For 2011, Triumph has released an adventure style motorcycle, in two models, called the Tiger 800 and 800 XC. The Tiger name is shared with its larger sibling the Tiger 1050. The new lighter Tiger 800 comes in two versions, the road version and the dual sport version the XC.
Both motorcycles have 799cc in-line three-cylinder engines. The adventure style motorcycles are competing in the market with motorcycles such as the BMW F650GS and F800GS, and Suzuki V-Strom.
2011 Triumph Tiger 800
The Tiger 800 comes with and adjustable seat that allows riders to choose between a 31.9inch or a 32.7inch seat height. With additional options like heated grips, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and a company estimated 41 MPG city and 63 MPG highway, the motorcycle is well designed for touring riders. The Tiger 800 comes in three color choices Phantom Black, Crystal White, and Venom Yellow.
Designed more for the pavement than the dirt, the Tiger 800 has a lower suspension. The instrument panel provides useful information such as range, fuel economy, and an available tire pressure monitoring system. The balance of the motorcycle makes cornering a breeze and the windscreen does a good job of protecting the rider.
2011 Triumph Tiger 800 XC
The XC can be distinguished by spoked wheels and higher suspension. The bike is available in the same white and black options as the 800, but instead of Venom Yellow the XC comes in an Intense Orange.
With its higher suspension and 21inch front wheel the 800 XC is made for those who like to take the bike down forest roads and an occasional trail. The XC also includes the same on-board computer system. With the tires and higher center of gravity, the XC comes across as less precise on the road due to the off-road design, according to a review in The Telegraph.
In Summary
Both motorcycles are lightweight with an adjustable seat height making them excellent choices for the new rider or the more experiences riders. The 800cc engine has plenty of torque, and with 94bhp they have plenty of get up and go for the 462 to 473 pound bikes. Triumph has also included a 645w generator which provides double the output compared to the BMW F800GS. The ABS it can be turned off or on as desired, for situations where the ABS is not needed.
Both motorcycles are also well priced against the competition. The Tiger 800 starts at $9,999 MSRP for the non-ABS model and $10,799 for the ABS version. The Tiger XC is roughly $1000.00 more per version, according to the Triumph Motorcycles website.
With the release of the Tiger 800 and 800XC Triumph is well suited to compete in the adventure touring market. As aftermarket accessories become more available and Triumph increases the availability of the motorcycle (some dealers currently have a waiting list), we will start seeing more of these motorcycles on the roads.
Milo Denison - Milo is a photographer and writer with an expertise in photography and a passion for classic motorcycles.
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