2012 Triumph Tiger Review

Intro

With the addition of the all-new 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer, the Triumph Tiger range grows to three models for the 2012 model year. The versatility of the 2012 Triumph Tiger range means that riders can enjoy adventure riding both off-road and on, on a bike that is not only distinctive to look at, but to hear. All models of the 2012 Triumph Tiger bikes are equipped with a three-cylinder engine to provide that engine sound unique to Triumph.

The brand new 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer comes equipped with a new Triple engine, as well as plenty of new technology. The 1215cc engine is coupled with a ride-by-wire throttle that provides one of the highest power outputs in its class, as well as extremely smooth shifting. A two-inch by 2.5-inch LCD display provides all the information a rider needs, and is easily accessible through the use of thumb switches mounted on the handlebars. Traction control and cruise control are standard features to improve the safety of the ride, and reduce rider fatigue. Various saddle, screen, and handlebar positions ensure rider comfort for riders of all sizes.

The 2012 Triumph Tiger 800 provides the right bike for those adventure riders that spend most of their time in the urban environment. The upright seating position and steel frame provide a bike that is highly maneuverable. The 799cc triple engine provides class-leading torque, and the suspension is more than able to handle most road surfaces. For those who want to get off the beaten track, the 2012 Triumph Tiger 800XC has been adjusted for more off-road riding than the Tiger 800, including a different suspension to handle those rougher road conditions.

For those riders who like a little adventure when they are out touring, the 2012 Triumph Tiger 1050SE touring bike will appeal. For the launch of the 2012 model, the Triumph Tiger 1050SE has a new more refined look that includes tapered handlebars, black wheels and components, and new decals. The riding position has also been revised so the bike has a sportier, more ergonomic feel, while still providing an excellent vantage point for maneuvering, whether in traffic or out on the twists and turns of the highway. Rider comfort is guaranteed over the long haul due to the adjustable saddle, handlebars, and screen.

New For 2012

  • The 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer is an all-new bike fitted with a new 1215cc engine and a shaft drive.
  • New ride-by-wire electronic throttle system installed on the Triumph Tiger Explorer.
  • All new instruments and switchgears make riding the 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer easier due to the intuitive layout of the gauges and the thumb switch found on the handlebars.
  • Tiger 800 and Tiger 800XC fitted with a new 799cc long-stroke triple engine that provides one of the highest power and torque outputs in its class.
  • New design for the 2012 Triumph Tiger 1050SE that includes black wheels and components, new decals, new heel guards, and more tapered handlebars.
  • Revised seating position for the Triumph Tiger 1050SE provides a better view, as well as improving handling.

2012 Triumph Tiger Specs

  • Model: Tiger 800; Tiger 800XC; Tiger Explorer; Tiger 1050SE
  • Engine Type: 799cc liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, three-cylinder; 1215cc liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, in-line three-cylinder; 1050cc liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, three-cylinder
  • Bore and Stroke: 74.0 x 61.9mm; 85 x 71.4mm; 79 x 71.4mm
  • Compression ratio: N/A
  • Valve Train: N/A
  • Induction: Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection; Drive by wire, fuel injection; Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with SAI
  • Ignition: N/A
  • Transmission: Six-speed
  • Final Drive: O ring chain; Shaft; X ring chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gallons; 5.3 gallons; 5.3 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 41/63 mpg city/highway; 35/51 mpg city/highway (Tiger 1050SE)
  • Brakes (Front): Twin 308mm floating discs, Nissin two-piston floating calipers (ABS model available); Twin 305mm floating discs, Nissin four-piston calipers,
  • Switchable ABS; Twin 320mm floating discs, Nissin four-piston radial calipers (ABS only)
  • Brakes (Rear): Single 255mm disc, Nissin single piston floating caliper (ABS model available); Single 282mm disc, Nissin two-piston sliding caliper, Switchable ABS; Single 255mm disc, two-piston Nissin calipers (ABS only)
  • Suspension (Front): Showa 43mm upside down forks, 180mm travel; Showa 45mm upside down forks, 220mm travel; KYB 46mm upside down forks, 190mm travel; Showa 43mm upside down forks, 150mm travel
  • Suspension (Rear): Showa monoshock with hydraulically adjustable preload, 170mm rear wheel travel; Showa monoshock with remote oil reservoir, hydraulically adjustable preload, rebound damping adjustment, 215mm rear wheel travel; KYB monoshock with remote oil reservoir, hydraulically adjustable preload, rebound damping adjustment, 194mm rear wheel travel; Showa monoshock with adjustable preload and rebound damping, 150mm rear wheel travel
  • Wheelbase: 60.2 inches; 60.8 inches; 60.2 inches; 59.4 inches
  • Rake: 23.9 degrees; 24.3 degrees; 23.9 degrees; 23.2 degrees
  • Trail: 92.4 mm; 95.3 mm; 105.5 mm; 87.7 mm
  • Seat Height: 31.9 inches – 32.7 inches; 33.2 inches – 34 inches; 33.1 inches – 33.9 inches; 32.8 inches
  • Curb Weight: 462 lbs.; 473 lbs.; 570 lbs.; 539 lbs.
  • Tires (Front): 100/90 ZR 19; 90/90 ZR 21; 110/80 R 19; 120/70 ZR17
  • Tires (Rear): 150/70 ZR 17; 150/70 ZR 17; 150/70 R 17; 180/55 ZR17

Accessories

  • An accessory saddle is available for the Tiger 800 and Tiger 800XC that reduces seat height by a further 0.8 inches below the lowest setting of the standard seat.
  • High-quality luggage developed specifically for the 2012 Triumph Tiger Explorer consists of a two-box pannier system plus a top box that has enough room for a full-face helmet.
  • Heated rider and passenger seats and heated grips make riding in all weather conditions that much more comfortable.
  • A tire pressure warning system is available to improve rider safety.

Key Competitors For The 2012 Triumph Tiger

  • Yamaha Super Tenere
  • BMW R1200GS