If the BMW R1200GS is the “Hummer” of bikes, and the Ducati Multistrada the “Porsche Cayenne,” then the Tiger Explorer must surely be the “Landrover.” It’s not the Range Rover with a million modcons, but it certainly has it where it counts.
I picked the bike up in the pouring rain, and immediately the solid feel inspired confidence. Within a block of the bike shop I rode over a couple of wet metal plates (a little wee may’ve come out) and two blocks later I was on the 280 South with cars passing me at 70mph.
The triple cylinder doesn’t quite have the torque of the boxer, or v-twin, but is no slouch either. From a pure “fizz” perspective I’d place this between the “sedate solidity” of the GS, and the “licence eating” thrill of the Multi. The throttle is certainly more responsive than the German bike, but slower getting to speed than the Italian. It is both fun, and confidence inspiring.
You don’t get anywhere near the gizmo’s of those other bikes. This is very functional. Like the GS, an analoque tachometer, with digital everything else. Speed, gear, fuel, range, and economy. That’s it. But that’s enough.
The dash and windshield are set far forward very much like the GS, although here the windshield isn’t adjustable. This puts a bunch of turbulent air right on my brow. I found using the peak with goggles on my Explore-R helmet resolves this. There’s something about peak helmets that seems to smooth airflow at speed.
Talking about speed, on the highway this bike really shines. Solid but not cumbersome. In 6th, fully loaded with luggage, a blip on the throttle accelerates from 70 mph (110 kph) to overtake pretty much anything.
I found the brakes take late. Much later than the Multi. There’s seemingly nothing for-ev-er, and then you’re suddenly stopped with your heart in your mouth. It takes a little getting used to, giving a LOT of pressure through the lever up front. Although at least you do have a good back brake. Possibly the best I’ve experienced on a bike. Riding in the rain for the last two days means I’ve been riding speeds that really don’t need a lot of brake.
The seat-to-peg height is shorter than expected, and that combined with un-electronically adjustable shock absorption gave me a numb bum after about 2 or so hours in the saddle. Nothing that wouldn’t be cured with a little adjusting, and a lot more riding.
All in all this is a great bike, and an affordable compromise to the Multistrada and GS. If you’re crossing continents, you’d do a lot worse than getting one of these.
Originally published on Wordpress
