Leo Vince Slip-on Can

While the standard can on the Tiger sounds good, I thought that I would prefer something with more of a roar!

There are various slip-on cans on the market. And, a great deal of difference in their prices! I wanted something well made, good looking, good value, and with a deeper tone.

After doing some research, I chose a Leo Vince Stainless Slip-on. These cans get a lot of good feedback from owners that have fitted them. I purchased mine from Moto GB via their Ebay shop.

Having fitted Leo Vince cans to some of my previous bikes, I knew that the can would be an excellent fit. This one didn't disappoint. It took less than fifteen minutes to fit. There are some nice touches like the twin carbon fibre straps, and nicely turned spacers.

The can has a removable baffle, but I have left it in for the time being. The engine map will need to changed if I am to run the can with the baffle removed.

As it is, the can sounds great. It has a deeper sound compared to the standard can. And, at 4,000 rpm and above the sound gets better and better. The engine mapping seems to cope with running the can with the baffle in, with the seamless, smooth power unchanged. There is a little rumbling and popping on the overrun, but nothing I wasn't expecting. I will run it for a few hundred miles to evaluate things before making any mapping changes as necessary.

My current Bike

Following an accident where my beloved Aprilia ETV1000 Caponord was written off, I have recently purchased a new motorcycle.

I made a short list which included a few different styles and makes of bike. But, as the Adventure style of bike suits my needs better than most, that is where I concentrated my search. The Adventure models have exploded onto the market. All the major manufacturers have one in their range.  

I used to love my Caponord. It had a excellent mix of real world power, handling, and comfort. My broken, ageing body certainly approved of the latter. It was a typical  Italian mistress though, and required constant attention to keep her in tip top condition. There is a great following for these motorcycles. They are often overlooked, when compared to the overpriced, and in my opinion, inferior German competition. Check outhttp://www.apriliaforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?15-ETV1000-CapoNord-(all-years)  for more information. This is a great forum for all things Caponord, with a great bunch of knowledgeable owners.

                                                        My Aprilia ETV1000 Caponord

What I needed was a motorcycle with the performance, handling, and comfort of the Caponord, but in a modern, lighter, fuel efficient package.

The bike I have bought is a Triumph Tiger 800XC. I have owned it for just over three weeks. And, so far it is everything I had hoped it would be.

                                                        My new Triumph Tiger 800XC

It may only be an 800, compared to the 1000cc engine Caponord, but the Tiger is considerably lighter. It feels much more nimble, and the three cylinder engine has ample performance. It also sounds amazing. The engine is super smooth, with a nice flat torque curve, which make the engine very flexible. You can rev it and have fun, or you can leave it in top gear and ride it like an automatic.

I have just finished running the engine in. During the running in period, I have been achieving around 65-70mpg. This has lowered slightly now I am riding it a little harder, but is still in the high 50's-low 60's. This is great news for future touring trips, as it means that I should achieve a decent tank range.

The handling is not quite as sure footed as the Caponord, due to it having a skinny 21" front wheel. It feels like the bike wants to run wide. But, it is only noticeable when riding in a more spirited fashion. Ninety five present of the time it handles really well.

The front suspension is not adjustable. I may have to look into different springs and damping if it becomes an issue. The rear suspension is adjustable for preload and combined damping adjustment. It feels firm as standard, but seems to cope well for my style of riding.

The Tiger came with a few extras as part of a promotion by Triumph. These were heated grips, adjustable touring screen, top case, and top case pillion back rest pad. The standard equipment is also very good. The rider seat is height adjustable ( I have it set in the tall position), and it also has span adjustable levers, and handguards.

The instruments are clear and provide all the information needed. It has displays for average and instantaneous fuel economy, twin trip meters, a gear indicator, and a fuel gauge.  

I have also added a tank protector, front mudguard extender, main stand, and headlamp protector as part of the deal.

After the bike was delivered, I added a set of Hepco and Becker Gobi panniers for when I go touring. I went for the black panniers. And so that the Triumph top case would blend in, I had the metal insert powder coated in satin black.

I also added some protection. I added a R&G shock sock to keep the rear suspension clean. The rear of the bike gets very dirty, very quickly, and this gives me peace of mind. I may have to consider fitting a hugger if this does not provide enough protection.

I have also fitted a sump guard, and engine bars from Adventure Spec. These are simply the best you can buy. They fit really well, and look amazing. I highly recommend them.

This is how the Tiger looks now.

Overall I am really pleased with the bike. But, I can feel the need for a few more accessories soon. It puts a smile on my face every time I ride it. Lets hope it takes me on some interesting adventures.

A Brief Introduction to my Blog

So what is my Blog about?

I have thought of documenting my motorcycle trips and adventures for a while. A story is not a story unless it has been told. Otherwise it is just some writing on a sheet of paper.

So, I thought I would start a blog to share my interests with others.

I have an unhealthy interest in mechanical objects and engineering. I have always had a fascination for how things work, and why they are designed the way they are. It started at an early age. But, I am becoming more inquisitive the older I get.

From a humble bicycle to the most powerful super car. If it looks good, goes well, and puts a tingle in my trouser region, then it gets my attention. But, my real passion is motorcycles.

My whole life revolves around motorcycles. They are my work, my hobby, and my greatest love. I ride everyday, and have done so since my late teens.

I have been lucky enough to own many different types and models of motorcycle over the years. From humble commuter machines to the latest sports bikes. From barely legal Supermoto's to wheelie monster super naked's. I love them all.

There is a motorcycle for everyone, and every type of riding. Whether you are riding to the shops, or crossing a continent, a motorcycle will turn your journey into an adventure.

These days my riding has gone from knee down tyre shredding antics, to more sedate touring and pleasure riding. If I can combine my motorcycling with a bit of camping, then that is even better.

I hope you enjoy reading my blog, as much as I enjoy writing it.