When I saw this in your earlier post, I wondered if this would happen. The FJR is a great bike. If I didn't have the Tenere, that's what I would have. Somebody once said that the FJR's power was intoxicating. I remember thinking that was exactly right.
Triumph Tiger 1200 Gen4 (2022 - )
- Thread starter Checkswrecks
- Start date
RCinNC
Well-Known Member
Hi Checkswrecks, always nice to see another DIY guy's handiwork! Ever since I got my Zumo XT I've been playing with ideas for some way to attach a tether to the unit without permanently affixing anything to the housing. Ordinarily I'd just make a cradle out of aluminum and ABS so I wouldn't have to worry about that seemingly fragile attachment point of the Garmin mount, but that proprietary power cable makes it more difficult.
Way back in 2013, when I was still riding the V-Strom, I rode over to Charlotte to go bike browsing and looked at a Tiger Explorer 1200. I thought it was a great looking bike, but my partner (who's 5'7") just about needed a Sherpa guide in order to summit the pillion seat. Neither one of us were youngsters then, and I suspect the intervening decade hasn't made her any taller, so the Tiger sadly slipped into that "coulda shoulder" territory. I still might go back and look at one when new bike time rolls around.
Way back in 2013, when I was still riding the V-Strom, I rode over to Charlotte to go bike browsing and looked at a Tiger Explorer 1200. I thought it was a great looking bike, but my partner (who's 5'7") just about needed a Sherpa guide in order to summit the pillion seat. Neither one of us were youngsters then, and I suspect the intervening decade hasn't made her any taller, so the Tiger sadly slipped into that "coulda shoulder" territory. I still might go back and look at one when new bike time rolls around.
Dirt_Dad
Well-Known Member
Founding Member
2011 Site Supporter
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Sorry to hear it hasn't clicked for you yet. There's still time. The addictive nature nature of the 1290 wasn't instantly apparent to me. It had to grow.Had a couple folks ask for an update on the Tiger so...
Still enjoying the new bike but haven't yet had that *click* where you just know it's one that you can't imagine being without. Still glad I moved on from the Tenere because I had new bike itch for at least a couple of years and the Tiger really is a great next bike, especially when the tach sweeps past about 4-5,000 rpm and you have it leaned over. BIG GRINS!!! The triple engine is just addictive in having most of the grunt of a twin yet the smooth power of a four. At the first service when we were all at Romney the tech did some software updates and somehow the bike runs even better than before.
It's a couple pounds lighter than the GS and is more powerful so those aren't the issue and I'm not worried about what is going to break so I still prefer the Tiger, but it's just so polished it doesn't have the addictive properties of the KTM 1290. (The Tiger 12 also wheels REALLY well when TCS is disabled!) I think the thing that bugs me most is simply the height, especially of the back seat, since getting on and off usually means mounting the foot peg like a horse. When 2-up, my 5'10" lady is high enough that I feel it whenever she simply moves to change which of my shoulders she is looking over. The mounting process gets even harder when the boxes are on.
Like I said, I am enjoying it so can't see moving on just yet, but as I get into my later 60s I do keep thinking back on the 456 pound Scrambler 1200 XEs that we test rode at the Romney event. It made me smile and the flat seat definitely makes it a better 2-up bike as well, but the tank is smaller than I'd like range-wise and it means going back to a chain. Current thought is to stay with the Tiger till at least when the new 1000 Guzzi Stelio comes out this winter, compare the three, and then see where my thoughts are at.
In the meantime, one of the issues has been the limited choices in how to mount a phone or GPS so my son with the 3D printer and I started selling two styles of mounts and I thought at least some of you (RCinNC) all might get a kick out of our video.
I'm with you on the wonderful Triumph 1200 scramblers we rode at Romney. I tried the 1200 Indian scrambler a few weeks later. Absolutely, positively, hated it. The insanely loud aftermarket pipe had a lot to do with it. Couldn't get off the awful thing fast enough. Made the Triumph version seem even better.
Hoping the Tiger grows on you. Of course if it doesn't...the SAS never disappoints.
Eville Rich
Well-Known Member
If you can figure out a GPS mount for the Tiger 800 2018+, there's a ready market. I may fab something up for my wife's bike but it's a real challenge. No crossbar on the OEM or the Madstad system. I think there's a way to create a crossbar for mounting. But there are tons of threads in forums asking about it and really zero aftermarket support for mount that sits above the screen. Probably too small a market as Triumph went to the 850 and 900 models.
I do like that the 1200 has the crossbar.
Eville Rich
Not sure you can blame contaminated fluid on the bike since it would've had at least two oil changes and a lot of road/weather/dirt exposure. The short supply on parts is a different issue.
Talking to the mechanic at Romney the engines have been pretty bullet proof. The issues are typically with the electronics such as the quick shifter, and while not frequent those seem to be sensor issues.
I think that type of thing is also an issue with cars. The more electronics, and/or bells and whistles, the more likely issues will be seen.
Cycledude
Well-Known Member
Well the bike must have come from the factory with contaminated clutch fluid because supposedly the brake and clutch fluid reservoirs had never been opened until after this trouble started.
Tenman
Well-Known Member
I use a Ram holder on my handlebars. It made reading it easier for me. 
Cycledude
Well-Known Member
I use a Ram ball that replaces one of the handlebar clamp bolts to mount my Zumo XT, works excellent and I can rest my hand on tank bag to do something simple like search for gas station. Bought the Ram ball off eBay for about $10 about 7 years ago.
The GT Pro is on the way out at less than 1,400 miles.
As a machine it's great and love the engine, especially when the tach is sliding toward the top end. That intake sound and the acceleration are intoxicating. It stops and corners great and I still prefer it to the BMWs.
HOWEVER
I'm a solid 6 ft and am tired of the aggravation of having to mount the damned thing like a horse every time I get off or on. If the ground is soft it's the old left foot down then back away sliding the right over the seat. EVERY F-ing TIME. We do a lot of 2-up and the rear seat is SO high that getting Jackie on and off is not easy. Plus if she moves around I feel it in the bars with the leverage of her height.
I really don't want a third Super Ten so wandered with Jackie around Bobs BMW used bikes yesterday to try the Scrambler 1200 XC and while a fun bike it's just too small for 2-up. As usual didn't like any of the overpriced BMW choices for various reasons. Tried an 2017 Africa Twin with DCT and we really liked that but I just can't get past the horrible plasticky dash. There's a Guzzi Stelvio in Ashburn on Craigslist and I always thought those were cool but it's still a 2006 design that is bigger than the Super Ten and no cruise control. New VStroms are just too Plain Jane.
I'm considering either going down to the Guzzi V85TT and live with the less power, or going to a used 1290 (S or R) and living without a shaft again. Hope to try one of each soon. (Yes Dirt_Dad I know your thoughts here. )
As a machine it's great and love the engine, especially when the tach is sliding toward the top end. That intake sound and the acceleration are intoxicating. It stops and corners great and I still prefer it to the BMWs.
HOWEVER
I'm a solid 6 ft and am tired of the aggravation of having to mount the damned thing like a horse every time I get off or on. If the ground is soft it's the old left foot down then back away sliding the right over the seat. EVERY F-ing TIME. We do a lot of 2-up and the rear seat is SO high that getting Jackie on and off is not easy. Plus if she moves around I feel it in the bars with the leverage of her height.
I really don't want a third Super Ten so wandered with Jackie around Bobs BMW used bikes yesterday to try the Scrambler 1200 XC and while a fun bike it's just too small for 2-up. As usual didn't like any of the overpriced BMW choices for various reasons. Tried an 2017 Africa Twin with DCT and we really liked that but I just can't get past the horrible plasticky dash. There's a Guzzi Stelvio in Ashburn on Craigslist and I always thought those were cool but it's still a 2006 design that is bigger than the Super Ten and no cruise control. New VStroms are just too Plain Jane.
I'm considering either going down to the Guzzi V85TT and live with the less power, or going to a used 1290 (S or R) and living without a shaft again. Hope to try one of each soon. (Yes Dirt_Dad I know your thoughts here.
)
Tenman
Well-Known Member
. Disappointed to hear that. I’ve been negotiating on a GT Explorer. f you rode solo. Would you keep it? I mount my S10 like a horse every time to clear my backrest. I watched a short mechanic leave a big mark on my seat dismounting my S10. I ca t get it off either.The GT Pro is on the way out at less than 1,400 miles.
As a machine it's great and love the engine, especially when the tach is sliding toward the top end. That intake sound and the acceleration are intoxicating. It stops and corners great and I still prefer it to the BMWs.
HOWEVER
I'm a solid 6 ft and am tired of the aggravation of having to mount the damned thing like a horse every time I get off or on. If the ground is soft it's the old left foot down then back away sliding the right over the seat. EVERY F-ing TIME. We do a lot of 2-up and the rear seat is SO high that getting Jackie on and off is not easy. Plus if she moves around I feel it in the bars with the leverage of her height.
I really don't want a third Super Ten so wandered with Jackie around Bobs BMW used bikes yesterday to try the Scrambler 1200 XC and while a fun bike it's just too small for 2-up. As usual didn't like any of the overpriced BMW choices for various reasons. Tried an 2017 Africa Twin with DCT and we really liked that but I just can't get past the horrible plasticky dash. There's a Guzzi Stelvio in Ashburn on Craigslist and I always thought those were cool but it's still a 2006 design that is bigger than the Super Ten and no cruise control. New VStroms are just too Plain Jane.
I'm considering either going down to the Guzzi V85TT and live with the less power, or going to a used 1290 (S or R) and living without a shaft again. Hope to try one of each soon. (Yes Dirt_Dad I know your thoughts here.
Dirt_Dad
Well-Known Member
Founding Member
2011 Site Supporter
2013 Site Supporter
2014 Site Supporter
Maybe you do, then again...I might surprise you.(Yes Dirt_Dad I know your thoughts here.
I have experience on 2 of the three bikes you're considering. If you count my 890R, then I have experience with 2.5 of the bikes. Regardless, it won't stop me from adding my $.02
Don't buy the 1290 R. It's too specialized in what you don't care about, and what you don't want to do. I watched FireDog go through the same thing. His R only stuck around for about as long as your Triumph.
I've been riding Larry's used bikes and making videos of them for his web site. One of the bikes I enjoyed the most was the V85TT. Actually, it was a terrific little bike. Yes, definitely noticeably smaller than the 1200cc bikes we all know and love. I had to hold back a lot of the video because the last owner never turned off the break-in warning lights, and they were blinking at me...a lot. Last I knew, Larry still has that bike in Purcellville. He'd love to see you. While I liked the V85TT...a lot, it was his FJR1300 that got me to make a phone call. Yes, I came close to buying it.
Obviously, you know how I feel about the SAS. Still love it above all other bikes I've ever owned. BUT...I've never once had a passenger.aboard. I've always been solo. I have no idea how comfortable it would be for someone on the back. Of course you're always welcome to try mine, but I'm not available to make that happen until mid-September.
All things considered...I think you'd be well severed by another FJR. I sold my original one much quicker than you're selling your Trimuph. I was shocked at how much I enjoyed the one in the video. Larry has 4 of those.
Of course if you feel an FJR is too cramped (after adding bar risers), DM had me out looking at Goldwings last weekend. That's not cramped. NOT the F6B. I rode one of those for Larry. It was fine, but not tempting to buy. A modern, 2018 or later Goldwing will appear in my garage sooner or later.
So, did you really know my thoughts?
That is the only bike that I would have other than the T-12. My youngest son has one. I was actually fortunate enough to have an opportunity to get it on an actual racetrack. You know that heavy slow speed handling it has? Disappears at speed. Rock solid stable in corners. Confidence inspiring. He got his as the second owner. First owner had it 10 months and traded it for a an R1m. We think it's been flashed. There's no limiter and he's had it over 160. The throttle is also very smooth.
The motor is intoxicating. I actually think CW may have the one that coined that term for this bike. It's true. Doesn't matter where you are in the rev range, twist and hang on. In the straight away on the track, the Connie was the only bike that was faster, and it wasn't by much. And the Connie couldn't keep the speed in the corners. The Connie feels big, the FJR doesn't. To me anyway.
The riding position might be the only issue. I love the FJR, but I love the T-12's riding position more. His is a '14, so it's only a 5-speed. New ones have the 6-speed.
The GT Pro is on the way out at less than 1,400 miles.
As a machine it's great and love the engine, especially when the tach is sliding toward the top end. That intake sound and the acceleration are intoxicating. It stops and corners great and I still prefer it to the BMWs.
HOWEVER
I'm a solid 6 ft and am tired of the aggravation of having to mount the damned thing like a horse every time I get off or on. If the ground is soft it's the old left foot down then back away sliding the right over the seat. EVERY F-ing TIME. We do a lot of 2-up and the rear seat is SO high that getting Jackie on and off is not easy. Plus if she moves around I feel it in the bars with the leverage of her height.
I really don't want a third Super Ten so wandered with Jackie around Bobs BMW used bikes yesterday to try the Scrambler 1200 XC and while a fun bike it's just too small for 2-up. As usual didn't like any of the overpriced BMW choices for various reasons. Tried an 2017 Africa Twin with DCT and we really liked that but I just can't get past the horrible plasticky dash. There's a Guzzi Stelvio in Ashburn on Craigslist and I always thought those were cool but it's still a 2006 design that is bigger than the Super Ten and no cruise control. New VStroms are just too Plain Jane.
I'm considering either going down to the Guzzi V85TT and live with the less power, or going to a used 1290 (S or R) and living without a shaft again. Hope to try one of each soon. (Yes Dirt_Dad I know your thoughts here.
Upcoming V 100 Stelvio might be the unicorn you're looking for. Appears it could be revealed soon. Moto Guzzi Expected To Unveil New Stelvio Before 2023 Draws To A Close (rideapart.com)
Steve
thughes317
Well-Known Member
Boing!
We actually looked at the FJR at Bob's yesterday and to me it was a real throwback. Had two and commuted on them into DC for years both summer and winter before the two Super Teneres so know the first and second gen FJRs extremely well. But they are heavier than what I'm leaning toward and after the Triumph I'd like to have a bit more gravel ability. Really like the newer GoldWings and obviously they are fantastic 2-up but again the desire to be able to do some gravel is their Achilles Heel.
Was looking at Larry's V85TT on-line and plan to call him on Tuesday about a test ride. Glad to hear you tried and liked it so much. Appreciate knowing to not go for a 1290R. There's a 2019 1290S I may go look at in PA this week.
Been watching the new Stelvio develop and agree that it'd be the unicorn but the Triumph will go on the market tomorrow so need a bike for now. My thought is the tthis next bike will probably be around for a year to see how good the new Stelvio is.
Thanks guys!
Was looking at Larry's V85TT on-line and plan to call him on Tuesday about a test ride. Glad to hear you tried and liked it so much. Appreciate knowing to not go for a 1290R. There's a 2019 1290S I may go look at in PA this week.
Been watching the new Stelvio develop and agree that it'd be the unicorn but the Triumph will go on the market tomorrow so need a bike for now. My thought is the tthis next bike will probably be around for a year to see how good the new Stelvio is.
Thanks guys!
escapefjrtist
Searching for Dry Roads
LOVE my flashed and properly suspended '15 FJR! With it as my ICBM and the Tenere as my rough road touring machine (Can + AK), I figure I've got the on-road bases covered. DRZ handles my off-road itch. And yes, even after four (4) FJRs, every time I ride it the engine is still intoxicating!
~G
~G
SuckSqueezeBangBlow
Well-Known Member
I ride solo and would totally suggest staying away from the Tiger right now. Basically mine has been out of service most of this year. Left me stranded 1500 miles from home and cost me a small fortune to get home. Has been to the dealer for the clutch 4 times, Triumph said they would not cover it under warranty because it was 'wear and tear'. Then after aggressive negotiations they decided to cover the new full clutch system. Of course there are no parts available right now. The day after I get mine back it will be gone.
Run, don't walk away.
Too bad because I really like this bike, a lot. The power, the comfort, style, tech, etc etc. Too bad it didn't actually work though