Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer XRx Low 2017 — Specifications

Imagine a machine capable of crossing a continent without a second thought, then weaving through Alpine curves with surgical precision. This is not a mirage; it’s the proposition of the 2017 Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer XRx Low. Beneath its imposing touring appearance, it hides a more versatile character than one might initially believe.

The heart of this adventurer is a 1215 cc three-cylinder engine that delivers 139 horsepower at 9300 rpm. But the magic truly happens in the midrange, with 123 Nm of torque available from 6200 rpm. This generation of engine has managed to tame its past vibrations, offering a sonic advantage and remarkable progressiveness compared to brutal Japanese four-cylinder competitors. Shaft drive is a blessing for long journeys, eliminating the chore of chain lubrication, even if it adds a little weight to the overall package.

The true feat here is the “Low” adaptation. With a 785 mm seat height, Triumph has opened the doors to this giant for a wider audience. Those who were afraid of feeling perched on the standard version can finally experience the Explorer. The steel trellis frame and WP suspension ensure stable and absorbent handling, even with its dry weight of 244 kg. Brembo radial braking at the front offers power and modulation that inspire great confidence, a point where it surpasses some more trail-oriented adventurers.

Who is it for? The globetrotter looking for an off-road machine, capable of digesting monotonous highways but also tackling a dirt track without trembling. It is also a serious option for the traveler who prefers the reliability and simplicity of shaft drive over traditional chains. Its 20-liter tank promises serious range, even if its price of 17100 euros at the time placed it in the same league as the BMW R 1200 GS and Yamaha Super Ténéré.

Ultimately, this Tiger 1200 Explorer XRx Low is a machine of intelligent compromises. It sacrifices some sporting aggression for increased versatility and accessibility. It will never be the sharpest on a mountain pass, but it will probably be the one that brings you back from the other side of the world with the most memories and the fewest mechanical concerns. Triumph has managed, with this version, to democratize the Explorer spirit without diluting its traveler essence.