New Triumph Tiger spotted testing

Last year the Triumph Tiger 800 received an overhaul with as many as 200 changes. But with new mid-weight adventure motorcycles like the KTM 790 Adventure, BMW F 750, F 850 and F 850 Adventure in the market, looks like Triumph has decided to give the Tiger a major update.

What’s new?

The prototype is easy to distinguish from the current-generation Tiger, thanks to its sleek updated fascia. The tank appears to be chiseled down and has bigger shrouds. The prototype also featured split radiator design, which will aid in keeping the bike cool. The prototype also sported a plastic sump guard instead of the aluminium unit from the current one.

Another big change is the frame. The prototype featured a bolt-on subframe with removable pillion pegs, which the current generation model lacks. The rear section is completely resdesigned with big grab rails and a redesigned tail light that is now mounted on the license-plate holder. Like the BMWs, the Tiger prototype sported tubeless spoked wheels with the spokes on the outer edge of the rim.

Suspension on the test mule appears to be an Ohlins unit rather than a WP one. Though the rear monoshock unit isn’t visible, it is likely to be updated as well, and could offer more travel. The swingarm on the prototype looks shorter and had recesses on either side which will likely keep the weight in check. The prototype also sported a new TFT dash, which seemed bigger than the one on the current generation of Triumphs.

Though the updates to the engine are not known yet, the new Tiger will likely have a bigger engine to give the bike and edge over the competition.

Ever since the Africa Twin’s introduction in 2015, the maxi trail concept is becoming quite a hit with the crowd. KTM and Yamaha too have adopted the idea of a hardcore trail bike with the 790 Adventure and the Tenere 700.

Triumph hasn’t announced any plans for a new Tiger yet, it is likely that the new Tiger could debut at EICMA 2019.