Triumph resurrected the Tiger name when the firm relaunched itself in the early 1990s, with a new range of then-modern machines. The first of these new-generation Tigers was a rather crude trail-styled machine, built around the firm’s 900cc three-cylinder engine, but by 1999, it was replaced by a new fuel-injected version. Then, in 2007, the current Tiger appeared. This time, the bike had a full-bore 1,050cc motor, borrowed from the firm’s all-conquering Sprint ST sport-tourer. This state-of-the-art engine is behind much of the bike’s success – its strong, torquey delivery gives instant drive in all situations, and makes it a near-perfect roadbike power unit. Fuel injection is crisp and precise, while the six-speed gearbox and chain final drive work well – if a little clunky at times.
The Tiger 1050’s chassis benefits from not being compromised by fantasy-off-road capabilities. The Tiger is a road bike – simple as that. The fact it has longer-travel suspension and upswept exhausts is merely down to styling – the real meat of the chassis is pure roadbike. Radial-mount brake calipers, upside-down front forks, braced aluminium frame and swingarm; these are all aimed at tightening up the Tiger’s road handling, and they work. Best of all, the Tiger’s ergonomic package makes it a true mile-muncher: add some luggage, throw your gear in it, sling your spouse on the back, and it’s next stop: who knows?
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