2017 Triumph Tiger Explorer Xcx
The adventure motorcycle category which was almost undiscovered in the Indian market a decade ago has gained a lot of popularity in the last couple of years. The riders have started understanding the practicality and versatility of this kind of motorcycle and that is the reason more manufacturers are coming up with new and updated models in the segment. When we think about such machines with a 'go anywhere soul', one of name that comes to mind is the Triumph Tiger.
The British bikemaker recently introduced the new 2017 version of its flagship Tiger Explorer XCx in India which replaced the old XC model. The new version comes loaded with advanced electronics and new equipment to enhance its off-roading capabilities. So, we spent a few days with the motorcycle to understand its character and the new implements.
The ferocious look:
The 2017 Tiger 1200 Explorer XCx is not a major facelift in terms of styling and it looks almost similar to its predecessor. It is quite a big motorcycle and looks like a ferocious beast.
The new model retains the same dual-barrel headlamp setup along with the prominent beak, providing a dominating appeal to its tall front, while the large 20-litre fuel tank contributes to a noticeable appearance. The well-designed, sharp radiator shrouds perfectly merge with the fuel tank and make the sculpted design even more interesting.
The Triumph Tiger is not meant to really make a fashion statement as such, so don't expect it to look pretty from any angle. Besides the front fairing that covers one-third part of the motorcycle, the bike gets barebones styling that features a naked frame and exposed engine, which is protected by a sump guards and protection bars though. The hexagonal box-like exhaust muffler further keeps a very simple design without creating any drama.
The rear also gets a minimal bodywork with a twin-strip LED tail lamp atop the mudguard and aluminium grab rails which are actually luggage panniers to mount saddle storage boxes. There is also a top box mount and the wire-spoke wheels further make it look purposeful.
Engine and transmission:
Powering the new Tiger Explorer is the same 1,215cc, inline three-cylinder engine that at the heart of its predecessor. However, the company claims that it now delivers better power, torque and fuel efficiency. Looking at the figures, there is 2PS extra in power and 2Nm in torque that also comes 200rpm earlier as compared to the previous model.
There is hardly any change felt in the motor except a slightly better response of the ride-by-wire throttle. The fuel tank capacity of the bike is less than its competitors but it still manages to provide a non-stop range of up to 400kmpl.
A peak power of 139PS and a torque output of 123Nm makes the Tiger Explorer ready to take any challenge and it doesn't take any sweat to achieve three-digit speeds. Refinement of the motor is at par and one can hardly feel any vibrations even after 100kmph while cruising is easily manageable even at 150kmph.
The six-speed gearbox with tall ratios remains unchanged, however, it now gets a torque assist clutch that works quite impressive. Shifting in the new Tiger Explorer is seamless and the clutch also feels light.
The engine output is delivered to the rear wheel using a fully packed shaft drive which is more durable and quieter than the chain-sprocket-type.
Electronics and features:
Starting with the tall windscreen at the front which is now electronically adjustable. The handlebar-mounted controls make it way easier to adjust on the go as compared to the tricky old one, and it looks pretty cool as well.
Behind the shield in a triple-pod instrument cluster that looks no less than a mini computer. The left LCD screen offers a menu to the host of features implemented in the new model while the right screen is its speedometer that also shows some additional info including the gear position and fuel-level. The centre clock is the tachometer that also packs some telltale lights for warnings and signals. And the best part is the new model comes with toggle switches on the handlebar so one can access all the functions and electronic configurations on the go.
The Explorer XCx gets a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that opens the door for a host of advanced features like the Triumph Semi-Active Suspension (TSAS) that aids the rear setup. The first-in-class feature enables the fully adjustable rear WP monoshock to self-adapt settings according to the terrain requirements on the go. The calibration command can be given simply using the controls on the handlebar without parking the motorcycle.
Like its Ducati rival, the new Triumph Tiger Explorer XCx gets a cornering ABS for even better control on its high-performance braking. The traction control helps to maintain the grip in any varying conditions while the cruise control reduced rider's fatigue during long journeys. And there is a 12V accessory outlet to keep the gadgets charged on the way.
The three-riding modes -- Road, Rain and Off-Road -- actually changes the behaviour of the motorcycle for different riding conditions. While the Rain mode makes the response calmer and ABS, traction control at top settings, the Off-Road mode makes it more responsive and turns off the ABS and traction control for more feedback. The riding modes also adjust suspension set-up accordingly.
Riding and handling
At a dry weight (without fuel) of 253kg, the Triumph Tiger Explorer XCx is a heavy motorcycle but still lighter than its competitors. The tall stance and large dimensions of the motorcycle make it a niche product limited to riders who are really into adventure touring and can have the built to handle the heft of the bike.
The roomy, flat seats are well cushioned and provide adequate comfort to both the rider and the pillion even during long rides. The seat height is adjustable between 837mm and 857mm but shorter riders don't have to worry as the company offers a low height seat as optional extra that makes it 785-805mm. It also gets heated grips to keep your hands becoming numb in extreme conditions.
The Explorer is definitely heavy but you don't feel it that much once you get on the bike, given your feet reach the ground easily — however for that, you'd need to be close to 6 feet tall for the standard seat. The wide handlebar makes it easy to control and manageable in varying conditions, including the city traffic. While prima facie it may seem difficult to manoeuvre the bike, it actually changes directions quickly.
The 46mm WP inverted front forks (suspensions) are also new and are electronically adjustable. It is not a motorcycle made for cornering speciality so most of the settings are on the softer side for a comfortable ride experience. The tubeless tyre compatible, durable wire-spoke wheels (19-inch front and 17-inch rear) further provides a damping action while taking the Tiger for an off-road challenge. The wheels come shod with Metzeler Tourance Next endurance street tyres which perform quite well on road and mild off-roading but one may feel the need to replace them with a pair of nobby ones for proper off-roading.
The braking has also been upgraded with a new radially mounted, four-piston monobloc Brembo caliper on each of the twin 305mm floating front discs. However, the rear setup remains untouched with Nissin two-piston sliding caliper grabbing a 282mm disc. Along with the same feedback and progression, the front set-up now provides a better bite and a quite impressive overall braking performance.
Verdict:
With an ex-showroom price tag of Rs 18.75 lakh, the Triumph Tiger Explorer XCx is an expensive motorcycle to own and is about a lakh costlier than its competitors which are the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure and the Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro. However, the Tiger now gets more advanced features and all the bells and whistles that keep it astride with the competition.
Talking about the user perspective, these motorcycles are definitely not for everyone and has a limited customer base. These customers are those who are true adventure junkies and love to take their motorcycles beyond limits of the conventional road bikes to explore new, unknown terrains.
2017 Triumph Tiger Explorer Xcx
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/auto/reviews/2017-triumph-tiger-explorer-review-the-brawny-beast-gets-more-brains/articleshow/61364153.cms
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