Triumph Tiger 1200 vs 900: Which Should You Buy?

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I decided to go with the New Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer. It’s a big/tall bike but I love it. It’s a beast. Awesome travel machine. I even dropped it on the trail off road and it handled that really well.

[@caseyworthington7092]

Nice review - thx! I love my T900 RP. Use it extensively on logging roads here on Vancouver Island, where there is way less tarmac to gravel. So for me, lighter is better, with plenty of go power all 'round.

[@MOTOUK1]

Having just returned from a 2300 mile europe trip to Switzerland on the new Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer, the fuel range is immense and only filled up 6.5 times 👍 for the money its an amazing bike! You can see my thoughts after my trip on my channel. Ive ridden the 900 GT Pro and again very hard to fault and at an amazing price for the equipment you get. I guess the 1200 is tall and wont suit many so i can recommend the 900 an excellent motorcycle. If you want a adventure tourer that crosses continents in so much comfort then the 1200 is superb.

[@BBANorthumberland]

I had the 900 rally pro and now have the 1200 GT pro. At 6ft2 and about 100kg I feel a lot more comfortable on the 1200. I felt like I was perched on top of the 900 and it was a tad small for me. Tbh they are both very capable bikes but the 1200 suits me more as off-roading is very limited for what I do. Great video 👍🏼

[@vincevan4513]

THanks Dean for your comment. I am thinking about whether to pick up a 900 rally pro or 1200 gt pro. I will be using the bike taking my wife for trips and barely do offroad riding. I think I will also choose 1200gt pro😊

[@rogerlastinger803]

After owning a Tiger 800 and 1200 I've chosen the 900 GTPro. It does everything and handles excellent. I'm not a big fan of the display compared to the 1200 but the 900 gives me a key which I much prefer over keyless. The 800 had that buttery smooth engine but the 900 does perform and handle better.

[@cdnrider6200]

is there vibration at hyway speeds

[@theevrider]

Great review of the pro's and con's for both bikes and you have confirmed my choice for the 1200 with a low seat that I test rode. I really want the maintenance-free shaft drive, the carry capacity and range. Keep up the great videos !

[@MrMikey1703]

G’Day Bob, I bought a Tiger 800ABS new in 2012 and kept her for 8 years. I’d had 7 bikes in the previous 6 years as an example. Got off her and onto a 2020 KTM Super Duke R in Sept 2020. Done 10,000ks in two years. Three rear hoops. Has oodles of power and is a hoot, but every single day I miss my old Tiger 800. I saw my old bike last Sunday on a ride and was seriously tempted to go swap my big SDR, but I couldn’t take it off the current owner (who loves it to bits). Needless to say I’m shopping again and the one thing I know - I’m going back to Triumph for my sixth. Whether a Tiger 900/1200, Speed Triple RR or Speed Twin 1200 will have to be decided. I can tour on anything, so it will be all about the feels.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Mike Triumph makes some nice bikes with these Tigers. I went with the 1200 and I'm loving it so far. Its pretty tall for me or I'm pretty short for the bike but once I'm moving on the bike its amazing feeling.

[@jamiemcgrory1964]

Test rode the 900 Rally Pro at Fowlers a few weeks ago, genuinely fantastic. Cross shopping with the Scrambler 1200.

[@seanheadley7090]

Just ordered the 1200 GT Exp, come from GS Adventure which was a good bike, but think the Triumph will be a little more exciting to ride. Time will tell lol

[@willurban837]

Hey, curious about how you feel about it compared to the gs 7 months after?

[@seanheadley7090]

@ love it, more involving with character, engine is great as is comfort, very quick if you want it, even with 150 back tyre, handles so easy

[@martinfield5468]

I test rode them both (with a pillion) and am picking up my new 1200 tomorrow. My friend who rides a KTM 1290 SA said the 900 was gutless (after he’d shot off into the distance!), but I found it plenty fast enough. I went for the 1200 for the added comfort for both rider and pillion, with more power and torque than I’ll ever need, and a better dash and features overall including the automatic pre-load adjustment. The extra cost is painful, and I hope the extra size and weight won’t make commuting in London too hard, but the 1200 feels like a real step-up for me whereas the 900 didn’t. It’s a hard choice! I just couldn’t bring myself to try the GS, and as long as the vibes don’t affect me then I think the Tiger 1200 is the best bike for me to do everything (except serious off-roading that I’ll save for my KTM excf).

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nice Martin! I went with the 1200 Rally Explorer. So far that bike is a beast. I just put the Karoo 4 off road tires on it as well. Can't wait to take it off road again soon.

[@nickskywalker2568]

How has been your experience commuting in London since then?

[@martinfield5468]

@@nickskywalker2568 I swapped it after a year for a Honda NT1100 as I found the Tiger was really too tall and wide. The NT is lower and slightly narrower and more manoeuvreable, and the DCT is easier in traffic and in manual mode very smooth, which is also good with a pillion, and it’s comfortable for both of us.

[@nickskywalker2568]

@martinfield5468 thanks for the feedback mate

[@davidcrilley2171]

Hi Bob, I’ve got the 900 Rally Pro. Went for that over the 1200 due to its size/weight, more than anything else. Bought it second hand so cost was a factor too as a new 1200 is more than I wanted to pay.

[@kee7678]

same

[@fmab70]

I went with the 1200 Rally Explorer and tour 2-up round Europe. Awesome bike and very capable off road. Its heavy but worth it gor the power and comfort

[@newy2242]

i have just bought the 900 rally pro , due to a bad back and arthritis setting in . traded my speed triple 1050 R in. very impressed with the bike and its just as comfy as the speed triple, the only down side was the suspension dive , so i adjusted the front to sport settings and a big improvement. Its got plenty of torque and pulls really strong, heated seat and grips are great and the heat from the 2 side rads is great when its chilly keeps my knees lovely and warm , going away this weekend so will be loaded up with all my camping gear . looking forward to the trip. 900 for me .

[@kee7678]

I'm going the same way..and will also motocamp too. Glad you love it.

[@marwood1969]

I rode the 900 GT Pro and 1200 GT Pro back to back a few weeks ago. 900 first, which was great but the 1200 blew me away. It was so comfortable and sure footed and it just felt so much more nimble than I expected. I ordered the 1200 GT Explorer on the spot and have had it about a month. Apart from a rather annoying incident with the clutch, it's been great.

[@FlorentinoLoco]

Care to elaborate?

[@marwood1969]

@@FlorentinoLoco About the clutch?

[@logicfirst7959]

if you are talking about jerky clutch experience, then keep it in the Road mode in the city driving (Stop and Go conditions) and on the highways change that to Sport and feel the power there.

[@marwood1969]

@@logicfirst7959 No, the clutch began to drag and the bike had to back to Triumph.

[@logicfirst7959]

@@marwood1969 can you please explain what Clutch Began to drag means. You mean when you released the clutch it wasn't being fully released and the power wasn't coming on

[@dralexmclean]

I went with the 900 GT low. An easy call, the seat height allows me to flat foot and the weight is actually about 15lbs lighter than the Suzuki 650 VStrom I had in similar configuration (and yes I weighed them both so the difference is real).

[@hakimshajime8245]

vstrom really significant top heavy..add in some pannier quickly make it demm difficult maneuver even on light off road

[@parf2665]

900 is all you need. Personally think anything over 100bhp is unnecessary on today's roads. The bigger the bike the heavier and harder to maneuver at slow speeds. Lose the ego go lighter.

[@gypo_gault]

Tell that to a moto-cop.

[@Keyser_Soze739]

Couldn’t agree more. 4 years ago i traded in my GTR1400 for a Tiger 900. Lost 60 bhp in that trade and haven’t had a single regret.

[@wauroware]

imho the only thing interesting of the 1200 is the Cardano

[@Carlisho]

I need the shaft tho im tired of cleaning and lubing chains 😭

[@chalkphil]

Will have to test ride the new 1200. I chopped in the previous-gen 1200 for a Tiger 900 GT last year, and despite the step-down in power, and to be honest, comfort too, going for the 900 was still one of the best bike choices I've made. In terms of usable power (for me), 94bhp is more than enough, and combined with the light weight of the bike, it's a joy to ride. However, I do like to do at least one big tour into Europe each year, so it'd be good to see if the new 1200 has dropped below the level of sheer intimidation that the previous-gen used to give me! Good review though...cheers!

[@mamunchowdhury7966]

Great review MOTOBOB. I live in BC. Canada. Originally from Bath UK... Just splashed out on the Triumph 900 Rally pro..... zero complaints and huge love for this model. Perfect size and plenty of power for the roads and off road options over here. Keep up with the reviews. Never know, I might have to start one over here in BC

[@lindsaymerritt975]

I’m tall, heavy and do 600 mile days on either Freeways or sealed country backroads. That 1200 has my name all over it. 😊

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nice pick Lindsay, I went with the 1200 Rally Explorer. Its a beast!

[@monticolus9564]

As I do mostly city riding the 900 is appealing. But as I don’t own a car and do plenty of long distance riding with a lot of gear and two up, the new more slim 1200 is very very appealing.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Monticolus I honestly don't think you can lose with either bike! Both amazing choices. I went with the 1200 because I wanted more torque but the 900 is a sweet bike as well.

[@StreetTwinRider]

Took the GT Pro out for a test ride a few weeks ago, the engine is lovely. the 1200 is probably a bit too much bike for me! Its probably comparable in weight to a KTM Super Adventure (which I had as a courtesy bike in June) - it's MASSIVE. 900 GT for me!

[@ADV-Rider-Dude]

I picked the Rally Explorer and am loving it more every day.

[@ScragNath]

Bought the 1200 Rally Explorer last Month. Having to get used to the handling characteristics. Heavy up top with top box installed and a full tank of juice. My BMW and KTM have shifted a lot of weight down low but this Tiger is a challenge at walking speed and manual manoeuvring.

[@chrisdagnall8666]

Really good video I enjoyed the way you overviewed the two bikes highlighting their differences which are relavent to real life. As a solo rider who has never had a sports bike I think the 900 GT Pro would be my choice.

[@randysixt1479]

I can’t do without the electronic windscreen. I’m still liking my 2018 Tiger 1200

[@kee7678]

Very good...I'm actually making this decision now...and..pretty much agree now the 900. Maybe later I'll get the 1200..

[@richardgiles2484]

I've got the last of the 800xca as you and love it. can't justify the cost of a change at the moment 🤣

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Richard you have an awesome bike!👍🏼

[@1RiverWalker]

I had the Tiger 800 and never could get completely comfortable on it. I’m a taller rider so I would take the 1200 Pro, plus the added power for American highways.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

The power of the 1200 is nice!

[@scottamolinari]

Subscribed. I like your vids. I'd take the 900 because of price and my use case. No really super long hauls. Just normal cruzin with maybe the one or two weekend tours. :)

[@Dius765RS]

I would go for the 900 every tmie...

[@Zeebad101]

I had a gen3 1200 that replaced my much loved Tiger 1050, but never really got on with it. Loved the power but it was just too much of a lump for how I wanted to ride. After 18 months I had to admit it wasn't for me and traded for the then brand new 900 Rally Pro. I've really enjoyed this bike, but having test ridden the new 1200 - holy cow they really did a job on it. I know some don't, but I like the lumpier T-plane crank. The bike has been on a massive diet, with a lower CofG to boot, and the suspension is just fantastic. I'll be picking up my 1200 Rally Pro next weekend if all goes to plan.

[@nickpaull2362]

I had one of the first gen 1200 Explorers and it was forever having something fixed so I left Triumph alone for a long time. Now the 900s have proven to be reliable I have a Rally Pro. I have looked at the new 1200 bikes but they already seem to have issues with rear suspension and rear final drive components from what I'm reading. Think I'll wait a bit longer before I move away from my 900 which is a great bike.

[@karlosh9286]

The rear facing radar is definitely appealing .

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

One thing I love about my new tiger

[@Spungutinha]

As the, very happy, owner of a 900 rally Pro for the past 2y I cannot find a justification to trade it for a 1200 ( and believe me I try it almost every day! ). The power is way more than I need, or am able to use, and the price difference is just massive if I wanted the same level of features. That said I would love having the shaft drive and an additional 15/20bhp on the 900.

[@Revzinator]

I could have written that comment. Feel the same way and wish my 900 RPro had slight more power and a drive shaft.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I say you can’t go wrong with any tiger but I love the power on the highway on my 1200.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I say you can’t go wrong with any tiger but I love the power on the highway on my 1200.

[@pateris]

@@Revzinator Then… buy a 1200 ! (Yes, I'll get mee coat…)

[@jamieshrimpton4338]

Bob, excellent review. Keep this sort of practical advice coming. Got a 900 GT Pro, had a test ride of the 1200 GT Pro while mine was being serviced. Agree that the seat on the 12 is much more plush, and the extra power is great but the 900 is so nimble and hardly lacking in grunt. When faced with the avaliable finance options the 1200 was just too much for me to justify. Interesting ly tho, dealership said they would struggle to locate a new 900 (any spec) in the UK until at least '23, whilst Tiger 1200s were readily available with some very good deals about. Not a bad problem to have I suppose. Thoughts?

[@kee7678]

Very interesting. Yes exactly same here in SW USA. 900s sell FAST and plenty of 1200s everywhere. Difficult to find 900s and always a wait, while every showroom floor has 1200s. I'm going with the 900 as...the 1200 is just a bigger jump than I wanted to make.

[@nicksmith8166]

I'm betting it's the eye watering price of the 1200s. My local dealer had a whole lot of 900s and 1200s. All the 900s (I bought one) were sold within weeks. The 1200s are starting to collect dust.

[@ryanmalone2681]

Gotta be the 1200 for me, but I’d put some Oxford heated grips as the ones that come with it are pointless. The 900 RP was great most weekends when I’d ride 30-40 miles to the dirt roads and ride around and do 150-200 mile days. As soon as I wanted to go to the mountains to explore and moto camp, it sucked. Wind protection and comfort wasn’t good enough for touring, loaded up it was too softly sprung, even not loaded it was too soft, and it was slightly underpowered on-road when you wanted to give it some. Sold it after 6 months and bought a GSA.

[@freeheelsak]

Same comment on every Tiger vid on KZbin. Yawn.

[@ryanmalone2681]

@@freeheelsak Isn’t that what the comments section is for?

[@ChipZilla69]

I'm riding a 900 GT Pro and it's my first bike. I have to filter on London and that's the only thing that might stop me upgrading to the 1200 one day

[@Radarman766]

Went with the 900 gt due to the over all size, seat height and cost as well. Test drove the 1200 and found it for my size much more difficult to move around on and off the bike. For me the 900 was a much better choice. Also chose the gt over the rally due to spending 80 percent of riding on tarmac.

[@karanreddyquake]

there is no 900 GT Pro India. it's 850 sports/900 GT and then 1200 GT pro... And we are scared to buy triumph because of the awful service in Bangalore. Daammn. Awesome Review. Loved it. I'd still risk and pick up 900GT or 850 sports.

[@valis992000]

Thanks for the review, one very minor suggestion, I am shopping in the US, I know some other channels will put unit conversions on the screen. I know the conversions but it's hard to help your brain being hard wired for Lbs, inches etc. It would be a "nice to have" to see those units on screen.

[@wellingtons.cassiano3002]

I’m a shorty, so I upgraded from the XRX low to a 900 GT (and proceeded to lower it down a bit), because I ride with my wife and the low seat had only 140kg payload and the suspensions really suffered with two up and luggage. Had it for a almost a year and no regrets so far. Also didn’t see the need for the extras of the GT Pro, thus saved a bit of cash for extra accessories.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

One thing I do hate about my Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer is how tall it is, but love everything else about it.

[@guywolff]

Hey Rob , I know I sound like a broken record but I would love the 900 with good Suspension (that it has ) and though it would add a little weight I would love a shaft drive on the smaller bike .. SO : heated grips, cruise control and Shaft with a great Suspension is my ticket . With a 29 inch inseam I went over and stood by the 1200 and just laughed at the reality .AT least being so high it was easy to LOOK at the shaft drive :) Funny enough the XC Scrambler is a pretty good fit .Too bad it has a questionable key fob oh yes and no shaft drive . .

[@gavinfraser7784]

I think your onto something like you if the 900 had a GT and a Rally with a shaft option I believe there would be a market for it but would the price be to high 🤷‍♂️

[@nozzer6686]

Moto Guzzi V85TT

[@guywolff]

@@gavinfraser7784 I would pay a premium price for a 200K bike :) . IF anyone took on what the 1960/ 1970 BMWs had : lower compression with 55 or 60 HP (so an engine for 200K) on low test gas and Earls forks (Modern) up front Mono longer shock in the back , modern brakes 5 US gallon tank . It would be a "Lifer bike " for the uncertain years ahead .. The Moto Guzzi V7 is the closest bike we have but I don't trust its electronics and it needs a suspension upgrade .. Something like the bullet proof Honda half wing 500 of the 70's meets the R 80 of the early 80's meets the T7 yamaha oh yes and the Earles fork of the 1961 R69s (Modernized ) up front . Am I thinking of a modern R80 GS boxer ? :) I love the power plant in my 2017 Street Scrambler 900 .. That bike with better shocks and a shaft drive would do me just fine ... SHft drive on a T120 would be a nice addition as well ..

[@guywolff]

@@nozzer6686 Yes I love that bike .. Not sure of the electronics but they are the closest to my wish list . Hard to get parts here in New England and we have a great dealership near by in Bethel Ct .. :)

[@tigerick7291]

I love Triumph bikes, I've had 8 various ones. But for this category of bikes it's got to be the KTM 1290 Super Adventure s.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Tigerick so far I love my Triumph

[@leloteixeiracanada]

Just watching all reviews about Triumph bikes and I believe 900 GT pro will be my choice

[@kevinbrennan2004]

I recently purchase, an the 1200 GT PRO. Apart from some buffeting issues, it is proving to be, an overall good decision. In hindsight though, i can't help feel if the 900, would have been a good fit, based on a saving in weight and height. I do however like the addition of a shaft drive, on the 1200. These days, my riding is restricted to the black stuff, and YES i like to put in the big miles, so i'm thinking the 1200 wins the day.

[@shahfacekillah]

I'm 188cm so I'd have to sit on both and whichever one is more comfortable, that's the one I'd choose!!!! I'd prefer the 900 though only because I don't need the power of the 1200 for the type of riding I do.

[@robynmolle5842]

Coming off a Ducati Multistrada because it was face melting fast, I moved to a BMW R 1200 GS that feels like more motorcycle than I need, I’m shopping for 900 GT pro.

[@bigjoe4020]

Carry Capacity is what I need, cause me and Missus are 200kg alone, plus gear and luggage we probably still exceed the 222kg the 1200 has but its the bests there is. Also the extra power during overtakes 2 up and the range is handy to have.

[@paulvandervyver4223]

I can afford neither...but I love the 900...maybe one day

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

You'll get there one day Paul! Keep working hard.

[@jonnycando]

Some of us actually like to go places on a bike like these ones…they should have an option showing with side cases and top box….I know they are in the catalog, but they could actually sell them if you could easily spec them.

[@gavinfraser7784]

I bought the Rally Explorer and the main reason was the shaft drive then I love the rally look even though I won’t be doing any serious off road It a great package the only fault is it’s height even with the low seat but I feel with the semi automatic suspension it could have still been set at a lower height for on road 🤷‍♂️

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nice Gavin, I went with the Rally Explorer as well. I don’t regret going with that model. It’s a beast of a machine.

[@federicocerbonim7654]

I own a 2023 900 Rally Pro Aragon with some tricks on the engine, and I'm going for the 1200 RP. It has more body, 40+ more HP, only 20kgs over weight, (that can be lower changing the exhaust), a better instrument cluster/display and a 18" wheel at the rear. It's like a being a "Jockey" once you are on the horse, it depends on you to control it and I'm 1.75mts (5.7) and 75kgs (165 pounds) ...but with 65 years of motorcycling ridding experience... PS Bob. please compare apples with apples (1200 RP Explorer? with the 900 GT ?

[@bearvonsteuben9675]

Nice comparo! A month ago I went w/ the 1200 Rally Explorer. I’m 6’5”, have been on various GS for 25 years, and the saddle height/frame size are primary considerations. Add in the 30l tank and pure snot of this triple, and the Beemer lineup is left in the dust. If the electronics hold up (Was never a fan on the BMWs), this wonderful bike seems to be a keeper.

[@quincyj50]

Do you think if you compare the tiger 1200 to the r1250gs the tiger is an better option?

[@bearvonsteuben9675]

@@quincyj50 As several reviewers have noted, the 1250 has some advantage in low-end torque. This may be a good thing off-road. As far as I can tell, the 1200’s available quickness at speed absolutely leaves the GS in the mirror. I prefer the Triumph’s gearbox, as well. Butter.

[@nicksmith8166]

@@quincyj50 Tiger has far superior brakes as well. Quick shifter wins out too.

[@nicksmith8166]

At 6 foot and a heftier guy I would have preferred the 1200 but the price was just too much. I went with the 900 GT Pro and I was pleasantly impressed and surprised. The 1200 did feel better when I sat on it but the 900 has served me well and I'm glad I purchased the Triumph over the F900XR or the 890 Adventure that I also tested. What kills me is that they couldn't include a hydraulic clutch on the 900 for the price.

[@toffski]

Excellent review! I'm seriously considering an adventure bike and love the options on the 900. I need to head to Triumph and take one for a spin@

[@jarretthinds5621]

One thing he didn't mention is the new 1200 motor is noticeably smoother than the 900. Those coming from the pre-T plane Tigers might appreciate that.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I never test rode the 900 but the engine on my 1200 is very smooth.

[@chewie8]

900 for me next year. Great video.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Get it Chewie 👍🏼

[@toby7504]

Dont like the new 1200 looks very mutch, but to crawl into the cockpit is a joy, so comfy that thing, shaft drive is the biggest plus on the new 1200. I prefere the olde 1200 in that case. On the other hand that 900 rally pro are so beutifule, and if its better than my 800, the 900 l pick for my next bike. 😊🇳🇴☕

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

You don’t like the looks 😞 I think it looks like an off road beast. Love the looks.

[@karlosh9286]

I'd like a 900 one, with low seat height, but they'd need to put in a 120 degree crank , and drop the lumpy T plane one.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nice, I went with the 1200 Rally Explorer 👍🏼

[@JoePolaris]

Rob, This was great review. I'd be downscaling in power but not capabilities, thus the 900 R-Pro.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nice pick Luc

[@Sohrabsk]

1200 really Pro for sure There's no replacement for displacement 😍

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I went with the 1200 Rally Explorer 👍🏼

[@TRYLIKTO]

Would love 150hp of 1200, but amount of electronics and weight told me I made right choice, by buying 900 rally pro

[@jerryandnancywertzbaugher7778]

The 900 looks totally adequate. Totaly. But when were motorcycles ever judged on adequacy? Since I would be looking for a sprt tourer I'd have to go up to the 1200 GT Pro.😘

[@stevendegoodmojosmet4034]

I would love to have one, but every time i ride my GS 1200 2008, I have a blast .. Great review sir! Greatings from Belgium Good Mojo .

[@motobob]

Tiger 1200 vs GS coming soon :)

[@stevendegoodmojosmet4034]

@@motobob great ..you are a hard working man Bob . Thanks for that .

[@johnnikiforakis872]

Minor Correction: I believe my 900 Rally Pro seat at low setting is 85 cm? Pretty manageable for a 6ft person (Not that this prevented me from dropping it a couple of times off road... Dumb rookie going over my skill and experience :) ). Yeah I would not consider taking that 1200 cc beast off road period. And I really do not need the extra power in the highway for legal (or ahem a bit above occasionally) speeds. Travelling is fine and comfortable. The torque is a bit lowish sure, but the motor spins up very fast and so even comparing it with my 1200cc speedmaster (That has 20 NM more at 1500 rpm less iirc) I do not really miss it that much. Overtaking is more than fine. The bike feels fast indeed. So no, not in the least bit tempted to upgrade. Pretty happy with my 900. Will keep it as long as it works or when I can replace it with a similarly priced and capable (range, weight etc) electric adventure bike (so a decade at least?) My speedmaster I'll be keeping around as long as I am around hopefully...

[@motobob]

According to the Triumph website it's 860-880 but it's nice and narrow so I also find it pretty easy to get on with. And yes I've laid my 800 XCa down a couple of times due to rider error too haha! It's a rite of passage...

[@communistgreyman2078]

Desert X of course

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Yessssssss! Ducati baby!

[@yorrickziffa]

In Malta 900 Rally Pro is at €19,830 . In the uk converted to euros whill be approximately €16,000

[@yvonnegroth3038]

900 looks good to me for australian conditions in the west

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Yvonne the 900 is an awesome option, I went with the 1200 Rally explorer.

[@Banditmanuk]

At 6ft 4 I think the 1200 would suit me although the price is a little eye watering. Shame they don't give an option for manual suspension on the base model, surely they could then have offered a more competitive entry price. Looking to own long term, am I the only one who doesn't want all the electronic tech?

[@chr11sf]

Nope! I wish the same too mate

[@Banditmanuk]

@@chr11sf Brilliant 👍👍 I actually got chance to pose that question to a couple of the main people at Triumph on a Triumph factory bike night. They said they needed to offer all the gadgets because a certain other German brand did them and that most people bought the fully loaded versions (not me)

[@chr11sf]

@@Banditmanuk Jeez, you think you'd think they could go thier own way lol...they nearly did it with the basic model but then gave it leccy suspension as well!...I think the issue is a lot of folk buy thier bikes through PCP and the difference in payments is probably small. To be honest I'd doubt I'd buy these oversize monsters...I don't need it, just got back from a 3500 mile trip two up on a speed twin and I'm 6ft 2, perfectly comfortable except the seat!

[@Banditmanuk]

@@chr11sf wife and I are very shortly heading off to Spain on an MT10 and Triumph Street Triple. Not conventional touring machines but great fun non the less. Hopefully document the journey to KZbin if all goes to plan. Yep think you're correct in you're thinking about PCP, folks just think monthly payments. I like to buy outright and keep past the end of warranty (my MT10 I've owned over 6 years and 30K miles)

[@chr11sf]

@@Banditmanuk Awesome! Hope you and Carol have a great trip and it's a bit cooler than ours...2 weeks in France with 38degC temps and both of us had laminated waterproof gear on doh lol....better than rain on the outside right?!?! Take care 👍✌

[@danmccarthy2213]

Well if you drive in southern CA, USA, the Tiger 1200cc is the bike for me, can lane split, easy to put on a trailer for my RV for camping, and it easily cruises at 80mph, the normal speed is USA (despite the legal limit!)....I wish the windshield was bigger, I have a Triumph Trophy, they should have never stopped making that bike, it out performs my BMW 1200LT in every way, and maintenance is WAY easier!...even an oil change and battery change is a hell of a lot easier!....Brits beet Germans 100% on this baby......I might just keep my Trophy, but, i need something a little bit lighter....

[@felrodolfo3092]

Very good review. Worth watching. Keep it up.

[@benwells2338]

I typically prefer the idea of a middleweight bike, something smaller, flickable, minimalist in the sense that when you’re out on the open road the bike sort of disappears into the whole experience versus say, sitting behind this massive windscreen and dash. My problem is that my 6’2” self can’t physically fit all that well on smaller bikes. For hoons around town and in the twisties, I love my middleweight naked, but whenever I head out on a multi day tour with the gal, my knees are the first to feel pain. Will also add, my first bike was a Ninja 650, not because I thought the Ninja 400 was too weak but because the 650 is physically bigger.

[@sculptor_dad]

So 900 would be a great street/dirt adventurer and the 1200 would be great street/touring explorer. Overall it seems like both are winners for Triumph.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Yes sir Tigers are just amazing machines

[@logicfirst7959]

I beg to differ mate - I owned 1200 before I opted for 900 GT Pro. In every day driving keep that 900 GT Pro in Road Mode and soon as you are on the highway, change that to Sport mode and 900 GT Pro becomes 1200 and provides the boost one needs on the highway. I have taken a 2000 miles trip recently and it has yet to disappoint me. It just an awesome bike, from maneuverability to comfort. Triumph 900 GT Pro is literally identical to BMW GS 1250 when it comes to comfort and technology gadgets with $10,000 less in cost.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Logic First, you are right! The 900 has all the power you need. I went with the 1200 because I love increased power and torque but the 900 is still an amazing bike and really all anyone needs.

[@hellslayer9638]

I would go for 900 with higher seat because better mileage and longer touring which is through cities , and higher seats because I m 6'3" and my legs are little longer so ergonomics will be better for me with higher seat

[@mariuszuk79]

As we are more often staying local than doing big trips I would have gone for 900 Rally. It's still plenty powerful and capable. Also because I'm not 6'2 and minted guy LOL. For off-roading would rather have something more specialised and lighter. Now imagine dropping that 1200 rally model while off-roading £££££££

[@AfricaTwinRider]

I have a Tiger 850 Sport and love it. How about a Tiger 1150 Sport pls Triumph. Not all of us want or need all the electronics 👍

[@jonasfogelberg9300]

Please do a ”drop test”. How easy is it to pick up a bike that is lying down after you dropped it? Any bike that has any ambition to go on any sort of gravel road and beyond, should be regarded in this sense. Can you really pick up the tall, 30 litre 1200?

[@MrAndrew1953]

At 5’8” I think I’m pretty limited to one of 900s with a dual road capability. Shame they don’t put a shaft drive on a 900. I’d opt for the 900 rally Pro.

[@blainehale]

Drive shafts are heavy. That's why it's not on the 900. It's said that MV Agusta put drive shafts on their consumer models back in the 70s to handicap anyone that wanted to race them. That said, I vastly prefer my drive shaft BMWs and Guzzis.

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I’m 5’7 and I went with the 1200. It’s possible. You can do it Andrew. Shaft drive is nice!

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

I’m 5’7 and I went with the 1200. It’s possible. You can do it Andrew. Shaft drive is nice!

[@MrAndrew1953]

@@jesseonamotorcycle That would do it for me as I can’t stand chains. I had an R80GS . A bunch of guys had a broken down trail bike with a broken chain. They asked me if I had any spare links. My buddy and I blinked then showed the victims the shaft drive set up on the Beemer.

[@mooreorlessvideos]

Need the lower seat for the rally though

[@nicholaschai4458]

Love the 900 but the 1200 makes me smirk when I twist the throttle 😁😁😁

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Haha yea that 1200 power is a beast !

[@jps8941]

A great video very helpful comes down to the options and the shaft drive on the 1200 I can't handle between maintenance I don't want to handle it. I wish there was a way to test drive them in my country they don't let you test drive expensive motorcycles and they really have a test bike out there and if they do who knows what it is. I like the 1200 rally Explorer even though I think it's a little overkill that's the one I'll probably go for but it just take me awhile to get that price point.

[@cliveomahoney4096]

2 things.....1, The decision re bikes is pretty much made given the height of the seat on the 1200. Isn't that ridiculously high for a mass market bike? 2, Having an ultra-low seat, like on the 900, must have some serious affect on the bike's handling. Would you be comfortable with this type of afterthought on a bike? They both look great. I'd go for the 850 personally. I can just tip-toe it.

[@motobob]

I get what you’re saying but I’d rather buy a bike lowered by triumph and put through their testing than some of the aftermarket solutions or bodges. But yes I assume it doesn’t handle as well as a GT Pro for example. Personally I like the riding position of tall bikes once you’re moving so it’s worth nailing the techniques for the low speed stuff!

[@chrishart8548]

@@motobob the factory lowered bmw bikes seem to be perfect.

[@mooreorlessvideos]

I mean unless something changes I'd go for the 900 gtpro ... paved roads and dirt roads occasionally is where I'm at... unless I get some buddies wanting to do the bdr then the rally I'll go for but for regular use gt pro.....

[@pistolpete6321]

Great comparison video!

[@levittperez]

I’m looking at this for longer trips so I’m looking at the 1200 and I want the extra power for 2 up riding.

[@dylanrichards9984]

Great vlog. 1200 for me I reckon….

[@_Chris____]

Thinking of getting rid of my 900 Rally Pro and switching to the 1200 XCA. Went away with the wife a while back and after a couple hours on the seat cruising at 75 - 80mph the vibration on the 900 was a little too much. Love the smoothness of the old gen engine. What are your opinions?

[@davidmcmillan8408]

Understood. You should find a Gen3 1200 at a keen price now it's been superseded. I tried a Gen 4 1200 last weekend. The weight reduction ( v my XRx) means nothing once rolling, and I personally could not live with those T-plane vibes. Now, if they'd fit the 120 crank motor from the Speed Triple to the Tiger . . .

[@Pepo-1969]

Just get the 900 and do a remap, you can gain a few hp and also remove that electronic reduced top end where you can gain a out 40hp in 6th gear at top speed.

[@ianlunn9730]

How would I go about getting it remapped ??? Can I use TuneECU ?

[@Pepo-1969]

@@ianlunn9730, I saw two videos in KZbin about it, one using the tuneECU (spanish video), and another in the shop doing a dyno run (Brazilian video). When I test ride a Tiger 850 I've tried to pass the 205km/h mark in a very accentuate downhill road and the bike just started to roll off the power, so I asked the guy from Triumph if it's possible to get a tune (outside Triumph) and he confirmed, also said that Triumph staff said that this engine is good for having around 125hp.

[@robm3357]

I went with the 24 900 GT PRO. Cool bike but I don’t think much of the display. Still needs work Triumph. A bar graph tach up the left side and speedo in the middle with lots of room left for a odo and trip meter display. It’s like the display was designed by a person that doesn’t ride a motorcycle.

[@r-rtz]

good review man

[@danmccarthy2213]

Chains suck, I'd buy the 1200, just for the shaft drive! Ever had a chain break? Slap you in the leg, then locks up the rear wheel....only way not to crash is slam on the front break to keep the rear wheel from turning you sideways...been there done that, I'd go 1200 and shaft drive any day, its worth the extra dough.

[@GaryJohnWalker1]

That 1200 tiger engine in an even more roadster biased bike - maybe a copy of beemer's XRs - would be nice imo. Otherwise it's either the semi serious Tiger (even in GT) or a Speed Triple.. And I just want a decent road bike

[@nicholas6000]

I'l go for 900 gt pro for touring, it has a fair price

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nicholas you are right about that, 900 is very nice for the price. I ended up going with the 1200 for the extra power and torque and shaft drive mainly.

[@Evil.Turkey]

I really need the 900 James Bond edition

[@hordi1ful]

U like to pay couple K just for name on the tank?

[@Evil.Turkey]

@@hordi1ful hell yeah

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

They have a James Bond edition?

[@Evil.Turkey]

@@jesseonamotorcycle look it up

[@shegocrazy]

@@jesseonamotorcycle There was a scrambler and tiger 900 in the movie and so Triumph made a 007 version of each. Dunno if you can actually still buy one though?

[@thesalamnder]

850 with the throttle table unrestricted is the best

[@rafaelcordoba13]

what is this throttle table thing?

[@thesalamnder]

@@rafaelcordoba13 check out tuneecu

[@marc1047]

Thank you for this comparison! This actually my dilemma now if I’ll go for 1200 or 900.

[@pateris]

You're not the only one mate !

[@marc1047]

@@pateris which bike are you going mate?

[@pateris]

@@marc1047 I have a Street Twin which I love to bits and will keep anyway, but it's not ideal on long rides, even if the engine is up to it. I haven't decided yet !

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Marc which did you choose?

[@marc1047]

@@jesseonamotorcycle I test drive both but couldn’t see the difference besides power. So I went for 900

[@Wormdirt7180]

I really struggle with the looks on these bikes. They seem like reliable and comfortable for pounding out miles. The looks and how tall they are. I’m tall, 6’2” but i’m all torso 😂. Short legs.

[@ripkej77]

The 900 is awesome

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

William yes it is, I went with the 1200 but the 900 is still a great bike.

[@Desmo904]

For me it would be a 900 as I don't think at 5'8" the 1200 would be a good option. (Also way too expensive) But one thing I can't fathom is why Triumph think blind spot radar is something only people with 30L fuel tanks will need? Why not offer it as an option?

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Alan I’m 5’7. Not going to lie sometimes it’s a struggle but it’s very possible.

[@SticksAandstonesBozo]

I just don’t get why we can’t get a low version with all the add ons. If you want a lower bike you have no choice but to not get all best options. Lovely.