I still don't understand why people are comparing the Explorer to the GS.

As it is purely a road bike (as marketed by Triumph), don't you think it would make more sense to also look at the Multistrada and Honda offering?
Aren't most GS' used predominantly on-road? I know it has a bit more capability but most owners do little more than ride the odd badly surfaced road, and for the most part you could still do that on a sportsbike (I certainly took to the odd unpaved road on my ZZR)
I think the physical size of the Triumph (and new Honda) put them in some sort of competition with regard to at least 95% of GS riders.
If they offer all round ability with regard to "any road" and are as good at hauling motorway miles as they are on A roads, B roads and bumpy back lanes, capable of carrying two people and their luggage then they are definately on my test-ride list.
As a competitor to the GS they may fall short in the off-road area, but I suspect these manufacturers are targeting the GS owners and not the bike itself (seems smarter, why complicate design and costs trying to provide some off-road capability most owners would happily lose if everything else was on-par or better) Plus all those losing faith in having to have the latest and greatest sports bike, there are a lot of dsillusioned bikers out there who may never have bought a BMW "Adventure" bike, but would be tempted of their GSXZXRRSP with a Jap or Brit offering.
The Super Tenere took on the GS head to head and for the most part lost, although I am tempted by one it is not for its off-road capability.
The MTS is really in a league all of its own, so fast and light, the definitive headbangers choice - but I can't see too many GS owners rushing to get one (Except maybe those who bought into the GS craze to be fashionable) and they certainly don't have either off-road capability or two-up mile munching credentials (Which the Triumph and Honda's will have)
I still doubt any of them will be a significantly better road bike than the current GS, probably faster and smoother, but unlikely better road handling or touring capability, and will almost certainly lack "Character" for those who care about such things, I don't, but have to admit the GS does have a nice quirky feel.
Looking forward to a summer of test rides