Drove: Triumph Tiger 800 Xrx and Xcx

Let me write, are these impressions fresh or hot? Both. But the air, asphalt and tires were cold. And both engines are brand new, with zero mileage. So please don't miss out on the experience of the suspension under heavy braking in a corner and the three-cylinder engine just before the lock spoiled the joy. This is not done when doing fresh techniques.

Instead of two (base and XC), four versions of the little Tiger are available in 2015 (small because Triumph also offers 1.050 and 1.200 cubic meters): spokes and WP suspension designed for occasional tarmac rides. If you notice a small X (letter x) in addition to the two capital letters, this means that the Tiger is also equipped with cruise control and the ability to choose between four device response modes (rain, road, sport and off-road) and three driving modes (Road , Off-Road and personal driver program). When these programs are changed, the ABS (anti-lock braking), TTC (anti-slip) systems and the reaction mode of the engine, which is connected to the throttle by means of an electric wire (ride by wire), are regulated. If you're familiar with the Triumph gait on the trip computer, you'll quickly learn it, otherwise your grandson should help you select the rain program.

What did I discover while driving in five to ten degrees Celsius? That the sitting (and standing!) position behind the wheel of the XCx suits me much better than on the XRx brother, as it sits more "off-road" and with less bent knees. The three-cylinder engine is at least as maneuverable as the previous Tiger (in the village you can easily navigate in sixth gear), the box is excellent, in a word (supposedly taken from the Daytona 675). Response on the right lever is quick and lag-free, and I can also appreciate the performance of the anti-skid system, which allows some rear tire slip in the off-road program. Trip computer and cruise control switches could be better accessible (winter gloves are partly to blame!). The XRx has a manually adjustable windshield, while the XCx does not. This one is solid and certainly not as royal as on the Tiger 1200.

Apart from the sitting position, do you know what is the biggest difference between the Tiger brothers? In suspension! The Austrian WP plant has provided a more coordinated operation of the front and rear suspension, more accurate damping and, as a result, a more stable position on the road.

If your better half, monthly income and bow length between two heels allow, choose XC.

text: Matevж Hribar, photo: Matevж Hribar