2018 Triumph Tiger 800 and 1200 XR XC | First Look Review

2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA
2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA

Triumph’s Tiger 3-cylinder adventure-bike lineup has been significantly refined and enhanced for 2018, starting with a claimed 22-pound weight loss for the Tiger 1200s, which no longer wear the Explorer moniker. Tiger 800 triples are said to make more responsive power and have a new, shorter ratio first gear for more off-road worthiness. As before both displacements are offered in on-road-oriented XR versions with cast wheels and XC models with spoked rims; the Tiger 800 XR models and all Tiger 1200s have 19-/17-inch wheel combos and Tiger 800 XC models have a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear. Triumph also offers different equipment levels for each XR and XC for a total of 459 models…just kidding, it’s really 12 models: XR, XRx, XRx Low Ride Height (LHR), XRT, XCx and XCA. Both the 800 and 1200 get the same variations.

Read our 2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA first ride review

2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA
2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XCA

For 2018 the 800cc triple has been mass optimized for more immediate power delivery and a peak power output of 96 horsepower. It also has a lighter exhaust system with a sportier sound. XC models get a new Off-Road Pro riding mode for advanced riders. Revised 800 ergonomics include moving the handlebar back by 10mm for a better riding position, higher specification Brembo front brakes and Showa adjustable suspension, new handbook- approved off-road tire specification fitment, a new five-position adjustable windscreen and aero diffusers and a new seat compound for more comfort. More details on the Tiger 800s in a list from Triumph are below.

Read our 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 XRx and Tiger 800 XCx review

2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCA

The new Tiger 1200 range gets a weight reduction of up to 22 pounds compared to the previous generation thanks to a range of developments across the engine, chassis and exhaust system. Both XR and XC models include all-new Triumph Adaptive Cornering Lighting for active enhanced visibility when cornering, updated cruise control, a new adjustable full-color 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.

2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCA
2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCA

Significant engine updates give the Tiger 1200 more immediate power delivery lower in the rev range and an even better sound from new lighter mufflers. A new seat compound, revised handlebar positioning and updated frame geometry enhance rider ergonomics for a more commanding riding position and more comfort. More details are below.

Pricing for the Tiger 800 models is TBD. Pricing for the Tiger 1200 models starts at $16,500.

Check out more new bikes in Rider’s guide to new/updated 2018 motorcycles

2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XRT
2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XRT

Tiger 800 (features vary by model)
NEW FEATURES
5” adjustable TFT instruments Full color, clear instrumentation provides precise rider information with intuitive operation
New all-LED lighting Offering improved visibility and enhanced style, LED signature lighting creates clear views in front and behind
Switchcubes and five-way joystick New ergonomically designed handlebar switch cubes and joystick are intuitive and comfortable to operate
Illuminated backlit buttons Handlebar mounted switchcube buttons are now illuminated, allowing for easier night-time use
“Off-Road Pro” riding mode – Delivering the most focused off-road set up ever, advanced riders can opt to turn systems off and be in total control
Brembo front brakes – Twin Brembo front brakes deliver reliable, premium capability in all conditions
Five-way adjustable windscreen and aero diffusers Single hand adjustable windscreen, delivering enhanced wind protection for category leading rider aero comfort
Updated cruise control – Accessed easily through the left hand switchcube, the simple-to-use, single button cruise control helps reduce rider fatigue

2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XRT
2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XRT

CORE 800 FEATURES include:
Three-cylinder 800cc engine with ride-by-wire electronic throttle control
Up to six riding modes
Heated rider and pillion seats
Sump and radiator guards
Switchable ABS and traction control
Tailored ergonomics – adjustable seat height and handlebar position
Onboard computer
Immobilizer
Premium adjustable front and rear suspension
Centerstand
Heated grips
Hand guards
Engine protection bars
Power sockets (1 x 12v, 1 x USB)

2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XRT

Tiger 1200 (features vary by model)
NEW FEATURES
Triumph Shift Assist – Providing seamless clutchless up and down gearshifts, this system facilitates smooth gear changes and significantly reduces rider fatigue
Adaptive Cornering Lighting – Advanced dynamic system providing enhanced nighttime visibility, with increasing lighting intensity dependent on lean angle
Arrow titanium and carbon fiber silencer – High specification, lightweight and stylish Arrow silencer, finished with a titanium wrap and carbon fiber end cap and strap
All-LED lighting – Providing more enhanced visibility and style, Triumph’s LED signature lighting creates clear views ahead and from behind
5-inch adjustable TFT instruments – Full color and clear instrumentation providing precise rider information with an intuitive operation
Backlit handlebar switch cubes and 5-way joystick control – New ergonomically-designed fully backlit handlebar switch cubes and joystick to make night-time use even easier
“Off-Road Pro” riding mode – Delivering the most focused off-road set up ever, advanced riders can opt to turn off rider aid systems and be in total control with no traction control or ABS intervention
Keyless ignition – Now even easier to live with daily, featuring a premium keyless ignition
Updated cruise control – Accessed easily through the left hand switchcube, the new single button cruise control helps to reduce rider fatigue

2018 Tiger 1200 XRT
2018 Triumph Tiger 1200 XRT

CORE 1200 FEATURES include:
Three-cylinder, 1,215cc engine with shaft drive (claimed 139 HP)
Triumph Semi-Active Suspension incorporating WP adjustable front and rear suspension
Brembo Monobloc 4-piston radial calipers and integrated braking system
Up to six riding modes
Hill hold control
Electrically adjustable touring screen
Inertial Measurement Unit (six axis)
Optimized cornering ABS
Optimized cornering traction control
Ride-by-wire throttle
Heated grips & heated rider and pillion seats
Advanced on-board computer and immobilizer
Power sockets (2 x 12v, 1 x USB)

Check out more new bikes in Rider‘s guide to new/updated 2018 motorcycles

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