premium styling; all in the name of first-class riding enjoyment. These are by far the most adventure-ready Tigers ever built."
Significantly lighter by up to 22lbs (10 kgs): The new Tiger 1200 range sees a substantial weight reduction of up to an incredible 10kg compared to the previous generation thanks to a range of developments across the engine, chassis and exhaust system. This has improved each model"s responsiveness and dynamic capability even further, while significantly enhancing its agility and manoeuvrability – both on and off-road. The result is an engine that delivers all the power needed for complete freedom to ride anywhere and everywhere, with a high first major service interval of 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Technological advancements: Now even more fully loaded, no other Tiger range has ever boasted this level of state-of-the-art technology. Both XR & XC models include all-new innovative Triumph Adaptive Cornering Lighting for active enhanced visibility when cornering, updated cruise control, new adjustable full-colour TFT display screen, all-new LED lighting, new ergonomically sculpted backlit switchgear and heated grip function, new Triumph Shift Assist for smooth clutchless changes up and down the gearbox, rider-friendly keyless ignition on higher spec models, and an all-new "Off-Road Pro" riding mode on the XC models.
New generation engine: Maintaining its position as the most powerful shaft-driven engine in its class with an impressive 139HP, a significant new engine update gives the Tiger 1200 a more immediate power delivery lower down the rev range and an even better soundtrack. The new torque-laden 1200cc engine enables a breathtakingly smooth reliable delivery through the torque-assist clutch, helping rider control on all surfaces. Complementing these updates are silencer developments offering the same thrilling Tiger Triple sound through an even lighter system. This new generation of Tiger is single-mindedly bred to push every adventure further, in first-class comfort.
Premium style: New elegant sculpted bodywork and stylish wheel specifications enhance the presence and muscular style of the new model, while new metallic badges, signature LED lighting and contemporary graphics create eye-catching points of interest. The Tiger 1200’s even higher quality finish includes wet-painted engine covers that contrast with the black crinkle-effect crank cases and titanium coloured powder-coated frame.
Tiger 1200 core specifications Core technology: On top of the new generation state-of-the-art technology, the new Tiger 1200 range offers a huge choice of "core" features, innovations and benefits to deliver a superior riding experience; fully integrated management systems controlled by an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), integrated braking system (developed with Continental), optimised cornering ABS & traction control, hill hold, ride-by-wire throttle, and up to six riding modes to configure the motorcycle to suit its terrain at the press of a button. An electrically-adjustable windscreen, heated equipment, and power sockets make every journey even more comfortable.
High specification: The new Tiger also maintains its premium levels of finesse with high specification Brembo brakes, adjustable WP suspension controlled by Triumph"s Semi-Active Suspension technology, a two-position seat height (32.8 – 33.6in), adjustable to suit riding style and terrain, and a Low Ride Height XRx model variant that at 32-32.8 in is 0.8in (20 mm) lower than the standard seat.
Set-up and ready to go: In addition, the entire Tiger 1200 line-up is also backed by an extensive range of dedicated accessories including all-purpose aluminum luggage giving you the load capacity for any trip and to take you anywhere, any time.
The new XR line-up is tailor-made to deliver the ultimate on-road/off-road adventure; from the base model XR, to the mid-specification XRx and the highest specification XRT. An XRx Low Ride Height model is also available, making the Tiger 1200 even more accessible to every adventurer.
The top specification new Tiger 800 XRT offers even greater capability for exciting on road adventures as well as confidently taking you off the beaten track when the road runs out.
The XRT is a ride which combines premium comfort and all-out adventure, with a smooth delivery and confidence-inducing capability. As you would expect with the top of the range model, it comes fully loaded with a responsive Triumph 800 Triple engine, a lighter exhaust system, new full-color TFT instruments and backlit switchgear, new five-position screen, five riding modes, and a new riding position with many more features that make the new Tiger 800 XRT the best of its generation in every way.
Other standout new features include the shorter ratio first gear for more low-speed traction and instant responsiveness right when you need it most, alongside the Tiger"s category-defining core technology and capability set-up, including ride-by-wire throttle and new premium Brembo front braking system.
State-Of-The-Art Technology: Fully-loaded with rider-focused technology; all-LED lighting system (including DRL), new full-color TFT Instruments, new ergonomically designed switchcubes and 5-way joystick, updated cruise control, five riding modes, and heated seats & grips.
Wheels & Tires: The new Tiger 800 XRT is fitted with Metzeler Tourance Next tires and a 19’’ cast front wheel, providing confidence-inspiring traction and control in a range of environments.
Adjustable Seat Height: The Tiger 800 XRT features an adjustable ‘2 position’ seat mechanism allowing the rider to lower seat height by 20mm from 830mm to 810mm to suit their individual riding style and preferred position.
Instrument Display and Functions: TFT multifunctional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gage, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and five rider modes (Road/Offroad/Sport/Track/Rider-Customisable)
The road-loving Tiger 800 XRX is an easy-handling adventure bike that’s perfect for touring the world’s highways, crossing city streets and also ideal if you are off the beaten track.
The XRX is a ride with a smooth delivery and a performance that generates self-assurance and poise. It features a more responsive Triumph 800 Triple engine, lighter exhaust system, new full color TFT instruments and switchgear, new five-position screen and four riding modes are just a few of the many features designed into this latest generation XRX.
Packed with rider-focused technology, including Triumph’s signature Daytime Running Light (DRL) system, new full-color TFT Instruments, new ergonomically designed switchcubes and 5-way joystick, updated cruise control, four riding modes, and heated grips.
Ina world flush with outstanding large adventure bikes displacing 1,200cc and more, the Triumph Tiger 800 presents a convincing argument for middleweights. We sampled 2018’s top-of-the-line off-road-oriented XCA Tiger 800 variant, which boasts more than 200 upgrades compared to the prior edition; it’s now brimming with high-tech features that deliver a ton of versatility and convenience, along with a load of thoughtful, real-world enhancements.
The longish 60.8-inch wheelbase lends stability, while rake and trail figures of 23.4 degrees/3.7 inches make for light, quick steering, especially given the wide handlebar and narrowed cross-section of the 21-inch front tire. A very intuitive partner, the Tiger dances beautifully down twisty roads.
The excellent WP suspension feels firm yet compliant, and I am no lightweight. Extra off-road-oriented travel means the Tiger 800 sucks up bumps, patches and holes with ease on neglected back roads with old, broken pavement; no spine-jarring hits here, yielding a huge advantage over sportbikes and naked bikes that would struggle with less suspension travel.
The new 5-inch, full-color TFT instrument panel stays easily readable day or night, with nice levels of contrast; the readout configuration can be custom selected to suit rider preference. Lots of the backlit switchgear has been moved to the left side of the handlebar, including a five-way joystick that greatly simplifies navigation through the many riding mode/display menus.
When balancing the scales, whatever edge the Tiger 800 trades away in cubic inches and punch compared to big ADV bikes, it gains back in more nimble handling, easier slow-speed maneuvering and better off-road manners thanks to a 35- to 80-pound weight savings. In short, this middleweight hits that sweet spot right in the middle. And for the Triumph Tiger 800, that’s a very good place to be.
It’s surprising how adventure bikes in the upper-middle class don’t get nearly as much attention as their counterparts in the liter-plus category. Bikes around the 800cc range slot right into that Goldilocks Zone with enough power and acceleration to cruise effortlessly on the highway, but in a smaller, more-maneuverable package that makes venturing off-road even more accessible.
Striking a balance between versatility and capability on the trail is what Triumph had in mind when they first introduced the Tiger 800 in 2010. While somewhat overshadowed by its main competition, the BMW F800GS, the Tiger 800’s distinctive styling and powerful triple engine have always set it apart. And Triumph has continued to refine and perfect the model over the years to distinguish it further. This year was more of a leap than a step forward, with over 200 engine and chassis upgrades. Updates covered everything from enhanced comfort and rider aids, to safety and performance improvements.
We got our chance to test the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 at the International Press Launch in Morocco. Specifically, the range-topping XCa model with wire-spoke wheels, long-travel suspension and more technology and creature comforts than you might expect from a Middleweight Adventure Bike.
Thoughts of a warm winter retreat and riding in the footsteps of the old Paris Dakar Rally had us counting the days. What was unexpected was a freak storm with freezing rain and snow. The challenging conditions and exotic backdrop made for a dramatic adventure on two wheels. And after two days and more than a few hundred miles of testing, we got a chance to explore the bike’s capabilities both on- and off-road. Read on to find out the key insights we came home with after our 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCa test.
For 2018, the Triumph engineers focused their attention on mass optimization, which included removal of the backlash gears, reducing mass of the cooling system and lightening the alternator. The Tiger’s exhaust silencer has also been reduced in size and weight, and now offers a more aggressive exhaust note. Refinements to the fueling make the Tiger 800 more responsive on the low end, while a shorter first gear gives improved control, acceleration and climbing capability. A new ‘Off-Road Pro’ Ride Mode offers more control in the dirt and stopping power is even better with higher-spec Brembo front brakes.
Comfort and convenience were increased with a 5-position windscreen, along with new side-screen aero deflectors. Additional touches include illuminated hand switches, optimized handlebar geometry, and an updated cruise control and seat foam compound. Visual appearance has been enhanced with new bodywork and graphics, plus distinctive LED headlights and a full-color TFT display that give the Tiger 800 a more modern look. With all the updates across the engine and chassis, the new Tiger 800 XCa lost 15.4 pounds (7 kg) and gained just $150 on the price.
With its new adjustable windscreen, upgraded seat and new handlebar geometry, Triumph definitely had an eye on improving the touring comfort of the Tiger 800 XCa. And the new seat foam compound seemed to do the trick. I never once felt sore during our two days of testing. In fact, I enjoyed the comfort of the seat so much that I found myself sitting down more off-road than I should have.
While the Tiger’s 800cc triple engine doesn’t have the same down-low punch as a twin, the acceleration is smooth, constant and just keeps pulling into the higher revs. It will easily get the front wheel up with a little clutch action (and traction control off) in first gear. With 94 horsepower on tap, it has the acceleration to surprise some Adventure Bikes in the liter class (check your mirror Africa Twin) and its flat torque curve means there’s always power on tap when you come out of a corner. The sound of the triple engine going through the gears is also music to the ears.
Everything about the Tiger 800 seems to be designed to make it more accessible to a wide range of riders. Seat height on the Tiger 800 XCa is a reasonable 33.1 inches in the low setting, and for those looking for an even lower seat, Triumph makes a ‘Low Ride Height’ model that gets you down to 29.9 inches. The triple engine offers smooth, tractable power and an almost completely flat torque curve makes it easy to control the bike at slower speeds or on loose terrain. ‘Rain’ Mode turns the Tiger into a pussycat and even a bout of whiskey throttle won’t upset traction.
Weighing in at 459 pounds dry, the Tiger 800 XC is by no means a lightweight but it does offer significant weight advantages over many of the Adventure Bikes in the liter class. For some, that could mean the difference in being able to pick up your own bike on the trail or requiring assistance. The Tiger also feels highly maneuverable everywhere, thanks to a short 60.8″ wheelbase. It makes u-turns on a dime and doesn’t feel top heavy when you are changing directions at slow speeds. Generally speaking, the bike gives you the feeling that you have more control over it than it does over you.
The new shorter first gear made quick work of chunky river beds and steep inclines. Although, the bike was almost as happy chugging up hills in third. With a super-flat torque curve and refined fueling, the Tiger 800 pulls up hills with resilient power. Where a V-Twin might start lurching, the third cylinder of the Triple fills in the gap to help prevent bogging.
The Tiger 800 XCa comes equipped from the factory with several enhancements for off-road use including large serrated CNC-machined foot pegs, stout crash bars, a beefy skid plate and more.
For more advanced riders, the new ‘Off-Road Pro’ mode turns Traction Control and ABS off completely. Yet, the Tiger 800 still feels manageable in this mode on the slick trails (bikes were fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally knobby tires for our dirt test). The triple engine is surprisingly tractable in low-grip conditions and the twin Brembo brakes have good feel. On choppy terrain, XCa’s WP suspension feels plush and remains stable over rough terrain at speed. The long-travel suspension didn’t let us down either, with enough stiffness to avoid bottoming out on the deep ruts and jumps.
It used to be that the Tiger 800 only had to worry about the BMW F800GS as its primary competition. But with the release of the Honda Africa Twin and KTM 1090 Adventure R, there are now two other off-road-capable adventure bikes in roughly the same weight class. With the XCa’s MSRP of $15,850, potential owners will have to acknowledge they could save $1,150 on a 1090R or $2,550 on an Africa Twin. Although, when you consider the heated grips, heated seats, adjustable windscreen, cruise control, center stand, premium off-road protection, plush seating and other top-shelf components on the Tiger, those two bikes look comparatively stripped down.
Alternatively, you might consider the Triumph XCx at $14,450. That puts you inside the price range of the 1090 and Africa Twin. What you give up for a $1,400 savings is: two ride modes (Off-Road Pro and Rider), backlighting on hand switches, heated seats, LED lighting, additional TFT themes, a center stand and off-road pegs. The XCx is also 7 pounds lighter than the XCa.
Another threat on the horizon is the all-new 2018 BMW F850GS (Price TBD). The new Beemer now has the power to match the Tiger, although it gained 27 pounds, lost some of its front suspension travel and it appears there will be no cruise control. Even more menacing from an off-road perspective, are the new Dakar Rally-inspired prototypes in the middleweight category — the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and KTM 790 Adventure R — expected to be released as 2019 models. Things are heating up quickly in this category!
Overall, the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCa impressed us far more than it let us down and didn’t make it easy for us to find fault. With all of its factory equipment and premium components, this really is a bike you can just load with luggage and drive off the showroom floor to your next big adventure. But we do have a few nits to pick.
For one, we were a little underwhelmed with the wind protection compared to the Tiger 1200. With its large windscreen and side deflectors, we would have expected a bit more. Strangely, it was hard to feel a difference between the highest and lowest setting on the adjustable screen.
Whether it’s the premium components, long-range comfort, quality suspension, signature triple sound or its distinctive styling, the Tiger clearly stands out as unique in its class. During our test, we got a good sense of how versatile and capable the bike is, but it left us still craving more seat time.
We’d like to see how sporty the Tiger can get on dry asphalt and how well it matches up with other ‘Big Bikes’ on more-technical off-road terrain. And with all of its touring equipment, we are eager to get it out on some longer journeys too. For those of you who are ready to do your own testing, the 2018 Tiger 800’s should be hitting US dealership floors at the end of February.