2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Review | First Look

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2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer
2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer

Triumph Motorcycles has announced its 2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer and Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer models, which include further refinements to the engine, enhanced comfort and ergonomics, improved cornering clearance, reduced seat height with Active Preload Reduction as standard, and new colors. The GT Pro and Rally Pro models will not be available in the U.S. market for 2024.

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer
2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer

At the unveiling of the new bikes, Triumph’s Global Product Marketing Manager James Wood said that, similar to the recent changes made to the Tiger 900 line, when it came to the 2024 Triumph Tiger 1200, the company is “constantly looking for ways to improve and refine our bikes and always looking to make them better for our riders.”

Related: 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Review | First Ride

The Tiger 1200 line still features the liquid-cooled, transverse inline-Triple with DOHC and 4 valves per cylinder and a T-plane crankshaft with a 1-3-2 firing order. The irregular firing sequence gives the engine the feel and tractable response of a Twin down low and the sporty character of a Triple from the midrange to redline. In our 2023 Tiger 1200 GT Pro review, the Jett Tuning dyno showed 130.2 hp at 9,100 rpm and 81.8 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm to the rear wheel through the bike’s shaft final drive.

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer

When asked at the unveiling if Triumph had considered changing the engine configuration, Wood said the T-plane was a “very conscientious decision … because of the extra character it gives you and because of the extra tractability it gives you at low rpm.”

“That is absolutely something that we love about this bike and something we know that customers love about this bike too,” he said. “So it was never an option to be changed to anything else. It’s a really nice engine, especially for adventure-style riding.”

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer
2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer

For the 2024 model, Triumph has made further changes to the crankshaft, alternator rotor, and balancer to increase engine inertia, plus some associated engine calibration changes, all with the goal of a smoother and more precise low-rev torque delivery. Triumph says customers will be able to feel the increased smoothness while accelerating or decelerating, especially at low speeds, and that an updated clutch design will create smoother engagement when changing into first gear.

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer
2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer

Both Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer models still feature Brembo Stylema braking components, with dual 4-piston monoblock radial front calipers clamping down on 320mm floating discs and a 1-piston rear caliper and 298mm disc. Cornering ABS is standard, as is cornering traction control. The Showa semi-active suspension system has On-Road and Off-Road damping modes, with nine settings ranging from Sport to Comfort within each mode, as well as automatic rear preload adjustment. Travel is 7.9 inches front and rear. The Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer rides on tubeless spoked wheels (21-inch front, 18-inch rear), and the GT Explorer features cast aluminum wheels (19-inch front, 18-inch rear).

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer
2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer

The seat on both bikes has been redesigned with a flatter profile, providing more space for the rider, and the accessory low seat reduces the seat height by 0.8 inch from 33.5 inches to 32.7 inches on the GT Explorer and from 34.5 inches to 33.7 inches on the Rally Explorer. Seat height is reduced an additional 0.78 inch by the new Active Preload Reduction feature, which was revealed in August 2023 and offers the rider greater confidence by reducing the rear suspension preload as the Tiger 1200 slows to a stop simply by pressing the ‘Home’ button on the switch cube for one second.

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer

Related: Triumph Announces Active Preload Reduction for Tiger 1200 Range

The cornering clearance of the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer model has been increased by lifting the footpeg position and moving them closer to the bike, and a longer clutch lever has also been introduced, providing increased space for riders’ fingers, adding further comfort especially on longer journeys.

The Tiger 1200 Explorer technology package includes the Triumph Blind Spot Radar System, 7-inch TFT instrumentation with integrated My Triumph Connectivity System, Shift Assist, heated grips and seats, tire pressure monitoring, Hill Hold, and a keyless system that includes ignition, steering lock, and fuel cap.

2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer
2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer

Both variants of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer models will be available with new colors for 2024. The GT Explorer will be available in Carnival Red, as well as the previous options of Snowdonia White and Sapphire Black. Pricing starts at $23,795. The Rally Explorer will be available in the new Matte Sandstorm and Jet Black options, as well as the popular Matte Khaki. Pricing starts at $24,895.

For more information, visit the Triumph Motorcycles website.

Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide

The post 2024 Triumph Tiger 1200 Review | First Look appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source...
 
Some subtle improvements to an already great bike.
I own a 2023 Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer and a 2022 Tiger 900 GT Pro. I love both bikes, but if you read the owner reviews, I think you will find the T-Plane crank is not very popular. I'll bet 90% of the Tiger 1200's never go off road and the blurry mirrors are a real down grade from the smooth triples of the past (I also owned a 2013 Trophy). IMHO I think focusing on a better "My Triumph Connectivity System" would have been a much smarter approach, as the current systems GoPro and Navigation are essentially useless. Also, moving the pegs up and the seat down is not great for tall riders like myself (6'6").
 
The bike is a pretty good step up in advancement from the older generations, but I too lament the loss of the older, smoother engine. Think they should have left that alone.
My next bike will be a T 120 Bonnie.
 
The bike is a pretty good step up in advancement from the older generations, but I too lament the loss of the older, smoother engine. Think they should have left that alone.
My next bike will be a T 120 Bonnie.
I think everyone I chat with says the same thing. I don't know who Triumph is refering to when they say that they are listening to their customers.
 
The Pro models are just a larger fuel tank and a few add-ons IIRC. Which parts of the Pro models were you really wanting? Just curious.
I'll have to look over the breakdown on the equipment but every time I bought a sub rally pro I always seem to make it one over time. Specifically things like center stand, quick shifter, TPMS, heated seats and grips which I rarely use but they're nice when they're needed, and yes the increased fuel capacity is a must for me. I seem to always put on some sort of case saver bars and I do like to have extra low-mounted lights for foggy conditions. But honestly the price point at the start of these 1200s really makes me look harder at the 900s which I think are probably the overall better choice especially for spending time off the pavement. I do like the idea of not messing with chains got spoiled with my concours. Although I'm quite satisfied with my 2020 rally which is almost a pro and I only have 7,000 miles on it so I'm in no rush to change. And lastly all the dealers I've made contact with in my state are what I would consider passive aggressive tactics and I don't play that game. I'll be looking for a lightly ridden used when I guess.
 
Addressing low speed driveability on a big bike is always a good thing, IMO. Lowering the seat, Great! Giving the rider more room to move around and narrowing the peg location, another good move. I agree, most 1200 GT Tigers won't go off road, twice. Having tire sizes that would allow a choice of road oriented rubber, would be a very good thing, as would addressing the seemingly high low gear. That in addition to the other changes would be very useful in parking lot situations.
My previous bike was a Trophy SE, so I know Triumph how to tackle touring bike issues.
 
Well I got hoodwinked by Triumph's trick marketing scheme and a new to Triumph dealership staff that weren't aware. Great price on 2023 Tiger 1200 Rally Pro so I jumped on it...but...Rally Pro on the 1200 is NOT the package with tpms/heated seats/radar blind spot...only explorer (which were not in stock at any price, no 2024's on the horizon in Texas for some reason). Clutch was not assembled corrected at the factory, "outer plate" was out of position and caused slippage. Clutch cover gaskets on backorder with no release date. I feel like I've been a victim of "bait and switch". If I opted for the Tiger 900 Rally pro, it would have the wanted TPMS and heated seats (no radar on the 900's). Fool me once shame on Triumph...it didn't help that the staff were also unaware of this. Don't think I'm going to be buying another Triumph anytime soon, if ever. Not a good start with a bike/make that I really liked heretofore. Good luck and check everything if you bite! I trusted too much. Not again.
 
I’m a bit confused, what you were looking to buy and what you ended up buying? Curious which part of Texas are you in? Are the specifications of each model available online?
 
Found this buyers guide online with fairly clear indication of options and which are on each model.
https://www.totalmotorcycle.com/motorcycles/2023/2023-triumph-tiger-1200-rally-proLikely need a spreadsheet going to the dealer if looking at one of these.
Well I got hoodwinked by Triumph's trick marketing scheme and a new to Triumph dealership staff that weren't aware. Great price on 2023 Tiger 1200 Rally Pro so I jumped on it...but...Rally Pro on the 1200 is NOT the package with tpms/heated seats/radar blind spot...only explorer (which were not in stock at any price, no 2024's on the horizon in Texas for some reason). Clutch was not assembled corrected at the factory, "outer plate" was out of position and caused slippage. Clutch cover gaskets on backorder with no release date. I feel like I've been a victim of "bait and switch". If I opted for the Tiger 900 Rally pro, it would have the wanted TPMS and heated seats (no radar on the 900's). Fool me once shame on Triumph...it didn't help that the staff were also unaware of this. Don't think I'm going to be buying another Triumph anytime soon, if ever. Not a good start with a bike/make that I really liked heretofore. Good luck and check everything if you bite! I trusted too much. Not again.
Yes, the model options are abundant (maybe too abundant) with Triumph and the option names can be confusing. With that said, Triumph makes a great product, and the information on the different models is readily available. If you thought the "Pro" was the top of the line for the new Tiger 1200's that is unfortunate. Your sale person should have let you know. I think any blame for getting a bike without the features you wanted is on your salesman and yourself (homework), and not really on Triumph. Don't spite yourself by avoiding a great motorcycle brand like Triumph.
 
It is critical to do your homework and go to a dealership knowing as much as possible about what you are looking for and which model you want. It’s also a quick way to size up a dealership without any commitment. If you know the models and have your own spreadsheet and a sales person tells you something different it’s time to back away. Being an informed buyer is your own safeguard.
 
It is critical to do your homework and go to a dealership knowing as much as possible about what you are looking for and which model you want. It’s also a quick way to size up a dealership without any commitment. If you know the models and have your own spreadsheet and a sales person tells you something different it’s time to back away. Being an informed buyer is your own safeguard.
I spoke to no less than 4 different salespersons since August 2023 about the differences, even went on the "configurator" on the website, unfortunately there were discrepancies all around. Some were corrected, and some I failed to note the changes. Like you said earlier, almost need a spreadsheet to keep everything straight, but seriously, WHY make anything so bloody confusing in the first place? In the end I blame myself for trusting people that didn't know or didn't care to know. I am paying for this mistake. But, I will not be a fool twice. And then what are the odds I get a bike (that I really like but can I trust??) with a lame clutch!?? What are the odds. By the way, in 55 years this is the ONLY vehicle I've bought new (out of dozens) that was lame from the start. I took delivery on a friday and they were literally closing the doors on me and were POOF out of sight before I even threw a leg over my machine for THE FIRST RIDE. Oh yes, The sales manager got an earful from me the next day and profusely apologized. Based on several gestures that I accepted, I believe him. Hopefully they won't be so quick to leave a customer before they at least have the chance to take it around the block and give the OK signal before rushing out to cracking open that first beer or booty call.

In the end I don't feel I bought a "premium" product. Maybe time will change this bitter distaste but this is the facts of my experience at this point, just a tad over 8 days of ownership experience hell. Perhaps someone at Triumph will take note one day as I am making sure my story gets posted on every "T" connected forum I can find. If my story can help the next guy, then it is all worth it.
 
By the way, can ANYONE find a 2024 Tiger 1200 in ANY trim in the USA available anywhere? I asked 3 dealers where they are and all they gave me were shrugs.
 
Totally understand and absolutely need spreadsheets. My memory would not hold all the options. I took a brief look and there’s no way I could keep any of that straight. From an earlier comment you noted perhaps being interested in an earlier model, used is in my view a nicer option considering the $20k plus price tags of the new models.
 
Yes, the model options are abundant (maybe too abundant) with Triumph and the option names can be confusing. With that said, Triumph makes a great product, and the information on the different models is readily available. If you thought the "Pro" was the top of the line for the new Tiger 1200's that is unfortunate. Your sale person should have let you know. I think any blame for getting a bike without the features you wanted is on your salesman and yourself (homework), and not really on Triumph. Don't spite yourself by avoiding a great motorcycle brand like Triumph.
Not so sure a brand can be called great that can't assemble a clutch pack properly on a $23000+ motorcycle! And there is a TSB about clutch issues (perhaps several now) but good luck trying to get the "scoop" on it...locked down tighter than Joe Bidens shady deals. I've let Triumph HQ know about this but I'm not expecting much, if any, reaching out to me...not really in the mood to fly to the UK if need be to get to the bottom of it.

Where are the 24 Tiger 1200's in the USA? Anyone??
 
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