It might not sound like much but the combined effect of the changes promises to transform the oldest model in the firm’s ‘adventure and touring’ range.
Starting with the engine, the old 1050cc triple has gained a host of updates including a revised combustion chamber design and totally new electronics. As well as enabling the bike to pass the latest generation of emissions laws in Europe, extending the model’s life for the foreseeable future, the changes are claimed to improve torque and fuel consumption. Similar updates were made to the 1050 motor in this year’s revised Speed Triple.
As a rider, you’re more likely to instantly notice the changes to the electronics. The throttles are now ride-by-wire, enabling the firm to add modern tech including traction control and multiple rider modes. You’ll be able to switch between ‘Rain’, ‘Road’, and ‘Sport’ modes, each altering the torque delivery and throttle response to suit as well as changing the threshold for the traction control system. As an added bonus, cruise control is also standard.
All that new technology means the instruments have had to be updated. While the panel looks the same as the old one, the LCD now incorporates readouts relating to the new electronics as well as twin trip computers.
Triumph has also taken the opportunity to address one of the biggest bugbears of Tiger Sport owners; the lack of an adjustable screen to suit the bike’s touring intentions. The 2016 version doesn’t just gain adjustment for the screen; the whole thing is also taller and gains additional wind deflectors on either side. Although manual rather than electronic, Triumph says that screen adjustment is a one-handed job.
The bike is set to make its public debut at the London Motorcycle Show on Friday (February 12th) and will reach dealers in the middle of this year. The price in Australia has been set at $17,150 plus on-road costs.
