Triumph has unleashed their Tiger 1200 line-up, with the new model representing a significant improvement in weight, performance and capability. The iconic adventure bike also grabs some new monikers along the way.
The new road-focused GT Pro comes with cast wheels, 19-inch on the front and 18-inch on the rear, and Showa semi-active suspension, tuned to suit its focus. The Rally Pro brings a raft of changes too.
For the first time, this includes a dedicated 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless wire-spoked wheel set-up, plus new Showa semi-active suspension with even longer travel, tuned to deliver the ultimate in all-terrain riding, off-road and on.
Completing the four-model range are two 30-litre tank Tigers, in the form of the new Rally Explorer and the GT Explorer – the only cast wheel, 30-litre tank, adventure bike in the class. Both also feature the new Triumph blind spot radar system and lane keep assist.
All variants are loaded with a new 1160cc engine offering 110kW peak power at 9000rpm, making it the most powerful shaft drive motorcycle in the class.
The torque is also higher than the previous generation, with 130Nm of peak torque at 7000rpm. In addition, the new engine, tune and T-plane triple crank also bring improved acceleration and a much more responsive and exciting character.
Everything is new, including the bore and stroke, crank, cylinder head, gearbox and clutch, shaft drive and bevel box. It’s all designed to be significantly lighter and more compact, which has allowed a much tighter overall package, transforming the riding dynamics.
The new generation Tiger is now more than 25kg lighter than the previous iteration, and up to 17kg lighter than the closest shaft drive competition.
Ensuring outstanding grip and stability, Metzeler Tourance tyres are fitted to all GT models, while the Rally models feature Metzeler Karoo Street rubber for true all-terrain riding. For advanced off-road riding, Michelin Anakee Wild is the handbook approved option.
Class-leading Brembo Stylema brakes are fitted to all Tiger 1200 models. These have been selected to meet the demands of long-distance road riding and the advanced off-road adventure capability of the Rally models.
Making a significant contribution to the transformation in weight and handling capability, the Tiger’s new frame, which is 5.4kg lighter than the previous design, features a bolt-on aluminium rear sub-frame and bolt-on pillion hangers.
Additional weight savings come from the new aluminium fuel tank and tri-link swingarm. To further enable each rider to find their comfort zone, all models feature a built-in easily adjustable two-position seat mechanism.
For the GT Pro and GT Explorer there are two seat height settings – 850mm and 870mm, while for the Rally Pro and Rally Explorer these are 875mm and 895mm. An accessory-fit low seat option allows customers to lower the seat position by an additional 20mm.
A further enhancement to comfort is provided by the new easily adjustable screen, with a simple one-handed mechanism, plus new aero screen diffusers that deflect the wind off both the rider and pillion.
The handlebar position has been optimised to suit each model in the Tiger 1200 range, contributing to the bike’s improved agility and ensuring great rider comfort. These are 20mm wider than the previous generation for improved off-road control.
On the GT Explorer and Rally Explorer, the handlebars are 16mm higher than the other models in the line-up to deliver an even more commanding position. The foot peg positions have also been refined to deliver the optimum rider comfort and control for each model.
All models have improved protection for a more secure and comfortable ride, including handguards. Aluminium skid-guards are standard on the GT Pro and GT Explorer, while an aluminium sump guard is included on the Rally Pro and Rally Explorer.
Additional protection is provided on the GT Explorer and both Rally variants by the engine protection bars, while the Rally Explorer also comes with fuel tank protection bars. These items can all be added as accessories to the models where they are not standard fit.
There’s also a step up in safety, comfort and control, including optimised cornering traction control. A new class-leading 7.0-inch TFT instrument cluster with an optically bonded display also features.
The My Triumph connectivity system is also standard on all models, enabling phone calls, turn-by-turn navigation and GoPro control. Depending on the model, there are up to six riding modes available too.
Each one adjusts throttle response, ABS, traction control and suspension settings for maximum rider control in all conditions. Great visibility is ensured by the new full LED headlight with a distinctive new signature daytime running light (DRL).
Additional visibility and illumination while cornering is provided by the lean-sensitive adaptive cornering lights, while shift assist and hill hold is also standard across the range. Heated grips are also included.
The GT Explorer and Rally Explorer also come with heated rider and pillion seats, as well as a tyre pressure monitoring system.
Triumph’s Tiger 1200 Rally Pro and Rally Explorer will be available in three colours; Snowdonia White, Sapphire Black and Matt Khaki. The GT Pro and GT Explorer will be available in Snowdonia White, Sapphire Black and Lucerne Blue.
There will also be more than 50 original Triumph accessories available for the Tiger 1200 range and the bike will be backed by a 3-year unlimited kilometre warranty. Bikes are due to arrive in Australia in Q2 of next year, with pricing to be announced soon.
