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.