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.