The Triumph Tiger 1200 has always been a popular choice among adventure motorcycle enthusiasts, known for its versatility and comfortable long-distance riding capabilities.
I was able to take the Tiger 1200 on an epic journey from Barcelona, Spain, to Marrakesh, Morocco, covering a distance of almost 1,100 miles, which was a test of both my and the bike’s endurance.
In this comprehensive review, I’ll break down my experience, discuss the motorcycle’s key features, and share insights that will be valuable to potential buyers.
Comfort
One of the most essential aspects of a long-distance adventure motorcycle is comfort, and the Triumph Tiger 1200 doesn’t disappoint.
The ergonomics are excellent, with a spacious seating area and a comfortable riding position that made hours on the saddle a breeze.
The adjustable windscreen and heated grips were indispensable during colder and windier sections of the journey.
Performance
The Tiger 1200’s engine delivers a smooth and powerful ride, with its 1,215cc inline-triple engine producing 141 horsepower and 90 lb-ft of torque.
The bike is equipped with six riding modes, allowing you to fine-tune the performance to suit different conditions.
The semi-active suspension and Brembo brakes also provide excellent handling and stopping power, even when fully loaded with luggage.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its powerful engine, the Triumph Tiger 1200’s fuel efficiency is impressive.
On our journey, the motorcycle averaged around 45 miles per gallon, allowing us to cover significant distances between fuel stops.
The 20-liter fuel tank ensures ample range for long-distance touring.
Luggage Carrying Capacity
The Triumph Tiger 1200 offers an array of luggage options, including a set of aluminum panniers, a top box, and a tank bag.
These accessories provide ample storage space for all your gear, making it an excellent choice for extended trips.
The panniers and top box are also easy to remove, allowing for more convenient off-bike exploration.
Pillion Passenger Space
The Tiger 1200 has a spacious and comfortable pillion seat, with plenty of legroom for your passenger.
The bike also features grab handles and optional heated passenger seats, ensuring your co-rider’s comfort on those longer trips.
What we like
- Comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding
- Powerful and smooth engine performance
- Impressive fuel efficiency
- Ample luggage carrying capacity
- Spacious and comfortable pillion passenger space
What we don’t like
- Heavier than some competitors in the adventure motorcycle segment
- Premium price tag
Conclusion and final thoughts
After experiencing the Triumph Tiger 1200 firsthand on an incredible journey from Barcelona to Marrakesh, I can confidently say it’s an ideal choice for long-distance motorcycle adventures.
It’s combination of comfort, performance, fuel efficiency, and luggage carrying capacity make it a versatile and reliable machine, perfect for exploring the world on two wheels.
While it may be on the heavier side and come with a premium price tag, the Tiger 1200 offers an unparalleled riding experience that will make every mile of your journey a true pleasure.
