Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 — Specifications

Can a trail bike weighing over 250 kilos still claim a degree of agility? That’s the bold bet made by the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer, a machine that has shed nearly 25 kilos compared to its predecessors to compete with the BMW R 1250 GS and similar models. Beneath its new, sharper look, less massive than the previous XR models, lies the heart of a 1160 cm3 three-cylinder engine, a block derived from the Speed Triple but here dedicated to endurance. It delivers 150 horsepower at 9000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque, figures that place this British bike in the league of the greats, even if its fully fueled weight, announced at 254.9 kg, remains an argument that its German rivals will oppose.

Where the GT Explorer truly establishes its territory is in its approach to complete travel. Its 30-liter tank promises a range approaching 600 kilometers, making it a thirsty behemoth. But what strikes you is its lavish equipment, almost astonishing. In addition to the semi-active Showa suspension, cornering ABS, and five riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport, Off-road, and a customizable Rider mode), this Explorer version adds heated seats as standard, radar blind spot detection, tire pressure monitoring, and crash bars. For a price of around €22,300, you’re buying more than a motorcycle; you’re acquiring an autonomous and hyper-connected transport system, controllable via a 7-inch TFT screen.

This avalanche of equipment inevitably impacts the scales. The question "what is the weight of a Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer?" finds an answer that may be discouraging: nearly 255 kg when fully fueled. That’s the price to pay for this ultimate comfort. Fortunately, the new chassis and redesigned swingarm provide more responsive handling, making the beast less intimidating than it appears. The adjustable seat height, at 850 or 870 mm, however, remains an obstacle for smaller riders.

Ultimately, who is the rider of this GT Explorer? The demanding globetrotter for whom range and comfort are non-negotiable, the one who plans stages of 500 km without getting off the saddle, and who has the corresponding budget. Faced with a BMW GS Adventure, it offers a compelling alternative with a more vigorous three-cylinder character and equally sophisticated electronics. The features of the 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer make it a serious contender, even if its price and weight place it in a very premium segment. For those intimidated by new models, the used market for a Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer could be a judicious way to access this technology. One thing is certain, Triumph has made a big move, offering a trail as complete as it is complex, a true rolling base on two wheels.