My next Europe trip has to be on one of these. Absolutely love them

another nice video tmf, I must say out of the 40 plus motorcycles I've owned over the years, I enjoy my explorer more than any other of them, I just love the torque, and sound of that engine, and the very comfortable riding position.

Recently got my license and bought a tiger Explorer for my first bike. I drove both a Honda vfr 750 and a Honda Varadero xl1000 on a lerners permit. Im very happy with the bike so far and your reviews really helped me in my decision. I know this isnt the ideal first bike but i really liked the size of the Varadero so i chose between the explorer and a 1200gs. The gs is probably a better bike but i got more for my money going with the triumph. Next thing to do is to visit trollstigen in norway. Really liked your video of that trip. Overall i think you do a great job with your videos. They are informative, unbiased and entertaining to watch. I also admire your dedication to this. You are so dedicated you even made a review of your lawnmower during the lockdown. Thank you!

I've been looking forward to your review of the Explorer. Thanks TMF

I don't know how this popped up in my YT feed only now - and I can't believe I didn't see this review - but I bought my XCA in May 2016 after comparing the GS (which by that point I had ridden about a dozen times on fly-and-ride tours), the KTM (a little too over the top) and SuperTenere (that tour mode is so...yawn...but only now do I understand why). But the most important thing was, and still is, that buttery smooth engine for long distance touring and pillion (read: my wife) comfort. My XCA and I have toured most of Europe and Greece on it, it's my main bike for weekend tours and zipping along the Greek coast, it has been dropped and covered in mud and even snow-bound, and while heavy - very true - it has been been without fault except for once; deep in the Pyrenees the engine warning light came on, gave me a fright, until I figured out that a minor quirk is - don't use the kill switch because it confuses the system somehow. Six years in and it has been a great bike. The real downside, which seems to hold true for all but the Triumph sport bikes, is the resale value. I've been so happy with this XCA and the extraordinary service that we have from the local Triumph network in Greece, that the new GT Explorer looks like the next one for me despite the new T-crank engine (I dunno - those triples were pretty near perfect, I haven't yet done a test ride) or the plethora (nay! cornucopia) of choice of outstanding machinery we have today.

If I had an electric screen and heated seat on my GS it really would be the ultimate bike. Great review again - not always a bad thing it rains - gives you more of a feel for the bike I think? Cheers for now. Jon

Another great review

great video once again, I olso thought it was bit of a lump in slow speed, only ever ridden the 1200 once, always thought the 800 was lot more manageable, and I'm 6ft, thanks for a brilliant video once again, very clear and informative.ta.

Hi TMF I've just spent 2 hours on the XCA today and I have to say I really enjoyed it. Obviously I'm comparing to a GS as that's what I know but I didn't find it too heavy as I thought I would from the reviews. Wind protection good and cockpit much better than BM. Engine is awesome and so smooth and the sound from 6000-8000 revs is really addictive. I have a big decision to make now as its around the GSA price bracket (which I hope to ride next week). Decisions, Decisions !! All the best, JJ

Thanks for the reviews! Did you find any difference in this one versus the 2017 model you tested?

Great reviews. I recently changed from a 1200GS and tried the Ducati Multistrada, Explorer 1200 and Tiger 800. Out of those three I preferred the Tiger 800 as it was so much lighter than the Explorer and not as bonkers as the Ducati. However, the Explorer was much better than the original one I tried a couple of years back. Anyway, I bought an Africa Twin CRF1000 DCT in the end .... so looking forward to seeing what you think of one of them.

Great review man. Seems a bit of a love it or hate it sort of bike. I like the cockpit, looks very stylish and the general look of the bike is coolio. I wish I knew the theory behind why they put hardish seats on touring/adventure bikes, my MT 09 is the same, not too hard to be uncomfortable but not soft enough to say Ooo that's comfy. Tcrs dude ✊

Good review TMF, thanks for doing it... I think I'll be keeping hold of my GS for now!

Like you I also have Triumphs as well as the GS and I'm a big Triumph fan But when I went hunting for a touring bike I tried the Explorer and really wanted to like it, but it just didn't do for me, well put together bike thou. Mind you my GS is having front brake troubles!! Going back in tomorrow for the second time! Let's hope this isn't a theme for the future. Wouldn't be the same if it wasn't raining on your bike reviews 😂😂 You really captured this one, well done 👍

Interestingly BMW and Triumph are (fairly friendly) rivals, a little like the Spitfire and the Focke Wulf were (not so friendly) 73 years ago, dare I suggest? OK maybe the ME109 v the Spitfire LOL. Nice review as always and balanced and fair.

Interesting review. I tested the same model last week and found it quite agreeable. I was most impressed by the engine but to my mind it could have done with one more gear. The only downsides for me was what the residuals are likely to be after 2 years and of course it is not a GS.

Hi, I find your reviews spot on and very informative. I can see you have a big interest in the Adventure style bikes and have covered a few brands. Please can you tell me why the Yamaha Super Tenere is not on your list? After all the Super Tenere was here long before the GS, Tiger and KTM's version. Also with people like Nick Sanders covering 50,000 miles on one and Yamaha technicians then stripping the engine down to find no wear what so ever just shows this bikes reliability and durability. Personally I have a dislike for chain driven bikes so I am only interested in the shaft driven models. Seeing as you have delivered fantastic reviews of both BMW and Triumph please fit in the Yamaha so I can have your honest thoughts on the best of the 3 bikes.

Good vid. Thanks for posting.

good review, the heavier the faster you can go comfortably and controllable.

Great review! I own a street triple myself and was looking for a bike with more touring-capacity. I rode trough Scandinavia with the street triple (coming from Belgium) and was pretty impressed with it. But commuting 150 km's each day, tells me that a Tiger/explorer would be a better choice for a future bike. I prefer the Triumph because of the great Triumph-dealers in my neighborhood (Yes, Triumph is pretty popular in Belgium). I enjoyed your review of the Tiger as well, and was wandering if the weight-issue of the Explorer outweighs (I don't know if this correct English...) the more modest engine of the Tiger 800? Is the 800 a "serious" bike to commute and travel for let's say 30.000km a year?

Ok so you are a bit biased, and rightfully so. I am biased as well having a Triumph Explorer2014. I think it is really a personal preference what makes one better than the other but the one big thing I love about my Explorer (soon not to be named like that anymore) is that not everybody and their mother has it! I'm behind two new models and I will most definitively upgrade mine to a new Triumph Tiger. Once a triple, always a triple. Good review

good review my nate gas 1 and love's it.are you wearing an Oxford jacket?what you think bought 1 here in florida like it but didn't test it yet in the heavy rain.

Just to say I enjoy all your videos & wanted to say thank you for doing them :-) I have the tiger 800xrt that I brought in June this year - Are you planning to test ride the tiger 1050 sport at all ?

Not ridden it but I'd always thought it would be nippier and flickable so thanks for the review as it doesn't sound like one for the future list or at least this current model. Better if they just had a button for the screen. That does look faffy.

Thanks for the review. As much of a Triumph fan that I am... I feel I made the right decision in getting the GS... Just saying.

Very good review, I suspect the Tiger Explorer could be a strong competitor for the R1200GS

the Explorer has always had the ride-by-wire throttle, not just the latest version

Good review as always, looking forward to your review of the new Street Cup! I assume you have seen all the new bikes from Intermot this week? Anything catch your eye?

Darn it.... am nearly at the point of getting a GSA and now you have put a doubt in my mind.. may just have to go and take a test ride on that Tiger

When you get new bike TMF like GS for e.g. do you intend to keep it for x number of years before replacing like some people do or rather go with the wind and if there is something new you fancy just get it then?

Great review as always TMF. Wonder if you would consider reviewing the new Africa Twin, Bike magazine made it their bike of the year.

Thanks for this a handy review I've been looking at getting the XCA myself as I do around 10k per year commuting and the reason I'm leaning towards triumph is because both BMW and Ducati service costs are just horrendous. The GS I'm sure is a lovely bike but if I was going to have a BMW I would get another S1000RR as that is such a weapon I could justify the high service costs on that. With 10K Service intervals on the Triumph it is certainly much better and being drive shaft over the chain drive of the multistrada so no cleaning and lubing the chain every 5 minutes. What's the service intervals on the GS out of interest?

Great review...out of interest ,did you ever test the new africa twin...I currently have an MT-07 but would love to add a touring machine to my collection....Weight would seem to be an issue here for me as im only 5'9 but i am a Triumph fan fan so thats where I'm leaning towards.... Loving the reviews you do

good review again. To me, I don't think it's the extra weight itself that is the problem. it's where it is. the Explorer holds its extra weight higher on the bike. The GS is almost as heavy but the shape of the engine puts the weight lower on the bike. I can see why some prefer the GS. Also it's price puts it firmly in competition with the GS and lots of people will think that they might as well get the GS! I think Triumph might have missed a trick with this one. The only real difference between it and the GS is that it isn't a GS! I know this will appeal to some but is it going to be enough to really challenge the panzer?

I've owned a Tiger 1050, Explorer 1200, R1200GS and Multistrada too. I loved the Tiger 800 I demo'd, but soon grew bored of my 1200. It lacks the charasmatic whistle of the 675, 800 and 1050 triples. It's top heavy, which you really feel at a standstill. And mine had a shaft drive whine, which persuaded me to sell it, just before a shaft drive of a friend's Explorer gave out. They've improved the bike technically, but they've not made it lighter or lowered it's c of g. The 800 is a better all round package IMPO. Love or loathe it, IMHO the R1200GS is still the best all round motorcycle ever made - just so easy to live with and does everything from race rep baiting to making owners look better than they actual are be that on or off road.

hi. I'm looking at either the GS or the Explorer. could you kindly advise which is better in terms of consumption and reliability. Also is the parts more ex than the GS?

Looks like a nice machine. You do not see many Triumphs in the states. I like them, although, I like the Ducati better. I own a Harley Fat Bob which is a totally different style bike as this one. Great job on the review! Best to you.

Good review ,, I fancy a Kawasaki versy 1000 I've not sat on one but a friend says they are a tall bike but get great reviews ,,, good video up to your usual high standard don't no why but that triumph doesn't appeal to me seems to lack in character ,,,not against triumph as I own a speed triple Take care Shane

Interesting review as always, thanks TMF.

Waiting to see what the 2018 1200 will offer. Less weight and more power. But how much less and how much more? Seems like this 1215cc engine is a bit of a low revver and top heavy pig. Triumph seriously needs to go more over-square in the bore/stroke and make it rip.

Tell me, if shopping for the adventure style bike again would you take this over the GS? Thanks.

A friend has just traded his 2013 Exp for the new 2016 model..after trying the GS! So try before you buy! Anyway,does it really matter if the GS is slightly better?? BMW are a 'massive' company compared,with huge resources available ! And if you live in the UK,your supporting a UK company. Good review btw.

yes standard pipe, I would like a arrow can, I have been told it makes the engine sound even better, but I can't justify spending £600 on one.

Hello, mate If you had money for just one, which one did you choose? Gs or Explorer? Cheers Eduardo

Nicely appointed bike, but again that weight issue. Never mind, in the domestic market at least, I imagine these are going to be very (or even more) competitively priced in a couple of years time when the GS et al start having import duties slapped on them. ;-)

I'm really interested in the engine sound when compared to the Tiger 800 XCX which I own. The only thing I dislike about the 800 is the constant whistling noise from the straight cut gears. Didn't hear it on the 1200, is it there?

I had a the New Explorer for 4 months before the shaft failed after 6K miles... It pisses all over the GS in every way shape and form but then in my opinion that is not that hard. The Tiger is an awesome bike to tour on but they need to get the reliability of the shaft sorted before I would consider another one.

I got a question, how do you cope with the rain and motorbikes in the UK? do you take extra precautions in terms of clothing and gear ??

Slightly different I know, but which would you say is the better s1000xr or this one.

If I was in this area of the market the only thing that would stop me giving my pounds to the Bavarians would be the Africa Twin. I've rode both the Honda and the GS. The market leader deserves it's sales it does everything extremely well. The Honda was impressive and for me better looking. If a little disappointing performance wise. Mind you all these bikes inc the GS leave you feeling flat performance wise. I dunno why there is so much hate for GS riders. But you'd avoid that with the Honda or indeed the Triumph. I'm rambling now, thanks TMF. By the way is it possible to do a few sport bike reviews, the new 2017 GSXR for example, and what about the Tuono?

After manfully managing the weight of the Exploder, perhaps you are bulked up enough to review a Harley Road King? Just a thought as well, if the dealer who supplies the demo bike get a plug (Thanks to Aardvark & Scroggins for the loan of) in the credits it might make it easier to get stuff.

Love the sound at low RPMs. Almost a diesel-like quality.

youve got a fazer 1000 fzs too? how does it compare to that? thanks

sounds like they've improved the brakes, screen and suspension over the 2015 model I rode last year which is good but the top models are even heavier now by the looks of things at around 40kg more than the GS and as others have said that weight is higher up too which doesn't help shorter riders like me and that's without a pillion, so until they adress that I'm afraid it won't be on my list. The newer models with the gizmos are in a par cost wise too with the GS which I don't think will help Explorer sales as residuals tend to be better on the GS. Thanks as usual for a well balanced review MF.

That was interesting, I owned the previous version(2015 model, which incidentally was also fly by wire throttle) unfortunately my ownership of said bike was fairly brief, mine had some gearbox issues despite some remedial work by several different Triumph dealers was never sorted to my satisfaction, so we parted company! I also found the weight a bit of an issue, I'm a fairly big fella 6'1" &16 odd stone(obviously all muscle,lol), the weight of the Triumph Tiger Explorer is carried much higher than a GS, and I found low speed riding especially two up really tricky, the fly by wire throttle was awful, it was all or nothing, it wasn't my lack of experience as a biker, I've ridden more than 1/2 a million miles on my various bikes over a thirty year period, by comparison I can ride a GS even two up loaded with luggage at less than walking pace with no issues at all! Another aspect to be considered is service costs, normal servicing is probably comparable to a BMW in cost but when it comes to the larger services where tappets are adjusted the Triumph service jumps to quite ridiculous costs, I've heard of riders being charged £800-£900 for the larger more time consuming services , definitely something to factor in if considering buying one, to be fair I think service intervals on the Triumph are every 10,000 miles, but approaching nine or ten hours labour for a valve check and adjust service is just bonkers in my opinion. So my preference is for a GS , fuel economy, ease of service, truly fantastic handling and low end grunt etc keep the BMW at the top of the game for this type of bike in my opinion. cheers tony Thanks TMF for another great video!

TMF, is there a quick shifter available?

great video the tiger looks nice but it is not a GS 😉

You said something about it weighing more than a GS. Don't know which one you ment, but the 2016 weighs in at a whopping 260 kg.

You even took her off road!

I keep getting black screen on tmf videos. Anyone else? It's only this channel!

I personally prefer this to the GS - the GS's front mudguard is hideous

You say its a heavy motorcycle but it is just 6 kilos heavier than the GS. C

You really need to have a play on a KTM 1190 Adventure...

Why review a bike stuck behind a van ???????

Missenden, how could you buy a German bike over British? Did you forget WW2? The Nazis bombed Old Trafford! Among other horrible things they did. I'm going to buy a Tiger Explorer just to offset your BMW purchase.

It's a not a GS so you will not like it flyer