Thanks for the replies.
There were several factors that led me to the decision, and I would be lying if I didn’t admit that it was just time to do something different wasn’t a factor. But like many of us on this forum, I’m at an age (nearly 70) that I want something lighter. I assume I don’t have to explain that. I also wanted more current technology.
What are the “must haves”? I own three bikes, and when you look at my signature you can see that the others are not suited for long trips. So this bike has to be well suited for long trips. In the past nine months my friend and I have done a two week/5,500 mile trip and a nine day/3,800 mile trip. So it has to be comfortable, carry lots of luggage and have the features that make long days as comfortable as possible.
Performance means a lot to me. I road raced motorcycles competitively 40 years ago and my passion for all things speed and handling wise has not diminished at all. The Tiger has 148 Hp and weighs around 50-60 lbs less than the FJR and it feels like the difference is more than that. I should point out the it has two versions that have 5.3 gallon tanks and the Explorer version that I have is 7.9. The weight rating is wet, so about 20 lbs are the extra fuel this version carries full.
I was always been very satisfied the the FJRs handling. I rode the Tiger on about 50 miles of the “twisted Sisters” in the Texas Hill Country this morning. These are basically in my backyard. I was at my coffee shop until about 8:30 this morning, rode 160 miles and was home by noon. I ride these roads several times a week.
To say I was amazed by the handling running at a very spirited but safe pace would be an understatement. All the articles on the bike say the same thing. The bike has all the performance features all well equipped bikes have these days. Included is an adaptive and highly adjustable electronic suspension. That along with wide handlebars, quick “steering”, light weight, etc makes for a really fun bike. I really felt like I bonded very quickly on these roads.
I have not run the bike flat out yet, but I’ve run it enough to know it’s fast. The numbers say it should be faster than the FJR. Not by much, but just running with the FJR is a good thing.
The TFT dash has the capability of interfacing with an app on a phone to perform phone, music, turn by turn Nav, and GoPro interface functions. Have not tried any of that yet.
I have not bought luggage for it yet. There are two different types available from Triumph. I’m sure there will be aftermarket as well. I have time to sort that out.
Glad to answer any questions.
bike is getting great reviews, ...but the price here in Canada is way too high so unfortunately it won't be in my garage anytime soon.
