What To Know
- The V-Strom 650, on the other hand, has a more relaxed handling style and a 17-inch front wheel, making it more suitable for long-distance touring and off-road exploration.
- The Tiger 800 offers more power, better handling, and a wider range of features, but the V-Strom 650 is more affordable and fuel-efficient.
- The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is more affordable with a starting price of $8,849 compared to the Tiger 800’s starting price of $12,395.
In the realm of adventure-touring motorcycles, the Triumph Tiger 800 and Suzuki V-Strom 650 stand as formidable contenders. Both machines offer a blend of ruggedness, versatility, and performance that appeals to riders seeking a two-wheeled escape from the ordinary. However, each motorcycle has its own unique strengths and weaknesses that may sway your decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the details of the Triumph Tiger 800 vs V-Strom 650 to help you determine which one emerges victorious in this off-road adventure showdown.
Engine and Performance
The Triumph Tiger 800 is powered by a liquid-cooled, inline-triple engine that produces 95 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 features a liquid-cooled, V-twin engine that generates 71 horsepower and 46 lb-ft of torque. While the Tiger 800 boasts more power, the V-Strom 650 offers smoother power delivery and better fuel efficiency.
Handling and Suspension
The Triumph Tiger 800 is renowned for its agile handling and responsive suspension. Its lightweight frame and 19-inch front wheel provide nimble cornering and excellent stability on both paved and unpaved roads. The V-Strom 650, on the other hand, has a more relaxed handling style and a 17-inch front wheel, making it more suitable for long-distance touring and off-road exploration.
Electronics and Features
The Triumph Tiger 800 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of electronics, including traction control, cruise control, and a TFT display. The V-Strom 650 offers a more basic set of features, but it still includes traction control and a digital instrument cluster. Both motorcycles offer optional accessories such as heated grips, saddlebags, and crash bars.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Triumph Tiger 800 is known for its exceptional off-road performance. Its long-travel suspension, low seat height, and advanced traction control system allow it to tackle challenging terrain with confidence. The V-Strom 650, while not as off-road focused as the Tiger 800, is still capable of handling light to moderate off-road riding.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Triumph Tiger 800 offers a comfortable riding position with a wide seat and adjustable handlebars. The V-Strom 650 also provides a comfortable ride, but its seat is slightly narrower and the handlebars are not adjustable. Both motorcycles offer windshields that can be adjusted for wind protection.
Price and Value
The Triumph Tiger 800 has a starting price of $12,395, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 starts at $8,849. The Tiger 800 offers more power, better handling, and a wider range of features, but the V-Strom 650 is more affordable and fuel-efficient.
Which Motorcycle Is Right for You?
The Triumph Tiger 800 is the ideal choice for riders who prioritize power, handling, and off-road performance. It is a highly capable adventure-touring motorcycle that can tackle any terrain with confidence. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is a more budget-friendly option that offers a comfortable ride, good fuel efficiency, and decent off-road capabilities. It is a great choice for riders who want a versatile motorcycle for both on-road and off-road adventures.
The Verdict
In the battle of the Triumph Tiger 800 vs V-Strom 650, both motorcycles offer unique strengths and weaknesses. The Tiger 800 emerges as the victor for riders seeking a high-performance adventure-touring machine with exceptional off-road capabilities. However, the V-Strom 650 is a more affordable and fuel-efficient option that is still capable of handling light to moderate off-road riding. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motorcycle has more power?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 has more power with 95 horsepower compared to the V-Strom 650’s 71 horsepower.
Q: Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is more fuel-efficient with an average of 50 mpg compared to the Tiger 800’s 45 mpg.
Q: Which motorcycle is better for off-road riding?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 is better for off-road riding with its long-travel suspension, low seat height, and advanced traction control system.
Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is more affordable with a starting price of $8,849 compared to the Tiger 800’s starting price of $12,395.
Q: Which motorcycle has more features?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 has more features, including traction control, cruise control, and a TFT display, while the V-Strom 650 offers a more basic set of features.