For a midsize ADV/road bike combo, Triumph’s 850 Tiger looks like a great option. Having replaced the Tiger 900, just introduced in 2019, the 850 is now the base model for 2021. The Tiger comes with the same chassis and engine as the 900, but the former is detuned to fit into the A2 licensing category, which UK riders will appreciate.
As a “height-challenged” rider, I like the idea of the adjustable seat height, along with the handlebars, and windshield on this road-focused adventure motorcycle. Though it shares some “sport” bike characteristics, the 19-inch front wheel and more-generous suspension travel bridge the gap between a full-on ADV bike and anything road-specific.
A convenient plus from Triumph is the 850’s 10,000-mile maintenance interval, compared to the 900’s 6,000 miles and other bikes that are required to go in even sooner.
The new Tiger comes with LED lighting (DRL in the States) and Metzeler Tourance rubber, which is more street-biased and not as grippy as the Michelin Anakees on bikes purchased outside of the US.
In competition with BMW’s F 750 GS, the 850 is closely price-matched at $11,995. The $1,000 upcharge on the 850 will get you a lighter bike (477 versus 494 pounds), better fuel capacity (5.3 gallons versus 4), and more power (84 versus 77 horsepower).
A Marzocchi fork in front allows 7.1-inch suspension travel and 6.7 in the rear shock. Brembo Stylema brakes seem an appreciated addition, along with the T-plane triple engine, giving the Tiger 850 a raspy soundtrack.
This sleek-looking, entry-level bike is one of the best options available in a midweight bike for emerging riders. Note that Triumph also offers a free eCourse for new and former riders. The company also has a stylish apparel line called Riding Essentials, so you’re all set with Triumph, especially with over 60 accessories to choose from on the Tiger 850.
PROS
888 cc
477 pounds
5.3-gallon fuel tank
Triple-E engine and T-plane crankshaft
60 pound-feet peak torque
84 horsepower peak power
“Raspy roar” (engine soundtrack here)
Adjustable seat height, bars, and dash screen
Adjustable windshield
Two riding modes: rain or road
7-inch suspension travel in front, 6.7 in the rear
ABS
Traction control (can be turned off)
Brembo Stylema brakes
Pre-load adjustable knob for passenger/luggage
19- and 17-inch wheel combo
CONS
ABS cannot be turned off
Smaller screen display size (5 inches)
No cruise control (manufacture option not available)
No heated grips
No handguards
Traction control not advanced
Cast wheels
Handlebar buzz starting at 5,000 RPM
For more, see Triumph Motorcycles.
In summary, for the price, Triumph’s 850 Tiger offers an ideal road-focused adventure bike for long-distance comfort and reliability.
Our No Compromise Clause: We carefully screen all contributors to make sure they are independent and impartial. We never have and never will accept advertorial, and we do not allow advertising to influence our product or destination reviews.
