Triumph Tiger 900 GT | As Intimidating As It Looks?

[@rleon8339]

I just got a 2021 900 GT Pro and love everything about it. Brilliant bike. What a motor!

[@atxplus]

Im 60 and I just love adventure bikes. This is my favorite adventure bike so far

[@tonydare7614]

Hi, I totally agree with your review. I got my GT Pro in Paris two weeks ago. I'd never ridden or been interested in adventure bikes and was concerned that it would be intimidating, especially for filtering in dense traffic. But I've found it to be quite the opposite. The bike's perfect stability in all situations is incredible and makes filtrering a doddle, and far better than the Ducati Scrambler I exchanged it for. It isn't nearly as wide as it seems either and the mirrors are in a good place for getting through tight gaps. It also is a fun and comfortable bike to ride in all situations and weather conditions. The suspension is amazing, the acceleration is easily sufficient (for me) and cornering is confidence-inspiring even with new tires. Rain mode works really well too as I have had ample chance to explore! Overall, easily the best bike I've ever ridden. The only minor downside for me is parking the bike in tight spaces and moving it around at a standstill as I'm used to lighter bikes. But I guess it's just practice. Lovely to see my hometown in the sun too.

[@ecrusch]

Always enjoy the way you present your comments. That bike would do nicely in my scheme.

[@delararesadv9140]

I've got an 800, I wasn't sold on the sound myself, but it's certainly comfortable and the low end torque 👌🏼Also has more kit on board than you can shake a stick at. Tasty!

[@markmackay4936]

I'm 5' 10" and 190 lbs. 30" inseam and 32" arms. I just traded my 2017 Explorer XRT for a 900 GT LRH. I'm in motorcycle heaven! The XRT was a great bike but totally intimidating at low speed or trying to move it. It was just too big for me. The 900 GT is just what the doctor ordered. I love it.

[@mirceavasile8392]

Hey Mark! For your 30’’ inseam, can you flat foot the 900 GT Low with the seat at 780mm ?

[@mindspinn311]

You point out all the reasons I love adventure bikes (dad bikes lol) and the Tiger in particular. I may be upgrading my 800 XRT to the 900 GT Pro because the improvements are significant and worthwhile.

[@FunWithAJ]

Better first ride review than most major outlets.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Thanks.

[@andydawson2070]

I never liked the styling of the old Tiger but this new model looks much better, I guess that with that super smooth triple engine the ride is going to be super enjoyable and that's from a dad's point of view 😁.

[@KiwiMoto72]

i rode it - its a great bike, but i'm 6ft tall, and found it to feel a bit small vs. my Multistrada 950s. Rumor has it, that the new Tiger 1200 coming next year will be a game changer..

[@ianmcdowell286]

Pulled the trigger on one about a month ago. I'm 6'2" and didn't find it small or uncomfy at all. But then my bike history is GT550, Yammie Thundercat, pre Divvie XJ900, 600 Bandit, so I'm not coming from a lardy ADV. BTW, plenty of people are turning their noses up at the 94bhp. The T'Cat had 97bhp and weighed pretty much the same as the Tiger; it certainly wasn't at all pedestrian. When did ninety something BHP become insufficient in a bike of this type?

[@KiwiMoto72]

@@ianmcdowell286 oh good to know. Maybe it just "felt" small to me. Its a great bike though. Triumph are doing a great job with their product planning and fit and finish. I just bought a Speed Twin btw, for daily riding. Sublime!

[@chrishart8548]

@@ianmcdowell286 the thundercat was 100.7hp and 189kg dry. But a screaming inline 4 does just seem faster anyway. The old tiger 800 was only 81hp on a Dyno maybe that's why people always thought it should go better than it did

[@eskimo427]

Took my Tiger 1050 from the North East of Scotland to the Pyrenees and had a blast going over them, I doubt my Daytona 955i would have been any more entertaining.

[@motobob]

2:08 this is why you shoulder check when filtering...

[@FunWithAJ]

#facts

[@karlosh9286]

Yep ! I also guess this is why I avoid riding in London. At my place just outside the M25, I just head for the country lanes !

[@nestorasbellas6604]

Personally I lean forward and give a look at the mirror. It gives a much better view behind, putting in the frame things not usually there.

[@karlosh9286]

@@nestorasbellas6604 The rear facing radar that Motobob said about a while ago would be useful. I'd pay for that !

[@jaydeepsarkar6460]

Brilliant review. But to really enjoy the Tiger in its natural habitat I would urge you to Visit Bangalore (India) during the rainy season. You wont even see them coming.. erm the potholes I mean. That will be a true test of its suspension.

[@1ridgy]

Waiting with bated breath for Thursday 5th May when I pick up my Tiger 900 Pro. Opted for Triumph aluminium cases and top box and Arrow can (you were correct) as the standard exhaust note doesn’t do the bike justice.

[@bradb2514]

Awesome review. Nice editing. Enjoyed it.

[@oldtimer3824]

Nicely done on the Dad bike video. Lol. Never heard that term before in California. ADV bikes, ahem Dad bikes are comfortable long distance go anywhere touring machines.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah I've got a few friends who proudly claim the name. Usually because they're the only ones stepping off their bikes at the cafe who don't need to stretch their legs out or call the osteopath.

[@stevebolton8471]

Watched several of your reviews now, including the electric ones. Good stuff, funny and thoughtful. Thanks. Dad bike! Right, I have one of those.75-85mpg though, so more practical than electric.

[@RarefiedRoad]

Thanks Steve. I'll never insult the dad bikes, honestly I'm jealous of the practicality now that I know how well they can handle.

[@chrishart8548]

A lot of younger guys are getting a GS now. Will loose it's dad bike status soon

[@pistolpete6321]

Great review! Seems like a fantastic all around motorcycle!

[@RarefiedRoad]

Pretty much. Can't think of anything it would struggle with apart from the race track.

[@TomReinerDE]

One day you wake up and find out - to your surprise - that you have reached an age where you start to realize that older people have not been wrong about everything... adventure bikes might just be the beginning. ☺️

[@RarefiedRoad]

I know. I know it's coming and I look forward to it when it gets here 😁

[@gerrywilson4588]

Yeap jumped of fireblade onto GT!900..53..fabulous if urin d age bracket 😊

[@joshnnik]

I appreciate that you were restricted by your location for your first impressions review but I hope that nobody places too much value to it. The Tiger 900 GT does have short comings as a more lengthy road test will reveal. Whilst I enjoyed it’s suspension, gearbox and handling, I found seat comfort, vibrations and skinny hand grips not to my liking after quite some time and miles. The screen adjustment mechanism on the bike I rode was crude and difficult to adjust even when stationary. After reading so many rave reviews I was very disappointed as I was sure this was going to be my next purchase. My 2016 Africa Twin was more comfy and had a smoother engine and my 2018 T120 still takes some beating as day to day bike.

[@oldtimer3824]

Roger Kent Im a 2017 Africa twin owner, which is exactly the same as your 2016. My AT Is set up with an aux gas tank, crash bars, skid plate etc. and is a bit top heavy at around 550 pounds. 900 GT looks appealing as it’s significantly lighter and likely better on the street than the AT with its 21” front wheel. I’d be curious to know what you found uncomfortable about the 900 GT compared to our AT’s? Thanks in advance, OT from California.

[@joshnnik]

Old Timer Hi Old Timer, I guess that name could apply to me as well, I’m 69! To answer your question my main two issues were the vibration felt through the bike from the “T plane” crank design of the engine which I found to be most noticeable when riding in the 40-60mph range, and that’s about the commonest speed on our congested UK roads. The other one was the seat seemed to pinch my inner thighs and make things a bit uncomfortable around the crotch area. I was constantly standing up to ease the discomfort. I’m not a big guy at 5’10” and 160lbs. The bike does ride and steer really nice but the AT has definitely a smoother motor and my T120, although a lumpy motor, felt far nicer than the T900 from the vibration front.

[@oldtimer3824]

Roger Kent Mr RK, your response and comments are much appreciated. Especially as California motorcycle dealers do not offer test rides except BMW. it’s a darn shame, the new triumph 900 cc motor was purposely built to ‘not’ be buttery smooth like the prior gen 800 cc motor. I can deal with the seat as I would put a $500 USD Russell day long saddle on it for ultimate comfort. From one old-timer to another, if I switch from my Africa twin I want something that’s a bit lighter (easier to manage), comfortable upright riding, more nimble on road with a 19” front wheel. But as a tall rider I also need sufficient seat to peg distance, i’d have to research if triumph or aftermarket offers a peg lowering kit for 900 GT like aftermarket companies do for the Africa twin. Take care good sir.

[@stevebolton8471]

Old Timer That’s terrible. I would never buy a bike without a test ride.

[@alansmith1268]

3:26 3:26

[@glenndubicki4099]

I'm looking at either the Tiger 900 GT Pro or the Husqvarna Norden 901; I'll use it for touring, & often two up, with my wife on the back. I like the idea of the increased power of the Norden but I also like the electronic suspenders on the Triumph & the triple engine. Of the two bikes, which one would you go for?

[@paulneedham3608]

One day you will be my age 60 but still ridding 40 years on the road. Was about to order one just as lock down came .if you think the tiger is heavy. Kawasaki Versys 1000 is 250kg.wet.load that luggage passenger. That's heavy.

[@RarefiedRoad]

That is heavy

[@kevincraig8257]

I just turned 60 we will.do it

[@neilcole3406]

I had a street triple tried a tiger and loved it now l own one!

[@RarefiedRoad]

3 cylinders all the way.

[@petewebb6952]

We didn’t like the 900 GT Pro. My partner definitely didn’t like being a pillion on it. I used to have an 800 XRT so i was used to Tigers. Granted that they are very safe and practical. If touring on rough roads the GT Pro is fine. Regarding the engine, if it’s trying to be like both a triple and a twin then it doesn’t work for me. If i wanted just one bike for practical purposes, commuting etc, then yes this might be one, but I’d never love it like a Bonnie... I don’t think they look great either... For real fun and beauty get a Speed Twin; for practical stuff get a Tiger...

[@stevebolton8471]

Pete Sudhana I love my brother’s Street Twin and T120. Lovely engines but I find the suspension feels short after my NC750X. With the state of the road maintenance these days an adventure bike with long suspension is a practical solution. I have however always preferred twin cylinder engines.

[@zardportugal]

Talking about good surprises, you should try this one: V-Strom 650 Yeah, it will be surprising. I know well the Tiger´s range, I owned a 1050 and rode the 800´s. Cheers.

[@ThePalmatron]

Good review...thanks!

[@kildareman051]

After two Tigers, 1050 & 800 (for 9 years and counting) I'm not sure I'll change for 900. All seem to be getting heavier and taller and me being a short a*se conspire against me. You can't beat the riding position of these "dad's" bikes though, or the hustle.

[@xErth_]

the 900 comes in a version called "900 gt low" in which the seat height is 76-78mm, the lowest you can find in the adventure category from any brand.

[@karlosh9286]

I test rode one of these. How do you find the steering ? It's not just this one, other adventure bikes, and high up ones I've been on, I always find them a bit vague and twitchy as compared to say Speed Triples, Street Triples, KTM 790 Duke, Speed Twin, even the slightly soft Honda CB1000R. I like the lower centre of gravity on naked roadsters and I can't handle the sports bike position for more than 20 mins, I'm too old ! About all I can say about upright adventure bikes is your knee isn't as bent, so on long straight roads, I guess they're more comfortable. I am a Dad to 2 young adults now, I'm not ready for a Dad bike yet, my knees can still bend (just). Give me a Speed Twin, Speed Triple, Street Triple or Honda CB1000R any day. (Haven't tried the MT10 , GSXS1000 , Tuono , Streetfighter V4 yet, they'd all probably make the list that I'd like to ride too )

[@RarefiedRoad]

Yeah I'm pretty happy with the naked sports bike class. Preferably a bigger capacity so you don't have to go hunting for the power band. I didn't mind the handling, it was a nice introduction to adventure bikes. Engine wise I can't see them adding this firing order to the speed triple, I think it's only for the tiger so that it can handle a bit more like its competitors off road where a twin has an advantage.

[@trailblazeratv6306]

These are sweet touring bikes

[@kevincraig8257]

I have the 2018 1200 xca I bought before I ever rode it let me tell you I was a little conservative the first curve I started n with it and it if it was telling me just hang on buddy I got this let me tell you I could not stop grinning what a machine I wouldnt trade it for any bike on the planet havnt ridden the 900 but I bet it's just or more capable

[@chrishart8548]

The 900 is lighter and doesn't have those welded on rear foot pegs.

[@karlosh9286]

You like the new firing order on the Tiger triple engine ? I'm not too keen . It makes it a bit "twin" like. I like twins, but if you have a triple, well I want triple firing order. ( Hope they don't do that on the new Speed Triple )

[@scottys1423]

I have a 98 model; also known as the "Steamers." Each generation of Tiger had become less adventure and more street bike. Obviously the trend continues with this one.

[@neilcole3406]

Yep l tried one , now l want one! Darn it!

[@willv2378]

If a bike-type like this is an alternative for you, I expected, you would prefer the Moto Guzzi V85TT, which in my mind has more character and a better engine shake feeling, compared to the Tiger 900.

[@charlie__w307]

I was hoping someone might mention this. I'm hoping he might take a look at the v85.

[@RarefiedRoad]

I do love a moto guzzi. Now that I know adventure bikes are manageable I will be paying the V85 some more attention.

[@karlosh9286]

2:48 Xmax scooter rider must like the idea of road rash !

[@bmazzuia]

Another awesome video!!

[@Mark-ou8nu]

Bob, how do you ride like that? Wrong foot down and really dangling it after starting, just seems awkward

[@sydznl]

Hows the engine heat on summer city rides?

[@kellyabercrombie9769]

Awesome video style. Do the Rally Pro next.

[@robbikebob]

I appreciate what adventure bikes do but I really can't love how they look. If I was going to spend a shed load of cash on a bike I have to enjoy looking at it! If I was in the position to have 5 or 6 bikes then I might consider one as a work horse/tourer. Other than that.....

[@RarefiedRoad]

I don't think I could bring myself to own one as my one and only. But for a bit of diversity on a longer trip I deffinitely would have it in a fleet.

[@gavinfraser7784]

Are you going to try the Rally Pro to compare them ???

[@rahulmenon6073]

Don't you agree "T-Plane" sounds about as good as R1 at high revs ? BTW 4:18 MI6 !?

[@RarefiedRoad]

It does sound good

[@ChadJCooper]

Superb review.

[@mojosl2010]

Does the tiger gets heated up and blow hot air onto your body?

[@RarefiedRoad]

Not that I noticed. But it was only about 20 degrees so it didn't have a chance to get too hot.

[@michals1108]

hello how tall are you>? thanks

[@RarefiedRoad]

5'10''

[@piedbiker280]

inseam size is more useful to know than how tall a person is.

[@charlesbridgeman440]

We are seeing too much about The Royal Enfield Interceptor. Triumph have a bike for everyone.

[@stevebolton8471]

Charles Bridgeman But not at Royal Enfield prices. It’s a pity that Triumph don’t make smaller engine cheaper bikes to encourage younger riders into the brand.

[@sergiuulici3908]

this....or yamaha 9gt tracer 2021....same price.

[@kee7678]

I about decided on the Tracer 9 GT, but that !@$% TFT sucks so bad I hate it. Im thinking seriously about this Triger 900 GT Pro.

[@sergiuulici3908]

@@kee7678 what about waiting 4 months to see if Yamaha change the TFT on the 22 model?

[@kee7678]

@@sergiuulici3908 Yes agreed. I think I'll do that. I'm hopeful they will change it..but the Triumph 900GT Pro is amazing too.

[@sergiuulici3908]

@@kee7678 agree with that too. I am gonna wait until february to see what Yamaha change on the Next model...i think It may be my long term bike so , i am between Tiger 900 VS Yamaha 9gt VS BMW xr 900. The problem for me is that i am 1.70 cm tall so i cant go for the Tiger pro. I cant reach the ground with both feet flat. So i feel unsafe. The other 2 are fine ...even tho i am in LOVE with the tracer 9 GT red. Take care

[@kee7678]

@@sergiuulici3908 what's your inseam? Mine's 32 and I'm told the Tiger has riders that have 28 30 inch inseam and are ok. I like the XR too but man, pricey for maintenence and any issues which I hear there are a few. Stay in touch and let me know what you end up doing or as you go what you're thinking. I'm really liking the Tiger, after leaning towards the Tracer...

[@moonvee1859]

5.6 height rider can ride this bike

[@RarefiedRoad]

The seat is adjustable so I would say yes.

[@neilcole3406]

Try out the KTM Adventure bike, then tell me it’s a dads bike!

[@pggp273]

Dad bike 😂 I'm a grandad and I'm still not ready for a bike like this

[@RarefiedRoad]

There's hope for me yet then. Hope to still be on cafe racers when I'm a grandad.

[@Zimmermann310]

To dravel in citys is a scooter cheaper.

[@gabormartin2052]

Just talk? The motocycle sound ist best.

[@dadmadforgot4050]

Dad bike? 🤔 hmmm... cb1300...

[@RarefiedRoad]

🤣 Yeah fair point

[@dadmadforgot4050]

@@RarefiedRoad I reckon a good bike is a good bike! Go for the Tiger if thats what you fancy : )

[@TonVerkleijT3]

Matureness comes with age, when you grow a proper beard.