2016 Triumph Tiger Explorer


Triumph have given the range-topping Tiger Explorer range a significant mid-life refresh and have now expanded the available bikes to six within two model variants called XR and XC to follow the pattern set by the smaller 800 cc Tiger.

Many of the changes to the bikes are common across the whole six-bike range but Triumph have attempted to split the bikes into those that are completely road orientated (XR) and those that offer more off-road ability (XC).


All models share the same 1215 cc inline three-cylinder 12-valve motor; unique to the class thanks to the cylinder configuration and also sporting shaft drive. Triumph were forced by the looming Euro4 legislation to update the Explorer’s engine because it wasn’t compliant in terms of either emissions or noise.

The changes to the engine aren’t believed to be radical but Triumph are yet to reveal detailed information about the internal changes. What we do know for sure is that the bike has a new exhaust system with a larger catalytic converter, as well as updated ride-by-wire software and increased power and torque.


In line with the smaller-capacity Tiger 800 range, Triumph have deployed half the alphabet in order to differentiate the six models of the two separate models. The road-focussed models are XC, XCx, XCa and the more off-road capable machines are dubbed XR, XRx and XRt.

All models feature a host of technological upgrades which, Triumph say, are aimed at increasing stability and control. Those features include new semi-active suspension – a first on a Triumph –cornering ABS and traction control, and four rider modes available which have been pre-set and a fifth which the rider can tailor to their own settings.

The two entry-level models in each range; XR and XC; get adjustable and non-semi active suspension supplied by WP. The other four are specified with the Triumph Semi Active Suspension (TSAS), which allows the rider to electronically control the adjustment of the front and rear suspension damping, and automatically adapts the rear shock preload settings to match the surface.


The ABS system has been updated too. The entry-level models get switchable ABS and traction control while the remaining four models are fitted with more advanced cornering ABS and traction control. These four models are fitted with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which uses a bank of sensors to measure five axes of movement including lean angle, acceleration and deceleration to ensure the traction control and ABS work to the best performance.

Additionally there is now the option of a Hill Hold Control (HHC), which electronically holds the brakes on to steady the bike for a hill start; handy on a big adventure bike on uneven surfaces.