Triumph Tiger 955i 2006 — Specifications

It’s often said that the trail bike, especially in its grand touring version, is a German discipline, but it would be unfair to forget the other great European nation of road adventure. The Triumph Tiger 955i, particularly in its 2001 to 2007 generation, is a British response, full of character, to the dominance of the R 1200 GS. It possesses that slightly offbeat charm that seduces lovers of atypical mechanics, with its signature three-cylinder engine and its look with globular headlights and often bold decorations.

The engine is the obvious centerpiece of this Triumph Tiger 955i. This 955 cc three-cylinder engine, known for its more sporty incarnations on the Daytona or Speed Triple, finds here a more touring vocation. It delivers 106 horsepower and a torque of 98 Nm, but it is its sensations that make the difference. It combines the punch of a twin at low RPM and the top-end pull of a four-cylinder, offering a vast range of use. It is a supple engine, which allows riding in third gear on winding roads, but whose character also encourages playing with the six-speed gearbox, a real treat. For touring or more sporty use, it is a faithful and enthusiastic companion.

The chassis has undergone subtle improvements over the years, as seen on the 2004 to 2006 models. Triumph abandoned spoked rims for cast wheels, reducing the wheelbase and adjusting the geometry to gain agility. The perimeter frame, with its engine as a stressed member, ensures solid rigidity. The 43 mm fork and the single shock absorber offer an effective compromise between comfort and handling, allowing the Tiger to weave easily on small roads. The front brake with its two 310 mm discs is powerful, sometimes a little brutal, requiring a precise hand. The rear brake, a traditional weak point of the brand, remains here a simply functional element.

For the globetrotter seeking an alternative to Germanic trails, the used Triumph Tiger 955i represents an interesting opportunity. With a comfortable, adjustable saddle, a complete dashboard, and a 24-liter fuel tank, it is designed for travel. Its saddle height of 840 mm and its weight of 248 kg when fully fueled position it in the segment of large, accessible trail bikes, but it requires a little more physical engagement than some competitors. Its aerodynamic protection is correct but limited, a taller screen often being necessary for long journeys. It is a machine that demands a certain commitment from the rider, but which rewards him with a rich and personal riding experience.

Today, many opinions and discussions are found on Triumph Tiger 955i forums regarding its reliability and maintenance. It suffered from a less strong image than the GS, despite undeniable technical qualities. For a passionate person looking for a motorcycle with a strong personality, a charismatic engine, and an authentic touring character, this generation of Tiger remains a very relevant choice. Triumph Tiger 955i spare parts and accessories are available, allowing this British adventurer to be maintained in excellent condition for new adventures.