Not quite.......
1200GS vs Triumph Tiger 1050
- Thread starter GSmonkey
- Start date
Why, whats happening to it in 2008?
Depends what your reference point is. It felt like an IL4 to me and in comparison to a 1000cc IL4 its very much down on power. You also don't get the nice full torque of a big twin, so I just didn't get it.
Tiger 1050
I have owned a Tiger 1050 since August and think it a superb machine, I don't think it was intended to compete with the GS ( though the previous model Tigers probably were) I agree with some of your comments about the Tiger; it isn't anything like an adventure bike, it is more sports bike orientated, which for me is a good thing.
I would have liked a Speed Triple or a full on sports bike, but due to injuries to both my wrists and hands I prefer to ride bikes with sit-up riding positions hence my GS1150 and various Harley models over the last few years.
The 1050 engine is superb and feels so much more tractable and powerful than the GS (1150 & 1200), the standard suspension isn't up to bumpy roads the same way a GS is, but it sure as hell makes up for it in the engine department. The handling is generally very good, certainly for my needs and ability. I find it as comfortable as my GS and as far as build quality goes I don't think it will be much different to BMW, time will tell. I haven't had the ABS kick in yet under normal riding, only when I deliberately induced it when I first got the bike so I could get 'the feel' for it, same goes for my GS. The only downsides of the Tiger as far as I'm concerned are the chain drive, and slightly more complicated srevicing, but I can live with that. Overall I feel that the 1050 Tiger is a great stablemate for my GS.
I have owned a Tiger 1050 since August and think it a superb machine, I don't think it was intended to compete with the GS ( though the previous model Tigers probably were) I agree with some of your comments about the Tiger; it isn't anything like an adventure bike, it is more sports bike orientated, which for me is a good thing.
I would have liked a Speed Triple or a full on sports bike, but due to injuries to both my wrists and hands I prefer to ride bikes with sit-up riding positions hence my GS1150 and various Harley models over the last few years.
The 1050 engine is superb and feels so much more tractable and powerful than the GS (1150 & 1200), the standard suspension isn't up to bumpy roads the same way a GS is, but it sure as hell makes up for it in the engine department. The handling is generally very good, certainly for my needs and ability. I find it as comfortable as my GS and as far as build quality goes I don't think it will be much different to BMW, time will tell. I haven't had the ABS kick in yet under normal riding, only when I deliberately induced it when I first got the bike so I could get 'the feel' for it, same goes for my GS. The only downsides of the Tiger as far as I'm concerned are the chain drive, and slightly more complicated srevicing, but I can live with that. Overall I feel that the 1050 Tiger is a great stablemate for my GS.
Tomcat
Registered user
Don't write off the Multistrada too quickly. I felt (maybe still feel) the same as you, and think the Strada was beaten hard with the ugly stick, but then I had a ride on the 1100S jobbie with Ohlins suspension, and was really impressed. Not a long ride - just up the fast and twisty A339 (?) from Alton to Basingstoke and back but enough to be well impressed. Torquey, characterful engine, supple suspension, tall and upright riding position, 'on rails' cornering. I'll definitely take one out for a longer test ride when I come to replace my 1200GS - although this probably won't be for a while because the GS is simply a cracking good bike
Bear
Registered user
I've had a Triumph or two in my shed for the last 15 years and would, for preference always have a 3 cylinder engine (my psychiatrist will explain). When I saw the Tiger it looked like everything they got wrong on previous models had been put on it. At 6'6" its too low for me so no point in even trying it.
I had a 1999 Sprint ST that had 50,000+ on the clock when I decided to change it at the start of this year. A ride on a mate's new TDM 900 pursuaded me to go for a more upright bike as they are much easier to ride around London.
I naturally went to my local Truimph dealer to try the new Tiger 1050. I loved that engine but the rest of the bike was disappointing: compared to the ST the fixtures, fittings (and particlarly the switchgear) looked China-cheap; high exhaust meant no soft luggage option; the pillion seat is very high making throwing a leg over the bike difficult; worst of all the gearbox was very stiff, notchy and generally crap - by comparison my 50k ST was as slick as a slick thing. I went to another dealer for a test ride on another Tiger and the gearbox was the same - "they do loosen up with wear, sir" - well maybe but I'm buying a new bike here and no-one else has this problem (not even other Triumphs).
In the looks department it does nothing for me - just looks like any other bike of that group, the bike equivalent to the car 'eurobox'.
The cost of 'essentials' such as centre-stand, grips, alarm, rack and topbox made it damned dear too - and there were no deals to be had.
Anyway, went to a BM dealer and had a ride on a GS and ended up buying a year-old GS with 6k on it for less than the price of a new Tiger with 'essentials'.
IMHO the GS is in another league as far as build quality, feel, dealer service (one of the drawbacks of Triumph ownership), warranty standard and manufacturer's response to problems (another of the drawbacks of Triumph ownership - they fight you all the way!).
I know there is a lot of moaning on this forum, but the GS/GSA range is bl**dy good and Triumph have more than their share of quality/build issues too, just look at the forums and magazines.
HH
I naturally went to my local Truimph dealer to try the new Tiger 1050. I loved that engine but the rest of the bike was disappointing: compared to the ST the fixtures, fittings (and particlarly the switchgear) looked China-cheap; high exhaust meant no soft luggage option; the pillion seat is very high making throwing a leg over the bike difficult; worst of all the gearbox was very stiff, notchy and generally crap - by comparison my 50k ST was as slick as a slick thing. I went to another dealer for a test ride on another Tiger and the gearbox was the same - "they do loosen up with wear, sir" - well maybe but I'm buying a new bike here and no-one else has this problem (not even other Triumphs).
In the looks department it does nothing for me - just looks like any other bike of that group, the bike equivalent to the car 'eurobox'.
The cost of 'essentials' such as centre-stand, grips, alarm, rack and topbox made it damned dear too - and there were no deals to be had.
Anyway, went to a BM dealer and had a ride on a GS and ended up buying a year-old GS with 6k on it for less than the price of a new Tiger with 'essentials'.
IMHO the GS is in another league as far as build quality, feel, dealer service (one of the drawbacks of Triumph ownership), warranty standard and manufacturer's response to problems (another of the drawbacks of Triumph ownership - they fight you all the way!).
I know there is a lot of moaning on this forum, but the GS/GSA range is bl**dy good and Triumph have more than their share of quality/build issues too, just look at the forums and magazines.
HH
How true that is mate.......
The BMW dealers that I have dealt with, are in a completely different league, to the Triumph dealers that I have dealt with......
I'm glad for you.
zico
Registered user
Im with Traveller and Sgt Pluck. New Varadero 2008, cant wait. If Honda get it right it WILL be the best!!!!
bodisback
Guest
No sign of it on Honda web site, they have all the other 2008 bikes on it.
New Translap looks okay but has a joke of a petrol tank 14.5L
Phil Clarke
Registered user
A mate has a triumph tiger (he got it cheap as he used to work at Triumph) and whilst I enjoyed having a blast on it, I agree with most of the above negative comments - too much like a dull jap roadster albeit with a great motor. My mate has modded the airbox to be the same as the ST, added a factory 'race' pipe and the factory ECU upgrade chip. Result = 30 more hp!
Page 1 of the owners manual states 'This is not an off road bike!'
Page 1 of the owners manual states 'This is not an off road bike!'
Rally
Guest
I have also just had a test ride on the Tiger and come to some similar thoughts as yours. The handlebars and clamps look cheap and tacky, the clock is not the easiest to use when riding in gloves and it has no gear indicator. The engine however, I thought was a gem. It is quick and sounds great, has a good top speed (I saw 140 on the clock).
Regarding the luggage, (maybe things have changed) but if you buy the 3 box system, the grab rail and sliding rack come in the price of £699, so the only extras are now the infills at £115. Therefore the total price is £814 for the 3 box system. Hand guards are now available at £50.
My overall impression was that the bike is more road orientated and for use on road only, it would be great. The luggage is plastic from Triumph and the boxes open from the side, but Metal Mule now do kits for £750 all in. It is lighter than the GS and somewhat cheaper as well. Comfort is great, but the key thing is the wow factor and I'm not sure it has it like the GS.
My decision is still pending!
Regarding the luggage, (maybe things have changed) but if you buy the 3 box system, the grab rail and sliding rack come in the price of £699, so the only extras are now the infills at £115. Therefore the total price is £814 for the 3 box system. Hand guards are now available at £50.
My overall impression was that the bike is more road orientated and for use on road only, it would be great. The luggage is plastic from Triumph and the boxes open from the side, but Metal Mule now do kits for £750 all in. It is lighter than the GS and somewhat cheaper as well. Comfort is great, but the key thing is the wow factor and I'm not sure it has it like the GS.
My decision is still pending!
I test rode the Tiger, then the GS.
When it came time to make the final choice I went back for a second test ride on the Tiger. The funny part was I didn't even need to take it out. Just standing beside it revealed a complete lack of charisma compared to the GS.
If you read and believe MCN there is an "Adventure" version of the Tiger coming soon.
Also a completely new 1200cc triple, shaft drive tourer.
Also a completely new 1200cc triple, shaft drive tourer.
nick_boxer
Guest
I thought the Varadero handles like a pig and drinks fuel like an SP1/2. Not tried it but "I am reliably informed....." Is this true?
Does anyone have experience of a TDM which sounds like a competitor to the Triumph but doesn't have the ludicrous fuel consumption of the Honda or the cumbersome handling of the Varadero and V-Strom - so I'm told
?
I have also just had a test ride on the Tiger and come to some similar thoughts as yours. The handlebars and clamps look cheap and tacky, the clock is not the easiest to use when riding in gloves and it has no gear indicator. The engine however, I thought was a gem. It is quick and sounds great, has a good top speed (I saw 140 on the clock).
Regarding the luggage, (maybe things have changed) but if you buy the 3 box system, the grab rail and sliding rack come in the price of £699, so the only extras are now the infills at £115. Therefore the total price is £814 for the 3 box system. Hand guards are now available at £50.
My overall impression was that the bike is more road orientated and for use on road only, it would be great. The luggage is plastic from Triumph and the boxes open from the side, but Metal Mule now do kits for £750 all in. It is lighter than the GS and somewhat cheaper as well. Comfort is great, but the key thing is the wow factor and I'm not sure it has it like the GS.
My decision is still pending!
Came to very similar conclusions myself!
Also thought that once you add on the extras the Tiger is a rather expensive bit of kit that didn't look like it was made well enough and from food enough bits to justify the price.
Great engine..............but I thought the brakes were truly awful and that really put me off the tiger.
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