The slick graphite/black 2009 Triumph Tiger makes for a startling modern addition to this bucolic scene.Just another goofy looking euro metric for moto-posers. Geesh....how about Triumph bringing a street legal ATV to market? Makes about the same amount of sense.The Tiger SE’s unique color scheme was inspired by one of Triumph’s most cherished employee benefits: the privilege of specifying a bike with custom paint. The Triumph design team was experimenting with different colors and found that the combination worked so well with the lines of the Tiger that the factory decided to make it available on the limited edition Tiger SE.
“The Tiger has received rave reviews for being one of the best all-around bikes on the market,” said Jim Callahan, North American Marketing Manager for Triumph Motorcycles. “The new Tiger SE’s custom matte graphite and black paint really sets the bike apart from the other motorcycles in its class. It looks fantastic, so you’ll want to hurry while they’re still in stock.” Cast-aluminum wheels are new for 2007, now in 17-inch diameters that fit common sportbike rubber.
This two-wheeled road-weapon looks like it needs a holster. The Tiger’s current platform was first introduced in 1994 and has evolved into a well-rounded sport touring motorcycle that is perfect for cutting through the urban jungle, devouring highway miles and carving through challenging mountain passes.
The Tiger is powered by Triumph’s highly-acclaimed 1050cc three-cylinder engine that delivers 113hp at 9,400rpm and 74 ft. lbs. of torque at 6,250rpm. An adjustable sport suspension and 120 front/180 rear sport tires mounted on 17-inch wheels are combined with powerful Nissin brakes for exceptional, confidence-inspiring handling.
The DOHC three-cylinder engine in the Tiger is slightly detuned from the same basic unit that's found in the Speed Triple streetfighter, which works really well in this application. Comfort has always been a strong point for the Tiger. Both the rider and passenger benefit from great ergonomics, excellent wind protection and rubber mounted handle bars and foot pegs. Hard saddle bags and luggage are available as well as a tank bag, heated grips and a host of other accessories. The Tiger's front end consists of an inverted 43mm fork with adjustable preload, rebound and compression damping. Dual 4-piston calipers are radially mounted and bite on 320mm floating rotors.
