Triumph Tiger 2012

By Kevin Ash - 25/09/2012

Triumph has updated the Tiger 1050 with a series of changes that move it further from any off-road pretensions it might have had.

The move creates more room between the Tiger 1050 and the imminent new adventure bike, which will have a much stronger off-road bias.

The changes for the 2012 model year include new suspension with firmer damping and a 29 per cent stiffer rear spring, aimed at giving the bike a sportier feel and coping better with two-up riding.

The riding position is also more sporting thanks to the new, tapered and anodised aluminium bars being set 0.8in (20mm) lower than the old steel ones.

Other changes are cosmetic, including Speed Triple-style graphics and various items being given a black finish where previously they were chrome or alloy. These include the wheels, sprocket carrier, brake callipers and footrest hangers, while the silencer and heel guards are brushed rather than polished aluminium.

The standard 1050 comes only in black, while the SE version is available in red, white and a two-tone black/graphite. This also comes with ABS, handguards, centre stand and panniers.

Prices are £9,099 and £9,999 for the SE.

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