2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport Test Ride Review | Adventure, Touring and Sport - The Ultimate Hybrid?

Triumph's newest addition to the Tiger adventure bike lineup is the 2021 Tiger 850 Sport, based on the same engine platform as the existing Tiger 900 lineup with the 888cc triple-cylinder engine. Why is this one called an 850 when the rest of the 888cc Tigers receive the 900 badge? We get into that and more in this test ride review.
Adventure, touring, even a little bit of sport (ish) riding. This is a bike that can cover a lot of bases pretty well. Versatility is key, as is adjustability. The adjustable seat height (available on all 2020 and newer Triumph Tiger adventure motorcycles) can bump up or down to accommodate rider preference and allow for an easy reach to the ground.
The 2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport is aimed at the more road-going adventure rider, meaning this is not going to be the most aggressive Tiger when it comes to off-road. That doesn't mean it can't gobble up its share of miles in the dirt, and we made sure to run it through its paces in Zion, Utah, where we did a fair share of back roads, dirt roads, highways and everything in between. A place like Zion is a wonderland for a motorcycle like this, that will allow you to tackle a bit of everything. Long-travel Marzocchi suspension, a thrilling 888cc three-cylinder engine and premium components mean you're going to be comfortable and confident in a wide variety of terrain. Just don't forget the hand guards and heated seat if you're going to hit up Zion in February like we did!
I don't hesitate to call the engine the shining point of the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport. The source of all its versatility pours out from this power mill, which cranks out low end power in a delicious, tractable manner and builds into a thrilling mid- to top-end. While Triumph calls the Tiger 850 Sport the "detuned" engine of the bunch, you could have fooled me. With plenty of muscle and an intoxicating acceleration that builds in a powerful, sophisticated way, every crack of the throttle on the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport was enough to put a smile on my face.
While it is also the "base model" of the Triumph Tiger adventure motorcycle lineup, again, you could have fooled me. It doesn't feel like a base model until you compare it to its upscale counterparts such as the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. The Tiger 850 Sport receives the 5-inch TFT dash while the Tiger 900 GT and its siblings receive a 7-inch TFT display. But Triumph didn't pull back everywhere; the Tiger 850 Sport retains premium components such as the Brembo Stylema dual-disc front brake setup - the same setup you'll find on some top sport bikes. The Marzocchi 45mm front suspension, on the other hand, while plush and comfortable, does not feature the same adjustability of the beefier Showa units found on the 900 line.
What Triumph managed to do was keep the price point low and the versatility high on the Tiger 850 Sport, while still offering an incredibly potent and sophisticated adventure motorcycle. It still blows my mind that the price tag is only $11,995. I keep checking my notes every time I say it, just be sure that's actually correct. Yep, Triumph offers all this for under $12k.
Well played, lads.
Check out the full review which will feature on Women Riders Now in the coming weeks.
For more information about how to adjust the seat height on a Triumph Tiger adventure bike, check out:
How To Adjust the Seat Height on a 2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport
• How to Adjust the Seat...
WATCH NEXT:
2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan - Good Beginner Bike? A Female Perspective.
• 2021 Royal Enfield Him...
Cody Webb Talks Sherco and 2020 AMA EnduroCross
• Cody Webb Talks Sherco...
2020 Glen Helen 2-Stroke Motocross World Championships
• 2020 Glen Helen 2-Stro...
SAY HELLO:
Blogger: crossrutted.bl...
Site: www.CrossRutted.com
IG: @Kalamity_Jean // @Crossrutted
FB: / jean.turner.98

[@basicallyoperate]

What a fluent presentation! I just have to say this is perhaps one of the best bike review I've ever seen, a lot of other corporate level channels don't even achieve such fluency and clarity! Much appreciated!

[@CrossRutted]

Wow, thanks!

[@saz123ful]

Now, this is a review!!!! Thank you so much!

[@AfricaTwinRider]

I bought a 850 sport this year, great bike, one bike to do it all!

[@CrossRutted]

Good choice!

[@RonConsumer]

The way I adjusted the front forks was to change out the fork oil to a heavier oil to prevent the front end from diving so much.

[@CrossRutted]

Ah that's smart. Did you also raise the oil level? How well did it work out?

[@RonConsumer]

@@CrossRutted No just the heavier oil... you can also play with the preload but the heavier oil is working fine for me.

[@zainabkhan2475]

This woman here is my inspiration... If one woman can do, other woman can do... much love n respect - from India 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳

[@LIFELOVER715]

Thank you for your detailed & substantial review. Made me appreciate my new purchase of the 2022 Tiger 850 Sport Even more. Adding accessories to protect & enhance it. Looking forward to more content from you. Well done!

[@CrossRutted]

Congrats on the new purchase!! And thank you for the kind words. 😀

[@declanmoran1894]

Great review , just saw this bike a dealership yesterday and fell in love with it . Love the red/ graphite colour scheme . Now you have just confirmed all is as suspected - a great all rounder value for money adventure bike that you can put your own stamp on ! Thanks !!

[@CrossRutted]

Right on!

[@chrispiatt2235]

Definitely one of the better reviews of this model - thanks!

[@Gasthauz]

That is one the best performed bike reviews I have seen in a long time. Fluent, a personal touch, good sound, nice photography and to the point. Thanks!

[@CrossRutted]

Well shucks. Thank you! 🥰

[@Chenzoman]

First time watching one of your reviews. Very well done! I'm buying this bike as my first adventure bike. I mostly ride road so I think it will suit me fine. Thank you.

[@nicofonce]

second that. Cheers

[@CrossRutted]

Thanks so much, and congrats on the purchase!!

[@mikehackett8708]

Great review as she included her insights on features that I’m interested in.

[@sergioscalia5922]

At least someone who pronounce Marzocchi properly, nice review, looking forward to test and (hopefully) to get one in red🤗

[@luckmiller2000]

Really helpful video thanks for packaging the comments short and direct.

[@kkhalifah1019]

Nice! It's important to mention that while the engine had to lose a handful of horses, it did so in exactly the right place which is at the very top end where I never go anyway. Torque is what really matters in a bike like this & the 850 has *HEAPS* of it starting at 2500rpm, amplified further by its lack of heft. And that's the thing with this 850 - sure Triumph had to make concessions in order to create a lower priced entry level model for the 900 series, but boy did they make all the right compromises for once!! It's every inch a 900 except only for the bits I don't need, don't use & don't mind.

[@CrossRutted]

Yes to all of what you just said! 👍

[@peterkeats593]

I really need to take one of these for a test ride. Currently ride a CB 500F and looking to up grade, everything I looked at so far I can't get in New Zealand. Granted the new Triumph Tiger 660 sport is not in the country until next year. Great review thanks so much

[@SachinNarayan]

The best video on the internet for 850 sport review. It has everything broll, landscape shots, povs and info. Thank you 🤍

[@Nick-Gye]

thanks for the dirt road views, often don't get that perspective. Good riding by the way- better on the dirt than I am for sure.

[@RicciHodgson59]

Really good objective review! Thanks!

[@CrossRutted]

Thank you.

[@MotoDude1967]

Just bought one, I agree 100%, really good review!

[@serious_in_seattle6917]

Very nice review. Professional and clear.

[@FirnaaraRediz]

Clear & crisp review, I liked da way u discussed every aspect... well done 👍👌 U have earned urself a new subscriber 😊

[@CrossRutted]

Thank you! 🙏

[@charleswhitlock5238]

Great job👏🏽👏🏽 I really like this bike plus this color, wife really likes it so that's a Big plus for me 🤠👍🏾

[@CrossRutted]

Glad you like it! Thank you!

[@berniemaclean9486]

Great Review factual and honest

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

very good reveiw and touched on many options no other vdo has. !! good job . sounds graet for me being lighter yet has great 2 up seating. my 750gs at 222kg is just too heavy now to move around; just sitting !

[@tomg4592]

Very good and thorough review. Keep them coming.

[@kuladeeluxe]

First review that brought up the brake dive. Wish I could get a test ride. Might be my next bike.

[@mountainmaanush3909]

Thank you for such an informative review!

[@CrossRutted]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Supernova12034]

WOW, great review! I never even knew how the seat heights are adjusted on bikes till now.

[@Aledbach]

Picked mine up just over 2 weeks ago and love it. Engine and gearbox soooo smooooth. What tank bag did you have on whilst riding in the pov shots?

[@krazeplumber13]

Great job Klamity thanks for the review. I'll be looking hard into this grocery getter

[@CrossRutted]

Thank you! I miss it already. I hope you get a test ride on it! 🐯

[@ProfessorMurray]

Great review, thanks.

[@thodoris3790]

very good review!without saying specs(that we can find our own) in the whole video

[@CrossRutted]

Thanks for watching!

[@Mikikb]

Great review, how about a new exhaust for more all around sound. Congratulations!

[@philipTOMPSETT]

What a fantastic video. Thanks

[@CrossRutted]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kravmagau]

Hi lady, sorry for my english. One question: how turn off Abs? Tnx for your video

[@Deon0026yickadee]

This is a beautiful bike. I think I’m too short. I’m 5ft 7 inches will I be able to flat foot?

[@dimitriskatsoulis4986]

Unfortunately you can't really turn off ABS in this model, only TC is switchable

[@CrossRutted]

Correct. I misspoke.

[@FlyingMonkeyAdventureRiders]

Well Done!

[@CrossRutted]

Thank you!

[@wildoneback]

Nice well explained review, the 850 sport doesn’t have a IMU as well as compared to other Tigers

[@CrossRutted]

Correct. Thanks!

[@free2chasehappy]

How does it feel on the highway? Wind protection can be upgraded with aftermarket parts but I'm really interested with the engine's manner at at speed... Does it buzz at highway speed and what about the ease of passing? I am quite spoiled with my big BMW, but I'm looking to downsize. Thanks a lot!

[@CrossRutted]

It is fantastic on the highway. Felt like being behind the wheel of my F-150. And this is coming from someone who is still mildly terrified of spending time on the highway. The big triple is super smooth and plllleeeenty of power to spare for overtaking. Not sure if it's smoother than your BMW because I've never ridden one, but I could have cruised at freeway speed all day.

[@free2chasehappy]

@@CrossRutted thank you for the feedback! I might have to go for a test ride!

[@p-dub7422]

Excellent video! I stumbled upon this video because I am looking at this bike. Would you take this bike over the Triumph 900 that offers more adjustability? Did the bike feel heavy and what would you add to this bike to make it better? I am a bit concerned about the front end dive that you mentioned which makes me think about one of the Triumphs that has better suspension, although I do not plan on doing off road stuff. To me that part is just a safety issue. Which Triumph offers better suspension in that area? Have you reviewed it yet so I can check it out or do you have other bike recommendations for a similar kind of bike? I like the look of this bike and would like something versatile and more all around. Thanks

[@CrossRutted]

To answer your first question, yes. I'd probably prefer one of the Tiger 900s that offers more suspension adjustability, but tbh I have not ridden any of the 900s. But if I did have the Tiger 850 Sport, my first mod would be the suspension. Even without adjustability you can still get it revalved/sprung for your weight and preference.

[@p-dub7422]

@@CrossRutted So it seems like its best to get the 900 which has the better suspension. Right?

[@stevencash5783]

I may get this Just hope i dont say wished i would have got the 900 instead

[@JourneyThroughNature]

Hey Jean - would there be any reason one should choose or not to the GT version ( which is basically a Tiger 900 with few extra bells and whistles compared to the 850 Sport and few extra horses )? Am pretty convinced Rally is not for me but confused between the 850 Sport and Tiger 900 GT.

[@CrossRutted]

I think that would depend entirely on what type of riding you plan to do. If you're going to do mostly sport cruising and not much off-road, then the 850 Sport could be a great choice. But the 900 GT has the better suspension (which is adjustable, while the 850's is not), more ground clearance, a more advanced electronics suite mostly due to the IMU, which allows a multitude of rider aides and functions that can add even more versatility to the overall package. If you plan to do more than a little off-road, then I would lean toward the GT. The 850 Sport has plenty to offer, but if you want to get more aggressive with improved suspension performance and a punchier motor, then definitely take a look at the 900s.

[@JourneyThroughNature]

@@CrossRutted Thanks a lot that really helps.

[@denisiotti3768]

Why you guy' s never mantion how the bikes behave with a passenger

[@moon_magic1853]

Beautiful, Both the bike and the lady! 😍 Sad to know you have to let it go though.

[@CrossRutted]

Awwwe thank you. Yes, the bikes come and go, and it does tug at the heart strings. But there will always be a next one! 💜

[@moon_magic1853]

@@CrossRutted can't wait to see you with another one 💜

[@manishsingh8904]

👍 बहुत बढ़िया रिव्यू👌🇮🇳

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

why is it lighter than the 660 sport ?? a good thing with my old body and want 2 up riding comfort, that this has . like to have tpms but...

[@manurebecq5175]

What are your comments about the suspension? Is it soft and supple?

[@CrossRutted]

I thought the suspension was really nice and plush... maybe a little too plush on the fork. It was comfortable but dives a bit under hard braking. Since it’s not adjustable, it’s a little tricky to manage. I’d like to dial in a little more hold-up on the fork, but that might just be a matter of preference.

[@sarath6827]

Subscribed

[@_cpdchua]

Been rooting for this bike for a while. Quick question tho, can you add quickshifter to it as an accessory from Triumph?

[@CrossRutted]

That I don't know. I only had three weeks with the bike, and left it in stock form. A dealer should be able to tell you about accessory compatibility.

[@tomg4592]

Yes you can add the quick shifter

[@Shintoforex]

Nice

[@niladribiswas-s3c]

I am 161cm.. Will I able to ride it?

[@thodoris3790]

hi there!what would you say about the hot air to the knees?i really like this bike,but,i m in a hot country.

[@CrossRutted]

Hi there. I only had the bike for two weeks, and it was in late February, so I honestly only rode in very cold temps. So my answer would probably be that there was not enough hot air to my knees! lol Sorry I don't have a better answer for you. Hopefully another review from someone who has had the bike longer term can give you an experienced answer.

[@thodoris3790]

@@CrossRutted thanks for the response

[@Antimortem]

This bike is for all purposes use, with focus to roads and light trail. All purposes.

[@icccreation]

Rally pro or sports which one is best

[@CrossRutted]

That depends entirely on what type of riding you intend to do.

[@icccreation]

@@CrossRutted for everything touring adventure

[@stevenhill2204]

Thanks for a very articulate overview on this bike. I'm thinking about moving from my T7 to this bike. Does anyone know if this bike can be re-remapped to the 900 engine specs?

[@TheD7035]

From the UK, the overall view is-it cannot be remapped-because Triumph has put a different ECU in to that of the 900’s. The reason for this is that in the UK and may be in other parts of the World / EU the bike’s CONTROL ECU can be further detuned (to 47 bhp) to accommodate a more controllable rider level for a younger category of rider. Once they reach 24 yrs (in the UK). and pass a higher rider skill level the 850’s power can be easily reinstated documented by a dealer. Triumph has done this to help younger riders and increase sales. Hope this helps.

[@juliemcgillivray3394]

We wish you'd do more reviews. You're really good. We need more women doing reviews!

[@natvega1]

In PuertoRico it's $16,000.00 plus.....

[@75mrmr58]

What are you helpment name?

[@phillipdavies6535]

You can't turn ABS off

[@CrossRutted]

Correct. I misspoke about that part.

[@rajeevreddy1797]

Dude i dont mind if u think im simping here but forget about the bike i want ur hair tutorial ❤️❤️❣️👌👍💘 such awesome hair

[@CrossRutted]

Haha thank you. 😊

[@rajeevreddy1797]

@@CrossRutted ❤️💘🥰👍

[@drsatindertravelandlifesty2613]

I live in India 🇮🇳 confused between tiger 900 gt vs 850

[@CrossRutted]

Both feature a three-cylinder 888cc engine, identical in specs right down to the compression ratio. I believe the 850 is "detuned" by way of a less aggressive ignition, but the major difference is that the 900 line has the IMU (inertial measurement unit), which allows for an entire suite of electronic rider aides and modes for better performance. The 900 models also feature more aggressive suspension which is adjustable, whereas the 850's suspension is not. So if you do not need to make many adjustments to the engine or to the suspension, then the 850 is wonderful. If you want to ride more dirt roads, or want to be able to adjust the suspension for different situations, such as riding with a passenger and/or luggage, then you might prefer the 900 GT line. To be honest, I have only ridden the 850, but this is what Triumph says. The 900 GT line is generally more aggressive in its performance and versatility than the 850, with the 900 GT line, advancing to the Pro and Rally and Rally Pro models, each offering increasingly higher-spec suspension. So I'd say that the main differences are the electronics package (engine controls and rider aides) and the suspension. If you're going to ride more dirt roads, the 900 Rally models are probably the best choice.

[@kkhalifah1019]

@@CrossRutted I'm the opposite -- I rest rode the Tiger 900 GT but bought the 850 after realizing I really didn't care for all the extra farkles since I'm the shut-up-and-ride type who can't be bothered spending time fiddling around with settings in the menu. I wanted the versatile go-anywhere-with-passenger-and-luggage chassis, the contemporary modern look, lightness & easy handling, that awesome new triple engine, slick gearbox, awesome build quality and the top notch brakes of the 900 GT.... and the 850 delivers all of it for cheaper.

[@msdajan5283]

Himalayan spotted 5:43 minutes

[@CrossRutted]

Hahaha eagle eye! Yes, my friend with me on the ride in Zion was on a 2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan.

[@billgilkerson5294]

The off road switch is ABS off..........................

[@CrossRutted]

I was actually mistaken in this video. You cannot turn off ABS on the Tiger 850 Sport. You can turn off TC, and I found that the ABS was hardly intrusive in the dirt, so I didn't notice it was still on. 😬

[@dhruvsinghjamwal]

Good one mam

[@CrossRutted]

Thank you, sir. 😊

[@UncleWally3]

Useful and informative review, but (not to be too pedantic) don’t motorcycles still have have engines?

[@CrossRutted]

Pedantic? Surely you mean semantic. 😉

[@uttamgala7186]

You’re gorgeous :) Great work on the video!

[@D30x1r1b0nukl31nsyra]

Holy fuck it sounds like shit. The reason I fell in love with the tiger 800 was the sound, and it's all blown away with all the negatives of a 3 cylinder

[@D30x1r1b0nukl31nsyra]

Also there is no engine improvement whatsoever with added displacement

[@CrossRutted]

Nothing you just said makes sense. But thanks for watching!

[@MarkStegmeier-yl6ed]

Obviously a hater that has ZERO motorcycle knowledge. I own one and it sounds awesome.

[@bryanmathew2079]

☆☆☆☆☆Review.

[@Lumpy072]

NOTE: you CANNOT switch ABS off on this model

[@travelinglolo8032]

I love u