Triumph Tiger 800 XCA

The Triumph Tiger 800 XCA is probably the only bike you will ever require for all your adventure needs. It is easy to see why this model sells so well in the UK. For 2018, Triumph made a raft of changes to the bike, both on component level and on ergonomics.

Although the engine is still the 800cc three-cylinder, 95hp mill from the previous model, some tweaks to the engine lets it spin up faster. Add to that a shorter first gear and you end up with a far more responsive engine, especially at slow speeds. The exhaust is lighter, but has lost none of its emotive triple soundtrack.

The XCA has an extensive list of standard equipment. These include some serious protection around the engine and a belly pan. This should cover you for your off-road excursions. For the road, Triumph has included spotlights, heated seats and grips as well as cruise control.

More hints at its off-road intentions is the skinny spoked 21” front wheel and the gnarly foot pegs. The suspension is from WP and you have 43mm front inverted shocks and a mono shock at the back. All adjustable, of course.

As far as ergonomics go, Triumph has moved the handlebars closer to the rider, and the seat is adjustable through two heights employing a very simple system. The windshield is also adjustable and there are wind deflectors to keep the wind off you. At speed, the screen is highly effective. My 6”1 frame was quite comfortable behind the screen.

The TFT instrumentation is the same as on the new Triumphs and is quite comprehensive. You can even change the layout and style of the display. This moves the rev-counter and speedometer around to suit your particular preference.

The Triumph Tiger 800 is a delight to ride. Your seating position is plumb upright, and it makes for a comfortable ride. I pushed the seat up to its highest level which made a marked difference to the angle of my legs. The triple mill generated a fair amount of heat, so in town it does get noticeable. Out on the road though you can stand on those broad foot pegs and let the wind dissipate the heat.

On the whole then, the Tiger 800 XC should be your go-to adventure bike. Unless you ride two-up with the kitchen sink, there is no reason for you to get the Tiger 1200. This bike should be all the bike you will ever need.

Article & Photos: Brian Cheyne