What To Know
- With two distinct variants – the Rally Pro and the Explorer – the Tiger 1200 caters to a wide range of riders seeking off-road thrills and touring capabilities.
- In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro vs Explorer, highlighting their key differences and helping you make an informed decision based on your riding style and adventure aspirations.
- The Explorer, on the other hand, offers a more balanced setup with a 47mm inverted Showa fork and a monoshock rear suspension, providing a blend of comfort and off-road capability.
When it comes to adventure motorcycles, the Triumph Tiger 1200 has established itself as a formidable force. With two distinct variants – the Rally Pro and the Explorer – the Tiger 1200 caters to a wide range of riders seeking off-road thrills and touring capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro vs Explorer, highlighting their key differences and helping you make an informed decision based on your riding style and adventure aspirations.
Engine and Performance
Both the Rally Pro and Explorer variants feature the same 1,160cc triple-cylinder engine, renowned for its smooth power delivery and exhilarating performance. However, the Rally Pro boasts a slightly higher compression ratio (13.0:1 vs 12.7:1), resulting in a marginally enhanced power output of 141 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque. While the Explorer produces a respectable 139 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque, the Rally Pro’s extra grunt may appeal to riders seeking maximum off-road prowess.
Suspension and Chassis
The Rally Pro stands out with its fully adjustable Showa suspension, featuring a 49mm inverted fork and a monoshock rear suspension. With 9.4 inches of front and 9.1 inches of rear travel, the Rally Pro is equipped to tackle challenging terrain with confidence. The Explorer, on the other hand, offers a more balanced setup with a 47mm inverted Showa fork and a monoshock rear suspension, providing a blend of comfort and off-road capability.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Rally Pro truly shines when the tarmac ends. Its 21-inch front wheel, coupled with its long-travel suspension, provides exceptional stability and control on rough terrain. The electronically adjustable semi-active suspension system allows riders to tailor the bike’s response to different riding conditions, optimizing traction and handling. The Explorer, with its 19-inch front wheel and shorter suspension travel, is better suited for mixed-surface riding, offering a compromise between off-road capabilities and on-road comfort.
Touring Comfort
While both the Rally Pro and Explorer are capable of long-distance adventures, the Explorer excels in providing superior touring comfort. Its more upright riding position, plush seat, and larger fuel tank (7.9 gallons vs 6.3 gallons) make it an ideal companion for extended journeys. The Rally Pro, with its more aggressive riding position and smaller fuel tank, may be more suited for shorter off-road excursions.
Technology and Features
Both the Rally Pro and Explorer come equipped with an impressive array of technology and features to enhance the riding experience. The 7-inch TFT display provides clear and intuitive navigation, while the integrated GoPro control allows riders to capture their adventures with ease. The Rally Pro boasts additional off-road-oriented features such as hill hold control, off-road ABS, and dedicated off-road riding modes. The Explorer, on the other hand, offers a more refined touring experience with features like cruise control, heated grips, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Price and Availability
The Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro carries a slightly higher price tag than the Explorer, reflecting its more specialized off-road capabilities. Both models are available in a range of colors and configurations, with the Rally Pro offering a dedicated off-road-focused trim.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro and Explorer ultimately depends on your riding preferences and adventure goals. If you prioritize extreme off-road performance and are willing to compromise on touring comfort, the Rally Pro is an exceptional choice. However, if you seek a more balanced motorcycle capable of tackling mixed-surface riding and long-distance touring, the Explorer is a compelling option.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which model has better off-road performance?
A: The Rally Pro, with its longer suspension travel, 21-inch front wheel, and dedicated off-road features, offers superior off-road capabilities.
Q: Which model is more comfortable for touring?
A: The Explorer provides a more comfortable touring experience with its upright riding position, plush seat, and larger fuel tank.
Q: What are the key differences between the Rally Pro and Explorer engines?
A: The Rally Pro has a slightly higher compression ratio and produces marginally more horsepower and torque than the Explorer.