New Sport Version of the Triumph Tiger 1050 for 2013

[Rincewind]

A MCN reader in the UK spotted a new Sport version of the Tiger 1050 which was parked in a McD's parking lot while the Triumph test rider took a break.

The new Sport version sports a single-sided swingarm, revised fairing, new wheels, and revised rear subframe.  The article does not mention if the much besmeared suspension or headlights get upgrades as well, though I'd hope they do.

Too bad the "slightly grumpy" test rider wouldn't allow the reader to get further shots of the bike.  I'd particularly like to see this beast from other side with that new single-sided swingarm!  



MCN online article - http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/News/newsresults/New-bikes/2012/March/mar0212-triumph-tiger-sport-1050-spied/

[caddydaddy]

I would have thought a sportier Tiger would get the new 1215cc engine!  

[Rincewind]

I would have thought a sportier Tiger would get the new 1215cc engine!  

From what I have read, the 1050 engine may indeed "Sportier" than the new 1200 engine.  The one article I recall, a Triumph design manager was saying that there will never be a Speed Triple 1200 because the new engine is slower revving and not sporty enough.

[caddydaddy]

From what I have read, the 1050 engine may indeed "Sportier" than the new 1200 engine.  The one article I recall, a Triumph design manager was saying that there will never be a Speed Triple 1200 because the new engine is slower revving and not sporty enough.

Makes sense.  But from what others have said, the 1050 is an old design and was on it's way out.

[stromgal]

Sportier Tiger 1050 makes sense; now that there's the 800XC they can abandon the 'dual-sporting' pretense.  I do love that engine....

(edited to add: appears they finally put a functional chain guard on it as well!)

[Croak]

What also makes sense is using up all those old Sprint SSSAs now that it's been discontinued.  

Triumph has a rich history of making sure the parts bins are emptied out (ST/S3 SSSA on late production RS, 1050 cases on late production Tiger 955's, etc).

They could be using a modified Speed Triple SSSA, but I suspect the longer wheelbase Sprint unit works better for the Tiger's longer travel suspension.

[Rincewind]

What also makes sense is using up all those old Sprint SSSAs now that it's been discontinued.  

Well they can still use those SSSA's with the Sprint GT's, too.  

Makes sense.  But from what others have said, the 1050 is an old design and was on it's way out.

Probably speculation.  As is seen, the 1050 engine, though derived from the original triples, remains in the line-up 8-years after introduction.  

[crispiegee1]

Once again, Rincewind gets the scoop!  

Personally, the Tiger 1050 never did much for me. And I don't see why the 1215 engine can't be used or why it "revs slower," according to Triumph. It's got the same stroke as the 1050 and if they lightened pistons, con rods and crank by a couple ounces each, there's no reason why it couldn't rev faster or higher than the 1050.

Either that, or Triumph should work on making it more fuel efficient.

[X1Glider]

I've only seen the spy pic.  Haven't see a single bit of reliable info, only reader's speculations.

[X1Glider]

And I don't see why the 1215 engine can't be used or why it "revs slower," according to Triumph. It's got the same stroke as the 1050 and if they lightened pistons, con rods and crank by a couple ounces each, there's no reason why it couldn't rev faster or higher than the 1050.

Even the high revving suspersports are peaking at around 4500 feet/minute piston speed when you could actually go as high as 7000 before catastrophic failure.  No reason the 1215 couldn't rev to 12000 reliably.  Pretty much every engine out there can rev much faster than what they are factory limited too.  It isn't the meachanical durability that's the issue.  The issue is more likely breathing at high rpms and the speed of flame propogation in larger bores.  But who cares in regards to an Sport Tourer?  High rpm peak power is overrated in real world riding.  Give me a strong and wide midrange torque curve any day.

[Croak]

Well they can still use those SSSA's with the Sprint GT's, too.  



Probably speculation.  As is seen, the 1050 engine, though derived from the original triples, remains in the line-up 8-years after introduction.  

Sprint GT is also on its last year, by all accounts.

[jfusaro]

Explorer 1200, right out of BMW's book of GS's, Trophy 1200, spy shots, again BMW 1600 GT, and now this half hearted attempt at the mighty Multi 1200? Come on Triumph you can do better than that..

[crispiegee1]

Explorer 1200, right out of BMW's book of GS's, Trophy 1200, spy shots, again BMW 1600 GT, and now this half hearted attempt at the mighty Multi 1200? Come on Triumph you can do better than that..

And they make a great bike for less than the cost of BMW with a triple instead of the boxer. What's not to like? I'm glad to have the variety and Triumph does quite well with them.

You'd prefer them to stick to building Bonnevilles?  

[Croak]

Explorer 1200, right out of BMW's book of GS's, Trophy 1200, spy shots, again BMW 1600 GT, and now this half hearted attempt at the mighty Multi 1200? Come on Triumph you can do better than that..

You're living up to the stereotype.  Just tell me you didn't type that post from a Starbucks, ok?

[jfusaro]

You're living up to the stereotype.  Just tell me you didn't type that post from a Starbucks, ok?

Stereotype of what, a Canadian , it was just an observation, unravel your underwear people. The Speed Triple and Bonneville are unique to Triumph. I owned a Sprint ST and still own a Bonnie. I never said I did not like them, I just commented that I would have liked a bit more from them. And no I am not at Starbucks but I do stop there on occasion.

[Roadscum]

....................................
..............................

You'd prefer them to stick to building Bonnevilles?  

The Classic line could use a upgrade, maybe 904cc motor and better suspenion. Perhaps a new model, Thruxton R with USD forks/radial brakes, to competer with the new Norton.  

Regards, Paul

[crispiegee1]

Stereotype of what, a Canadian , it was just an observation, unravel your underwear people. The Speed Triple and Bonneville are unique to Triumph. I owned a Sprint ST and still own a Bonnie. I never said I did not like them, I just commented that I would have liked a bit more from them. And no I am not at Starbucks but I do stop there on occasion.

If you were a stereotype of a Canadian, you would have been writing from Tim Horton's.  

[jfusaro]

If you were a stereotype of a Canadian, you would have been writing from Tim Horton's.  

So right!

[X1Glider]

If you were a stereotype of a Canadian, you would have been writing from Tim Horton's.  

So right!

You bet.  Horton's advertises at the hockey games.  Starbucks is for metrosexual poofs who don't like sports at all.

[jfusaro]

You bet.  Horton's advertises at the hockey games.  Starbucks is for metrosexual poofs who don't like sports at all.

Starbucks is for metrosexual poofs who don't like sports at all.
Typical Texan stereo typing everyone thru the web, proof that the brain is not wired to the hand  

[X1Glider]

Starbucks is for metrosexual poofs who don't like sports at all.
Typical Texan stereo typing everyone thru the web, proof that the brain is not wired to the hand  

You just insulted me by calling me a Texan.  As a Philadelphian, I reserve the right to be a judgemental asshole.

BTW, go out and buy yourself a sense of humor.  

[crispiegee1]

I was going to mention that your post was wry humor, but figured I'd let you handle it.

Anyway, there was something unintentionally ironic about his post that said, "Typical Texan stereo typing everyone..."

[jfusaro]

You just insulted me by calling me a Texan.  As a Philadelphian, I reserve the right to be a judgemental asshole.

BTW, go out and buy yourself a sense of humor.  

I have a sense of humor, and am having fun with this, your the self appointed judgemental asshole who's undies are ruffled

[crispiegee1]

Well now, that just took the fun out of everything. (Shows the importance of using emoticons to convey sarcasm too.)  


Anyway, back to the topic at hand: While I'm not a fan of the Tiger 1050, I forcefully disagree that Triumph simply copies other brands (the example given of the Tiger 800 and Explorer 1200), as they offer buyers competitive products with the unique three-cylinder arrangement.

Nobody accuses Kawasaki of copying Suzuki (or vice versa) because they both have 600cc and 1000cc sport bikes. It's hard to tell the big four apart, except for color. Was the Camaro Chevrolet's answer to the Mustang? Sure, but it had different engine options and different interior choices. Definitely better for buyers.

I've thought that the R1200 GS was a cool bike, but for two things: It's ugly and the seat is too high for me. Triumph's offerings solve those problems for me.  

[Rincewind]

MCN's Andy Downes says he has a new spy shot which shows new lights.
http://www.triumphtorque.com/messageboard/thread/138058-New-Tiger-Another-spy-shot.aspx

So it took them 5 freaking years to fix the damn lights.  

[JReazor]

Well, they supposedly fixed the headlights on the Sprint with the GT. They still kinda suck.

[expatbrit]

Well, they supposedly fixed the headlights on the Sprint with the GT. They still kinda suck.

The ones on the ST /really/ sucked. In a turn, total darkness ahead of you as the cut off rolled around. WHEEE.

[JReazor]

The ones on the ST /really/ sucked. In a turn, total darkness ahead of you as the cut off rolled around. WHEEE.

That just adds to the sport!

In all fairness, I'm probably spoiled by the fantastic coverage that comes from a plain ol' fork mounted 7" headlight bucket.

[Dan K]

The ones on the ST /really/ sucked. In a turn, total darkness ahead of you as the cut off rolled around. WHEEE.

I upgraded to HID's and while they're great in the straights. they do nothing in the turns. In process of wiring up lights on the side.

- Dan

[stk0308]

I upgraded to HID's and while they're great in the straights. they do nothing in the turns. In process of wiring up lights on the side.

- Dan

My '08 is plenty bright for straight up and down, but the cut-off is still there.  I've hung some Hella FF50 fogs off the top brake caliper bolts, but it's imperfect.  I have to reposition them every time I change the front tire, or service the brakes  

[Rincewind]

When I had my Tiger 1050 I used Motolights to compensate.  I hope Triumph phases out ALL their projection cut-off set-ups.  IMO they are downright dangerous for motorcycle applications.

Rumor-mill from the UK is that someone saw this new Tiger 1050 with the same lights as used for the Tiger 800 which AFAIK are NOT projection cut-off types.  

[Rincewind]

Spy pic shows it with the Sprint GT bags.  SSSA in full show - looking good.  

[Croak]

Wish they'd go with a low-mount exhaust to avoid asymmetrical bags.  But that pisses off the folks that are obsessed with the SSSA looks, so poor Triumph can't win.

[Rincewind]

Wish they'd go with a low-mount exhaust to avoid asymmetrical bags.  But that pisses off the folks that are obsessed with the SSSA looks, so poor Triumph can't win.

Good point - I hadn't thought that the Sprint GT bags would need a cut-out, but you're right.  The other option is to go to underbody exhuast, but then that kills the ability to have a center stand.

Looks like the new one may also have an engine bar option that looks similar to my old Hepco & Becker bars.  

[Dan K]

Good point - I hadn't thought that the Sprint GT bags would need a cut-out, but you're right.  The other option is to go to underbody exhuast, but then that kills the ability to have a center stand.

Looks like the new one may also have an engine bar option that looks similar to my old Hepco & Becker bars.  

My Sprint has undertail exhaust that lives very nicely with the stock center stand....?

[Rincewind]

My Sprint has undertail exhaust that lives very nicely with the stock center stand....?

I was referring to underbody exhaust like as found with the Buell XB's and Kawasaki ER6N/650R, where the exhaust canister and bits are underneath the bike and in the way of a center stand.  

[expatbrit]

I upgraded to HID's and while they're great in the straights. they do nothing in the turns. In process of wiring up lights on the side.

- Dan

Yup. Those were on my list of Required Upgrades if I'd kept the STrumpet, for sure. The projector headlights were absolutely terrifying.

[Yankee Dog]

I wonder if they are upping the power output to something similiar to the Tiger 800 and Explorer. I recently scratched the Tiger 1050 off my list due to the inability to run two sets of heated gear. The 955 is killing me, but there is nothing else out there that I want just now.

[Croak]

They're moving it up to take over for the Sprint GT as a ST rig, so I wouldn't be surprised if there's an up-graded charging system in the 500W+ range.

Don't expect "New Tiger" wattage output though.

[bomber]

They're moving it up to take over for the Sprint GT as a ST rig, so I wouldn't be surprised if there's an up-graded charging system in the 500W+ range.

Don't expect "New Tiger" wattage output though.

It'd  be aces if the new stator/regulators would bolt up to OG Tiger 1050s . . . . . . . .

[Croak]

Well, the 950w one on the 1200 is an external unit (throwback to the old 885/955 days, in a way).

[Prubert]

Well, the 950w one on the 1200 is an external unit (throwback to the old 885/955 days, in a way).

Along with the idling tractor noise?

[Croak]

One would hope not.    My '99 always sounded like it was self-destructing at low RPM.

[camaroz1985]

That top case looks huge.

[Cablebandit]

That top case looks huge.

I wonder if it has the same "feature" of some as their other topcases.  Flopping side to side as you lean.  

[rdbandkab]

An undertail exhaust would be neat (maybe something like the old Sprint).    We have the undertail exhaust on our aprilia Futura and don't have any issues with heat.

Hmmmmm..... Single side swingarm, undertail exhaust, hard bags and a trunk?   Sounds like a naked Futura!  

Hopefully some updated pics soon.

[bungie4]

You bet.  Horton's advertises at the hockey games.  Starbucks is for metrosexual poofs who don't like sports at all.

Hijack

One of our local Tim's sets a TV up outside so that we can watch the Stanley Cup finals during bike night.

How Canadian is that

[Carbonero]

What also makes sense is using up all those old Sprint SSSAs now that it's been discontinued.  

Triumph has a rich history of making sure the parts bins are emptied out (ST/S3 SSSA on late production RS, 1050 cases on late production Tiger 955's, etc).

They could be using a modified Speed Triple SSSA, but I suspect the longer wheelbase Sprint unit works better for the Tiger's longer travel suspension.

My brother in law has a grey-market '73/'74 Bonnie/Tiger hybrid from exactly that exercise. He's put together quite a list of which parts from from the '73 and '74, and which are from the bonnie and the tiger for it.  

It was sold as a Bonneville, but has the front end and tank from the Tiger.

[ScottB]

Huh.  As a verified Tim Hortons swilling Canuck, what's with the Tiger 1050 hating?  What's not to like about that engine in a comfortable frame with a little wind protection and a low enough weight to keep it truly sporty?  Not to mention hard bags and reasonable passenger accommodations?

I dunno, seems to be there are now a host of semi naked sport touring rigs that all sort of look like 1050 Tigers - I cite the big Versys, the CBF1000, even the Ninja 1000 to some degree.  I'm not saying they did it first, or even best, but its a good ride for distance sport riding.

Not that I'm biased or anything.  

[redsled]

Just ran across this thread while searching for other stuff (sorry for rehashing a two-month old thread).  Funny, because my searching was for trying to decide between buying a new Sprint GT or Ninja 1000 (with luggage).  I absolutely love my Tiger 1050 I've had for 4 1/2 years, but it's time to move on.  

Now.......I'm thinking I'll hold onto it for another year and see what happens.  It only seems logical that Triumph is throwing all the stuff on the 2011 and 12 Tiger 1050's now in a promo.  They did something similar when I bought a Speed Triple in 2004.  Following year?  The new 1050 came out that nothing fitted from the old 955.

  I'm wanting something sportier, but kept going back and forth with the Sprint and N1k, weighing pros and cons (there's many on each side for me!)  I have compiled quite a list on each one!

Thanks Rince!!!

[maddjack]

I like a underbelly exhaust, I can do without a center stand.Under tail exhaust limits if you choose to go the soft luggage route, thats why I personally don't like them. If this machine is for real and put into production it would be on my short list

[Yankee Dog]

I like a underbelly exhaust, I can do without a center stand.Under tail exhaust limits if you choose to go the soft luggage route, thats why I personally don't like them. If this machine is for real and put into production it would be on my short list

I can do without a center stand on a bike with a shaft drive.  but I gots to have  centerstand on a bike with a chain.  Makes chain maint a breeze instead of a chore.

[ScottB]

Mine doesn't have a center stand.  It did, but it clanked around a lot.  I ditched it for a cheap rear stand.  Granted, chain maintenance on the road is now a bit more painful, but whatever.  It's a fair trade off.

[maddjack]

I can do without a center stand on a bike with a shaft drive.  but I gots to have  centerstand on a bike with a chain.  Makes chain maint a breeze instead of a chore.

Well at home I uze a stand on the road I use the same spools and a collaspable quick stand thats is smaller than 1 1/2 packs of smokes and not as thick.No chore at all really.

[crispiegee1]

Well at home I uze a stand on the road I use the same spools and a collaspable quick stand thats is smaller than 1 1/2 packs of smokes and not as thick.No chore at all really.

Can you post a link to your device? Sounds like a wonderful thing. Thanks.

[crispiegee1]

Even the high revving suspersports are peaking at around 4500 feet/minute piston speed when you could actually go as high as 7000 before catastrophic failure.  No reason the 1215 couldn't rev to 12000 reliably.  Pretty much every engine out there can rev much faster than what they are factory limited too.  It isn't the meachanical durability that's the issue.  The issue is more likely breathing at high rpms and the speed of flame propogation in larger bores.  But who cares in regards to an Sport Tourer?  High rpm peak power is overrated in real world riding.  Give me a strong and wide midrange torque curve any day.

X1, you make great points, and I'm in total agreement with you that high rpm peak power is overrated in real world riding.    Heck, even with my YZF600R, I shift at 4000 when noodling through in-town traffic, and almost never have it higher than 6000, except when overtaking.

The only thing I'd like about a 1200 triple that revved a little higher is the sound.    While normally, I don't like redlining my engines, my (limited) experience with Triumph triples has demonstrated to me that they are INCREDIBLY sonorous way up high - particularly the 675 engine when it's north of 12,000.

On the other hand, would I ride my OWN bike that way? Probably not often, considering I am not someone who likes to attract attention from the po-po.  

[Croak]

Can you post a link to your device? Sounds like a wonderful thing. Thanks.

I use one of these on the Tuono, the spool version.

http://www.packjack.ca/

[JReazor]

Can you post a link to your device? Sounds like a wonderful thing. Thanks.

This is the one I used for the SV. It's a little pricey for an aluminum stick but it works like a charm.

http://www.motorcycleradar.com/quick_stand.htm

[Hickey]

I use one of these on the Tuono, the spool version.

http://www.packjack.ca/

That looks cool!

[Croak]

That looks cool!

Works well, fits under the seat nicely, doesn't weigh much, makes a decent wheel chock, cutting board, pry bar, tent stake pounder/puller, and doesn't cost much in the grand scheme of things.  

[ScottB]

That is freaking cool.  I'll have to try one of those out!

[redsled]

I use one of these on the Tuono, the spool version.

http://www.packjack.ca/

Almost $50 though!  

[maddjack]

This is the one I use , works great
http://www.motorcycleradar.com/quick_stand.htm

[Croak]

Almost $50 though!  

Like I said, it's cheap.

[Silverbird]

I want a tiger 1050 but not a first year model. Is there any word if the current model will be discontinued?

[Rincewind]

I want a tiger 1050 but not a first year model. Is there any word if the current model will be discontinued?

The first Tiger 1050 model year was 2007.  I don't think these minor changes (swingarm, rear subframe, slightly revised fairings) will have an impact on reliability.  

Regarding your question, the Triumph site shows a 2012 model year Tiger 1050 SE.  I would guess that next year's model gets these Sport upgrades and lives on with that guise for a few years - but that's just speculation.

On the original test photo - here is text from the guy who snapped it (c/o Triumph Torque):

Basically as it said in the article, I saw the bike pull up at the local drive thru, the bike had loads of wires and sensors all over it so I knew it was a test bike, but I didn't know what. He happened to park next to my car, so as we went back to it, I took a pic on my phone, and he came running out saying not to take pics, and if it got to the press he could lose his job! We got talking about bikes and triumphs in general while he was getting kitted up, and he said it was just a few new body panels and decals rather than a whole new bike! I didn't know at the time you could get paid for pics, I just emailed it to mcn incase they could use it. A couple of weeks later Andy downes phoned me and said they wanted to use the pic as it was the first known pic in the world of the bike and they would pay me £150 to use it!
If I'd known they pay that much I'd have made a point of sitting outside the factory with a camera when I used to live in hinckley! Lol
Not much of a story but I got my 5 mins of fame! Lol

[redsled]

My dealer gave me a look when I asked if this is the last year for the current model.  Which told me that it most likely is, but he isn't allowed to say for sure.  And this dealer *always* seems to have the Triumph rep in the store when I call, seeing as how the US HQ for Triumph is a short drive away from this dealer (45 minutes).

Reason why I think it's the last year for the current model is look at all of the accessories that are being thrown in with the bike (something like $1500 worth).  My guess is that's because all of these accessories won't fit the new model.  We've already seen the new sidecases that are like the Sprint GT, so you know those and the topcase won't fit the current model.

But I'd hardly call the first year model of the Sport new.  If it's like what we've seen so far, it's a mere massaging of the current one.  I'll probably sell the Speed Triple I just bought and buy another Tiger if it turns out like the spy shots.

[BlueRidgeKat]

The current Tiger 1050 has been around a while, its time for a few cosmetic and other minor changes much like we seen on the V-Strom 650 this year. I certainly dont see anything here that I would ditch my Tiger 1050 for.... its already a pretty good all arounder.

[Silverbird]

I can deal with that.  A more road worthy tiger would suite me better anyway.  I'd have to assume this is what they'll do with the Explorer available for those that like to play in the dirt.

Say I were to want a current model, anyone think there will be any available in December?

[Yankee Dog]

...........................my Tiger 1050 ................

BRKat.      How are the electrics on the 1050. Can it handle much in the way of extra lights and heated gear??

[redsled]

Mine did just fine.  And that was before I went from an HID low beam and LED aux lights.  Back in the first two years of ownership, I had a heated jacket liner, std headlight, and halogen aux lights.  I only changed out the low beam and aux lights for better lighting.

Change that low beam to an HID and you'll see a whole new world at night, pun intended.  

[Rincewind]

BRKat.      How are the electrics on the 1050. Can it handle much in the way of extra lights and heated gear??

I recall the output is about 480-watts on the T1050.  

[Carbonero]

From what I have read, the 1050 engine may indeed "Sportier" than the new 1200 engine.  The one article I recall, a Triumph design manager was saying that there will never be a Speed Triple 1200 because the new engine is slower revving and not sporty enough.

Agreed; the construction of the engine lends itself to lower revs and more torque, just like any other "big bore" engine.

Save that frenetic, high-revving insanity for the R6 engines and such.  

[Silverbird]

Clearly Triumph wanted this photo to be taken, why the hell else would there be the logo on the tank?

So is that the same gas tank?  Probably no increase in capacity right?

[Rincewind]

Clearly Triumph wanted this photo to be taken, why the hell else would there be the logo on the tank?

So is that the same gas tank?  Probably no increase in capacity right?

It looks like the same fuel tank to me.  

[Rincewind]

New pic of the upcoming Tiger Sport



Why isn't the T1050 listed on the US Triumph website anymore?  It shows up if you google it specifically, but it's not in the regular line-up.  I read a rumor on a Tiger board that the Tiger 1050 may not be imported??  Can anyone confirm that?

[GRN]

Not much of a Tiger fan. I like the Sprint, and hope they bring back an ST with the 800 mil, GT lights & pans, and Thruxton Green paint (w/ the stripe).

[Xanth]

The Tiger 1050 has been on my short list for a purchase by Spring. I've been watching the Triumph website to see if this update would come through. A couple of months ago a 2013 page showed up for the 1050. It stayed up a very short time, and it appeared to be a copy and paste of the 2012 model. It and the Sprint GT disappeared from their site at the same time. If you notice there is a page up for a 2013 Tiger 1050 on the U.K. site. I've read a similar rumor about it not being imported. I'd hoped to see something more definitive by now, but I'm pretty much losing hope on that.

[Rincewind]

The Tiger 1050 has been on my short list for a purchase by Spring. I've been watching the Triumph website to see if this update would come through. A couple of months ago a 2013 page showed up for the 1050. It stayed up a very short time, and it appeared to be a copy and paste of the 2012 model. It and the Sprint GT disappeared from their site at the same time. If you notice there is a page up for a 2013 Tiger 1050 on the U.K. site. I've read a similar rumor about it not being imported. I'd hoped to see something more definitive by now, but I'm pretty much losing hope on that.

There is a US page that shows a 2013 Tiger 1050 SE, but you have to google it to find it because it's not linked on their main page.  Here is the google link - http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/motorcycles/range/adventure/tiger-1050 .  However there IS reference to it in the text on their Adventure bike page, so it makes you wonder.  

A dealer would know better as to whether they can order them anymore.  My local dealers don't show any in stock.  It could turn out that the they are holding back on the info for the "new model" which they will announce at one of the next Euro shows.  It would be unusual for them to not import one of their models to the US.

[Xanth]

Yeah, that's the page that was up for a few days. It and the Sprint page were taken down at the same time. You can still do a search for the old Sprint page as well - http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/motorcycles/range/touring/sprint/2012/sprint-gt . The reference on the Adventure page could just be forgotten text. They've had a lot of stuff appear and disappear on their site the last few months.

My local dealer is just saying, "I don't know". I hope they are just holding back, but the thing that makes me wonder is the regular model they show for 2013 on the UK site. That would lead me to think that 2013 won't be getting the updated version, and the US won't be getting any version. I still hope it's just another website snafu.

Admittedly, while the 1050 is on my short list, I haven't even ridden one yet. I could always end up finding I don't like the bike.

[dje31]

Any new rumors, speculation or scuttlebutt, now that it's 2013 and the Mayans were proven wrong?

Is this a new take on the Sprint RS?  Is it coming stateside?

[rdbandkab]

New info:

http://www.staffordshiretriumph.co.uk/archives/8302

[dje31]

Boosh!  Thanks for the info.

Not crazy about the color options---would prefer black, but the red will work---and might have preferred exhaust under the saddle---mostly for aesthetics, but partly for luggage space---but otherwise, thumbs up!

The big questions for me are: 1.) Is it coming to the States?  and 2.) Price (due in Feb.).

Doug

[Rincewind]

Just saw the info on Triumph's Facebook page, thanks for the better article, rdbandkab.  

The bike is listed on the Triumph UK page, but nothing on the US site yet that I've seen.

http://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/motorcycles/range/adventure/tiger-1050/2013/25573

[Cablebandit]

...needs a beak.

[Yankee Dog]

I wonder if they have bumped the electrical output. That is the whole reason I dont own a T1050 right now.
 

[expatbrit]

Looks like they fixed a fair few of my niggles about the Tiger.

Better headlights, better panniers (maybe -- that high and large exhaust is still going to chew up the right hand side, and the locking mechanism on the Sprint's basically consumed 1/3rd of the bag), 'better' suspension. They even moved the dash controls to the handlebars. Nice!

[Croak]

Looks like they modified the Sprint GT/Trophy pannier base to fit on the new subframe.  Should be a nice improvement over the old Sprint/Tiger pannier system, even with the right side cut-out for the exhaust.  With the SSSA and new subframe it looks like they were able to tuck that exhaust in much closer to the centerline of the bike than the old Tiger 1050, meaning the exhaust cutout on the right pannier shouldn't be as extreme.

They're also getting their money's worth out of the old Sprint ST/Speed Triple SSSA tooling and/or inventory.  Parts Bin 101, and reminds me of the last years of the Sprint RS.  Even looks like they're using the 2008 Speed Triple wheels.

As for the increased power output, they simply uncorked it to what the Sprint/S3 had with the introduction of the 1050 motor in 2005.  They're still leaving ~10hp on the table, there is no reason other than market segmentation why the Tiger Sport can't have the same HP as the GT and S3 at no additional cost to Triumph, just like there was no valid engineering reason for the old Tiger 1050 to have a HP deficit compared to the Sprint when it was released in 2007.

Despite me sounding like I'm bagging on Triumph here, I think this could be a very nice solo low-frills sport-touring bike, and I expect it'll come in at a very competitive price-point, somewhere in the $12k before farkles.  Let's not forget that the the old 1050 didn't exactly suck out of the box, and this one seems to address most of the problems (lighting, suspension, wind) while improving on the aesthetics a bit with the new bodywork and SSSA.

It'll still have 200 mile tank range, looks like a fairly decent pannier capacity, optional heated grips and top box, easy to adjust and/or change handlebars, the seat appears well-made, and it'll likely have at least the same 450w power output the old Tiger and Sprint ST had, which is more than adequate for most people to run all their farkles and heated liner/gloves (if you want to get crazy with incandescent aux lights or 2-up heated gear, that's another story).  I'm guessing wet weight is about the same as before, just north of 500 pounds.

I think it's filling two slots in the Triumph product line, covering for both the discontinued Sprint ST and the old Tiger 1050, and while it won't be flying out of the dealerships, it'll be a steady seller.

[Hickey]

I want it. I hope it makes it stateside. I might well end up with one so long as it has ABS. Red please.

[scottdc]

I asked Triumph USA via Twitter about availability of the Sport and got the response "no current plans for sale in the U.S.". Bummer as I was about to call my dealer to see when they'd take deposits...

[redsled]

They're also getting their money's worth out of the old Sprint ST/Speed Triple SSSA tooling and/or inventory.  Parts Bin 101, and reminds me of the last years of the Sprint RS.  Even looks like they're using the 2008 Speed Triple wheels.

It's not the 08+ S3 wheels, maybe the new Daytonas perhaps?

Despite me sounding like I'm bagging on Triumph here, I think this could be a very nice solo low-frills sport-touring bike, and I expect it'll come in at a very competitive price-point, somewhere in the $12k before farkles. 

I'm thinking more in the $13k range, seeing as how the Explorer is north of $15 and the Trophy is $19k    I thought I really wanted that Trophy until I saw the price.

The Tiger will probably be the one to draw me back to a bagger.  I love my Speed Triple, but miss my 07 Tiger I sold back in June.

[HipGnosis]

I want it. I hope it makes it stateside. I might well end up with one so long as it has ABS. Red please.

Definitely see wheel position sensor slots in the close up of the rear wheel.  

I asked Triumph USA via Twitter about availability of the Sport and got the response "no current plans for sale in the U.S.". Bummer as I was about to call my dealer to see when they'd take deposits...

They have to say that, until the 'official' release.

Triumph is making a 'standard' motorcycle, which is quaintly unique.
I'm definitely in the market this year, and this bike is checking a LOT of my want / need boxes (and I STILL miss the engine of my 955 RS)...

[redsled]

I'm definitely in the market this year, and this bike is checking a LOT of my want / need boxes (and I STILL miss the engine of my 955 RS)...

I see in your sig you have a K1200.  I'm actually thinking of an older K1200 (of some iteration) as well as the new Sport.  I've had three Triples (a 955 S3, Tiger 1050, and current S3) and am curious about the comparison to the K12 4 cylinder.  Can you enlighten me?

[expatbrit]

I want it. I hope it makes it stateside. I might well end up with one so long as it has ABS. Red please.

I'd be absolutely shocked if it didn't, at least as an option. Especially given the way things are going in Europe with mandatory ABS on bikes these days.

My Sprint had it as an option, I believe the Tiger's had it as an option previously. Can't see them deleting it.

[Silverbird]

All I have to say is F*** You Triumph.  I would have bought one of these if they'd announced it as they should have and not been so secretive about discontinuing the old one.  

Oh well, at least I won't have to worry about bolts randomly falling off my overpriced bike.

[HipGnosis]

I see in your sig you have a K1200.  I'm actually thinking of an older K1200 (of some iteration) as well as the new Sport.  I've had three Triples (a 955 S3, Tiger 1050, and current S3) and am curious about the comparison to the K12 4 cylinder.  Can you enlighten me?

I can't do a true direct comparisson because my K1200RS is definitely heavier than the 955RS (that I traded in on the K12).
The K is smoother, almost boringly smooth.  The 955 was too, but the K is smooth in a higher class.
I like the power band of the K.  I very seldom down shift.  But the 955 had the most useable power.  I virtually never downshifted because the power was right where I needed it.  I really enjoyed riding 955 out of town because when the speed limit went from 55 to 65 I would whack the throttle open (exactly as I passed the 65 mph sign), the bike would LUNG ahead and any traffic that was around me was now behind me.
The main reason I'm in the market is because I'm tiring of the maintenance costs on the '01 K12...
Every front brake hose had to be replaced; and because of the ABS, there are a lot of them and the dealer has to bleed them.
BMW nor the aftermarket sells a rear brake master cylinder rebuild kit.  I bought a used master cylinder.
When the bike was in the dealer shop for the front brakes, they found my final drive was wearing – they wanted to replace MANY parts including the whole rear case.  I had them replace the 2 main parts and I’ve been occasionally looking for a used final drive.

[redsled]

I asked Triumph USA via Twitter about availability of the Sport and got the response "no current plans for sale in the U.S.". Bummer as I was about to call my dealer to see when they'd take deposits...

Seems to be the case.  I spoke to my dealer yesterday who is close with to the US HQ here, and was told it's a Europe only model and that the 1050 is being dropped on this side of the pond.

Dammit.

[Silverbird]

Makes me feel better I guess

[Hickey]

Maybe it will be available as a 2014 model?

[SprintRSrider]

If I was a betting man, I'd be betting that this, 2013, will be the last year of the 1050 engine period.  It's "old", been around for eight years now, I'm sure the case molds are getting tired and they won't be replaced.  That's my 2 cents...

[caddydaddy]

Posted on Pure Triumph's Facebook page today:

Introducing the 2013 Triumph Tiger Sport - WOO HOO!!! Coming to Triumph shops in March:

Stronger chassis, upgraded suspension coupled with 123bhp and 77lb of torque (for those of you keeping count, that's nearly 10 ponies with 4.4lb/ft torque over 2012) resulting in a more powerful, sharper, better handling Tiger!

Maybe it is coming stateside?  

[jstark47]

Seems to be the case.  I spoke to my dealer yesterday who is close with to the US HQ here, and was told it's a Europe only model and that the 1050 is being dropped on this side of the pond.

Dammit.

A shame.  Triumph really doesn't have a bike to sell me any more, then, except for the 800's and they're kind of small.  I find both the Tiger Explorer and the new Trophy "too much" - too bulky, too heavy, too gadgety, and (in the case of the Trophy) too expensive.  

[JReazor]

If I was a betting man, I'd be betting that this, 2013, will be the last year of the 1050 engine period.  It's "old", been around for eight years now, I'm sure the case molds are getting tired and they won't be replaced.  That's my 2 cents...

That's the way it's looking. 2014 Speed Triple 1200 anyone?

[falconati]

I hope not.  Instead they should make the engine more fuel efficient while creating more power.  Or cut weight from the engine/wheels.  

[expatbrit]

I hope not.  Instead they should make the engine more fuel efficient while creating more power.  Or cut weight from the engine/wheels.

I think there's a place for the big naked -- either on a revised 1050 or a revised 1200. (As I recall, on the launch of the exploder it was said that the engine wasn't speed triple material). I'd love to see an updated 1050, like the just did the 675, rather than a 1200. Then stick it in a Tiger, Sprint, speed, and Daytona.

Triumph has been fairly successfully pushing for better fuel economy, but is that really a major thing in a supernaked? It's not what I'd be looking at in that type of bike, for sure.

[dje31]

I think the US Triumph folks almost have to say that they "have no plans at present," partly because the home market typically has first dibs...also, because most dealers have probably made their initial 2013 orders / commitments already.  Just a hunch.

Fingers are certainly crossed to see it stateside in 2014, if not sooner.

[Carbonero]

Too bad the "slightly grumpy" test rider wouldn't allow the reader to get further shots of the bike.  I'd particularly like to see this beast from other side with that new single-sided swingarm!  

http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/bikes/triumph-tiger-sport-1050/

http://thepacepodcast.com/archives/2237

[redsled]

That sure is what I'm hoping.  That being said, I'm going to look at a couple of demo Explorers at the dealer later this week.


Chris Pope
Locust Grove, GA
10 Speed Triple SE
57 Cushman Eagle

[redsled]

Here's what I just posted over at ADVrider:

And here's what the sales rep I've been talking with at my (not at all) local dealer said to me yesterday. I was debating between a Sprint GT/ST and the 800/1200 Tiger and threw in a question about the Sport to see if he'd tell me more than he did the day after the Sport was made official 'over there'.

He told me that his dealer rep informed him that Triumph has a bunch of 1050 engines sitting there and brought the Sport out as a one year run to exhaust those engines with zero plans to bring it Stateside. I call bullshit on that. You could arguably say they might have taken the SSA from the Speed Triple and tossed it on, but why go through the tooling to redo the headlights, the mounting for the sidecases, and whatever else they changed.

I'm thinking I might try to find this rep's email or something to contact him directly if possible. I can't see why they'd do it as a one year thing. Keep it over in Europe? Maybe, but that's a lot of BS for a one year run.

[Croak]

There's some logic to that, Redsled, based on past Triumph behavior.  

They kept using the 885 in bikes for a few years after the 955 motor was rolled out, the Tiger being the last one to use it.

They kept using the 955 for a few years after the 1050 was rolled out, the Tiger being the last one to use it (and some proof that they were getting short on parts, the last year of the Tiger 955, it had new 1050 engine casings).

And lets not forget there's a lot of dusty 2011 Tiger 1050's still sitting on showroom floors in North America, let alone the 2012 models.  Those need to go.

[redsled]

You're exactly right.  And it's entirely possible I could find myself back on another 1050 Tiger when it's all said and done.  I just hope it's the Sport model and not the regular like my 07 was.

[GRN]

Starbucks is for metrosexual poofs who don't like sports at all.
Typical Texan stereo typing everyone thru the web, proof that the brain is not wired to the hand  

  No shit!

[HipGnosis]

There's some logic to that, Redsled, based on past Triumph behavior.  

They kept using the 885 in bikes for a few years after the 955 motor was rolled out, the Tiger being the last one to use it.

They kept using the 955 for a few years after the 1050 was rolled out, the Tiger being the last one to use it

There's logic in what the dealer, Redsled and Croak said.
But... Triumph kept re-introducing the Tiger with new motors... so...  there's hope for a Tiger Sport with a new motor!?!  I'd luv to see an 800!

[1KPerDay]

[Hickey]

It's a shame that there is no indication that it is coming to America.

[Stripes]

They can keep it.  

[redsled]

They can keep it.  

Oh Stripes, gag thee!  I love it!  Perfect mating of the Speed Triple and Tiger.  My last two bikes all rolled into one.

[caddydaddy]

Oh Stripes, gag thee!  I love it!  Perfect mating of the Speed Triple and Tiger.  My last two bikes all rolled into one.

+1  I think it'd be a nice replacement for my Sprint.  

[SprintRSrider]

It's a shame that there is no indication that it is coming to America.

That's the truth right there...

[Stripes]

Oh Stripes, gag thee!  I love it!  Perfect mating of the Speed Triple and Tiger.  My last two bikes all rolled into one.

+1  I think it'd be a nice replacement for my Sprint.  

To each his own. Ive never been a fan of any generation of Hinckley Tiger, especially not this one or the explorer. It serves no purpose for my riding style or personality. Some love it and that's okay w/ me. I was just expressing my opinion. I absolutely love the Triumph brand, I've owned 6 Hinckley Triumps & I can't wait to put another one in the garage! It just will never be a Tiger! Some would say the same thing about any version of the Multistrada & I think they are beautiful & great performance machines. Don't even get me started on Harleys! Carry on! Cheers

[redsled]

In the interest of full disclosure, I wasn't a fan of the 955 Tiger.  So even *I* draw the line somewhere!!


Chris Pope
Locust Grove, GA
10 Speed Triple SE - for sale
57 Cushman Eagle

[Stripes]