@Big Rock Moto this is a super late comment and I'm becoming a fan of your channel but you should do your all around review not wearing a helmet... It makes you sound super winded like you can't breathe
Howabout a New 25 Tracer 900 Test with; 😮That new Light😂Array = MuLtipLes&& i' Heard a SLightLy better Turning Radious, Oh i'm ALso a Fan Of Yamaha & Prefer Japanese Manufacturing Processes, Thanks!! OK 1-More Thing This Or a New base z500 ? I'm Over 60 & budget minded, Thanks again IAN
I've been riding for almost 35 years - on/off road, sport bikes, sport touring, ADV's, enduros, nakeds, retros, etc., & just want to let you know you're doing a great job with your channel! Excellent content, thank you - Don
I own a 2022 TS660 w/ heated grips, hand guards, frame sliders, quickshifter, and top box. I love this motorcycle! Easy to ride, frugal to fuel and maintain, and as fun as they come!
I heard there is a delay in the throttle, any truth to it? Also how does it cruise at around 120km? I'll arrange a test ride next month but trying to extract any info I can from owners because I think that's the bike I'm looking for
Yes fueling can be slightly snatchy at slow speed but I wouldn't call it problematic. You get used to it like anything else. The bike will happily cruise at 120kph all day long but my hands do get a little tired after an hour or so above 5 or 6,000 RPM. Cruise control is sorely missing on this model! I also short-shift the bike quite a bit as the gears feel short to me. That said, it does have good, usable power all over the rev range. This motorcycle is extremely versatile and for the price it must be in the conversation as one the of best middleweight sport tourers on the market.
This review played a big part in my decision to get one of these. Picked it up two days ago, and I think it’s a nearly perfect bike. I moved to this from the 2021 CB500X, which I still have. It’s also a fantastic bike. Unfortunately don’t have space for 2, and gotta sell the Honda. I’ve been everywhere on it, and enjoyed every minute I’ve spent with it. Thanks for the informative review of the Triumph!
@@hoang6hkd It’s one of the only things on this bike where I think Triumph missed the target. The pillion seat is quite small, and very elevated. The rider seat is perhaps a little too large, leaving a gap behind you where a passenger could slip downward. For comparison, while the rider seat height is identical to my CB500X, the pillion is about 6” higher. That’s a drastic difference. Obviously varies with size of rider. For context, I’m 5’8”, and 150 lbs. Overall, the bike seems like it was custom made for me, and I absolutely love it.
@@kerryhale8646 Thank you very much for detailed info and sharing first-hand experience! I will try both bikes and then decide. Wish you many kilometres and amazing rides! :)
@@hoang6hkd I wish the same for you! I've loved both bikes, but for different reasons. I feel more confident on gravel and dirt with the Honda, but the Triumph is better on the street in almost every respect.
@@kerryhale8646 Is the Honda feeling more confident on gravel and dirt down to the 19" wheel? The Triumph looks like a better choice if you're doing mostly street and tarmac rides, with occasional forays into dirt.
Just went and did a test ride yesterday on a '22 model. I liked it enough to buy it plus, since they were trying to clear out last years bikes the dealer threw in all on the luggage (panniers and top box) for free. It's definitely an upgrade from my KTM 300 Adv.
It is obvious you gave this review from an objective perspective. I purchased one in March for the very same reasons you liked about the Tiger Sport 660. Agile, great power, form factor, handling and the list goes on. I wanted a good local use, fun mountain highway riding and light touring. I was fortunate to have ridden the Versys 650 - same complaint on the engine by the way, Vstrom 650 same opinion engine great, but bike is dated. I also have ridden a new NC750X which is a pretty nice bike, but lacks power. In regards to the Tracer 7, I have ridden a MT07 so familiar with the engine but the TS660 does have more usable linear power in my opinion. One thing to note is the huge assortment of factory accessories which enables you to dial in the features you want and gradually add them as you go. Triumph does a great job of having every electronic accessory have nice pre-wired port and they are all pretty easy to install too. Factory heated grips are the best I have used. I would like Cruise control too, so I went with and Atlas Throttle lock and the nice thing is the engines linear torque enables a decent steady speed when using the Throttle lock. So for me I was fortunate to have ridden each of the similar bikes and literally after about 2 or 3 miles on the TS660 I was a clear choice for me.
Thank you for your review! I ordered the Honda NC750X, it arrived & Now i need to decide between the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 or the NC750X. Even though the NC750X has 750 cc, (more CC's than the Tiger 660) Many reviews state the NC750X Lacks power! I am a new rider looking to get my 1st bike. i am in my mid 40's, 5'11" & 230 pounds & have a 30-32 inch inseam. Would you recommend the Tiger Sport 660 over the NC750X? & if so, Why? Thank you
You are the one best bike reviewers on TH-cam man. You and Fortnine are my favorite channels to watch and I don’t even ride ADVs haha. There is a depth here that you just don’t get with other content creators.
Another great review Ian! I just picked mine up my new Tiger Sport 660 this past weekend, and have put about 175 miles on it so far. Great bike if you are looking for something middle weight and fun! No accessories yet, dealer hasn't received their first accessory requests yet, they've only had the bikes for a couple of weeks. My only complaint so far is the clutch lever is not adjustable for reach, and the lever feels WAY out there. Did you notice that? The brake lever is adjustable, so not sure why they didn't spend the extra $5 and put an adjustable clutch lever on the bike also. That will be my first accessory to find. As for all the youtube videos claiming the suspension is too soft and the gas mileage isn't great, I would beg to differ. I find the suspension is pretty good, kudos to Triumph! I haven't been riding it extremely hard, still breaking it in, but I have not noticed any type of bottoming out or overly soft or bouncyness in the suspension (and Colorado roads are not the greatest). I am 6ft tall and weigh 185 pounds, so maybe the reviewers were heavier than I am? Also, my first tank of gas, I have averaged (by math, not the bike's computer readout) a bit over 62 mpg, and I am very happy with that, much better than I was expecting. The general fit and finish are very good, though some parts look cheap, like the levers and kickstand. But for the price, I can either change those or ignore them. I have owned 3 Kawasaki Versys 650 bikes, and if those bikes were as good as this bike, I would have bought another one. I have a BMW 1250 GSA for my travel bike, this bike will be my run around town and play in the mountains bike. I picked this over getting another Versys, or an MT07/Z650/SV650. I also like this better than the Triumph Trident, just looks better and is more comfortable. Keep up the great reviews!
@@davea9946 Hey Dave, I find with the windshield down, the wind flow is smoother, but I am getting wind on my upper chest and helmet. Not too bad up to 65mph. At that point, I put the windshield in the upper position, mainly because it starts to feel like a naked bike with a lot of wind pushing on me. In the Upper position, my chest and most of my helmet are covered. My arms are getting a bit of air, but not a big deal. I wouldn't say there is much buffeting on my helmet, but the noise is definitly louder than with the windshield in the low position. Still breaking it in, so I have only run up to about 75mph for short times, but I'm not looking for any type of bigger windshield, don't think it needs that. But then I won't be using this bike for any type of long distance travel either. Hope this helps!
@@davea9946 Congrats Dave! Curious what you think about the reach for the clutch lever? I have found that a company named TEC makes adjustable levers for the Trident, so I assume they would fit the Tiger. Ride fast and safe 🙂
Similar to another comment below the 660 wasn't locally available so i went with the 21' cb500x. This seems like a close competitor although a more premium version. If it had been an option I most likely would have still chosen the CB for the $2500 less price tag and a tad bit more off road bias. Great review as always thanks.
Here we have Honda dealers asking for a 500X almost the same as this Tiger 660...so I had to push the button for the Tiger. The 500X is more than what I need, but at similar prices...
CB500X is an amazing good looking bike that does everything (daily, adventure, touring, a good courier bike too) and is very good on fuel too but it is really missing that horsepower. At 47BHP it is one category below an 80BHP bike like the Tiger 660 so they are not directly comparable. Price wise though, a Tracer 7 / Tiger 660 are not far off so for a little more money you get more bike.
Great review! I've had my Tiger 660 for almost 2 years now, and I think it's a Great all-around motorcycle, for the same reasons you stated. You really can't go wrong, if you aren't riding for specialized purposes.
Great review Ian and what a SWEET bike this is. I agree and would love to see at least one ADV variant with the same engine, decent suspension, a bashplate and rally bars or whatever they are called like the Tiger 900 and its variants. The market is screaming for some ADV/Dualsport bikes at this displacement and Honda has largely vacated it (no, i cannot seriously consider a CB500X or the NC750) as they are road bike with a sprinkling of dust. Triumph and others should be falling over themselves to produce a 600-750cc ADV/dualsport under 180kg.
Suggestion to include a freeway test in your reviews. I enjoy your reviews, but this is one area that is lacking and I find myself wishing it was included on every review of yours I watch. Cheers and thanks for the content!
I agree, he only needs to bomb it down to the 10fwy in Banning which is not far from his home base. Can't blame him he's afraid to go on the freeways with the idiots around here though... It's not something smart people do it's something I do!
Eh... I like my 2022 Versys 650. They had both at the dealership. 5.5 gallon tank. I ride to work everyday, 50 miles a day, 70 mph, and I get 300 mile range. Lower compression. Runs on 87 octane. Bulletproof motor. Fully adjustable suspension. Who needs rider modes, really. Love your reviews.
Cruise control would be nice and I think should be standard after say 8 grand. Heated grips are nice but at least I can add those. It's not like you can order a bike with the options you want. Quick shifters are useless to me as are automatics.
I have got into your channel over the last few weeks.You go through the bikes step by step ,take them out for a ride checking brakes handling suspension ergonomics etc etc Give the viewer a warts and all honest view of your thoughts.Its your laugh when riding that gets me...true enthusiasm ...keep up the great work your a star 🤩 Sam...Liverpool GB
One thing I really like about my old vstrom 650 is how BIG it is. It can carry a lot of crap. I’ve hauled dining room tables, bicycle, carpets, etc. it’s big boned enough to easily do all the things you’d want an SUV to do. It’s like a ford Navigator with a small engine. Great bike, but my bike needs to still be a donkey
Looked ridiculous, but it was a breeze. I removed my top case, and strapped down an antique quarter-sawn oak clawfoot expandable table across town to an antique repair shop as one of the clawfoots had broken off - The vstrom is a pack mule of a beast@@weishengzhang8603
@@dimitriskatsoulis4986 on the launch of the 660 sport by triumph, they depicted three bikes in there promotional poster. One was an, unmistakably, Enduro type, apart from the naked, and the sport.
First of all, another great review, as always, congratulations. But I think you forgot to mention, in the competition section, a big brand, Honda that has the CB500X and NC750X and that would be interesting to compare the specs. I also take the opportunity to ask for a review of the Honda NC750X.
I recommend Doing the CSC RX4. It's gaining popularity greatly and no one that's reviewed it does as good as you! Not only that CSC works with reviews and what not they love support and working with customers.
I've got one and I love it. I also have a T120 Bonnie and that's for a different type of riding/use case. For the TS660, I bought the panniers along with the top box. I have the quick shifter, Bluetooth module and handguards. Great weekend tourer, great in town(handles like a dream), and has plenty of pep. I wish it had cruise control and adjustable front suspension, but I understand why it doesn't at this price point. It's a great all rounder for the money.
This is my first bike. Is the quick shifter something I should get? I don't really get what the point of one is. It is just so you don't have to pull the clutch when going up a gear?
@@williamakers1101 It's for both up and down shifts. It works really well when in town or traffic situations, no mucking about with the clutch. Additionally, and from time to time, I will take my hand off of the left side of the handlebar to rest it, and with the QS, I only need the clutch for taking off and coming to a complete stop.
Another thorough review. You're right Ian in that this bike is a great all-rounder. A very good compromise of features vs price. The other three bikes you mentioned are very good too. For me it would come down to which engine I preferred and which bike fit me best. Regardless, this Tiger is a great addition to the class. They will sell all they can build.
You mentioned the V Strom 650. I've had mine since 2006 and have used it for commuting, touring (ride the Lake Superior circumnavigation) and ridden the Mid Atlantic BDR. The bike will do it all and has been bulletproof all getting about 60 MPG on regular 87 octane fuel. On the BDR I did install Shinko 804/805s which are wearing well.
Agreed, even in Canada we can't get the Yamaha Tracer 7. It’s frustrating as the Tracer 9 is an expensive $20k bigger bike. Been leaning towards the Kawa 2022 Versys 650LT. Test drove, boring mechanically as said, but at least for 2022 they upgraded the gauges to a proper TFT screen with good connectivity. Plus it's comfortable, affordable, good for commuting and some Summer highway miles. Hopefully a good purchase (so I tell myself lol). Probably could have included the Honda CB500 or NC750 comparisons. Noted while shopping about the same ergonomics, power and price. Good video, thorough review as always.
I do like this bike, wish I could test ride one. for the dirt segment, I can speak to how bad big cruisers are in the dirt. I end up doing it often thanks to all the dirt roads in the places i ride especially if i visit family out in the desert, it always makes me wish I was on my Vstrom when I have to cross those roads.
@8:45 Also on our US-spec bikes, the rear turn signals light with the brake light, for added rear conspicuity. Well done, Triumph! So nice to FINALLY get LED turn signals in the US, instead of the DOT-compliant incandescents we've been saddled with for years, while the rest of the world got sleek LED signals.
Hi Ian, I found your channel a few weeks ago. I have been going through a vlog most nights before sleep since. I love your long-form, no nonsense reviews. It is obvious you work crazy hard. I will probably never own a Tiger 660, but this was the post that got me off the sofa with a tablet to my real computer to set up a Patreon silver membership with Big Rock Media. I look forward to future content. -Keith
Hello! I live in Alpine CA which is in eastern San Diego county. I’ve ridden bikes for many years and my current bike is a Gold Wing DCT. I really enjoy your videos and recognize a lot of the roads. I just watched this video and would love to ride the road you’re on. Would it be possible for you to provide the name of the road? Thanks!!
Although I haven't had around 30 motorbikes like Ian, I did own a 2009 Tiger 1050 a decade ago. It was a hell of a motorcycle, by far the best I had! Great fun to ride, absurdly comfortable (I made a 21-day trip, nearly 8k kilometres from the Atlantic to the Pacific with my wife on the back seat), and I even faced some rough non-paved terrains (deliberately!) I understand this is a big downgrade in terms of engine size and onboarded tech, but I'm really fond on this Tiger 660 as a restart.
I am still rocking my 2008 Tiger 1050, just completing a leisurely 6500 mile trip from North Carolina Atlantic to California Pacific and back on it. Just not sure anything can replace it, this might be the closest.
Excellent review Ian! It feels like Triumph copied Kawasaki’s homework here. This bike looks very similar to a Gen 2 Versys 650. However, I feel Triumph should have offered adjustable front suspension to trump the Versys. As a daily rider, I value a suspension that eases out the bumps on the road over the engine sound.
I've ridden the bike and I agree with the comments in this review regarding engine, suspension, ergos. It is a sport bike with touring ergos. Short gearing for good acceleration, but I want longer legs for reduced revs at touring speeds (he did note some buzziness at higher road speeds). Triumph, add some touring sprockets to your accessories and I'm in.
I can only agree with this comment,as all Big Rock Moto reviews,professional,informative,thorough and very well presented.Thank you Ian for yet another great review.
I took my CBR500R on roads like that, fire roads, and even single track pretty regularly -- but only if it was mostly smooth and not rocky. Great to see a reasonably-priced midsized sports-tourer. I really like the integrated luggage rails and really crisp dash. I do wish it had cruise since the hard part (ride-by-wire) is already there. Lots to like about these and I suspect they'll sell quite well. A little more fuel range would be nice.
Thanks for a super review, I just bought one and it’s really a good bike for that money, I have had a lot of different Harley’s they are fun to ride when there’s no corners 😂 , and the sound is just amazing but if you really want to ride the byways in a up tempo your lost . here in Denmark they are a bit more expensive nearly twice as much Thanks again and I will go for a ride on my 660 .
I bought mine the other day. I will mainly use this for my daily rides and to keep the miles down on my bigger, more expensive bike. So far, I like it quite a bit. I do wish I could get cruise control on it even if I had to pay for it as an added option. The main thing I wish is that the gearing would allow this to run 75 mph or 80 mph without screaming. It can do 80 or more. Yes. However, it doesn’t seem to be doing very comfortably. 65 mph seems to be its sweet spot. But, so far, I’m having lots of fun with the way it handles and accelerates up to 75.
Yes, I must have a look to see what the luggage options are with an eye for touring. The Yamaha Tracer 7 Gt comes with some nice extra touring features.
I can tell you that I have the luggage, both panniers and top box. They're integrated and look very nice, all keyed to the bike key. Between the 3 pieces, you have over 100 liters of storage. Either pannier will hold a full face helmut and the top box holds 2. The bike is a lot of fun and engaging, you have to ride it to get the most out of it. If I'm looking to be lazy, I ride my Bonneville T120.
I feel like it's missing cruise control despite the fact it has throttle by wire. Could do with a centre stand too! I'd also be intrigued by something along the lines of a Sprint 765.
I enjoy your videos. Very informative. Just a point to note, that the Modern Triumph company is a totally different company to the Triumph of old. The new company bought the Triumph name and started making bikes, I think, in the 1980s.
It sucks when people talk about msrp cost like that is all you pay. With taxes and fees this an $11k motorcycle bare bones, add some luggage and crash protection and you're pushing 13k+++.
Really looking forward to your review of the new 1200 tiger. Though it's not the same engine as my 2020 one, they corrected the thing that held the older generation back IMHO. Weight.
thank you so much for such a great and thorough review! just traded my kawazaki vulcan S for this bike last night, what a difference! Here in Quebec the roads can be pretty rough - felt like I lost a couple of vertebrae a few times on the country roads around where I live 🥴- and man what a difference when I took this bike home with me last night. The performance of the engine is great and the sound is much better than the kawazaki 650 parallel twin that you have on the Versys and the vulcan which sounds like a sewing machine. Just wanted to let you know the heating grips are available as an option, the paniers are great, and I think I could fit 2 helmets in the top case; I'm already in love with my new Tiger 660.
Thanks Ian for the excellent review! .. The passenger seat seems a bit high and was wondering if you were able to test that out or comment on it? Basically how would it be when riding two up? Thanks
You should get a commission for all the many bikes your viewers have purchased after watching your great reviews! I do like that you show a profile shot of the bike with you sitting on it, Gives us a good clue on riding position, I'll go test drive one,
I need a new street bike after moving to the US without my FJ09. I am shopping this against a V85TT and a new Tracer 9GT. Tryingbto decide if the more expensive bikes are sufficiently better to justify the increased cost. It is good to have options!
I love the 1050 tiger. The stock suspension was pretty weak. And have been looking at the 660 does the stock suspension wallow around as bad. Thanks for another excellent review
I find the suspension is pretty good, especially as there isn't much adjustment. I haven't been riding it extremely hard, still breaking it in, but I have not noticed any type of bottoming out or overly soft or bouncyness in the suspension (and Colorado roads are not the greatest).
They're a different class of bike, 21/18" wheels, more suspension travel and ground clearance on the Aprilia, it's closer to a T7 except it has the electronics the T7 should've had for its price tag. This is much, much more similar to a versys 650 with its sport touring bias.
Really liked the comparison with the Versys. I had it and I have the same opinion and I got bored of it and with less than a year of ownership I was looking at something else to trade it.
Great review with lots of details and personal experiences with this lovely bike. Great content, thanks. I might need to go test ride this even though I'm not really in the market for a new bike right now.
There is definitely an opportunity here for Triumph to offer an ADV version with 19/17 or even 21/18 to compete at a lighter weight than the GS850 KTM890 et. al. For street only, this bike definitely looks appealing to my 60 year old self.
The sport 850 looked promising till we found out it has cast wheels anakee adventure tyres and only 85hp from a 900cc triple. I fear the 660cc triple will be too high reving for an off road bike.
I had the 2014 Triumph Tiger 1050 sport , a red one ☝️ looked very similar to the 660 “ I wish we got the full power model in Australia and I would buy one “
Been looking at these real close so thanks for the review. In this price range is a CF Moto 800MT with a KTM 790 engine, if you can get your hands on one can you do a review for me?
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@Big Rock Moto this is a super late comment and I'm becoming a fan of your channel but you should do your all around review not wearing a helmet... It makes you sound super winded like you can't breathe
@Big Rock Moto your tough on the tiger 850sport would be appreciated
Howabout a New 25 Tracer 900 Test with; 😮That new Light😂Array = MuLtipLes&& i' Heard a SLightLy better Turning Radious, Oh i'm ALso a Fan Of Yamaha & Prefer Japanese Manufacturing Processes, Thanks!! OK 1-More Thing This Or a New base z500 ? I'm Over 60 & budget minded, Thanks again IAN
I've been riding for almost 35 years - on/off road, sport bikes, sport touring, ADV's, enduros, nakeds, retros, etc., & just want to let you know you're doing a great job with your channel! Excellent content, thank you - Don
Not every reviewer covers importance of seat height like you do. Thanks for the extra effort 👍😃
I own a 2022 TS660 w/ heated grips, hand guards, frame sliders, quickshifter, and top box. I love this motorcycle! Easy to ride, frugal to fuel and maintain, and as fun as they come!
What about offroad?
I've taken it down a few gravel and dirt lanes and it is a decidedly street biased machine.
I heard there is a delay in the throttle, any truth to it? Also how does it cruise at around 120km? I'll arrange a test ride next month but trying to extract any info I can from owners because I think that's the bike I'm looking for
Yes fueling can be slightly snatchy at slow speed but I wouldn't call it problematic. You get used to it like anything else. The bike will happily cruise at 120kph all day long but my hands do get a little tired after an hour or so above 5 or 6,000 RPM. Cruise control is sorely missing on this model! I also short-shift the bike quite a bit as the gears feel short to me. That said, it does have good, usable power all over the rev range. This motorcycle is extremely versatile and for the price it must be in the conversation as one the of best middleweight sport tourers on the market.
@@cultureclam Many thanks!
This review played a big part in my decision to get one of these. Picked it up two days ago, and I think it’s a nearly perfect bike. I moved to this from the 2021 CB500X, which I still have. It’s also a fantastic bike. Unfortunately don’t have space for 2, and gotta sell the Honda. I’ve been everywhere on it, and enjoyed every minute I’ve spent with it. Thanks for the informative review of the Triumph!
Hi, I am interested how's riding with 2 on the new Triumph? Does the pillion have enough space and comfort?
@@hoang6hkd It’s one of the only things on this bike where I think Triumph missed the target. The pillion seat is quite small, and very elevated. The rider seat is perhaps a little too large, leaving a gap behind you where a passenger could slip downward. For comparison, while the rider seat height is identical to my CB500X, the pillion is about 6” higher. That’s a drastic difference. Obviously varies with size of rider. For context, I’m 5’8”, and 150 lbs. Overall, the bike seems like it was custom made for me, and I absolutely love it.
@@kerryhale8646 Thank you very much for detailed info and sharing first-hand experience! I will try both bikes and then decide. Wish you many kilometres and amazing rides! :)
@@hoang6hkd I wish the same for you! I've loved both bikes, but for different reasons. I feel more confident on gravel and dirt with the Honda, but the Triumph is better on the street in almost every respect.
@@kerryhale8646 Is the Honda feeling more confident on gravel and dirt down to the 19" wheel? The Triumph looks like a better choice if you're doing mostly street and tarmac rides, with occasional forays into dirt.
Just went and did a test ride yesterday on a '22 model. I liked it enough to buy it plus, since they were trying to clear out last years bikes the dealer threw in all on the luggage (panniers and top box) for free. It's definitely an upgrade from my KTM 300 Adv.
It is obvious you gave this review from an objective perspective. I purchased one in March for the very same reasons you liked about the Tiger Sport 660. Agile, great power, form factor, handling and the list goes on. I wanted a good local use, fun mountain highway riding and light touring. I was fortunate to have ridden the Versys 650 - same complaint on the engine by the way, Vstrom 650 same opinion engine great, but bike is dated. I also have ridden a new NC750X which is a pretty nice bike, but lacks power. In regards to the Tracer 7, I have ridden a MT07 so familiar with the engine but the TS660 does have more usable linear power in my opinion. One thing to note is the huge assortment of factory accessories which enables you to dial in the features you want and gradually add them as you go. Triumph does a great job of having every electronic accessory have nice pre-wired port and they are all pretty easy to install too. Factory heated grips are the best I have used. I would like Cruise control too, so I went with and Atlas Throttle lock and the nice thing is the engines linear torque enables a decent steady speed when using the Throttle lock. So for me I was fortunate to have ridden each of the similar bikes and literally after about 2 or 3 miles on the TS660 I was a clear choice for me.
Thank you for your review! I ordered the Honda NC750X, it arrived & Now i need to decide between the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 or the NC750X. Even though the NC750X has 750 cc, (more CC's than the Tiger 660) Many reviews state the NC750X Lacks power!
I am a new rider looking to get my 1st bike. i am in my mid 40's, 5'11" & 230 pounds & have a 30-32 inch inseam.
Would you recommend the Tiger Sport 660 over the NC750X? & if so, Why?
Thank you
Just bought mine 2 weeks ago it's so smooth and easy to ride but on the highway it really shines I 💕 mine more everyday
You are the one best bike reviewers on TH-cam man. You and Fortnine are my favorite channels to watch and I don’t even ride ADVs haha. There is a depth here that you just don’t get with other content creators.
Another great review Ian! I just picked mine up my new Tiger Sport 660 this past weekend, and have put about 175 miles on it so far. Great bike if you are looking for something middle weight and fun! No accessories yet, dealer hasn't received their first accessory requests yet, they've only had the bikes for a couple of weeks. My only complaint so far is the clutch lever is not adjustable for reach, and the lever feels WAY out there. Did you notice that? The brake lever is adjustable, so not sure why they didn't spend the extra $5 and put an adjustable clutch lever on the bike also. That will be my first accessory to find.
As for all the youtube videos claiming the suspension is too soft and the gas mileage isn't great, I would beg to differ. I find the suspension is pretty good, kudos to Triumph! I haven't been riding it extremely hard, still breaking it in, but I have not noticed any type of bottoming out or overly soft or bouncyness in the suspension (and Colorado roads are not the greatest). I am 6ft tall and weigh 185 pounds, so maybe the reviewers were heavier than I am? Also, my first tank of gas, I have averaged (by math, not the bike's computer readout) a bit over 62 mpg, and I am very happy with that, much better than I was expecting. The general fit and finish are very good, though some parts look cheap, like the levers and kickstand. But for the price, I can either change those or ignore them. I have owned 3 Kawasaki Versys 650 bikes, and if those bikes were as good as this bike, I would have bought another one. I have a BMW 1250 GSA for my travel bike, this bike will be my run around town and play in the mountains bike. I picked this over getting another Versys, or an MT07/Z650/SV650. I also like this better than the Triumph Trident, just looks better and is more comfortable.
Keep up the great reviews!
Hey mate, glad the bike is working for you. What is the wind buffeting like at highway speeds?
@@davea9946 Hey Dave, I find with the windshield down, the wind flow is smoother, but I am getting wind on my upper chest and helmet. Not too bad up to 65mph. At that point, I put the windshield in the upper position, mainly because it starts to feel like a naked bike with a lot of wind pushing on me. In the Upper position, my chest and most of my helmet are covered. My arms are getting a bit of air, but not a big deal. I wouldn't say there is much buffeting on my helmet, but the noise is definitly louder than with the windshield in the low position. Still breaking it in, so I have only run up to about 75mph for short times, but I'm not looking for any type of bigger windshield, don't think it needs that. But then I won't be using this bike for any type of long distance travel either. Hope this helps!
@@stevesaulnier433 Thanks Steve for your comprehensive answer. Enjoy your new bike.
Cheers
@@stevesaulnier433 You convinced me, bought one today.
@@davea9946 Congrats Dave! Curious what you think about the reach for the clutch lever? I have found that a company named TEC makes adjustable levers for the Trident, so I assume they would fit the Tiger. Ride fast and safe 🙂
Like the Jazzy intro!
Also that was really mean to my Versys.... Keep up the good work.
Similar to another comment below the 660 wasn't locally available so i went with the 21' cb500x. This seems like a close competitor although a more premium version. If it had been an option I most likely would have still chosen the CB for the $2500 less price tag and a tad bit more off road bias. Great review as always thanks.
great point
I big Honda fan , but the 500x is not in the same league as the triumph.
That triple sound is a marvel to hear and the handling is amazing.
Here we have Honda dealers asking for a 500X almost the same as this Tiger 660...so I had to push the button for the Tiger. The 500X is more than what I need, but at similar prices...
Congrats on your purchase, but the CB500X is really in a different class. The 500 makes like 40hp at the back wheel on a good day.
CB500X is an amazing good looking bike that does everything (daily, adventure, touring, a good courier bike too) and is very good on fuel too but it is really missing that horsepower. At 47BHP it is one category below an 80BHP bike like the Tiger 660 so they are not directly comparable. Price wise though, a Tracer 7 / Tiger 660 are not far off so for a little more money you get more bike.
Great review! I've had my Tiger 660 for almost 2 years now, and I think it's a Great all-around motorcycle, for the same reasons you stated. You really can't go wrong, if you aren't riding for specialized purposes.
Thanks again for converting all the values and writing them on the screen! It's a real time saver. :-)
Great review Ian and what a SWEET bike this is. I agree and would love to see at least one ADV variant with the same engine, decent suspension, a bashplate and rally bars or whatever they are called like the Tiger 900 and its variants. The market is screaming for some ADV/Dualsport bikes at this displacement and Honda has largely vacated it (no, i cannot seriously consider a CB500X or the NC750) as they are road bike with a sprinkling of dust. Triumph and others should be falling over themselves to produce a 600-750cc ADV/dualsport under 180kg.
Suggestion to include a freeway test in your reviews. I enjoy your reviews, but this is one area that is lacking and I find myself wishing it was included on every review of yours I watch. Cheers and thanks for the content!
He did make a tiny note on screen that bike is buzzy at 75mph+ on this review.
I agree, he only needs to bomb it down to the 10fwy in Banning which is not far from his home base. Can't blame him he's afraid to go on the freeways with the idiots around here though... It's not something smart people do it's something I do!
Eh... I like my 2022 Versys 650. They had both at the dealership. 5.5 gallon tank. I ride to work everyday, 50 miles a day, 70 mph, and I get 300 mile range. Lower compression. Runs on 87 octane. Bulletproof motor. Fully adjustable suspension. Who needs rider modes, really.
Love your reviews.
Thanks for the very informative review!
Cruise control would be nice and I think should be standard after say 8 grand. Heated grips are nice but at least I can add those. It's not like you can order a bike with the options you want. Quick shifters are useless to me as are automatics.
I have got into your channel over the last few weeks.You go through the bikes step by step ,take them out for a ride checking brakes handling suspension ergonomics etc etc
Give the viewer a warts and all honest view of your thoughts.Its your laugh when riding that gets me...true enthusiasm ...keep up the great work your a star 🤩
Sam...Liverpool GB
I am going to own this someday soon.
One thing I really like about my old vstrom 650 is how BIG it is. It can carry a lot of crap. I’ve hauled dining room tables, bicycle, carpets, etc. it’s big boned enough to easily do all the things you’d want an SUV to do. It’s like a ford Navigator with a small engine. Great bike, but my bike needs to still be a donkey
The vstrom is amazing, if only I liked the looks...
Wait you're not kidding, dining room table? Wow
Looked ridiculous, but it was a breeze. I removed my top case, and strapped down an antique quarter-sawn oak clawfoot expandable table across town to an antique repair shop as one of the clawfoots had broken off - The vstrom is a pack mule of a beast@@weishengzhang8603
The Enduro version, on this platform, is coming!
Seriously? A 660 but more off road you mean? What is your info source?
Kinda like a T7 that would be awesome.
@@dimitriskatsoulis4986 on the launch of the 660 sport by triumph, they depicted three bikes in there promotional poster. One was an, unmistakably, Enduro type, apart from the naked, and the sport.
@@davidmallia628 sounds cool, let's see...
@@davidmallia628 Sounds perfect.
First of all, another great review, as always, congratulations. But I think you forgot to mention, in the competition section, a big brand, Honda that has the CB500X and NC750X and that would be interesting to compare the specs. I also take the opportunity to ask for a review of the Honda NC750X.
Yea, the review of nc750x would be great!
I don’t think the cb500x is a competitor with this bike (I have owned both) but I agree-would love to see a comparison of the nc750.
I love Triumph triple motors feel and sound too! Great review - thanks for doing it
I recommend Doing the CSC RX4. It's gaining popularity greatly and no one that's reviewed it does as good as you! Not only that CSC works with reviews and what not they love support and working with customers.
Great review as ever
Ignore the criticism- you are a quality channel reviewer who always adds sensible value thank you 👍
I've got one and I love it. I also have a T120 Bonnie and that's for a different type of riding/use case. For the TS660, I bought the panniers along with the top box. I have the quick shifter, Bluetooth module and handguards. Great weekend tourer, great in town(handles like a dream), and has plenty of pep. I wish it had cruise control and adjustable front suspension, but I understand why it doesn't at this price point. It's a great all rounder for the money.
This is my first bike. Is the quick shifter something I should get? I don't really get what the point of one is. It is just so you don't have to pull the clutch when going up a gear?
@@williamakers1101 It's for both up and down shifts. It works really well when in town or traffic situations, no mucking about with the clutch. Additionally, and from time to time, I will take my hand off of the left side of the handlebar to rest it, and with the QS, I only need the clutch for taking off and coming to a complete stop.
Another thorough review. You're right Ian in that this bike is a great all-rounder. A very good compromise of features vs price. The other three bikes you mentioned are very good too. For me it would come down to which engine I preferred and which bike fit me best. Regardless, this Tiger is a great addition to the class. They will sell all they can build.
You mentioned the V Strom 650. I've had mine since 2006 and have used it for commuting, touring (ride the Lake Superior circumnavigation) and ridden the Mid Atlantic BDR. The bike will do it all and has been bulletproof all getting about 60 MPG on regular 87 octane fuel. On the BDR I did install Shinko 804/805s which are wearing well.
I love that the Stroms run on 87. Always a plus to me.
The vstrom would be the best bike ever if it looked good. Looks are subjective of course but I rarely hear anybody mention how good it looks.
Just ordered the new Triumph Tiger Sport 800. It's apparently a huge improvement on the 660 in all departments. Check it out, if you haven't already.
Thanks!
Agreed, even in Canada we can't get the Yamaha Tracer 7. It’s frustrating as the Tracer 9 is an expensive $20k bigger bike. Been leaning towards the Kawa 2022 Versys 650LT. Test drove, boring mechanically as said, but at least for 2022 they upgraded the gauges to a proper TFT screen with good connectivity. Plus it's comfortable, affordable, good for commuting and some Summer highway miles. Hopefully a good purchase (so I tell myself lol).
Probably could have included the Honda CB500 or NC750 comparisons. Noted while shopping about the same ergonomics, power and price.
Good video, thorough review as always.
it was good seeing you at Rawhide Adventure days
I do like this bike, wish I could test ride one.
for the dirt segment, I can speak to how bad big cruisers are in the dirt. I end up doing it often thanks to all the dirt roads in the places i ride especially if i visit family out in the desert, it always makes me wish I was on my Vstrom when I have to cross those roads.
I was expecting a tiger sport 1050 refresh but triumph decided to discontinue the line completely - so gutted. I have no plans to go off-road .
Thanks for the review. The Tuareg sounds and looks so much better.
A tuareg with cast 17" wheels would be interesting and maybe increase the power closer to the rs660. Maybe re launch the pegaso
They are in different categories and price ranges.
The Tuareg is an off road/adventure bike so not a competitor of the Tiger sport 660
@@Ijusthopeitsquick The sounds and looks of a bikes transcends the category. Comparing performance would be unfair, but not the sound and appearance.
@8:45 Also on our US-spec bikes, the rear turn signals light with the brake light, for added rear conspicuity.
Well done, Triumph! So nice to FINALLY get LED turn signals in the US, instead of the DOT-compliant incandescents we've been saddled with for years, while the rest of the world got sleek LED signals.
Hi Ian,
I found your channel a few weeks ago. I have been going through a vlog most nights before sleep since. I love your long-form, no nonsense reviews. It is obvious you work crazy hard. I will probably never own a Tiger 660, but this was the post that got me off the sofa with a tablet to my real computer to set up a Patreon silver membership with Big Rock Media. I look forward to future content.
-Keith
Another all around great review, Ian!
Hello! I live in Alpine CA which is in eastern San Diego county. I’ve ridden bikes for many years and my current bike is a Gold Wing DCT. I really enjoy your videos and recognize a lot of the roads. I just watched this video and would love to ride the road you’re on. Would it be possible for you to provide the name of the road? Thanks!!
Wow….that is classy music… great taste. Love your videos.
Although I haven't had around 30 motorbikes like Ian, I did own a 2009 Tiger 1050 a decade ago. It was a hell of a motorcycle, by far the best I had! Great fun to ride, absurdly comfortable (I made a 21-day trip, nearly 8k kilometres from the Atlantic to the Pacific with my wife on the back seat), and I even faced some rough non-paved terrains (deliberately!) I understand this is a big downgrade in terms of engine size and onboarded tech, but I'm really fond on this Tiger 660 as a restart.
I am still rocking my 2008 Tiger 1050, just completing a leisurely 6500 mile trip from North Carolina Atlantic to California Pacific and back on it. Just not sure anything can replace it, this might be the closest.
Excellent review Ian! It feels like Triumph copied Kawasaki’s homework here. This bike looks very similar to a Gen 2 Versys 650. However, I feel Triumph should have offered adjustable front suspension to trump the Versys. As a daily rider, I value a suspension that eases out the bumps on the road over the engine sound.
i was about to say the same thing seems oddly similar to my Versys. Which is a great bike, so its the right thing to do.
A very comprehensive review. Did no mention the short gearing in cons (except in a short written comment that can be overlooked).
I've ridden the bike and I agree with the comments in this review regarding engine, suspension, ergos. It is a sport bike with touring ergos. Short gearing for good acceleration, but I want longer legs for reduced revs at touring speeds (he did note some buzziness at higher road speeds). Triumph, add some touring sprockets to your accessories and I'm in.
Yes! Touring sprockets (45 instead of 51 on rear wheel?) and a firmware update on the speedometer for better speed and mileage accuracy.
Professional and informative as always, thanks Ian. Well done
I can only agree with this comment,as all Big Rock Moto reviews,professional,informative,thorough and very well presented.Thank you Ian for yet another great review.
I took my CBR500R on roads like that, fire roads, and even single track pretty regularly -- but only if it was mostly smooth and not rocky. Great to see a reasonably-priced midsized sports-tourer. I really like the integrated luggage rails and really crisp dash. I do wish it had cruise since the hard part (ride-by-wire) is already there. Lots to like about these and I suspect they'll sell quite well. A little more fuel range would be nice.
great video. Honest. Informative. Well produced.
Thanks for a super review, I just bought one and it’s really a good bike for that money, I have had a lot of different Harley’s
they are fun to ride when there’s no corners 😂 , and the sound is just amazing
but if you really want to ride the byways in a up tempo your lost .
here in Denmark they are a bit more expensive nearly twice as much
Thanks again and I will go for a ride on my 660 .
Awesome review, Ian. Your enthusiasm is not only infectious but dangerous for my pocketbook hehe.
I bought mine the other day. I will mainly use this for my daily rides and to keep the miles down on my bigger, more expensive bike. So far, I like it quite a bit. I do wish I could get cruise control on it even if I had to pay for it as an added option. The main thing I wish is that the gearing would allow this to run 75 mph or 80 mph without screaming. It can do 80 or more. Yes. However, it doesn’t seem to be doing very comfortably. 65 mph seems to be its sweet spot. But, so far, I’m having lots of fun with the way it handles and accelerates up to 75.
Sounds like you could use a sprocket change.
Another great review!!! I can sense your excitement about this bike!
What a brilliant assessment. Thank you. Was looking at a Vstrom, but now Triumph rules. Being British also, it just makes sense!
Im impressed . I want to see the factory bagage options though . Thanks Mon
Yes, I must have a look to see what the luggage options are with an eye for touring. The Yamaha Tracer 7 Gt comes with some nice extra touring features.
I can tell you that I have the luggage, both panniers and top box. They're integrated and look very nice, all keyed to the bike key. Between the 3 pieces, you have over 100 liters of storage. Either pannier will hold a full face helmut and the top box holds 2. The bike is a lot of fun and engaging, you have to ride it to get the most out of it. If I'm looking to be lazy, I ride my Bonneville T120.
Now waiting for the Tiger 660 Rally Pro🙂. You are getting close to 100k subscribers - well done.
I feel like it's missing cruise control despite the fact it has throttle by wire. Could do with a centre stand too! I'd also be intrigued by something along the lines of a Sprint 765.
@17:30 81mph in 3rd gear @10.000rpm... Nice!!
I enjoy your videos. Very informative. Just a point to note, that the Modern Triumph company is a totally different company to the Triumph of old. The new company bought the Triumph name and started making bikes, I think, in the 1980s.
Thank you very much, great review, thorough on details and I like the comparison in the end. Greetings from Denmark 🇩🇰 👍🏼
Thanks for watching!
deserve much reward for your reviews ..thanks for doing it
Now this and the new Honda Transalp would be an interesting head to head!
TranAlp is going to be around $11,599 USA this is under 10k
Like for the seat height coverage.
Amazing video! Thanks for sharing.
It sucks when people talk about msrp cost like that is all you pay. With taxes and fees this an $11k motorcycle bare bones, add some luggage and crash protection and you're pushing 13k+++.
Really looking forward to your review of the new 1200 tiger. Though it's not the same engine as my 2020 one, they corrected the thing that held the older generation back IMHO. Weight.
thank you so much for such a great and thorough review! just traded my kawazaki vulcan S for this bike last night, what a difference! Here in Quebec the roads can be pretty rough - felt like I lost a couple of vertebrae a few times on the country roads around where I live 🥴- and man what a difference when I took this bike home with me last night. The performance of the engine is great and the sound is much better than the kawazaki 650 parallel twin that you have on the Versys and the vulcan which sounds like a sewing machine. Just wanted to let you know the heating grips are available as an option, the paniers are great, and I think I could fit 2 helmets in the top case; I'm already in love with my new Tiger 660.
Thanks Ian for the excellent review! .. The passenger seat seems a bit high and was wondering if you were able to test that out or comment on it? Basically how would it be when riding two up? Thanks
You should get a commission for all the many bikes your viewers have purchased after watching your great reviews! I do like that you show a profile shot of the bike with you sitting on it, Gives us a good clue on riding position, I'll go test drive one,
Impressive that it weighs close to BMW 800's and those were lighter than their singles. Ted Simon rode a Tiger RTW.
Excellent review!
Why should I switch to Tiger from Versys 650, on your opinion? Thanks.
How does the highway stability compare to the V-strom? I've been debating between the Sport 660, CB500X and the V-strom 650, and now the Transalp 750.
Tiger 1200 Rally anytime soon?
I have one. I absolutely love it
Thanks a lot. How about MC750x is it comparable?
Looks great. Nice thorough review as usual.
I need a new street bike after moving to the US without my FJ09. I am shopping this against a V85TT and a new Tracer 9GT. Tryingbto decide if the more expensive bikes are sufficiently better to justify the increased cost. It is good to have options!
Good presentation format.
you do wonderful job..if you add maintenance comparisons it will be great...thanks
I love the 1050 tiger. The stock suspension was pretty weak.
And have been looking at the
660 does the stock suspension
wallow around as bad.
Thanks for another excellent review
I find the suspension is pretty good, especially as there isn't much adjustment. I haven't been riding it extremely hard, still breaking it in, but I have not noticed any type of bottoming out or overly soft or bouncyness in the suspension (and Colorado roads are not the greatest).
@@stevesaulnier433
Thanks
Another great review by Big Rock Moto.
How this model compared with another Euro 660 ADV : Aprilia Tuareg 660
They're a different class of bike, 21/18" wheels, more suspension travel and ground clearance on the Aprilia, it's closer to a T7 except it has the electronics the T7 should've had for its price tag. This is much, much more similar to a versys 650 with its sport touring bias.
can a 5'3 height with 28 inseam person handle the bike? with the low seat option?
I guess these are more like tall, lightweight touring bikes than full on ADVs. Put on decent 80/20 tires and they can handle gravel and dirt trails.
Really liked the comparison with the Versys. I had it and I have the same opinion and I got bored of it and with less than a year of ownership I was looking at something else to trade it.
Going back to this video in anticipation to the 660 Rally Pro
Thanks 4 Another☆☆☆☆☆ Review, 1 Question, ? Does This Vibrate@ Eng. Above 5500-RPM.
Great review with lots of details and personal experiences with this lovely bike. Great content, thanks. I might need to go test ride this even though I'm not really in the market for a new bike right now.
Nice review…looks like a very good bike…I’m sticking with my 800GS, but also looking for a good all around street bike to replace my ‘06 RST 1000…
Nice work my man. Lots to think about.
Hey Ian another great video. But I gotta ask. Would you buy this Triumph or the Versys 1000?? For the money off course??
Do you feel a lot of vibration on the pegs at higher speeds? Let’s say 75 to 85 mph? Awesome review! 😊
Inseam and mpg would be nice to know.
Great video! I love the speed of your presentation, thank you.........Sal : )
You can get aftermarket cruise control.
Great review. Thanks.
Realy a great review on an interesting bike. Thanks!
There is definitely an opportunity here for Triumph to offer an ADV version with 19/17 or even 21/18 to compete at a lighter weight than the GS850 KTM890 et. al.
For street only, this bike definitely looks appealing to my 60 year old self.
The sport 850 looked promising till we found out it has cast wheels anakee adventure tyres and only 85hp from a 900cc triple. I fear the 660cc triple will be too high reving for an off road bike.
I had the 2014 Triumph Tiger 1050 sport , a red one ☝️ looked very similar to the 660 “ I wish we got the full power model in Australia and I would buy one “
Been looking at these real close so thanks for the review.
In this price range is a CF Moto 800MT with a KTM 790 engine, if you can get your hands on one can you do a review for me?