Three new Triumphs for 2012........

[YellowDog]

Well I have been waiting for a test ride on a Triumph 1200 before opting for a Multistrada - Ceteris Paribus.

So here they are: http://www.motorcycledaily.com/2011/...explorer-1200/

"Triumph has released yet more new models, expanding its range where other manufacturers are seemingly shrinking. An all-new open-class Adventure bike, the Tiger Explorer, will challenge BMW, while an R version of the bread-and-butter Speed Triple give Triumph faithful a helping of Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes. Additionally, a limited-edition Steve McQueen replica provides something to the nostalgics out there."

The 19" front wheel on the explorer makes it a 'must try' temptation

They've even released one just for Indy (probably a special build).

[Devil]

Explorer looks ok. Better than the Super Tenere anyway. Would take a pretty impressive bike to get me off my 12GSA though.

[MD]

Well I have been waiting for a test ride on a Triumph 1200 before opting for a Multistrada - Ceteris Paribus.

I had a spin on a Multistrada the other day for the same reason, I wanted to love it. From what I've read about them I was worried I would fall for it. Luckily I didn't (too expensive for me). Ducati engines are obviously an acquired taste - and not for me. I was expecting overwhelming waves of power everywhere. Yes, as you reach the invisible redline on the tacho the MTS discovers heaps of power. It felt like trying to control a two stroke powerband. For me though it was horrible at low revs, all weak and shuddering like it was about to implode. Mid range, where I expected a massive hit and any twitch of the throttle would send the front wheel skyward, was disappointing. Nothing much happened, still more crazy mechanical vibes. There was a delay between throttle action and backwheel which I didn't like either. Sorry, not my style of power delivery. Getting back on the Tiger was a pleasure afterwards.

The MTS does have the better chassis, suspension and brakes and would no doubt be faster on track than the likes of the Tiger 1050

The 1200 Explorer hopefully will be as equally good as a road bike as the Tiger. In which case I can see me upgrading to one. It better have a worthwhile power increase, with no extra weight though to justify the changeover. I do like the looks at the front and decent twin headlights were required. Lucky I don't ride at night, because the little Tiger candle is just that. I'm not a big fan of the agricultural chassis look wrapped around the rear end/seat. Practical I'm sure but ugly.

I am curious to see the Nuda 900R which may be the surprise wonder bike of 2012

[YellowDog]

Ah, those lights

Designed for looks rather than functionality.

Here's a cheap upgrade, though it doesn't get around the silly beam pattern: http://www.ddmtuning.com/Products/DD...rcycle-HID-Kit

[Owl]

I wasn't aware the Tiger lights were so bad? The Explorer may have awesome lights, if the 2011 Speed Triple is anything to go by. Pity about the cracking issue though

[Taz]

Triumph made a big mistake putting 120/70 and 180/55 tyres on the tiger 1050. Now they've released the 800 Tiger I don't see why they've bothered with the explorer.

[tigertim20]

that McQueen special looks the business!

[ellipsis]

...this one has returned also...

[YellowDog]

I wasn't aware the Tiger lights were so bad? The Explorer may have awesome lights, if the 2011 Speed Triple is anything to go by. Pity about the cracking issue though

The Tiger lights are just fine in daylight.

All bends are blind ones at night. It's not just the power, but the lens gives a sharp cut off so that when you take bends..........

Most I know have fitted aux lights.

Despite this, still great bikes

[Owl]

The Tiger lights are just fine in daylight.

Funny you should say that though, cause my OEM were bright during the day and hopeless at night. The replacement Hella's are exactly the opposite.

[Scouse]

...this one has returned also...

If only ......

[Owl]

If only ......

Nice.......though for around $30k?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/moto...-417492966.htm

[Edbear]

...this one has returned also...

Nice.......though for around $30k?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/moto...-417492966.htm

I remember when they were first released. Not very practical but bound to become a collector's item in the future.

[driftn]

I expected a massive hit and any twitch of the throttle would send the front wheel skyward, was disappointing. Nothing much happened, still more crazy mechanical vibes. Getting back on the Tiger was a pleasure afterwards.

Bloody glad you said that, I would have to come slap the black off yo ass if you got one of those dirty coal burning rattle boxes!

[Devil]

Mid range, where I expected a massive hit and any twitch of the throttle would send the front wheel skyward, was disappointing. Nothing much happened, still more crazy mechanical vibes.

Which version? The electrickery will stop the wheelies completely if you haven't told it to bugger off, same with the slack throttle response. Thought the Streetfighter S was a bit soft till i figured out the last rider had it in girlie mode...