2015 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx Review


rev-counter is where the Tiger XCx prefers to prowl.The six-speed transmission meshes with the engine’s powerband without any noticeable gaps in spacing, while the cable-connected actuation of the clutch is smooth with a fairly light pull. The final drive is accomplished via a water- and-mud resistant O-ring chain wrapped around an oversized steel rear sprocket.The Tiger XCx’s chassis and handling are a superb compromise, as it is equipped with wire-spoke wheels and a tire/tube configuration that pairs a 21-inch front wheel with a 17-inch rear.This combination means greater flex and roll-over capacity while negotiating roots and rocks in off-road conditions, minimizing deflection, and increasing stability. On-road, the handling of the 21-incher manifests itself in a slightly slower turn-in while cornering, which is a welcome trade-off for increased confidence off-piste.The first generation Tiger 800s were remarkably easy to ride with linear power on demand, good handling and balance, and ergonomics that were all-day comfortable. The 2015 Tiger 800 XCx augments these characteristics with an advanced electronics package and a high-spec WP suspension designed to amplify both on- and off-road performance.The 43mm inverted WP fork affords nearly 8.7 inches of travel, and comes complete with tool-less compression and rebound clickers located on the top of each fork tube. The single WP shock has 8.5-inches of travel and includes hydraulically adjustable spring pre- load, adjustable rebound damping, and a remote reservoir designed for prolonged
off-road excursions.Modulating acceleration and braking is a sophisticated ride-by-wire electronics package that combines anti-lock braking, traction control, and selectable throttle maps. ABS can be switched on and off, or set to Off-Road, which permits a limited amount of slip from the front wheel, and complete lock-up of the rear wheel for negotiating tight turns while trail riding.Likewise, traction control can be switched on and off, or set to Off-Road for balanced rear-wheel spin-ups, while keeping the chassis stable. Additionally, there are four throttle mappings that deliver full power, but alter the delivery to optimize for Rain, Road, Sport, and Off-Road conditions.To simplify it all, the XCx has two pre-configured modes for Road and Off-Road that combine optimal setting for ABS, TC, and throttle mapping, and one Rider mode that is customizable across the same parameters.Combining incredible power delivery, suspension actuation, and electronic modulation, the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx enables an extremely easy-to-ride-fast experience. The WP forks stay up in the stroke and are surprisingly progressive, even in aggressive on-road braking and cornering. Off-road, the WP suspension really shines with stable compliance over ruts, roots, and rocks.Twisty dirt roads beg for a handful of throttle and steering with the rear wheel. The Off-Road mode is optimized for dusty fun, but is still friendly enough for beginner sand novices to stretch their capabilities in a safe manner. Expert off-road riders will gravitate to the programmable Rider mode with the combination of Sport throttle mapping. Off-road ABS, and traction control switched off— the beauty of choice.Braking is fully adequate in stopping the 487-pound Triumph Tiger 800 XCx (claimed wet), although the Bridgestone Battle Wing tires are a bit chirpy when engaging the ABS under hard braking on tarmac. Dual 308mm rotors up front are gripped with twin-pot Nissin calipers, with a single 255mm rotor and single-pot configuration in the rear. Brake lever feel is progressive and absent of any numbness when the ABS intervenes, making for a more seam- less interface between man and machine.

- Helmet: Shoei Hornet X2
- Eyewear: VonZipper Fulton
- Jacket: REV’IT! Vapor
- Gloves: REV’IT! Vapor H20
- Pants: REV’IT! Vapor
- Boots: Sidi Adventure
2015 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx Review Photo Gallery