Quote:
Originally Posted by DARKENBAD-1
On my second Tiger800 XC 2015 version, love it, handles like a dream, no issues with the fly by wire throttle. Can't agree with most of the above, the triple is practically vibe free. Which is more than can be said for any big single pot bike, I have done thousands of miles on these bikes and would recommend them to anyone considering a long distance touring machine capable of behaving on/off road. IMO it stacks up nicely against most of the opposition.
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Where was I talking about vibes or anything other than the general unsuitability of the Tiger XC off road?? I'd venture to say I have far more experience with modern (and early) Triumph's than you do. My first was a 1995 Tiger. (did 40K on it) I did extensive off road with it ... it was better off road than either my later 955i Tiger (30K) or my current 1050 Tiger (30K and climbing). But in grand scheme, ALL are too heavy in tough conditions on a travel loaded bike. (deep Desert sand, serious rock gardens, Mud, very steep up or down hill tracks)
I've mistakenly ventured into such places, made it out but NO FUN. (former AMA "B" Enduro rider (retired) ... so I know how.
When I was at the Hinckley factory in 2001 I never got the chance to speak up about a off road bike. The Staff were too ga ga over the then secret Rocket lll monster, which they "accidentally on purpose", let me see. What a POS. But no one asked my opinion and I politely kept my mouth shut ... I was their guest.
In talks with Triumph's then USA CEO, I expressed my dismay over the Rocket.
Triumph UK saw the Japanese making easy money off imitation cruisers and proceeded to waste countless R&D $$$ on a bike NO ONE WANTS. Now, Rockets sit in showrooms, collecting dust. Did OK for first couple years, now very slow.
I in no way dispute the XC Tiger is a great road and travel bike ... I've ridden several varieties, so I know this bike. Smooth as silk but lacks power next to my 1050 Tiger.
The XC is fine for most dirt roads travelers will encounter. But if one were to explore more technical, muddy, sandy conditions, a 550 lbs. bike (add another 70 lbs. for luggage/racks, tools et al) is going to be a handful. I've been there, picked up pieces of bodywork lifted these monster from pinned riders.
I simply see a narrow market niche Triumph may squeeze into and fill. Whether through buying CCM or developing In House design, Triumph could (IMO) succeed in this niche. But niches open and close quickly. Once the Japanese lunge for this spot ... it's over and Triumph won't have a chance.