That pesky wee purple bug certainly can fly! With all the enhancements you'd think the Explorer would have dispatched him in an instant. Bloody good review Captain.
Captain, thanks for the comprehensive on-road review. It's all very well to read stats and figures, so it's good to see someone giving opinions live, as they ride. I'm picking up my new 1200 XCX in a few weeks. Triumph is doing a good deal on the last of the 2017 models. I've always ridden Japanese bikes so this is a big change for me. Thanks.
Capt. R.- A fine presentation which I just looked at a bit later than its original running. Makes me want to give this model a test ride. I hope you get back into the you tube business!
Great video and thanks for your views which helped me when test riding yesterday. The deal is done and I'm getting it on Friday. I'm coming from the dark side. It was the smooth engine that made me change plus I absolutely love the looks. All I need now is a Rambunctious key fob to finish the look if you have any for a new subscriber. Keep up the good work captain. JJ
Yes indeed you do! You can find them here! :-) www.ebay.co.uk/itm/302179332160?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649 Very glad you found this useful! Welcome to the fold! :-) TBH!
You've been doing some very clever editing with this film. Timeconsuming aswell, I take it? Very informative and entertaining film again. Thank you! Tata!
+John Mård Thank you. Glad you liked it... Yes, probably about 5 hours in total.. But took over 3 weeks to do as kept doing other vids and then coming back to it... Thanks for watching and for your comment...
Excellent work Captain! I've watched your review several times now and it has really helped reinforce my decision - thank you. I've gone for the XCA in khaki and should be able to collect on Saturday (it's been a long 3 weeks or so since pencilling the order in!) There are always excellent alternatives I know but from what I can glean from reviews such as yours, it's a very good bike and it really fits the bill for me. If I'm honest, I wanted another Triumph as I was really happy with my old 1998 955i Speed Triple (and the dealer Jack Lilley) but I wasn't absolutely sure which model would suit me best. As I'm no longer a 'young' man and the fact that I was fortunate enough to have few quid spare for once, I have treated myself to the slightly more gentlemanly XCA this time (I think I'm a bit too aged for another Speed Triple - although this is very subjective of course!) It is unlikely I'll ever be in a position to splash out this much cash again, and I do plan to keep her as long as I can, so fingers crossed I've made the right call. That said, I'm pretty confident I have ... Tally Bally Ho!
Excellent Chris! Sorry to have taken so long to respond. You should have the bike by now? How do you feel? Enjoying it? Ticking all the boxes? I'd have to say no one is ever too old to ride a speed triple, such an easy position! But yes, the throttle is rather splendid! I'm very glad to hear that you found my review helpful, and I hope that you can agree with the points now that you own the bike yourself! Good luck, safe riding and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment! Thanks again and Tally Bally Ho!
Thanks for the reply Captain! Yes, I am really enjoying it thank you and I'm very happy with my decision! I'm still running her in but had a little taste of the sleeping giant today as I managed a whopping 58mph! Ha Ha! Seriously though, that little burst I had on the A3 showed me another side of her I hadn't experienced and I'm now looking forward to opening her up a bit more (Oo-er Mrs!). I'm been slightly restricted to commuting at low speed so far but should be able to get out and about this weekend! I was quite nervous about the weight at first, especially as I collected her with panniers/top box, chain et al and I can see why some people have a problem with it, but after a handful of rides it just started to feel 'normal'. You have to be careful at low speeds/parking etc for sure but I soon got into it. I'm a happy man and after a few years off, I feel whole again! :-) Thanks again for the great video!
Great review man. Seems to have everything you could possibly need. All the toys, well laid out and plenty of attention to detail, nice. By the way, I sang the pootleing version of your filtering song in my last vlog, lol. Tcrs fella ✊
Hello. great review. I picked up my brand new XCA yesterday and it´s making a dreadful wallowing sound from somewhere either under the tank or close to the rear wheel. Have you experienced anything like this?
lots of reports about internals in the 800 forks. triumph dont acknowledge it as a fault. worse after having bike on mainstand. clonks and bangs when compression comes off fork. Mine did, I only kept it three months. overtight head bearings made it wander and whiteline badly. Dealer reckoned OK. Special tool needed to loosen off. transformed handling but still clonked. Loving my XRt though.
good review cpt, I have a 13 plate one absolutely love it done 25000 miles on it, most comfortable bike I owned, can't agree with the wallowing and hot legs, the handling and and performance can't fault, easily do 800 miles a day on it, more grunt than a pig farm.
+Peter Gunston Ha! Yes, I thought I might be contradicted. When I rode the old Explorer, it was the biggest engined bike I had ridden and so I didn't really know what to make of it. Then, I felt it was too heavy and too powerful. I do remember that it felt heavy to turn though... But I am happy to go with what an owner says about the bike as you have far greater experience of it, so thanks for the comment! :-)
Just watched this for first time in Sept 2024,thinking of upgrading from Tiger 955i to one of these 1200,s either the Tiger or Explorer pretty similar either though,they look great fun and can't see me missing chain drive,just hoping these 1200 seat heights are as tall as my 955i
That's my kind of bike. I love it. I like the colours and to me, it looked a little like a police bike from a distance which is a bonus when around loonies in cars. I love the electric screen and all the other gadgetry and the handling looks great. The fact that it has a shaft drive is a huge plus for me. I am a big fan of shaft drive. Every man needs to have a good solid shaft now and again. No pissing around with oilers and chain cleaning etc and hugely dependable. I had one on my VT500 which I used as my courier bike for 6 years without a single problem with it, despite some seriously hard use. It looks to me like this may be a perfect touring bike. I am going to have to ride one and see but from this review I would think it is looking good as a machine to hurtle around the Alps on. *TRIGGER WARNING: I am about to be critical of something on a Triumph. All those wedded to the Triumph cult should probably stop reading here and find a safe space.* The only thing I am not so pleased with is the beak at the front. To me it ruins the look of a man's machine and reduces it to the status of a kids Transformer toy. So, that would have to go. Great job, old fellah me lad. Ta.
+InTheNameOfJustice Thank you sir! I'm on the same side of the fence as you with regards to the beak, hence why I never put one on my Tiger, so you're safe with me on that front! ;-) Thanks for the comment as ever... Yes, I would assume that it would be more than capable with long tours on windy and straight roads! :-)
+Captain Rambunctious Yes. I agree. I think what I might do is cut off the beak and use some simulated chrome trim strip strip to cover the cut with. That way the benefits of the directed air flow sill remain. If it did not work out I would just bin it or flog it on Ebay.
So i had an africa twin and sold it because i wanted something more sporty. I bought a speed triple and now i miss adventure bikes. I want to keep my triple cus im in love with it. Now im a triumph fan boy im thinking of getting an explorer something i would never thought id do because the africa twin was faultless, i always thought id just re buy it. But I'm currently trying to decide between africa twin 2017, triumph xrt 2016, or ktm adventure sport 2016 models. Choices choicessssss
In the last 3 years I've had an MT09 bought on a whim after road testing a Tiger 800XCA. Lovely bike but no mainstand, small tank and zero weather protection, Then along came the Tracer - perfect - after carrying on like a looney got sensible head on so went and bought the Tiger XCA - Hated It. then along came the MT10 Furkin Loved it. After few months carrying on like a looney with a small tank - no mainstand not overly comfortable and new back tyre after 1500 miles got sensible head on and tried 2016 XRt. Not as looney but still good. reasonable tank range, came with panniers and shaft drive (had Guzzis for over 30years) so keep forgetting about chains. This is a definite keeper maybe - Until MT10SP in spring. small tank no mainstand chain drive eats tyres mmmmm? The Explorer is a great bike just let down by its weight which is always there in the back of your mind when trying a bit too hard and also when tying to get it in the hallway ride in struggle like furk to reverse out. I think the perfect bike would be a shaft drive MT10SP Tracer made by Triumph. Dont know about the extra cylinder 3or4?
I thought it was great so I have purchased the explorer XCX, hopefully pick it up on the 19th. all the documentation and registration take time here in Malaysia. Then I will be off touring Malaysia at the weekends, so if you have any advise for the videos let me know . The videos will be posted here. Been watching many of your videos and I think you have nailed them, keep up the good work old chap.
Thank you very much! Glad you liked it! I imagine there are some excellent roads just perfect for the Explorer out in Malaysia or is it not as rural as I imagine where you are going? Sounds excellent. I look forward to them... For the videos, all I suggest is try not to make a monologue, feel free to edit lots out if you think it is dragging on. Test the position of the camera first and the audio too, as it is very upsetting when one of these isn't right when you have hours of footage that you feel is wasted. Other than that, have a great time and enjoy! I look forward to seeing them! TBH!
Great review - currently considering either a Tiger 800 or the Explorer - but used so both would be about 5 years old. From your review it would suggest the older Explorer might not be as good as the Tiger 800 of the same era? Will have to ride both though. Did look at the Tiger Sport 1050 - just not sold on the looks - fickle I know!
Ha! yes, if staying on the road, the Sport would be the best bet, but for a more rugged ride, then the 800 would be easier and cheaper to live with. Then again, you have a chain to lube all the time, whereas the Explorer is shaft drive, so if you want a hassle free ride, then the Explorer is the more suitable... I hope that this helps...
Nice review Captain! I'm a sucker for gadgety things and it looks like this bike has a lot of them. Since test riding the V-strom I have been thinking more and more about the Tiger 800 XRx/XCx. Seems like you do get a lot of bike for the money, and with the 1200 having shaft drive I think I could be persuaded to go for one of these if I can afford it.
If that's your thing Phil, then definitely try it! YOu've proven you can ride taller bikes and you can get lowering kits and lower seats anyway, although I reckon you'd be ok with just the lower seat. The lower ride height apparently changes the cornering feeling from the front... Thanks for watching as ever! An honour and pleasure as always...
Great review, I have a much older tiger 955i and they are just a lovely bike if your a taller rider.. The package is about what you would expect for the top of the range, am looking forward to trying it out.
yep. I have thought on that choice. Yet not looked into that yet. But it doesn't look as broad . Strong and has comfortable 2 up on long rides. But cant go off looks. will watch ur blog and get some test rides in nearer the time. Ha. Trouble is I want them all. I've never had interest in so many bikes at once. Cant handle all these choices. Dam triumph. lol. Thanx captain. will do.
As always a very good Blog Captan. I have the 800. 2011 year. Love it, But it is getting on a bit now. I am thinking off my next bike to replace it. My thoughts wer towards a new 800. Now watching this with the tourqe and reasonable flickabillity , With the wind protection and improved suspension. You have me drooling. Thinking a better choice for 2 up riding we mostly do. Would you say its a better choice. . Like you i too like to flick them about and not get Bored.
Having also ridden the new Tiger Sport, I would say that the Tiger Sport would suit you more as long as you don't plan to do much off roading! try it... Have a look at my review for that and see what you think... It certainly made me feel that a natural upgrade from my 800 XRT would be the Tiger Sport, NOT the Explorer.... See what you think! Thank you for watching! :-)
the luggage stystem is a triumph branded giving outback trekker alu boxes plus frames. you can save some dish buy buying giving branded system. SW-Motech do a far better luggage range for the bike aswell.
+darren phillips Absolutely... It's just Givi stuff. I also liked the SW MOtech stuff but not the way it attached... But that's just me... Thanks for watching and for the sage advice!
Cap'n.....Matt here, in the U.S. Awesome review! I have a '14 Tiger 800. Aside from 'weight' and 'shaft drive', what are the primary differences I'd notice between mine and a 1200? Thanks!
Hi Matt! Definitely handling and acceleration. The 1200 has a lot more performance than the old 800 tiger and keeps its weight lower down... I also found the front wheel on the old 800s a little vague in the corners whereas this is completely planted and very confidence inspiring... Anything else? Thanks for watching and for the comment!
Cap'n....thanks for the response. How about slow-speed maneuvering. With the 1200's extra weight, is it nullified a bit by the fact that the weight seems 'lower down'? (I had a Victory Kingpin, almost 700 pounds, but the weight was pretty 'low' in it, so it seemed easier to move around the garage) I love my Tiger...but I'd like a shaft-drive. (and I have to admit that while I love the 'triple', I'm not the biggest fan of 'the whistle'.) :) Thanks...and cheers.
Matt Anthony At slow speeds, I'd say that they are similar, but the smoother and sharper throttle response of the newer bike makes it a lot easier to ride slowly. The 1200 is also a triple though, and still has the whistle but sounds a little lower and quieter... Gruntier if you will... The fly by wire throttle removes any weight issues at slow speeds...
+Russ Cattle I don't think it will Russ as the new Speed Triple engine has just been rebuilt and performs better (in a different way) to this one! They prefer to keep it in the market that it's in, and the new Speed Triple R nearly turned my head away from the Thruxton, it was that good!
Russ Cattell They do, but they have said that they don't want a 1200 in the Speed Triple because it would alter its character too much... Well thats' what MCN said when they interview Triumph about a year ago...
+Captain Rambunctious I'm only getting about 600 miles on the ktm before I have to get off of it. no cruise control. my right arm just can't handle it after a day or 3 of 450+ mile days. seriously looking at a bmw r1200gs. not nearly as sporty as the ktm, but an extremely comfortable ride position and cruise.
+VeeFour Ha! Yes, well I didn't exactly spend too much time on the modes as I'm not really fussed with those either... The engine heat was something that apparently a lot of other owners had mentioned, but fair enough, good to know that even if it does, it's not that noticeable... Maybe they just needed an excuse for a styling change!
Great review watched this (and some others) 100 times.... trying to decide 800 or 1200. I like that the 1200 has drive shaft but at the same time I don't really want that much power and that's where the 800 would be good.
WM2869 thank you. If you are trying to decide, then a chain drive is lighter and the 800 is cheaper. The main difference is shaft, power and weight and comfort. If you aren't going off road then I'd get the Tiger 1050 Sport just to throw an extra spanner in the works! Chain drives aren't that bad especially when you have a centre stand as standard... Thanks for watching!
Captain Rambunctious if it wasn't bad enough deciding between the two.... no I want mostly for the height and I've had bikes with chain before so no drama there. Lighter does sound better.
I bought a helmet cam a couple of days ago and having listened to myself waffle as I go along ... I have to admire the fact that you're able to keep it pretty sensible! :-) TBH!
+blackogg Seat is wider and plusher. Suspension is amazing but it is active suspension so it should be. A lot more oomph. feels only slightly heavier to turn in and to throw around so excellent. I think that it is JUST worth the extra money if I was after an upgrade... The fact that it is shaft drive for low maintenance would be quite an attractive prospect on its own... Screen is MUCH more useful as well on the 1200... That;s about it I think... Anything else?
+Captain Rambunctious Weight difference while parking, etc. Shaft is good as long as it works. Modes are nice, but necessary? For the US market, about 5K dollars more. Different insurance bracket too, I'd imagine. Off Road, I'd think lighter is better. Gas mileage? BTW, love the new t-120 in vivid black. Local dealer has one. Can't see trading the Bird for one though. The Bird is so much more bike, and in my case, less money. But maybe in time.....
Stretch Man It doesn't feel much heavier than my Tiger when manoeuvring, even though it is 50 kgs more... But maybe because I am tall I don;t notice it so much... There haven't been any reports of the Triumph shaft drives failing, so far... And yes, my Tiger 800 XRT was £10500 and the XRT explorer (same spec you could argue) is £15000. So yes, a similar increase in price here too... Insurance would have been £100 more for the year as well... If I could ride a cruiser as it should be, the T Bird is an excellent bike.. I would prefer the T120 though due to its looks and riding position... Thanks for watching and for such a useful comment...
+Captain Rambunctious I like the t-120 a lot. But, the new to me TBird only has about 7400 miles now, so she's barely broken in, and I have close to 2K in accessories on it as well. Plus, where I live, the roads are long and straight, and it's flat, so it's always breezy. Having a heavier bike is nice for that. And since I bought used ( 3400 miles in January), I saved a bundle on the Bird. I'd have to go in with a lot of money to make up the difference. How is the gas mileage on the 800 vs the 1200? I did get to ride an older 800 tiger, and the suspension is amazing. But cable throttles and no modes on the 13, so I didn't really get to experience all the new stuff. The rumor is that the heat issues on the 800 in warmer climates, like Florida, can be pretty bad if you're not moving. But, for some reason, it doesn't affect all bikes. Coming into summer here, where felt temps can exceed 120F in direct sun, and I am glad for the water cooling on the Bird. Harleys get extremely hot in the summer, especially in stop and go traffic, and we cannot filter, or lane split, as they call it here. Without heat shields, and the EITMS system, it can literally burn your leg, even with a retune. I love how Triumph managed to do such a nice job on the water system on the Bonnie. The electric screen on the new explorer is neat. Best charging system in the industry. I expect we'll be seeing a lot of them on the road, and in Florida, at the coffee shops as well. Great review, BTW, always entertaining.
Stretch Man Thank you for your kind words and interesting facts about Florida riding... I don't think that it will suffer in warm weather as the fan will just come on and cool it as in any water cooled engine? With regards to fuel consumption, with hooning on my Tiger 800 XRT I could get about 44mpg, but then when just going along at normal speeds and being careful with the throttle, I could get 65mpg... The 1200 is about 12% worse on fuel but with a larger tank, so although it costs more it will go further on a tank - pretty much what it was made to do really... And to be a fair competitor to the 1200GS...
Wow! Triumph seems to be outdoing themselves at every turn. This 1200XRT will be what I look at when I'm looking to upgrade the Tiger 800. Seems to me that it is stiff competition for the GS1200, let's hope the price doesn't match as well.
+Arizona RE Well yes, I believe that the XRT IS on a par with the GS won price I'm afraid, so it will depend on test rides I think... So when will you be getting a T120 as well? ;-)
We will have to see, I'm so pleased as punch with what I've got in the stable at the moment it is hard to tell when things will be traded out for something new. The T120 would have to be a replacement, as well as the Tiger 1200. I have to figure out way to get an enhancement....
its a petty its so extreeme heavy...but then again all thise adventure bikes are...Explorer before gsa...but im going for vstrom...lighter bike for commuting, good engien for all type of riding..and its cheaper. very good video. ride safe
I have the screen at max height the whole time and I'm 6'1" too. With the visor up there's a bit of wind in my eyes so at higher speeds I have to put the sun visor down or full visor, but round town it's superb. Being tall certainly helps with the weight. Wouldn't want to try and manage it if I was much under 6' tbh (hence the low seat version I guess).
The Tiger Sport actually resembles a big cat. The Explorer looks like an angry ostrich from the front, like a rambunctious Big Bird ;D That said I've ridden alongside these and they smoke almost everything on the road.
London_biker617 Absolutely! :-) That's something to put together, a wine cooler top box. Easily done with a rubber gromit and the power socket at the back! :-) Cup holders are easy to bolt on to subframe bolts too... Done! :-)
+cuzimaluzer777 ha ha! Oh dear, I get what you mean now... Thank goodness, I wouldn't have wanted to re-edit it again anyway!! 😊 Shame you haven't got them yet. The red one looks very smart!!
+Mike Ford Ha! Well they were limited stock about 2 years ago and now can't find them anywhere. Other people have asked, but I'm afraid to say that I think there aren't any anywhere!
Mike Ford The only place you could try is to ask your local Triumph dealer to look up the old part number for you and then to ask Triumph UK if they have any left in stock back at base?
Mike Ford Enjoy! It's lovely... Crushes my nuts I'm afraid, but still a lovely bike... The Speed Triple R is worth the extra money for me... BUT it's about £3000 more, so a fair whack more...
Same here. Mainly because I don't have the money to upgrade haha. Seriously though, I thing this bike is a bit too big for me. That shaft drive is great.
yep. I have thought on that choice. Yet not looked into that yet. But it doesn't look as broad . Strong and has comfortable 2 up on long rides. But cant go off looks. will watch ur blog and get some test rides in nearer the time. Ha. Trouble is I want them all. I've never had interest in so many bikes at once. Cant handle all these choices. Dam triumph. lol. Thanx captain. will do.
Ha ha! Yes, now you know how I feel! :-) Having now ridden them all, apart form the very latest models, I can see parts of me wanting bits of each... All very discombobulating... Tally Bally Ho!
That pesky wee purple bug certainly can fly! With all the enhancements you'd think the Explorer would have dispatched him in an instant. Bloody good review Captain.
+Radioactiveslime Ha ha! Good point! It's strategically placed of course. Triumph can do so much! ;-)
Thank you for watching and for commenting!
Captain, thanks for the comprehensive on-road review. It's all very well to read stats and figures, so it's good to see someone giving opinions live, as they ride.
I'm picking up my new 1200 XCX in a few weeks. Triumph is doing a good deal on the last of the 2017 models. I've always ridden Japanese bikes so this is a big change for me.
Thanks.
Excellent. Thank you. I#m glad to be of help!
Keep me posted in what you think... It's all so subjective after all!
Capt. R.- A fine presentation which I just looked at a bit later than its original running. Makes me want to give this model a test ride. I hope you get back into the you tube business!
Thank you Robert... I'll be finding the time soon I hope!
Thank you for watching!
TBH!
Great video and thanks for your views which helped me when test riding yesterday.
The deal is done and I'm getting it on Friday. I'm coming from the dark side. It was the smooth engine that made me change plus I absolutely love the looks.
All I need now is a Rambunctious key fob to finish the look if you have any for a new subscriber.
Keep up the good work captain.
JJ
Yes indeed you do! You can find them here! :-)
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/302179332160?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649
Very glad you found this useful! Welcome to the fold! :-)
TBH!
You've been doing some very clever editing with this film. Timeconsuming aswell, I take it? Very informative and entertaining film again. Thank you! Tata!
+John Mård Thank you. Glad you liked it... Yes, probably about 5 hours in total.. But took over 3 weeks to do as kept doing other vids and then coming back to it...
Thanks for watching and for your comment...
Thank you for giving me a reason to comment! :-)
Excellent review captain, seems like Triumph are really getting their act together with all of these new models, well done Sir! RSM8.
+Skeggy Cruiser It's quite a buyer crop! :-)
Thanks for watching! :-)
Excellent work Captain! I've watched your review several times now and it has really helped reinforce my decision - thank you. I've gone for the XCA in khaki and should be able to collect on Saturday (it's been a long 3 weeks or so since pencilling the order in!) There are always excellent alternatives I know but from what I can glean from reviews such as yours, it's a very good bike and it really fits the bill for me. If I'm honest, I wanted another Triumph as I was really happy with my old 1998 955i Speed Triple (and the dealer Jack Lilley) but I wasn't absolutely sure which model would suit me best. As I'm no longer a 'young' man and the fact that I was fortunate enough to have few quid spare for once, I have treated myself to the slightly more gentlemanly XCA this time (I think I'm a bit too aged for another Speed Triple - although this is very subjective of course!) It is unlikely I'll ever be in a position to splash out this much cash again, and I do plan to keep her as long as I can, so fingers crossed I've made the right call. That said, I'm pretty confident I have ...
Tally Bally Ho!
Excellent Chris! Sorry to have taken so long to respond. You should have the bike by now? How do you feel? Enjoying it? Ticking all the boxes?
I'd have to say no one is ever too old to ride a speed triple, such an easy position! But yes, the throttle is rather splendid!
I'm very glad to hear that you found my review helpful, and I hope that you can agree with the points now that you own the bike yourself!
Good luck, safe riding and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment!
Thanks again and Tally Bally Ho!
Thanks for the reply Captain! Yes, I am really enjoying it thank you and I'm very happy with my decision! I'm still running her in but had a little taste of the sleeping giant today as I managed a whopping 58mph! Ha Ha! Seriously though, that little burst I had on the A3 showed me another side of her I hadn't experienced and I'm now looking forward to opening her up a bit more (Oo-er Mrs!). I'm been slightly restricted to commuting at low speed so far but should be able to get out and about this weekend! I was quite nervous about the weight at first, especially as I collected her with panniers/top box, chain et al and I can see why some people have a problem with it, but after a handful of rides it just started to feel 'normal'. You have to be careful at low speeds/parking etc for sure but I soon got into it. I'm a happy man and after a few years off, I feel whole again! :-) Thanks again for the great video!
You're welcome! Glad you're having fun! :-)
Great review man. Seems to have everything you could possibly need. All the toys, well laid out and plenty of attention to detail, nice.
By the way, I sang the pootleing version of your filtering song in my last vlog, lol.
Tcrs fella ✊
+Doticaster Ha ha! I'd forgotten about that version! :-)
Thanks for watching and commenting...
Very nice video as usual and welcome to Hertfordshire (I recognised the roads on your route).
+Sky Rider Thank you! :-) Well I lived there for a while and now only in Buckinghamshire....
Thanks for watching!
Hello. great review. I picked up my brand new XCA yesterday and it´s making a dreadful wallowing sound from somewhere either under the tank or close to the rear wheel. Have you experienced anything like this?
I'm afraid not... I'd definitely get it checked... Not sure what you mean by the type of sound... Could be suspension or the drive shaft?
lots of reports about internals in the 800 forks. triumph dont acknowledge it as a fault. worse after having bike on mainstand. clonks and bangs when compression comes off fork. Mine did, I only kept it three months. overtight head bearings made it wander and whiteline badly. Dealer reckoned OK. Special tool needed to loosen off. transformed handling but still clonked. Loving my XRt though.
Rick Trengove That could be it! Thank you for the comment! :-)
good review cpt, I have a 13 plate one absolutely love it done 25000 miles on it, most comfortable bike I owned, can't agree with the wallowing and hot legs, the handling and and performance can't fault, easily do 800 miles a day on it, more grunt than a pig farm.
+Peter Gunston Ha! Yes, I thought I might be contradicted. When I rode the old Explorer, it was the biggest engined bike I had ridden and so I didn't really know what to make of it. Then, I felt it was too heavy and too powerful. I do remember that it felt heavy to turn though...
But I am happy to go with what an owner says about the bike as you have far greater experience of it, so thanks for the comment! :-)
Just watched this for first time in Sept 2024,thinking of upgrading from Tiger 955i to one of these 1200,s either the Tiger or Explorer pretty similar either though,they look great fun and can't see me missing chain drive,just hoping these 1200 seat heights are as tall as my 955i
That's my kind of bike. I love it. I like the colours and to me, it looked a little like a police bike from a distance which is a bonus when around loonies in cars.
I love the electric screen and all the other gadgetry and the handling looks great. The fact that it has a shaft drive is a huge plus for me. I am a big fan of shaft drive. Every man needs to have a good solid shaft now and again. No pissing around with oilers and chain cleaning etc and hugely dependable. I had one on my VT500 which I used as my courier bike for 6 years without a single problem with it, despite some seriously hard use.
It looks to me like this may be a perfect touring bike. I am going to have to ride one and see but from this review I would think it is looking good as a machine to hurtle around the Alps on.
*TRIGGER WARNING: I am about to be critical of something on a Triumph. All those wedded to the Triumph cult should probably stop reading here and find a safe space.*
The only thing I am not so pleased with is the beak at the front. To me it ruins the look of a man's machine and reduces it to the status of a kids Transformer toy. So, that would have to go.
Great job, old fellah me lad.
Ta.
+InTheNameOfJustice Thank you sir! I'm on the same side of the fence as you with regards to the beak, hence why I never put one on my Tiger, so you're safe with me on that front! ;-)
Thanks for the comment as ever... Yes, I would assume that it would be more than capable with long tours on windy and straight roads! :-)
+Captain Rambunctious Yes. I agree. I think what I might do is cut off the beak and use some simulated chrome trim strip strip to cover the cut with. That way the benefits of the directed air flow sill remain. If it did not work out I would just bin it or flog it on Ebay.
So i had an africa twin and sold it because i wanted something more sporty. I bought a speed triple and now i miss adventure bikes. I want to keep my triple cus im in love with it. Now im a triumph fan boy im thinking of getting an explorer something i would never thought id do because the africa twin was faultless, i always thought id just re buy it. But I'm currently trying to decide between africa twin 2017, triumph xrt 2016, or ktm adventure sport 2016 models. Choices choicessssss
Hey cap just got myself a beautiful triumph explorer 1200 xcx 2017 how do you change the time on the on board clock
In the last 3 years I've had an MT09 bought on a whim after road testing a Tiger 800XCA. Lovely bike but no mainstand, small tank and zero weather protection, Then along came the Tracer - perfect - after carrying on like a looney got sensible head on so went and bought the Tiger XCA - Hated It. then along came the MT10 Furkin Loved it. After few months carrying on like a looney with a small tank - no mainstand not overly comfortable and new back tyre after 1500 miles got sensible head on and tried 2016 XRt. Not as looney but still good. reasonable tank range, came with panniers and shaft drive (had Guzzis for over 30years) so keep forgetting about chains. This is a definite keeper maybe - Until MT10SP in spring. small tank no mainstand chain drive eats tyres mmmmm?
The Explorer is a great bike just let down by its weight which is always there in the back of your mind when trying a bit too hard and also when tying to get it in the hallway ride in struggle like furk to reverse out. I think the perfect bike would be a shaft drive MT10SP Tracer made by Triumph. Dont know about the extra cylinder 3or4?
Definitely a good idea! Good luck and hope it all works in the end for you! :-)
THank you for watching and for taking the time to comment...
Rick Treng
After all of that just got a Multistrada 950 a definite all rounder. Don e 700 miles in first four days.
great video will be test riding on on Saturday
What did you think?
I thought it was great so I have purchased the explorer XCX, hopefully pick it up on the 19th. all the documentation and registration take time here in Malaysia. Then I will be off touring Malaysia at the weekends, so if you have any advise for the videos let me know . The videos will be posted here. Been watching many of your videos and I think you have nailed them, keep up the good work old chap.
Thank you very much!
Glad you liked it! I imagine there are some excellent roads just perfect for the Explorer out in Malaysia or is it not as rural as I imagine where you are going?
Sounds excellent. I look forward to them...
For the videos, all I suggest is try not to make a monologue, feel free to edit lots out if you think it is dragging on. Test the position of the camera first and the audio too, as it is very upsetting when one of these isn't right when you have hours of footage that you feel is wasted.
Other than that, have a great time and enjoy!
I look forward to seeing them!
TBH!
You Limeys make some beautiful bikes, ha ha! Another good review Capt. Tally Bally Ho!
So many bikes! So little time ol,boy!
+Neil Cole (Smoothound675) I do sometimes feel that way!
You’re nuts mate but what a golly good larf, good review 😂👍
Great review - currently considering either a Tiger 800 or the Explorer - but used so both would be about 5 years old. From your review it would suggest the older Explorer might not be as good as the Tiger 800 of the same era?
Will have to ride both though. Did look at the Tiger Sport 1050 - just not sold on the looks - fickle I know!
Ha! yes, if staying on the road, the Sport would be the best bet, but for a more rugged ride, then the 800 would be easier and cheaper to live with. Then again, you have a chain to lube all the time, whereas the Explorer is shaft drive, so if you want a hassle free ride, then the Explorer is the more suitable...
I hope that this helps...
Nice review Captain! I'm a sucker for gadgety things and it looks like this bike has a lot of them. Since test riding the V-strom I have been thinking more and more about the Tiger 800 XRx/XCx. Seems like you do get a lot of bike for the money, and with the 1200 having shaft drive I think I could be persuaded to go for one of these if I can afford it.
If that's your thing Phil, then definitely try it! YOu've proven you can ride taller bikes and you can get lowering kits and lower seats anyway, although I reckon you'd be ok with just the lower seat. The lower ride height apparently changes the cornering feeling from the front...
Thanks for watching as ever! An honour and pleasure as always...
Great review, I have a much older tiger 955i and they are just a lovely bike if your a taller rider.. The package is about what you would expect for the top of the range, am looking forward to trying it out.
+GTs Garage Excellent! And thank you for watching!
yep. I have thought on that choice. Yet not looked into that yet. But it doesn't look as broad . Strong and has comfortable 2 up on long rides. But cant go off looks. will watch ur blog and get some test rides in nearer the time. Ha. Trouble is I want them all. I've never had interest in so many bikes at once. Cant handle all these choices. Dam triumph. lol. Thanx captain. will do.
As always a very good Blog Captan. I have the 800. 2011 year. Love it, But it is getting on a bit now. I am thinking off my next bike to replace it. My thoughts wer towards a new 800. Now watching this with the tourqe and reasonable flickabillity , With the wind protection and improved suspension. You have me drooling. Thinking a better choice for 2 up riding we mostly do. Would you say its a better choice. . Like you i too like to flick them about and not get Bored.
Having also ridden the new Tiger Sport, I would say that the Tiger Sport would suit you more as long as you don't plan to do much off roading! try it... Have a look at my review for that and see what you think...
It certainly made me feel that a natural upgrade from my 800 XRT would be the Tiger Sport, NOT the Explorer....
See what you think!
Thank you for watching! :-)
the luggage stystem is a triumph branded giving outback trekker alu boxes plus frames. you can save some dish buy buying giving branded system. SW-Motech do a far better luggage range for the bike aswell.
+darren phillips Absolutely... It's just Givi stuff. I also liked the SW MOtech stuff but not the way it attached... But that's just me...
Thanks for watching and for the sage advice!
Brilliant and very informative
Thank you Mandy and thank you for watching!
Lovely review as ever. Some nice little comforts on that bike. Where's that place @ 20.04?
+Samar Pankanti Thank you Samar! It's Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire... A lovely spot.
Damn you! Now I'll have to consider chopping in the 1050SE...
+Andrew Nichols Sorry Andrew, I didn't mean to upset you! ;-)
Cap'n.....Matt here, in the U.S. Awesome review! I have a '14 Tiger 800. Aside from 'weight' and 'shaft drive', what are the primary differences I'd notice between mine and a 1200? Thanks!
Hi Matt! Definitely handling and acceleration. The 1200 has a lot more performance than the old 800 tiger and keeps its weight lower down... I also found the front wheel on the old 800s a little vague in the corners whereas this is completely planted and very confidence inspiring...
Anything else?
Thanks for watching and for the comment!
Cap'n....thanks for the response. How about slow-speed maneuvering. With the 1200's extra weight, is it nullified a bit by the fact that the weight seems 'lower down'? (I had a Victory Kingpin, almost 700 pounds, but the weight was pretty 'low' in it, so it seemed easier to move around the garage) I love my Tiger...but I'd like a shaft-drive. (and I have to admit that while I love the 'triple', I'm not the biggest fan of 'the whistle'.) :) Thanks...and cheers.
Matt Anthony At slow speeds, I'd say that they are similar, but the smoother and sharper throttle response of the newer bike makes it a lot easier to ride slowly.
The 1200 is also a triple though, and still has the whistle but sounds a little lower and quieter... Gruntier if you will...
The fly by wire throttle removes any weight issues at slow speeds...
This bike is going to sell by the truck load here in Europe.
When will the Speedy get a 1200 upgrade, I wonder ?
+Russ Cattle I don't think it will Russ as the new Speed Triple engine has just been rebuilt and performs better (in a different way) to this one! They prefer to keep it in the market that it's in, and the new Speed Triple R nearly turned my head away from the Thruxton, it was that good!
Just a thought as Hinkley like to use a motor in several bikes by altering the tune where needed.
Russ Cattell They do, but they have said that they don't want a 1200 in the Speed Triple because it would alter its character too much... Well thats' what MCN said when they interview Triumph about a year ago...
Where was that nice looking bit of downland you parked up? Looked great
+Jaynewto N It's Ivinghoe Beacon in buckinghamshire... A very nice spot owned by the National Trust... Very busy in the summer,...
+Captain Rambunctious great thanks. How're you getting on with the screen on the tiger? Still finding the buffeting a pain? Aftermarket screen?
Jaynewto N The screen was fine in the end. Had it at it's highest setting and got used to it... :-)
how do you think it would handle 800 miles in a day? seat comfortable enough for that? how about leg room? and any pressure on the wrists?
Easy. I can ride mine for all day. This seat is wider and plusher.... So yes, very good.
Plenty of legroom too and totally cosseted from the wind...
+Captain Rambunctious I'm only getting about 600 miles on the ktm before I have to get off of it. no cruise control. my right arm just can't handle it after a day or 3 of 450+ mile days. seriously looking at a bmw r1200gs. not nearly as sporty as the ktm, but an extremely comfortable ride position and cruise.
+cuzimaluzer777 Ah, then consider one of these as an alternative for price...
+Captain Rambunctious definitely
awesome review!!!
Thank you.
Hi Captain nice video ,thinking of getting one myself also think your very manic and also not to sure on the crotch cam-shot ,happy riding Graham.
Aer you saying you don't like a good crotch shot?! ;-)
Thanks for watching and hope that my video was in some way informative.
Kind regards and TBH!
I don't get the engine heat or wallowing on my 2015 Explorer, but I'd like the leccy suspension though. Modes however can suck it!
+VeeFour Ha! Yes, well I didn't exactly spend too much time on the modes as I'm not really fussed with those either...
The engine heat was something that apparently a lot of other owners had mentioned, but fair enough, good to know that even if it does, it's not that noticeable... Maybe they just needed an excuse for a styling change!
Great review watched this (and some others) 100 times.... trying to decide 800 or 1200. I like that the 1200 has drive shaft but at the same time I don't really want that much power and that's where the 800 would be good.
WM2869 thank you. If you are trying to decide, then a chain drive is lighter and the 800 is cheaper. The main difference is shaft, power and weight and comfort. If you aren't going off road then I'd get the Tiger 1050 Sport just to throw an extra spanner in the works!
Chain drives aren't that bad especially when you have a centre stand as standard...
Thanks for watching!
Captain Rambunctious if it wasn't bad enough deciding between the two.... no I want mostly for the height and I've had bikes with chain before so no drama there. Lighter does sound better.
I can't help but say out loud 'Instantaneous torque!' in a posh accent now whenever I'm accelerating. Ha Ha!
Ha ha! I do apologise! :-) I had no idea how much of the bollocks that I spout becomes a problem! :-) Thanks for watching!
I bought a helmet cam a couple of days ago and having listened to myself waffle as I go along ... I have to admire the fact that you're able to keep it pretty sensible! :-) TBH!
Chris Chadwick ha ha! Yes, you should hear what I cut out! 😉
Great review, how does it compare to your 800.
+blackogg Seat is wider and plusher. Suspension is amazing but it is active suspension so it should be. A lot more oomph. feels only slightly heavier to turn in and to throw around so excellent.
I think that it is JUST worth the extra money if I was after an upgrade... The fact that it is shaft drive for low maintenance would be quite an attractive prospect on its own...
Screen is MUCH more useful as well on the 1200...
That;s about it I think... Anything else?
+Captain Rambunctious Weight difference while parking, etc. Shaft is good as long as it works. Modes are nice, but necessary? For the US market, about 5K dollars more. Different insurance bracket too, I'd imagine.
Off Road, I'd think lighter is better. Gas mileage?
BTW, love the new t-120 in vivid black. Local dealer has one. Can't see trading the Bird for one though. The Bird is so much more bike, and in my case, less money. But maybe in time.....
Stretch Man It doesn't feel much heavier than my Tiger when manoeuvring, even though it is 50 kgs more... But maybe because I am tall I don;t notice it so much...
There haven't been any reports of the Triumph shaft drives failing, so far...
And yes, my Tiger 800 XRT was £10500 and the XRT explorer (same spec you could argue) is £15000. So yes, a similar increase in price here too...
Insurance would have been £100 more for the year as well...
If I could ride a cruiser as it should be, the T Bird is an excellent bike.. I would prefer the T120 though due to its looks and riding position...
Thanks for watching and for such a useful comment...
+Captain Rambunctious I like the t-120 a lot. But, the new to me TBird only has about 7400 miles now, so she's barely broken in, and I have close to 2K in accessories on it as well. Plus, where I live, the roads are long and straight, and it's flat, so it's always breezy. Having a heavier bike is nice for that. And since I bought used ( 3400 miles in January), I saved a bundle on the Bird. I'd have to go in with a lot of money to make up the difference.
How is the gas mileage on the 800 vs the 1200? I did get to ride an older 800 tiger, and the suspension is amazing. But cable throttles and no modes on the 13, so I didn't really get to experience all the new stuff. The rumor is that the heat issues on the 800 in warmer climates, like Florida, can be pretty bad if you're not moving. But, for some reason, it doesn't affect all bikes.
Coming into summer here, where felt temps can exceed 120F in direct sun, and I am glad for the water cooling on the Bird. Harleys get extremely hot in the summer, especially in stop and go traffic, and we cannot filter, or lane split, as they call it here. Without heat shields, and the EITMS system, it can literally burn your leg, even with a retune. I love how Triumph managed to do such a nice job on the water system on the Bonnie.
The electric screen on the new explorer is neat. Best charging system in the industry. I expect we'll be seeing a lot of them on the road, and in Florida, at the coffee shops as well. Great review, BTW, always entertaining.
Stretch Man Thank you for your kind words and interesting facts about Florida riding... I don't think that it will suffer in warm weather as the fan will just come on and cool it as in any water cooled engine?
With regards to fuel consumption, with hooning on my Tiger 800 XRT I could get about 44mpg, but then when just going along at normal speeds and being careful with the throttle, I could get 65mpg...
The 1200 is about 12% worse on fuel but with a larger tank, so although it costs more it will go further on a tank - pretty much what it was made to do really... And to be a fair competitor to the 1200GS...
How many kilometer change the oil and oil filter?
Nahas Salim 16,000 Kims sir.
Great review Captain ;)
+Surrey Rider Thank you sir! :-)
Wow! Triumph seems to be outdoing themselves at every turn. This 1200XRT will be what I look at when I'm looking to upgrade the Tiger 800. Seems to me that it is stiff competition for the GS1200, let's hope the price doesn't match as well.
+Arizona RE Well yes, I believe that the XRT IS on a par with the GS won price I'm afraid, so it will depend on test rides I think...
So when will you be getting a T120 as well? ;-)
We will have to see, I'm so pleased as punch with what I've got in the stable at the moment it is hard to tell when things will be traded out for something new. The T120 would have to be a replacement, as well as the Tiger 1200. I have to figure out way to get an enhancement....
Arizona RE There are many ways to get an 'enhancement' sir! :-)
Oh my!
its a petty its so extreeme heavy...but then again all thise adventure bikes are...Explorer before gsa...but im going for vstrom...lighter bike for commuting, good engien for all type of riding..and its cheaper.
very good video. ride safe
Probably a good bet. Lighter and cheaper always works for me!
Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment. :-)
How tall are you?? I'm 6' 3", how would it be for a tall rider??
P Baker I'm 6'1". It will be spot on for you... definitely test ride though...
I have the screen at max height the whole time and I'm 6'1" too. With the visor up there's a bit of wind in my eyes so at higher speeds I have to put the sun visor down or full visor, but round town it's superb. Being tall certainly helps with the weight. Wouldn't want to try and manage it if I was much under 6' tbh (hence the low seat version I guess).
Thanks for the extra input Chris! Hopefully this will help! TBH!
For a second I was wondering what TBH meant! Ha Ha!
By the way - I loved your gloves so got some me sen! I've gone for the black & white version though! :-)
I'm surprised that you didn't run into the back of that bloody bus, as you were explaining all of the ludicrous "modes" that festoon modern bikes.
Well, that is definitely one drawback to all the modes! :-)
MPH or KPH?
+Bart K mph
The Tiger Sport actually resembles a big cat. The Explorer looks like an angry ostrich from the front, like a rambunctious Big Bird ;D That said I've ridden alongside these and they smoke almost everything on the road.
+London_biker617 They are very quick! I think the Thruxton / Speed Triple / Daytona would have them fairly easily though...
Oh I'm sure. All I mean is for a bike that has everything bar a wine cooler and a cup holder it is still very quick! Nice review as well btw
London_biker617 Absolutely! :-)
That's something to put together, a wine cooler top box. Easily done with a rubber gromit and the power socket at the back! :-)
Cup holders are easy to bolt on to subframe bolts too... Done! :-)
I have lost my dog. Have you seen him?
Lovely bike....though I still think we'll be seeing you on a Thruxton R before too much longer ;)
I have absolutely no idea what you mean! Thruxton R? Never heard of it... 😉
+Captain Rambunctious Little birdie tells me you have heard of it quite recently!
Great review, but why does all of the Tigers have the biggest, ugliest exhaust pipes???
2 reasons - to comply with EU regulations and also to make sure that you buy the Arrow exhaust... :-)
You taking some sort of meds?
+Howard Morton Not at all. You?
What a bike, eh!! Great review as usual. I think I will trade in my 1977 CB550 for a Tiger Explorer. Hahaha...Tally Bally Ho!! :-)
+motonut I would think that it is marginally better than a 1977 bike! ;-)
15k price tag
still not available in the US.
Odd... Maybe something to do with the music but it's the same I use all the time... Odd... How about now?
+Captain Rambunctious lol. no, the bike has not reached us yet. dying to see one.
+cuzimaluzer777 ha ha! Oh dear, I get what you mean now... Thank goodness, I wouldn't have wanted to re-edit it again anyway!! 😊
Shame you haven't got them yet. The red one looks very smart!!
Its a bit like 'Borris' does bikes
Love the gloves... where can I get some? :p
+Mike Ford Ha! Well they were limited stock about 2 years ago and now can't find them anywhere. Other people have asked, but I'm afraid to say that I think there aren't any anywhere!
+Captain Rambunctious Bugger... well thanks for looking!
Mike Ford The only place you could try is to ask your local Triumph dealer to look up the old part number for you and then to ask Triumph UK if they have any left in stock back at base?
Captain Rambunctious Good shout! I'm test riding a Striple R next week so I'll ask then. Cheers bud.
Mike Ford Enjoy! It's lovely... Crushes my nuts I'm afraid, but still a lovely bike...
The Speed Triple R is worth the extra money for me... BUT it's about £3000 more, so a fair whack more...
Ill keep my Tracer methinks
Same here. Mainly because I don't have the money to upgrade haha. Seriously though, I thing this bike is a bit too big for me. That shaft drive is great.
+Andy Bryant You do love your Tracer! :-)
If you think that's fun you need to test a BMW s1000xr !
+Darrell N Absolutely! I need to spend the day at Barnstormers and ride about 4 of their bikes...
huzzah Capn
Tally Bally Ho!
yep. I have thought on that choice. Yet not looked into that yet. But it doesn't look as broad . Strong and has comfortable 2 up on long rides. But cant go off looks. will watch ur blog and get some test rides in nearer the time. Ha. Trouble is I want them all. I've never had interest in so many bikes at once. Cant handle all these choices. Dam triumph. lol. Thanx captain. will do.
Ha ha! Yes, now you know how I feel! :-) Having now ridden them all, apart form the very latest models, I can see parts of me wanting bits of each... All very discombobulating... Tally Bally Ho!