Great videos. I had a 2017 XRT and loved it, but swapped it for an Africa Twin last year as I couldn’t resist the lure of that throbbing 2 cylinder engine. I do love the Africa Twin and its engine character but I also now miss the Tiger. It was a more comfortable and practical bike, and was so incredibly well specced from the factory. I’m already leaning towards switching back to a Tiger XRT as my next bike.
Cheers, yes the Africa Twin had been on my list for a while, but of the two I preferred the Tiger as an all round bike. Plus I got a cracking deal on a nearly new bike.
LOL. I did the opposite. Picked up the Tiger instead of Africa due its lovely triple and smooth engine (besides other goodies of course). Plus it looks better, IMHO. Not sure if I would want to come back to two-cylinders machines. )
One thing that we really stands out to me about the Tiger is that you can get it with cruise control right from the dealer. There are not many bikes out there in the 800cc range that can claim that.
I own a 2018 Tiger 800 XCA & agree with everything you say. I would like to add 1 more point. The XC range has tubes in the tyres. This has pros & cons. I live in Australia so what's a pro for me may not be for you. I can be out of mobile range & on back roads that may not see another vehicle that week. So whilst changing a tube is time-consuming compared to plugging a tyre. It gives me more get out of jail free cards, slashed side walls, bent rims etc. I may do a tubeless conversion, but I would still carry a tube. A bent cast rim is a broken cast rim. I'm 6'4" & the wrong side of 16 stone with size 12 feet. I fitted an adjustable length SW-Motech gear lever I just couldn't get adventure boots under the standard lever, although it's OK as standard in road boots. Also because of my height, I fitted bar risers & added spacers to push the top of the screen out deflecting the wind a little more. I also lowered the gearing 16 down to 15 tooth front sprocket for the narley stuff. As a bonus, it's better in the 60kms zones. It gains 300rpm @ 100kms/hr but doesn't seem to use more fuel. Great review looking forward to seeing how you get on with the new bike.
Cheers Bernie. Yes that obviously one point I didn’t mention and you’re right its either a pro or con depending on where and how you ride i guess. I’m more than likely to fit the SW Motech shifter too, that added bit of room would be welcome.
You forgot to mention that you can easily put a tube in a tubeless tire. After having a very bad blow out at about 60mph I am actually switching from XC to XR. It's not the main reason I am switching, of course, but a big one for sure. Tubes are a big PITA no matter what benefits (if any) they have.
I rode over 13,000 miles on my 2016 XCX last summer, gravel, sand, and paved highways. I agree, 800cc provides plenty of power. I easily passed trucks on the interstate at 90 mph...I don't care to go any faster. The most common bike I saw in BC, Yukon and Alaska was the various BMW 1200 models. I don't see any advantage to those more powerful bikes. The Tiger has a great seat, nice suspension. I've been very satified.
Yep, its nice to have more power, but its not always necessary. If you are riding two up with full luggage I can see a place for the bigger motors. I don't do that so the 800 is plenty
After months of deliberation between Africa twin , BMW1200GS , Tracer GT and 800 Tiger I bought the 800 XRT just before Christmas and I think you have pretty much summed both versions of the Tiger and the benefits against the larger capacity machines perfectly,only managed a couple of rides so far but I love it ..As a relatively inexperienced road rider the Tiger really inspires confidence and is so easy to ride ,and So far I’ve not missed the extra power of my Thruxton R 👍
@@mancavemoto bmw r1250gs* sorry! You might don't need that but if it is controllable power is always welcome! My worry is if it gets tiring to rode a big adv as an everyday bike! Because for travel I know they are the best! Thanks
I have an 2017 Africa Twin, a superb bike but the seat is only good for a 15 mile ride!!!! I''m now in the process of the tiger 800 xrt. Lighter, comfy seat and I can get both feet on the floor
@@mancavemoto I have a 17 Thruxton r with the fairing in silver. And the 19 xrt in white. I consider myself a VERY blessed man, beautiful Bikes to look at & ride.
Been riding the XRT for just over a year. 12 thousand Km in the Austrian Alps and Italian Dolomites. Can’t fault it really. I make multi camera videos of most of my trips and I have rented many other models around the world as part of that. The Tiger triple engine is the only one that doesn’t give me vibration problems with mounted cameras. Also has the best wind protection of any bike I’ve ridden. Can ride at any speed with visor open in a bubble of calm 😁👍
Great video! Spot on with your review on the differences between the two bikes.I have the XRT, added a few extras. front mud guard extension, rear shock protector and lower crash bars with all the full aluminium luggage.I agree with what you said, 94 bhp is more than enough. Love the bike, over 7000 miles since May. Just cant stop riding it!
@@mancavemoto For luggage options, check out the Mosko Moto kit, great quality and well thought out. I'm even tempted to unload the factory XRT luggage and get their kit.
Good comparison Tony, as you know I got the XRT last March. For me cleaning the cast wheels is easier & I don’t intend taking it off road. Glad your enjoying yours. Happy new year!
I have an 800XRT and love it! As for the ride you can adjust the suspension front and back so you can get a "plush" ride. Also it is a triple that sounds like one, unlike the 900 that sounds like a twin. The main thing for me is the linear power band and total absence of vibration through the 'bars. The 800XRT has lots of goodies, like cruise control etc which make it ideal for the road.
I have a 2016 XCA. It is exactly as you report it. My seat is on the lowest setting and the soft suspension hasn't been touched. It gives me enough compression that I'm almost flat footed. For interest when I was on a trip1 up with side panniers and a large backpack, full fuel plus me at 190 lb the total weight was 825 lbs. It handled all conditions impeccably except in the mountains in cross winds where it proved a little light.
94 hp. is more than adequate, particularly on the XCA.If it were shaft drive, it would be just about perfect.Excellent review comparing and contrasting these two excellent machines.Thank you.
Nice video, I went for the Matte Cobalt blue XRT, 2019 in the Spring. Did some accessorizing to push it to XCA level. Love it. (My 1200 Scrambler XE, fills another need!!!) Great videos, Thanks..
Love my 2016 XRX ,its my main work bike, through city traffic,all year round,all weathers and its perfect for what I want it for. I have all the kit on it and its all used rather than for show. Its fast enough for anyone,comfortable enough for anyone. The gearing is spot on in all gears,clutch is light. Its the Swiss army knife of bikes. Triumph R&D riders are all 5'10" and must test their products on city roads.
I tried both last year. I have an Explorer 1200 at the moment. I agree the XRT steers better. I also found more legroom. The XC has a higher seat but I think the pegs are higher too and I found my legs more cramped. They are both great bikes though. The problem is that I have just ordered a KTM 1290 SAS for about the same price as the XRT.
Great video! How would you compare them for on-road? If I would get one of them I would probably not ride it many times off-road but having the option would be cool. Unless the XC is noticeable worse on-road...
For me, I actually preferred the XC on the road, the suspension was little more supple and the bigger front wheel helped on rough tarmac. The XR does feel a little sharper and turns in a little quicker, but I was happy to sacrifice that for more comfort and I can still push the XC hard when i want to. Best bet is test ride both and see which is going to suit you best
Put deposit down, Tony / Your reviews provided great insight, thanks. Also bought Halvarssons Advance glove based on your review and they have exceeded my expectations. Keep up the great work. All the best from West cost of Ireland 👍🇮🇪
Just came across this video. Hopefully soon I will be in the market for an ADV MC. I really like the Tiger 800. Have a local dealer here southern California, USA. I have always wanted to know some differences between the XRT and XCA's. I found your video very informative. If I go in the Triumph Tiger 800 direction, it will be an XRT. Thank you very much! Cheers!!
It depends on how ‘gnarly’ the off-road is.... the spokes rims will bend if whacked but the same impact would probably break a cast wheel. Mind you they are strong, so as long as it’s not to rocky there is less danger of that
@@mancavemoto Thank you for the quick answer! Yes I hope so too. I think it should be okay for gravel roads etc. I'm thinking about getting a 2013 XR. I feel the XC is a little too high for me, don't feel really comfortable on that with my 1,78m.
I’m looking to black out the 2019 800 XCX (like Norman Reedus did - for reference) - what is the fairing called with the letters on it - the sliver piece? Does it even have a name lol? I was hoping to buy an after market piece made of black plastic instead of just painting them.
The part with the tiger lettering is called the ‘upper rad cowl’ and the silver bit (on the XCA) that surrounds the radiator is called the ‘rad cowl’. www.worldoftriumph.com/partscatalog/catalog/listing/catalog/triumphmc/modelid/560138/block/100090287-0-2/
Good review 👍 I was tipping towards the XCA anyway but this just cemented it for me 🙂 still undecided if I need the 1215 or if the 800 will be ample. I like doing long rides including overseas, do you know the main differences between the 2 engine sizes and what it really means in a real life scenario?
@@mancavemoto I can't wait. Are you able to do a bit of 800 vs 1215 in the video too? Especially around cornering, motorway/fast A road riding, handling, fuel consumption and comfort (for long rides) 😉
If the gearbox are perfect 90bhp are more then enough, even with luggage an pillion. My dl650 with only 68bhp life is great on tour fully loaded...only in takeovers l could need some more. Great review sir, l just love that xca and is on my considering list together with the new DL1000 and Africa Twin.
@@mancavemoto absolutly, as a Suzuki guy its hard to go to another brand:))) but its 3 great bikes. Enjoy my old dl so far, but one day a new one pops into my garage.
I have the xca and it's like riding on a cloud I like the wider bars and that bike handles like a dream it just wants more in the corners I love it like I said
First time on this channel, and I liked the review. However, seat height in millimetres and inside leg measurement in inches - how do the two figures correlate? Is it just me? It's the same with fuel tank capacity in litres and fuel consumption in MPG - again no correlation.
I finally received 4 Motone black turn indicators. I installed them on my 2017 Triumph Street Cup with a Tec Bike Parts tail tidy. I was about to add shrink tubing over the connectors when I saw something glitter at the 6 pin rear lighting connector. Sure enough one of the tail light wires came out of the crimped pin. Can you help with the part numbers, mfg name of the connector and pins so I can repair the wiring loom I received from Tec Bike Parts. The Mfg name and part number of a crimp tool you would recommend. I know you make cable assemblies. This is frustrating to say the least. Motone did not have their new tail tidy available until just recently in the USA. I wish I would have waited and purchased it. The Tec tidy I had to buy new longer 6 mm bolts and spacers to have it fit correctly. I would just take the harness into work and crimp the new pin there, however I am a retired electronics engineer and I can not go back to my workplace due to security restrictions etc. . . . . Bill
Hi Bill, sorry to hear of your problems. I have don't use TEC parts, so cannot help you with the part numbers, or even what connectors they are using. Can you return the item to them? In terms of crimpers, I just have a simple pair of crimpers for non-insulated wires www.autoelectricsupplies.co.uk/product/474/category/87 and a pair of standard crimpers/wire strippers uk.rs-online.com/web/p/wire-strippers/3991066/
@@mancavemoto Thanks for the info. I found some crimpers on amazon that will work and some female pins. No I can't return it since I had to wait 10 months to get the black turn signals from Motone. All is good. I will be using your video to install a x pipe so much appreciation for that Tony. So I have or will be installing some Motone, British Customs, Tec Bike Parts and CRG mirrors on the Street Cup. Removed the Triumph bar end mirrors for the lane splitter from CRG since they fold back and reduce your bars width by 6 inches. Thanks again, Ride safe. Bill
In 2015 I went XRX rather than XCx. I couldn’t justify the extra outlay for the XCx, mainly because the XR was truthfully as much as I needed, and I rarely go off proper roads, but the XR does handle tracks OK.
I think its good that Triumph offer a number of specs to choose from. I went for the XCA over the XCX largely because i got such a good deal on a used bike.
Views from the Man Cave I would have gone XRT but they didn’t release it until a couple of months after I bought my X. The perils of being an early adopter!
MCave, informative video. I appreciate your comment that the XC is a little more plush on rough roads than the XR. I’m an older rider and I’m looking for more comfort and less jolts on the terrible California roads I ride. Would you say seating ergos are equally comfortable once riding?
Hi, thanks for your comments. Yes pretty much the same, the XC bars are a little wider and felt a little taller. Marginally more leg bend perhaps on the XR, but quite minimal if so
As ever a well crafted video and very informative. Separate note, what is the adventure helmet you have on please? Is it a shoei you reviewed previously? Cheers
Just my opinion of the bikes I rode. For me the softer plusher suspension was more comfortable on the roads I ride most often. It may not be the same for everyone of course, just my findings
Nice review Tony, I love my 2014 xc, like you I prefer it to the rt, just feels a bit bigger and much better suspension, looking forward to the scrambler 1200 through, are you going to get a chance to review it ?
I'm deliberating between the the XR and the XC models here in India. I want to upgrade from my Street Twin 2016. I plan to ride in the country side and the hills of North East India and the Himalayas. I'm not looking to do hardcore off-road riding but am apprehensive about how much beating the alloy rims can take from bad roads here. What do you suggest?
@@mancavemoto Thanks, that's what I'd been thinking. Also now that the Scrambler 1200 has been launched with tubeless tyres I'm optimistic that we could see the same in the Tiger's next avatar....that will then simplify puncture problems.
Nice review! Did you have a chance to do any riding at all on roads without tarmac? I know that this bike is the more road-oriented model but am curious as to its abilities to carry on when the roads turn from hard surface to dirt.
Only a couple of dirt tracks and it handled those fine. At this time of year, some of the other byways I would tackle are quite muddy, and the tyres fitted would have struggled to cope with that so I didn't bother.
Hard to say from my point of view obviously, but I don’t tend to find many ‘horror’ stories on the forums. Although It has already proved to be more reliable than my old KTM!
Yep if you stay strictly on the road then the Tracer is a good option with a stonking engine. I found it a little more cramped and not as nicely finished, but its a big price difference
triumph twin owner here. Like your style on this video. You covered many of the questions that I had between these bikes but also whether the Tiger is a great bike or not. If I was going to get an extra bike with a lot of money to play with...ha ha. I would get one of these and not sure which one...Cos I have delusions of doing more off road....Thanks again for a very good and informative vid.
I have 200hp sport bikes that I track and I prefer 80-125hp on the road. Its nice to dick measure with your 200hp for bike meets but most people will have more fun with a sub 150hp bike with a good suspension setup
Precisely, of course I was referring to riding on the road, as you mentioned. A track bike is obviously a different story! I agree that power range on a road bike is the sweet spot
the xc has tube type tire. when you get punture you'll get a huge job. and if at a middle of nowhere. tube less tyre on xr are much-much easier to fixed it.
It’s all pros and cons, I guess there’s not much difference if you’re not carrying a plug kit? Bend a spoked rim on a rock or kerb and it can probably be repaired or at least ridden on. Do the same with a cast wheel and it’s going to be toast.
@@mancavemoto I live in California and a lot of the streets are in such poor condition you really can't say your street riding, it's more off road with all the potholes, so I think I will go for the XCA model, I sometimes wonder what they're spending my tax money on cuz it sure isn't fixing the roads.
If you want a pure road bike, for commuting and some moderate sport-touring: xr. If you want a road bike that can properly handle more spirited riding: xc. The xr is quite low, and you will quickly get annoyed by scraping pegs. The xc has way more headroom ... but of course you will not be able to use pure road focussed tires. If anyone from triumph would read this, id say: give us a road focussed tiger that has equal height of the xc!
Hi Michael, yes i'd taken it as far as i'd want to. Don't worry there is another Street Twin project on the horizon, plus another potential project bike coming along also...
Hi mate, really enjoyed the video. New subscriber. About to watch your video on XCA next as im deciding which one to get, im only about 5ft 9 so in the end that might make the decision for me!
@@mancavemoto Yeah, the xca would probably make more sense around where i live in Australia as there is unlimited opportunity for off road/dirt roads right on my doorstep.
Well the video was intended for those deciding which Tiger route to go down ;) I'd like to get my hands on an FTR1200, but its obviously a very different bike
Great videos. I had a 2017 XRT and loved it, but swapped it for an Africa Twin last year as I couldn’t resist the lure of that throbbing 2 cylinder engine. I do love the Africa Twin and its engine character but I also now miss the Tiger. It was a more comfortable and practical bike, and was so incredibly well specced from the factory. I’m already leaning towards switching back to a Tiger XRT as my next bike.
Cheers, yes the Africa Twin had been on my list for a while, but of the two I preferred the Tiger as an all round bike. Plus I got a cracking deal on a nearly new bike.
LOL. I did the opposite. Picked up the Tiger instead of Africa due its lovely triple and smooth engine (besides other goodies of course). Plus it looks better, IMHO. Not sure if I would want to come back to two-cylinders machines. )
I had a 2016 Africa Twin and found it uncomfortable too, swapped for a Tiger 1200.
One thing that we really stands out to me about the Tiger is that you can get it with cruise control right from the dealer. There are not many bikes out there in the 800cc range that can claim that.
The engine harmonics of the AT at cruising speed drove me crazy. Why didn’t any reviews mention this?
I own a 2018 Tiger 800 XCA & agree with everything you say. I would like to add 1 more point. The XC range has tubes in the tyres. This has pros & cons. I live in Australia so what's a pro for me may not be for you. I can be out of mobile range & on back roads that may not see another vehicle that week. So whilst changing a tube is time-consuming compared to plugging a tyre. It gives me more get out of jail free cards, slashed side walls, bent rims etc. I may do a tubeless conversion, but I would still carry a tube. A bent cast rim is a broken cast rim.
I'm 6'4" & the wrong side of 16 stone with size 12 feet. I fitted an adjustable length SW-Motech gear lever I just couldn't get adventure boots under the standard lever, although it's OK as standard in road boots. Also because of my height, I fitted bar risers & added spacers to push the top of the screen out deflecting the wind a little more. I also lowered the gearing 16 down to 15 tooth front sprocket for the narley stuff. As a bonus, it's better in the 60kms zones. It gains 300rpm @ 100kms/hr but doesn't seem to use more fuel. Great review looking forward to seeing how you get on with the new bike.
Cheers Bernie. Yes that obviously one point I didn’t mention and you’re right its either a pro or con depending on where and how you ride i guess. I’m more than likely to fit the SW Motech shifter too, that added bit of room would be welcome.
6’6” here and I appreciate the struggle! Which bar risers did you fit on your Tiger?
You forgot to mention that you can easily put a tube in a tubeless tire. After having a very bad blow out at about 60mph I am actually switching from XC to XR. It's not the main reason I am switching, of course, but a big one for sure. Tubes are a big PITA no matter what benefits (if any) they have.
I rode over 13,000 miles on my 2016 XCX last summer, gravel, sand, and paved highways. I agree, 800cc provides plenty of power. I easily passed trucks on the interstate at 90 mph...I don't care to go any faster. The most common bike I saw in BC, Yukon and Alaska was the various BMW 1200 models. I don't see any advantage to those more powerful bikes. The Tiger has a great seat, nice suspension. I've been very satified.
Yep, its nice to have more power, but its not always necessary. If you are riding two up with full luggage I can see a place for the bigger motors. I don't do that so the 800 is plenty
After months of deliberation between Africa twin , BMW1200GS , Tracer GT and 800 Tiger I bought the 800 XRT just before Christmas and I think you have pretty much summed both versions of the Tiger and the benefits against the larger capacity machines perfectly,only managed a couple of rides so far but I love it ..As a relatively inexperienced road rider the Tiger really inspires confidence and is so easy to ride ,and So far I’ve not missed the extra power of my Thruxton R 👍
Yes its such a comfy and capable bike to ride. I’d still like to have a Thruxton R in the garage too ;)
Hi! How do you compare the tiger xrt with the bmw gs and tracer 900gt? I am also thinking om the ktm 1290sas.. what is your opinon?
@@mancavemoto bmw r1250gs* sorry!
You might don't need that but if it is controllable power is always welcome! My worry is if it gets tiring to rode a big adv as an everyday bike! Because for travel I know they are the best!
Thanks
I have an 2017 Africa Twin, a superb bike but the seat is only good for a 15 mile ride!!!! I''m now in the process of the tiger 800 xrt. Lighter, comfy seat and I can get both feet on the floor
@@mancavemoto I have a 17 Thruxton r with the fairing in silver. And the 19 xrt in white. I consider myself a VERY blessed man, beautiful Bikes to look at & ride.
Been riding the XRT for just over a year. 12 thousand Km in the Austrian Alps and Italian Dolomites. Can’t fault it really. I make multi camera videos of most of my trips and I have rented many other models around the world as part of that. The Tiger triple engine is the only one that doesn’t give me vibration problems with mounted cameras. Also has the best wind protection of any bike I’ve ridden. Can ride at any speed with visor open in a bubble of calm 😁👍
does the XRT have a quickshifter or option to get one?
Ryan Lynch hi Ryan, well it goes up the box from third with no need for clutch anyway. But for down the box I think you can get a quickshifter
Did the Tiger adventure last week in wales, I ride a Tiger 1200 and I was amazed by what these bikes can do. Great fun day and well worth doing.
Cool thanks for sharing, its on my list
Great video! Spot on with your review on the differences between the two bikes.I have the XRT, added a few extras. front mud guard extension, rear shock protector and lower crash bars with all the full aluminium luggage.I agree with what you said, 94 bhp is more than enough. Love the bike, over 7000 miles since May. Just cant stop riding it!
Thanks Katie, sounds like you’ve put some nice bits on. I’ll be looking at some luggage options next I think.
@@mancavemoto For luggage options, check out the Mosko Moto kit, great quality and well thought out. I'm even tempted to unload the factory XRT luggage and get their kit.
Tony ive just ordered a set of the Kreiga OS panniers to go with the SW motech side carriers. I’ll post a video when they are on and tested
Good comparison Tony, as you know I got the XRT last March. For me cleaning the cast wheels is easier & I don’t intend taking it off road. Glad your enjoying yours. Happy new year!
Hi Cotti, yes how are you enjoying it? Good point about the wheels, but at least my new wheel cleaner makes it easier 😉 Have a great 2019
I have an 800XRT and love it! As for the ride you can adjust the suspension front and back so you can get a "plush" ride.
Also it is a triple that sounds like one, unlike the 900 that sounds like a twin.
The main thing for me is the linear power band and total absence of vibration through the 'bars. The 800XRT has lots of goodies, like cruise control etc which make it ideal for the road.
I have a 2016 XCA. It is exactly as you report it. My seat is on the lowest setting and the soft suspension hasn't been touched. It gives me enough compression that I'm almost flat footed. For interest when I was on a trip1 up with side panniers and a large backpack, full fuel plus me at 190 lb the total weight was 825 lbs. It handled all conditions impeccably except in the mountains in cross winds where it proved a little light.
Good to hear, thanks Harry
94 hp. is more than adequate, particularly on the XCA.If it were shaft drive, it would be just about perfect.Excellent review comparing and contrasting these two excellent machines.Thank you.
I agree, that point around the 100hp is as much as you need. Glad you enjoyed the video
I have a ex demo XRT and love it so comfortable and fun to ride especially on long trips.
It’s a great bike for sure
Nice video, I went for the Matte Cobalt blue XRT, 2019 in the Spring. Did some accessorizing to push it to XCA level. Love it. (My 1200 Scrambler XE, fills another need!!!) Great videos, Thanks..
Thanks Jeff, nice thats a great colour! Scrambler 1200 too, lucky man
Love my 2016 XRX ,its my main work bike, through city traffic,all year round,all weathers and its perfect for what I want it for. I have all the kit on it and its all used rather than for show. Its fast enough for anyone,comfortable enough for anyone. The gearing is spot on in all gears,clutch is light. Its the Swiss army knife of bikes. Triumph R&D riders are all 5'10" and must test their products on city roads.
Swiss Army knife is a good way to describe it
I tried both last year. I have an Explorer 1200 at the moment. I agree the XRT steers better. I also found more legroom. The XC has a higher seat but I think the pegs are higher too and I found my legs more cramped. They are both great bikes though. The problem is that I have just ordered a KTM 1290 SAS for about the same price as the XRT.
The XR is also narrower so better in traffic
Steve Povey Yep, but only 10mm so not too much of a difference.
Fair enough. I noticed it though
and thats all that matters Steve....
Great video! How would you compare them for on-road? If I would get one of them I would probably not ride it many times off-road but having the option would be cool. Unless the XC is noticeable worse on-road...
For me, I actually preferred the XC on the road, the suspension was little more supple and the bigger front wheel helped on rough tarmac. The XR does feel a little sharper and turns in a little quicker, but I was happy to sacrifice that for more comfort and I can still push the XC hard when i want to. Best bet is test ride both and see which is going to suit you best
@@mancavemoto thanks! I'll take that in consideration as soon as I can justify swaping my '09 v-strom 😣😎
Put deposit down, Tony / Your reviews provided great insight, thanks. Also bought Halvarssons Advance glove based on your review and they have exceeded my expectations. Keep up the great work. All the best from West cost of Ireland 👍🇮🇪
Cheers Paul, nice to hear. Yes the advance gloves are fantastic
Just came across this video. Hopefully soon I will be in the market for an ADV MC. I really like the Tiger 800. Have a local dealer here southern California, USA. I have always wanted to know some differences between the XRT and XCA's. I found your video very informative. If I go in the Triumph Tiger 800 direction, it will be an XRT. Thank you very much! Cheers!!
Thanks for watching Michael, glad you found the video informative
Would have been nice to compare how you sit on the bikes.
Do you think it is a problem to go off-road with the cast wheels? Is there a danger they will break?
It depends on how ‘gnarly’ the off-road is.... the spokes rims will bend if whacked but the same impact would probably break a cast wheel. Mind you they are strong, so as long as it’s not to rocky there is less danger of that
@@mancavemoto Thank you for the quick answer! Yes I hope so too. I think it should be okay for gravel roads etc. I'm thinking about getting a 2013 XR. I feel the XC is a little too high for me, don't feel really comfortable on that with my 1,78m.
I’m looking to black out the 2019 800 XCX (like Norman Reedus did - for reference) - what is the fairing called with the letters on it - the sliver piece? Does it even have a name lol? I was hoping to buy an after market piece made of black plastic instead of just painting them.
The part with the tiger lettering is called the ‘upper rad cowl’ and the silver bit (on the XCA) that surrounds the radiator is called the ‘rad cowl’. www.worldoftriumph.com/partscatalog/catalog/listing/catalog/triumphmc/modelid/560138/block/100090287-0-2/
Good review 👍 I was tipping towards the XCA anyway but this just cemented it for me 🙂 still undecided if I need the 1215 or if the 800 will be ample. I like doing long rides including overseas, do you know the main differences between the 2 engine sizes and what it really means in a real life scenario?
I have a Tiger 1200 review coming up soon 😉
@@mancavemoto I can't wait. Are you able to do a bit of 800 vs 1215 in the video too? Especially around cornering, motorway/fast A road riding, handling, fuel consumption and comfort (for long rides) 😉
If the gearbox are perfect 90bhp are more then enough, even with luggage an pillion. My dl650 with only 68bhp life is great on tour fully loaded...only in takeovers l could need some more.
Great review sir, l just love that xca and is on my considering list together with the new DL1000 and Africa Twin.
Agreed, and that’s going to be a tough list to choose from!
@@mancavemoto absolutly, as a Suzuki guy its hard to go to another brand:))) but its 3 great bikes. Enjoy my old dl so far, but one day a new one pops into my garage.
I have the xca and it's like riding on a cloud I like the wider bars and that bike handles like a dream it just wants more in the corners I love it like I said
yep its a comfy machine alright
First time on this channel, and I liked the review. However, seat height in millimetres and inside leg measurement in inches - how do the two figures correlate? Is it just me? It's the same with fuel tank capacity in litres and fuel consumption in MPG - again no correlation.
That’s because Triumph work I’m mm and I work in inches 😂
@ManCaveMoto Do you want another license plate for the wall?
I'm not sure of got the room! thank you for the offer
@@mancavemoto your loss. If you ever holiday near the Blue Ridge Parkway, I'll hand deliver.
I finally received 4 Motone black turn indicators. I installed them on my 2017 Triumph Street Cup with a Tec Bike Parts tail tidy. I was about to add shrink tubing over the connectors when I saw something glitter at the 6 pin rear lighting connector. Sure enough one of the tail light wires came out of the crimped pin. Can you help with the part numbers, mfg name of the connector and pins so I can repair the wiring loom I received from Tec Bike Parts. The Mfg name and part number of a crimp tool you would recommend. I know you make cable assemblies. This is frustrating to say the least. Motone did not have their new tail tidy available until just recently in the USA. I wish I would have waited and purchased it. The Tec tidy I had to buy new longer 6 mm bolts and spacers to have it fit correctly. I would just take the harness into work and crimp the new pin there, however I am a retired electronics engineer and I can not go back to my workplace due to security restrictions etc. . . . . Bill
Hi Bill, sorry to hear of your problems. I have don't use TEC parts, so cannot help you with the part numbers, or even what connectors they are using. Can you return the item to them? In terms of crimpers, I just have a simple pair of crimpers for non-insulated wires www.autoelectricsupplies.co.uk/product/474/category/87 and a pair of standard crimpers/wire strippers uk.rs-online.com/web/p/wire-strippers/3991066/
@@mancavemoto Thanks for the info. I found some crimpers on amazon that will work and some female pins. No I can't return it since I had to wait 10 months to get the black turn signals from Motone. All is good. I will be using your video to install a x pipe so much appreciation for that Tony. So I have or will be installing some Motone, British Customs, Tec Bike Parts and CRG mirrors on the Street Cup. Removed the Triumph bar end mirrors for the lane splitter from CRG since they fold back and reduce your bars width by 6 inches. Thanks again, Ride safe. Bill
In 2015 I went XRX rather than XCx. I couldn’t justify the extra outlay for the XCx, mainly because the XR was truthfully as much as I needed, and I rarely go off proper roads, but the XR does handle tracks OK.
I think its good that Triumph offer a number of specs to choose from. I went for the XCA over the XCX largely because i got such a good deal on a used bike.
Views from the Man Cave I would have gone XRT but they didn’t release it until a couple of months after I bought my X. The perils of being an early adopter!
MCave, informative video. I appreciate your comment that the XC is a little more plush on rough roads than the XR. I’m an older rider and I’m looking for more comfort and less jolts on the terrible California roads I ride. Would you say seating ergos are equally comfortable once riding?
Hi, thanks for your comments. Yes pretty much the same, the XC bars are a little wider and felt a little taller. Marginally more leg bend perhaps on the XR, but quite minimal if so
As ever a well crafted video and very informative. Separate note, what is the adventure helmet you have on please? Is it a shoei you reviewed previously? Cheers
Cheers Lee, the helmet is the Arai Tour X4 which i reviewed a while back
How is the XCA or off road version nicer on the road than the XRT road version?
Just my opinion of the bikes I rode. For me the softer plusher suspension was more comfortable on the roads I ride most often. It may not be the same for everyone of course, just my findings
@@mancavemoto thanks
Nice review Tony, I love my 2014 xc, like you I prefer it to the rt, just feels a bit bigger and much better suspension, looking forward to the scrambler 1200 through, are you going to get a chance to review it ?
Hi Ray, yes hoping to get a chance to ride the scrambler 1200
Are there any heat issues with the engine on your legs?
A little, but not too bad
I'm deliberating between the the XR and the XC models here in India. I want to upgrade from my Street Twin 2016. I plan to ride in the country side and the hills of North East India and the Himalayas. I'm not looking to do hardcore off-road riding but am apprehensive about how much beating the alloy rims can take from bad roads here. What do you suggest?
The alloys will take some abuse, the only issue is they will break rather than bend like a spoked wheel.
@@mancavemoto Thanks, that's what I'd been thinking. Also now that the Scrambler 1200 has been launched with tubeless tyres I'm optimistic that we could see the same in the Tiger's next avatar....that will then simplify puncture problems.
Nice review! Did you have a chance to do any riding at all on roads without tarmac? I know that this bike is the more road-oriented model but am curious as to its abilities to carry on when the roads turn from hard surface to dirt.
Only a couple of dirt tracks and it handled those fine. At this time of year, some of the other byways I would tackle are quite muddy, and the tyres fitted would have struggled to cope with that so I didn't bother.
Much obliged. Bob
I rode over 1000 miles of sometimes rough gravel road last year. Comfortable always, no problems.
thanks Tom
Can the xca be considered a reliable long term bike?
Hard to say from my point of view obviously, but I don’t tend to find many ‘horror’ stories on the forums. Although It has already proved to be more reliable than my old KTM!
A Tracer 900GT is $5,000 cheaper than an XRT and has 10 more bhp. Can't see it myself.
Yep if you stay strictly on the road then the Tracer is a good option with a stonking engine. I found it a little more cramped and not as nicely finished, but its a big price difference
The “beak” on the xca is a deal breaker for me unless its easily removable.
I’m the exact opposite....but it should be removable
Yeah, I don't get the fascination with the beaks. I like my 19xrt without it. Awesome. Awesome bikes, by the way, that is tigers.
Would you recomment this bike as a learners bike? I'm 6'2 and my girlfriend is 6'.
At that height I would say yes. its not an intimidating bike to ride, but it is tall and heavy whichever model you choose
Aren’t the wheels 17” on the XR not 19”?
Nope, 19 inch on the front
does the xrT have a quick shifter or option to get one?
It doesn’t appear to no
No.
triumph twin owner here. Like your style on this video. You covered many of the questions that I had between these bikes but also whether the Tiger is a great bike or not. If I was going to get an extra bike with a lot of money to play with...ha ha. I would get one of these and not sure which one...Cos I have delusions of doing more off road....Thanks again for a very good and informative vid.
Cheers Colin, time will tell if i actually do get ‘out in the wilds’
I have 200hp sport bikes that I track and I prefer 80-125hp on the road. Its nice to dick measure with your 200hp for bike meets but most people will have more fun with a sub 150hp bike with a good suspension setup
Precisely, of course I was referring to riding on the road, as you mentioned. A track bike is obviously a different story! I agree that power range on a road bike is the sweet spot
Any 2019 street scrambler review coming?
Hopefully as soon as I can get my hands on one....looking to do more bike reviews this year
Views from the Man Cave keep it going, cheers from Bangkok.
How well does it run on the motorway? cheers
Solid as a rock
the xc has tube type tire. when you get punture you'll get a huge job. and if at a middle of nowhere. tube less tyre on xr are much-much easier to fixed it.
It’s all pros and cons, I guess there’s not much difference if you’re not carrying a plug kit? Bend a spoked rim on a rock or kerb and it can probably be repaired or at least ridden on. Do the same with a cast wheel and it’s going to be toast.
Great video looking to get an XRx, mainly as I am not a fan of Matt finishes, and will save a bit of cash over the XRt. This was very helpful👍
Cool, glad it was useful 👍
Thank you for the video, comparing the two models side-by-side it's just what I was looking for. Thank you.
glad to be of service
@@mancavemoto I live in California and a lot of the streets are in such poor condition you really can't say your street riding, it's more off road with all the potholes, so I think I will go for the XCA model, I sometimes wonder what they're spending my tax money on cuz it sure isn't fixing the roads.
If you want a pure road bike, for commuting and some moderate sport-touring: xr. If you want a road bike that can properly handle more spirited riding: xc. The xr is quite low, and you will quickly get annoyed by scraping pegs. The xc has way more headroom ... but of course you will not be able to use pure road focussed tires. If anyone from triumph would read this, id say: give us a road focussed tiger that has equal height of the xc!
Did you trade the Street Twin?
I traded my KTM for the Tiger. But the Street Twin was returned to stock and sold
@@mancavemoto That's a pity, the Twin video's were excellent. Is there a new Street Twin in the post?
@@colindeans5972 Yes there is another Street Twin project on the horizon, so there will be more content coming in the spring
@@mancavemoto Excellent, looking forward to seeing that.
Has the Street Twin gone Tony?
Hi Michael, yes i'd taken it as far as i'd want to. Don't worry there is another Street Twin project on the horizon, plus another potential project bike coming along also...
Beautiful bikes!
Hi mate, really enjoyed the video. New subscriber. About to watch your video on XCA next as im deciding which one to get, im only about 5ft 9 so in the end that might make the decision for me!
Thanks, true but the XCA with the seat in the low position might work? Either bike is great though
@@mancavemoto Yeah, the xca would probably make more sense around where i live in Australia as there is unlimited opportunity for off road/dirt roads right on my doorstep.
Great video
Thanks
Neither. How about the FTR 1200?
Well the video was intended for those deciding which Tiger route to go down ;) I'd like to get my hands on an FTR1200, but its obviously a very different bike