The latest offering from Triumph has sneaked in this month in the form of the new and improved Tiger.  That is not to say that there was anything particularly wrong with the old one, but how else could one describe the ear to ear grin factor that the new bike provides.  However, the most amazing thing to me is the lack of media reaction to this package that surely sees off the competition in its class.

The most exciting thing about it has to be the 955cc power plant which incorporates the new refinements which will be part of the new Daytona package. This engine replaces the old T509 based 885cc engine and will become the generic 955 engine that will be used on the Speed Triple and Sprint models. 

The suspension has been reworked as well, with stiffer forks and an improved mono-shock translating into very competent handling.  The long wheelbase and sheer size of the bike make roundabouts a chore, but this does not detract from the ease at which the bike attacks the twisties.  The softer suspension is a nice change from the bone shattering stiffness of a sports bike and makes riding on English roads a far more comfortable experience.  The bike we rode was fitted with Metzler Tourances, which were not so impressive, but Michelins are available for the Tiger that give higher levels of grip.

The weight stays the same as the old tiger despite the increase in engine size, and the wheelbase remains the same at 1550mm.  The 24 liter tank gives a touring bike sized tank range.

Another addition is adjustable seat height which means that you don't have to be tall to ride one of these, although it must be said that the bike does not seem as big once your riding it.  The screen does not provide a huge amount of protection, but none the less makes a difference.

The clocks are the classic Triumph green on white dials with the addition of a digital odometer sporting two trips.  The dash is well finished and the display is well laid out, although below that there is the usual tangle of wires, but otherwise the finish is up to Triumph's usual standard.

The engine casings have been radically altered, giving the sculpted 955 engine a more business like look, with a number of changes to other components such as the alternator and starter motor.  The overall weight of the engine is down with improved internal components.

This translates into a much quieter and smoother engine, although it still retains that Triple cylinder growl.  The gearbox is another major improvement, with Triumph finally doing something about the notchy gearbox common to all T5 based engines.  Gone are all those false neutrals and missed changes, that I for one have lived with these last few years.

The replacement engine boasts 106bhp over the old 86bhp 885cc engine as well as an increase of torque from 62ftlbs to 68ftlbs.  This is spread generously across the rev range giving buckets of torque at any revs in any gear.  This is due to the torque peaking at 4,400 rpm but  plateauing across most of the rev range thereafter.

The final verdict on this revamped Tiger is that it is a versatile road tool, capable of scratching, touring and commuting. Overall, we would have to say, its Grrreat!!!