2017 EICMA: All-new 2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 Launched

Triumph has launched the 2018 Tiger lineup that includes the 800cc and 1200cc models. The Tiger 1200 lineup gets all the modern-day bells and whistles with a focus on making it more accessible to newer riders and make it effortless for long distance touring. Cosmetic updates include a new revised bodywork, viz. a new metal tank badge and side panels. The Tiger 1200 gets new graphics and new colour options as well. The spoke and alloy wheels are also new. The new headlamp features LED lighting and also new adaptive cornering lights. The instrument console now is a full-colour TFT screen which swivels for adjustment. The switchgear is now backlit and gets a 5-way joystick cube. The cruise control switch is also accessible through the cube. The Explorer also gets keyless ignition.

The new bike weighs a substantial 10kg less than before, thanks to improvements in the engine, chassis and exhaust department. This should aid in the dynamics when riding on road or off it. The frame geometry has been worked on and focusses on more upright ergonomics. The handlebar position has also been revised and the seat gets a better foam compound. All this should come together to improve long-distance touring. The seat height is 855mm and can be reduced by 20mm. You also have a low ride height XRx model that has the seat at 835mm which can be further reduced by 20mm. The Tiger 1200 continues using the semi-active WP electronic suspension. The Brembo brakes too are carried over.

The 1215cc in-line triple motor makes 141PS at 9350rpm and 122Nm of torque at 7600rpm. The optimised ride-by-wire makes the engine more responsive at low revs. The soundtrack has also improved. It gets a new Arrow exhaust as well. A new addition is a bi-directional quickshifter for clutchless gear changes. The motor gets six riding modes with a new ‘Off-road Pro’ mode where the rider can choose to deactivate all electronic aids.

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A lot of work has gone into the electronics and optimising the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). The ride-by-wire, cornering ABS, Traction control, hill hold, have also been refined. The electricals like the electrically adjustable windscreen, heated grips and seats and power sockets have also been optimised for rider comfort and reliability. 

The Tiger 1200 has separate models for on-road and off-road use. The on-road XR models have three bikes: XR, XRx and XRT. A special model, dubbed the XRx Low Ride Height, is also available. The off-road XC comes in two trims: XCx and XCA.

The 2017 Tiger Explorer 1200 XCx is sold in India and we expect the new models to come here in 2018. The Tiger Explorer faces competition from the Ducati Multistrada 1200S, Multistrada 1200 Enduro and the BMW 1200GSA.