Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer XRt 2016 — Specifications

We often talk about British refinement, but on what principles does it truly rely when it comes to a giant trail bike? With the Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer XRt, the Hinckley brand brings its answer, and it’s no half-measure. Imagine a 1215 cm3 engine, a three-cylinder in-line delivering 139 horsepower and generous torque of 122.6 Nm, all mounted in a steel trellis frame weighing 254 kg dry. The figures speak for themselves: we are facing a machine designed to swallow continents, a tall touring bike that isn't afraid of anything.

The philosophy of this model is simple: everything is included. Cruise control, cornering ABS, heated grips, TSAS semi-active suspension, riding modes… the list is as long as an Outback road. Triumph has even pushed the luxury to integrate heated seats for the rider and passenger, a tire pressure monitoring system, and hill-hold assist. Compared to a BMW R 1200 GS Adventure or a Yamaha Super Ténéré 1200, the Tiger 1200 Explorer XRt clearly focuses on technological opulence rather than adventurous austerity. It positions itself as the luxury sedan of the segment, ready for extensive asphalt touring with occasional forays onto gravel roads.

Speaking of these modes, in addition to the classic Road and Rain, the XRt version adds a Sport mode that sharpens the responses, allows a little more rear wheel slip, and stiffens the suspension for chain of corners. The Off-Road mode, on the other hand, is more of a symbolic concession to trail vocabulary than a real invitation to cross difficult terrain, given the weight and spoked wheels. The highlight remains the ‘Rider Configurable’ mode, which allows you to adjust everything to your liking. It is here that the trio of electronics-steering-engine makes sense, offering advanced personalization for those who know what they want.

But this profusion comes at a cost, starting with an invoice of 18,700 euros, and a mass that approaches 270 kg fully fueled with its 20 liters of gasoline. The beast is imposing, and its 837 mm seat height won't help those of smaller stature. It is aimed at the demanding globetrotter, one who travels thousands of kilometers on highways and mountain roads while demanding first-class comfort and omnipresent electronics. For the track rider or pure adventurer, it will lack nervousness and lightness.

Ultimately, the Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer XRt fully embraces its role as a technological flagship. It doesn't seek to be the most radical or the most rustic, but the most accomplished and complete on the asphalt. It is a machine that bets everything on long-distance travel in a sophisticated setting, a very British alternative to the usual Teutonic models. If you are looking for a comfortable travel companion, capable of burning asphalt with a certain elegance, it is worth a look. For the rest, you may need to turn to more specialized models.