Triumph's trail-styled Tiger has long been one of the firm's most successful and popular models, especially in continental European countries like Germany. Originally introduced in 1992, as one of the first new-generation Hinckley Triumphs, the first Tiger used the carburetted 885cc triple engine shared with the Daytona, Trophy and Trident models.

The high-output 12-valve engine was mated to a tough steel-tube cradle frame, fitted with long-travel dirtbike-type suspension at both ends. Wire-spoked wheels, knobbly off-road tyres and a small twin headlamp half-fairing completed the Tiger's styling.

But, like most large-capacity trail-styled bikes, the big, heavy Tiger was completely unsuitable for off-road use. However, the massive weight, strong power and fragile bodywork which ruled out off-road work made the Tiger an excellent road bike, which was especially at home carrying out two-up touring duties on the autobahns and motorways of Europe.

In 1999, a revised Tiger was introduced, with an updated, fuel-injected engine, improved running gear and sleek, modern bodywork. Despite more compact styling, the new Tiger was slightly heavier, although the engine's increased power outweighed any performance deficit. A new steel perimeter frame and more refined suspension front and rear gave stif fer handling, and improved equipment levels made the Tiger even more suited to long-distance touring rides.

The latest 2001 update makes the Tiger one of the most powerful trail-styled bikes available. Triumph fitted the revamped 955cc triple engine from the Daytona 955i, and its torque figure of 67ft lb means strong, smooth acceleration from low down in the rev range. The Sagem fuel-injection is glitch-free and gives superb carburation all the way through the rev range, as well as impressive economy.

A large 24-litre (5.3 gal) fuel tank permits a fuel range easily in excess of 320km (200 miles), and official Triumph accessories like hard luggage, electrically heated grips and taller screens further enhance the Tiger's touring credentials.

Changes for 2005
- New cylinder head and crankcases with revised cooling hose routing for a visually tidier engine
- Backlash eliminator gear for reduced noise and vibration
- Revised gear change internals
- New Jet Black and Caspian Blue colour options

 Features

The Tiger is one of the ultimate do-it-all motorcycles that can tour continents two-up, commute effortlessly or scythe a set of corners. At its core is a seminal fuel-injected, 955cc, three-cylinder engine - revised for 2006 with a new cylinder head, crankcases and visually neater exterior - punching out a solid 105PS peak power output matched by a walloping 92Nm torque. Further refinement is added by a backlash eliminator gear and slicker shifting gearbox. The Tiger's motor is the very definition of real-world drivability. Its character instantly involves the rider and its unflagging, completely linear response can always be relied upon.

An upright, comfortable riding position gives a commanding view of the road ahead and scenery flashing by. The Tiger's quick steering frame geometry has rake set at 25.8°, trail at 92mm with a wheelbase of 1515mm. The compliant front forks employ single rate springs while the rear shock's spring preload can be remotely adjusted. The cast, 14-spoke, aluminium wheels take tubeless tyres - 110/80 V19 front and 150/70 V17 rear.

The Tiger's rugged enduro styling exudes toughness and the far horizon is the Tiger's destination. It thrives on an all-day riding challenge and lives for the journey, two-up and fully loaded. But when it comes to a sinuous, twisting switchback or daily commute to work the Tiger's equally at home.

With practical touches like the large 24 litre (6.3 gallon US) fuel tank, lockable hard cases, hand guards, heated grips and centre stand fitted as standard plus the efficient, frame mounted fairing to keep the windblast and weather at bay the Tiger's usability factor multiplies. The seat height also adjusts through a 20mm range. As with all Triumphs, an extensive range of accessories is available - including soft luggage and gel seats. Silver frame and wheels complement the three colour options of Jet Black, reintroduced by popular demand, Aluminium Silver and Caspian Blue.

It's been said that the journey is sometimes as important as the destination. The Tiger's one of those bikes that helps prove this theory. There are very few genuine all-round motorcycles around - the Tiger is one of them.