Bought a 2015 1200 Explorer with 2K miles this weekend. Its getting shipped next week. I thought it was incredibly easy to steer and shift. I don't see why anyone complains about the weight, but I am 270 / 6'1 so I have better weight for it.
I bought a '13 new and have about 50K miles on it now (riding other bikes, too). What suckered me in was the Alternator. Heated gear (top & bottom, heated grips, a GPS or two and decent aux lighting (120 watts for the pair). Never a complaint from the charging system. I've been riding since 1961 and have never had a better bike.
Great video man. Just moved to Reno, NV from Minnesota with my 2017 Triumph Tiger 1200. Just to note that my XCX does in fact have the TSAS on the back and the front. I think the comparisons are great and I love my bike. I got it for used for $10k, but still a little sad when I drop it. Wish you'd make more Tiger content!
I've just went past 700 miles on a 2020 Desert Edition. It's my first Triumph and so far I am digging it. I've got a 2017 KLR 650 that I can satisfy some dirt urges (at least I haven't attempted to sell it.....yet..lol). I wanted the Triumph for some long distance touring on mainly pavement. Every year, I think, there is always that fear of buying and then wishing we had waited on the "newest" features, etc. Thanks for all the info.
Thanks for your good information. I am considering a 2020 1200 desert edition for $1699, after watching your video I think I'll wait and see what's next.
Loving your vids...I've been riding an SV650 and now looking for my next bike. Been eyeing something better for longer rides with wind protection...realistically will be doing street 90% of the time. I'm 5'8 - leaning to a 900 GT Pro - the 1200 had me intrigued as a better option for 2up. Appreciate any recs you may have re a seond bike, primarily for 2-5 hour touring. As an aside, I've ridden most of the Triumph line - had the most fun on the Street Triple and that is for a different style - may need to plan for two bikes :) Thanks in advance.
That is such a good question “ do I wait ? “ . I think I not gonna wait . Here in South Africa , the new model will be a lot more expensive and the are pushing the current models fully loaded , probably to get rid off them . I like the idea off getting it with everything and not having to add stuff after “ very expensive here “ I hired one for 4 days at the end of this month . FYI the GS is 100k more here and is out of my budget . Think my 4 day trip will give me a good idea what the bike is like to own . We will see ...
I bought mine 2012. model this year, it is all I wanted from bike. Tbh all these "cons" that you mentioned are somehow reason I bought this bike. It is supose to be a pig, loudish sound of engine etc.. When bike becomes to perfect it looses it's charm. Great review!
I myself just love the 1200 cc displacement. It may appear large up top but this all goes away when moving down the road. I'm 6'4" tall and I require a bigger bike to start with. Something that actually fits me. I got no problem with these larger/bigger bikes.
This is just a nice break down of why you ride a Tiger 1200. I didn't realize there were so many things I didn't know about the Tigers. I didn't know the newer Tigers had a moving screen; that's just cool. Sucks you had to buy an aftermarket screen since stock was terrible. Seeing that you have a Gen 1 machine and the gearbox wasn't smoother but I guess it keeps you on your toes. It's kinda ironic that you've modded your bike to Gen 2 specs by yourself. If I were taller or a better motorcyclist, I probably would have looked more at the new Scrambler models. Sucks being short. This was a nice video, it's like your bike is telling its story.
Anordin1 thanks! Good to hear from you, I suppose all bikes tell a story. There was a lot of small changes but for me I just can’t bite off a 20 k price but on the flip side the old tiger is fully decked out. Just bought a Trophy SE (keeping the tiger)so I’m sure I’ll be going through al this again.
I found a beautiful 2014 Tiger 1200 XC online, with about 92k kilometers (57k miles) on it, for just under €7k. It includes the original sidecases and topcase. On the pictures it looks in great condition, but I would obviously take it for a test drive. Do you think this has enough life left in it, and would it be a good purchase?
I have the Trophy SE and have just bought the Dessert edition Tiger 1200, why , £1500 of extras, yes there is a new one coming, bigger engine maybe but Euro 5 will kill most of that, weight loss maybe a little, price increasing ..oh hell yes. My personal thought was that the deal was so good compared to my 13 model explorer that it was a no brainer. All the best. :)
Totally agree. The Rocket 3 is a good example of how more CCs can result in very little power increase as emission standards change. I imagine the new r3 could easily put out low 200's with a few minor tweaks and deletes.
Superb bike, I love my 2012 explorer… I have two questions… 1. Can I change to wider rear tire? Next version models go up to 170. W. What is rear shock most smooth soft setting? The small bottom screw needs some tuning as top bolt is set to far left softer setting.
That case of beer must've been 'Rolling Rocks'..lol. I like this review, to the point, no dribble! I'm looking at a 1st gen TEX at the same price point you paid. It's at a dealer but he's selling it 'as is' w/21k miles. No service records or warranty is making me reluctant. Forums talk about 'head' issues, etc. Any personal experience with such issues? Thx for your honest review.
For some reason this just popped up on my notifications; thanks! I actually am having a head issue on a trophy (been in repair for a while now) Found out that there's alot of these popping up if the owner did not get the recalled original head work. Sadly, my TEX did not so it's a gamble I suppose. Still running strong on that one though :)
Thanks for the video! I am in the market for an explorer do you have any recommendations on a which years to avoid, with regards to reliability issues.? generally interested in 2014 through 2017 thank you
That’s a good year range that you mentioned. Personally, I’d go 16-17. Known issues on the 12-14 models with valve guide issues. It’s fine to get an early one but have a service tech check to make sure the recall work was done. Sadly, mine was not so we’re trying for a good faith warranty fix from triumph. Typically issues show up from 20k - 50k on the older ones. Thanks for the comment 🙂.
I had the same thought on my 2012, really only wobbly for me after 95 mph or more but in a hectic pass it was noticeable. If it feels wobbly lower than that I’d say might be another issue ( not an mechanic) such as suspension settings, brakes, or something in the forks. Hope it’s a simple fix!
@Moto Drang I'm looking forward to your review when you do it definitely. Yes I test rode a 2019 and loved it. I also like that new ktm adventure s but I still think triumph is more reliable. I've owned 5 BMW cars so I cringe to think how much maintenance I'll need to do to keep a gs on the road.
Watching your review was really interesting till you said you was carrying two cases of beers then you had my full attention 😂🍺🍺🍺 ... im ridding a zzr1400 I love it but keep looking at the tiger 900 looks v interesting but I don’t think I’d like the power drop from 200bhp to just under 100...so thinking about the 1200 tiger but I’m just 5ft 11 and think it may be a bit big for me what’s your opinion...loved your review greetings from the Uk 🇬🇧
Great video!! I’m looking at getting a budget bike, and looking hard and heavy at the Explorer. How many miles do you think would be too many on a used one, say a 2013-2017?
20 ish to 50k. Try to make sure it’s had the valve guide problem fixed. I believe it was fixed by 2015 or by a factory recall. Only issue I know of. Sadly mine has the issue 😭.
@@LoneStarBackpacker should be good, listen for a noticeable ticking sound that’s loudest at startup. Definitely make sure it was serviced for its major 20k . Typically a major valve adjustment must be made at that time. Probably the most critical service of the bikes life. Hope it works out for ya!
Great video! Can you tell me how the heated seats works? How do you turn in on? In next gen Tigers there is dedicated switch to doing it, how about here?
No problem :) on the older models, there is a switch beneath your left thigh; the passengers is in a similar position. It is a "low-high" two-way switch with the center position being off. Thee newer bike has the button on the hand controls, I believe.
@@motodrang4287 thanks, can you tell me something about engine endurance? Im thinking about buing Tiger from 2013, and i have good option to buy one, howewer with 83.000 km on odometer, its still worth to buy?
@@TheKaczmark you’ve definitely come to the right place haha. I had a 2012 and currently own a 2013 trophy S.E. which has the same motor. The 2013 I have is on its second motor due to a low likelihood manufacturing flaw. The 2012 is still going on the original motor; however, that engine has a potentially serious issue( or two rather). First, it’s direly important that a recall valve adjuster was installed and that valve adjustments occurred at the specified intervals. The 20k mile service tends to have the greatest can chain stretch ( mine was off nearly 20 degrees. The next problem is the valve guides, if you start it and hear a ticking sound, it’s the valve guides and a slow decline to a costly repair. They will generally run a long time like that, my 2012 did. They aren’t unreliable but they also are not a Honda.
22k on mine, no head change. It’s been a great machine. I just did the big 20k service and the only thing was some valve timing and a cam gear change ( so timing could be adjusted, original 2013s weren’t adjustable) . It’s pretty normal at the 20 k for this work according to the mechanic but he said after the 20 k he didn’t see many timing issues. Sorry that’s ramble but probably relevant to you, try and get a service record 😁
@@jontest5718 right on ! Make sure and count on a 1200 - 1600 dollar service at 20. 20 is absolutely the most important service in the whole life of the bike. That is a great price! Could be over 2 k if tires also needed.
Im a light day tripper, mostly around town putzing and commuting. Would you trust a 2012 w/61k miles for $4500? Hes been around the country with it but has all service records of everything done to it. Thanks in advance! Good vid 👍
I tell ya what, I’ll ask the lead mechanic at my dealer. Don’t want to steer you wrong. My gut instinct is that it sounds like a good deal. Heard of these bikes going well over 100k without serious work. As long as the valve checks and adjustments were made. I am still loving my 2012 but these Triumphs need strict maintenance. Fine bikes as long as that’s the case.
@@JC-uq7tp hey there, just spoke with a mechanic friend. I recommend you find out if the “ bucket” has been replaced. They had a recall a while back and if paid out of pocket, the repair could be very expensive. Basically it’s like a head replacement, something with the valves. Especially at that mileage it could be important.
@@motodrang4287 man, thanks so much for finding out the vital info. I figured it had to do with something valve clearance related if its been done or not. Thanks again, its nice to go in it better prepared.
Please check your facts. You've not presented the specs correctly particularly for the 2016/17 Gen 2 models which have electronic screens, semi-active suspension, Brembo brakes amongst numerous other improvements over the Gen 1s
Bought a 2015 1200 Explorer with 2K miles this weekend. Its getting shipped next week. I thought it was incredibly easy to steer and shift. I don't see why anyone complains about the weight, but I am 270 / 6'1 so I have better weight for it.
That's a really excellent review. Well delivered by you too and factual. Thanks
I bought a '13 new and have about 50K miles on it now (riding other bikes, too). What suckered me in was the Alternator. Heated gear (top & bottom, heated grips, a GPS or two and decent aux lighting (120 watts for the pair). Never a complaint from the charging system.
I've been riding since 1961 and have never had a better bike.
Great video man. Just moved to Reno, NV from Minnesota with my 2017 Triumph Tiger 1200. Just to note that my XCX does in fact have the TSAS on the back and the front. I think the comparisons are great and I love my bike. I got it for used for $10k, but still a little sad when I drop it. Wish you'd make more Tiger content!
I lived out in Palomino valley and had a ktm 550 mxc.Great place to live if you like riding in the desert.
I've just went past 700 miles on a 2020 Desert Edition. It's my first Triumph and so far I am digging it. I've got a 2017 KLR 650 that I can satisfy some dirt urges (at least I haven't attempted to sell it.....yet..lol). I wanted the Triumph for some long distance touring on mainly pavement. Every year, I think, there is always that fear of buying and then wishing we had waited on the "newest" features, etc. Thanks for all the info.
Thanks for your good information. I am considering a 2020 1200 desert edition for $1699, after watching your video I think I'll wait and see what's next.
Happy to help, I’m with you and waiting to see if they put the new speed triple motor in a Tiger. Planning a video on it soon.
Loving your vids...I've been riding an SV650 and now looking for my next bike. Been eyeing something better for longer rides with wind protection...realistically will be doing street 90% of the time. I'm 5'8 - leaning to a 900 GT Pro - the 1200 had me intrigued as a better option for 2up. Appreciate any recs you may have re a seond bike, primarily for 2-5 hour touring. As an aside, I've ridden most of the Triumph line - had the most fun on the Street Triple and that is for a different style - may need to plan for two bikes :) Thanks in advance.
That is such a good question “ do I wait ? “ . I think I not gonna wait . Here in South Africa , the new model will be a lot more expensive and the are pushing the current models fully loaded , probably to get rid off them . I like the idea off getting it with everything and not having to add stuff after “ very expensive here “ I hired one for 4 days at the end of this month . FYI the GS is 100k more here and is out of my budget . Think my 4 day trip will give me a good idea what the bike is like to own . We will see ...
I bought mine 2012. model this year, it is all I wanted from bike. Tbh all these "cons" that you mentioned are somehow reason I bought this bike. It is supose to be a pig, loudish sound of engine etc.. When bike becomes to perfect it looses it's charm. Great review!
Right on! I still love mine too 😎 even added a trophy se to the collection. Same great engine!
I myself just love the 1200 cc displacement. It may appear large up top but this all goes away when moving down the road. I'm 6'4" tall and I require a bigger bike to start with. Something that actually fits me. I got no problem with these larger/bigger bikes.
My feelings exactly! Not too many tall friendly bikes for sure.
This is just a nice break down of why you ride a Tiger 1200. I didn't realize there were so many things I didn't know about the Tigers. I didn't know the newer Tigers had a moving screen; that's just cool. Sucks you had to buy an aftermarket screen since stock was terrible. Seeing that you have a Gen 1 machine and the gearbox wasn't smoother but I guess it keeps you on your toes. It's kinda ironic that you've modded your bike to Gen 2 specs by yourself. If I were taller or a better motorcyclist, I probably would have looked more at the new Scrambler models. Sucks being short. This was a nice video, it's like your bike is telling its story.
Anordin1 thanks! Good to hear from you, I suppose all bikes tell a story. There was a lot of small changes but for me I just can’t bite off a 20 k price but on the flip side the old tiger is fully decked out. Just bought a Trophy SE (keeping the tiger)so I’m sure I’ll be going through al this again.
I found a beautiful 2014 Tiger 1200 XC online, with about 92k kilometers (57k miles) on it, for just under €7k. It includes the original sidecases and topcase. On the pictures it looks in great condition, but I would obviously take it for a test drive. Do you think this has enough life left in it, and would it be a good purchase?
Great video,,I am goin for a tiger 1200,,,wish me luck,,,👍🏴🇬🇧😃
Awesome! The new one looks great. Hoping to review it asap.
I bought the 2018 XCA brand new $20,000. + now I see them for sale used for half the price of new. The value of these bikes drop like rocks.
I have the Trophy SE and have just bought the Dessert edition Tiger 1200, why , £1500 of extras, yes there is a new one coming, bigger engine maybe but Euro 5 will kill most of that, weight loss maybe a little, price increasing ..oh hell yes. My personal thought was that the deal was so good compared to my 13 model explorer that it was a no brainer. All the best. :)
Totally agree. The Rocket 3 is a good example of how more CCs can result in very little power increase as emission standards change. I imagine the new r3 could easily put out low 200's with a few minor tweaks and deletes.
Superb bike, I love my 2012 explorer… I have two questions… 1. Can I change to wider rear tire? Next version models go up to 170. W. What is rear shock most smooth soft setting? The small bottom screw needs some tuning as top bolt is set to far left softer setting.
That case of beer must've been 'Rolling Rocks'..lol. I like this review, to the point, no dribble! I'm looking at a 1st gen TEX at the same price point you paid. It's at a dealer but he's selling it 'as is' w/21k miles. No service records or warranty is making me reluctant. Forums talk about 'head' issues, etc. Any personal experience with such issues? Thx for your honest review.
For some reason this just popped up on my notifications; thanks! I actually am having a head issue on a trophy (been in repair for a while now) Found out that there's alot of these popping up if the owner did not get the recalled original head work. Sadly, my TEX did not so it's a gamble I suppose. Still running strong on that one though :)
Thanks for the video! I am in the market for an explorer do you have any recommendations on a which years to avoid, with regards to reliability issues.? generally interested in 2014 through 2017 thank you
That’s a good year range that you mentioned. Personally, I’d go 16-17. Known issues on the 12-14 models with valve guide issues. It’s fine to get an early one but have a service tech check to make sure the recall work was done. Sadly, mine was not so we’re trying for a good faith warranty fix from triumph. Typically issues show up from 20k - 50k on the older ones. Thanks for the comment 🙂.
Great Video. I have the 1200 XCA 2017 and find it a little wobbly on the front. What's your thoughts on a dampner being fitted?
I had the same thought on my 2012, really only wobbly for me after 95 mph or more but in a hectic pass it was noticeable. If it feels wobbly lower than that I’d say might be another issue ( not an mechanic) such as suspension settings, brakes, or something in the forks. Hope it’s a simple fix!
Great bike. Looking at possibly getting a 2022 model myself. I think their more reliable than the bmw gs.
They look amazing ! Just looked at a rally pro at cascade. Hopefully starting reviews again soon and rising it. Finally a large tank!
@Moto Drang I'm looking forward to your review when you do it definitely. Yes I test rode a 2019 and loved it. I also like that new ktm adventure s but I still think triumph is more reliable. I've owned 5 BMW cars so I cringe to think how much maintenance I'll need to do to keep a gs on the road.
Those SE bikes are based on the XCx and XRx are they not? Gen 2 had TSAS also, not just Gen 3.
Correct, I know triumph doesn't call them gen 3 but there was some serious changes from the 16 -17 models to the 18-20. Just took some liberty ;)
Watching your review was really interesting till you said you was carrying two cases of beers then you had my full attention 😂🍺🍺🍺 ... im ridding a zzr1400 I love it but keep looking at the tiger 900 looks v interesting but I don’t think I’d like the power drop from 200bhp to just under 100...so thinking about the 1200 tiger but I’m just 5ft 11 and think it may be a bit big for me what’s your opinion...loved your review greetings from the Uk 🇬🇧
Great video!! I’m looking at getting a budget bike, and looking hard and heavy at the Explorer. How many miles do you think would be too many on a used one, say a 2013-2017?
20 ish to 50k. Try to make sure it’s had the valve guide problem fixed. I believe it was fixed by 2015 or by a factory recall. Only issue I know of. Sadly mine has the issue 😭.
@@motodrang4287 So a 2014 with 23,400 miles should be good to go? I’ll make sure and ask about the valve guide issue too!
@@LoneStarBackpacker should be good, listen for a noticeable ticking sound that’s loudest at startup. Definitely make sure it was serviced for its major 20k . Typically a major valve adjustment must be made at that time. Probably the most critical service of the bikes life. Hope it works out for ya!
@@motodrang4287 Thanks so much for the help!! GREATLY appreciated!
@@LoneStarBackpacker Absolutely dude, would hate to see anyone getting bamboozled. Let me know if you pick it up!
Great video! Can you tell me how the heated seats works? How do you turn in on? In next gen Tigers there is dedicated switch to doing it, how about here?
No problem :) on the older models, there is a switch beneath your left thigh; the passengers is in a similar position. It is a "low-high" two-way switch with the center position being off. Thee newer bike has the button on the hand controls, I believe.
@@motodrang4287 thanks, can you tell me something about engine endurance? Im thinking about buing Tiger from 2013, and i have good option to buy one, howewer with 83.000 km on odometer, its still worth to buy?
@@TheKaczmark you’ve definitely come to the right place haha. I had a 2012 and currently own a 2013 trophy S.E. which has the same motor. The 2013 I have is on its second motor due to a low likelihood manufacturing flaw. The 2012 is still going on the original motor; however, that engine has a potentially serious issue( or two rather). First, it’s direly important that a recall valve adjuster was installed and that valve adjustments occurred at the specified intervals. The 20k mile service tends to have the greatest can chain stretch ( mine was off nearly 20 degrees. The next problem is the valve guides, if you start it and hear a ticking sound, it’s the valve guides and a slow decline to a costly repair. They will generally run a long time like that, my 2012 did. They aren’t unreliable but they also are not a Honda.
I'm very thankful for the explorer. If it didn't exist, there wouldn't be any performance upgrades for the trophy aside from slip-ons.
So true, love my trophy but impossible to get accessories.
Beutiful bike.. Wonder if thats an upgrade for me some day.
I'm hoping for a 2023 (one year after the new update for 2022) Supposedly going to a T plane firing order like the 900. Lighter too!
@@motodrang4287 maybe worth waiting for.
How many miles are on your bike? Did you have the head changed out? I am looking at a 2013 thats for sale locally and priced very well.
22k on mine, no head change. It’s been a great machine. I just did the big 20k service and the only thing was some valve timing and a cam gear change ( so timing could be adjusted, original 2013s weren’t adjustable) . It’s pretty normal at the 20 k for this work according to the mechanic but he said after the 20 k he didn’t see many timing issues. Sorry that’s ramble but probably relevant to you, try and get a service record 😁
I think it was a cam gear might be called something else 😝
@@motodrang4287 Thanks for the response. I am going to try and look at the bike today. It has 15k miles and hes asking 6 grand for it.
@@jontest5718 right on ! Make sure and count on a 1200 - 1600 dollar service at 20. 20 is absolutely the most important service in the whole life of the bike. That is a great price! Could be over 2 k if tires also needed.
Im a light day tripper, mostly around town putzing and commuting. Would you trust a 2012 w/61k miles for $4500? Hes been around the country with it but has all service records of everything done to it. Thanks in advance! Good vid 👍
I tell ya what, I’ll ask the lead mechanic at my dealer. Don’t want to steer you wrong. My gut instinct is that it sounds like a good deal. Heard of these bikes going well over 100k without serious work. As long as the valve checks and adjustments were made. I am still loving my 2012 but these Triumphs need strict maintenance. Fine bikes as long as that’s the case.
@@motodrang4287 very good to know! Thanks kindly.
@@JC-uq7tp hey there, just spoke with a mechanic friend. I recommend you find out if the “ bucket” has been replaced. They had a recall a while back and if paid out of pocket, the repair could be very expensive. Basically it’s like a head replacement, something with the valves. Especially at that mileage it could be important.
@@motodrang4287 man, thanks so much for finding out the vital info. I figured it had to do with something valve clearance related if its been done or not. Thanks again, its nice to go in it better prepared.
@@JC-uq7tp absolutely! It’s a great bike otherwise. Hope you find the right bike :)
I would likely go for an older Super Tenere, an even better value.
all the ones i see 2013 - 2014 have heated seats heated grips cruise control
18:12 hahah
Talked me out of it............
Please check your facts. You've not presented the specs correctly particularly for the 2016/17 Gen 2 models which have electronic screens, semi-active suspension, Brembo brakes amongst numerous other improvements over the Gen 1s
Sounds like your trying to talk yourself into a newer model on this review. 😆