Ups
- An approachable, beginner-friendly ADV-tourer from the UK
- Meaty powerband from the inline-three
- High-quality Brembo Stylema brakes
- Exceptionally maneuverable
- Two-position seat adjustability
Downs
- Non-switchable ABS
- Unbearable engine heat
Verdict
The 2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport replaces the base Tiger 900 with the purpose to attract those new to the midsize ADV-touring segment with its accessible price, power, and ergonomics.
Overview
The new Triumph Tiger 850 Sport is a road-focused ADV-tourer first, and off-road rider second. It makes the everyday commute comfortable with upright and standard ergonomics and a tall windscreen, and has potential for the trail with blocky Michelin Anakee Adventure tires. It is powered by the same 888cc T-plane triple as the Tiger 900 models, but is retuned to be more tractable in the lower rev range. The new model is more approachable in both price and power compared to its 900 predecessors and is an exceptionally maneuverable and high-quality package for touring.
Updates for 2021
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport replaces the base Tiger 900 model, but has a revised ECU map, new graphics package, and LED lighting.
Pricing and Variants
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport is the only variant in the 850 format, which retails at a price of $11,995. Those looking for a little more power and even more up-spec components will be looking at writing a $14,700-plus check for the 900 GT and Rally models.
Competition
Motorcycles that are running in the same competitive circles as the Tiger 850 include the Suzuki V-Strom 650, Honda NC750X, and Kawasaki Versys 650.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In part from the revised ECU map, the 888cc DOHC inline-three delivers a more linear and newer-rider-friendly power.
When Motorcyclist’s Senior Editor Adam Waheed rode it for his MC Commute he praised its punchy power and good acceleration. The only knock was that the heat emanating from the engine makes the cockpit unbearable. In staffer Morgan Gales’ review he wrote: “Aside from simply knowing that the engine was detuned, I never found myself wanting power that wasn’t there. The three-cylinder engine has a pleasant character, with nice sound and feel. The lope at idle is satisfying and deep with clear pops of combustion, not merely a mechanical whirring. As the engine revs up, there’s a little vibration around 5,000 rpm, but not so much as to be tiring or take away from the ride.”
When testing the machine on our in-house dyno, the Tiger 850 Sport produced a peak 76.93 hp at 8,030 rpm and 54.99 pound-feet of torque at 6,930 rpm.
Handling
Easy steering and exceptional maneuverability for its size were pros of the ADV. Gales noted, “Handling on the 850 is neutral and confidence-inspiring. Much of the bike’s 478 pounds is carried low, so at slow speeds the bike feels light and nimble; paired with the adjusted engine, this allows for precise control.”
The Tiger 850 Sport is suspended by a nonadjustable Marzocchi fork and preload-adjustable shock. An excellent blend of support and small-bump compliance makes for an overall pleasing ride quality.
Brakes
Stopped by a pair of top-shelf Brembo Stylema calipers clamping to dual 320mm discs up front and a single-piston caliper out back, the Tiger 850 Sport is brought to a quick halt with excellent feel. As Motorcyclist’s Adam Waheed stated, the braking components are almost overkill, and he’s not wrong. The same Brembo pieces are used on nearly every modern-day, 200-plus horsepower superbike. Still, they’re a nice touch.
ABS is fixed and unable to be deactivated.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
We recorded 42.4 mpg from the Tiger 850. And with the substantial 5.3-gallon fuel tank more than 200 miles can be had between gas station stops.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The seat’s two-position adjustability offers a choice between a claimed 32.7-inch and 31.9-inch seat height, which creates flexibility for a wide range of riders. At 6-foot Waheed reported that he was comfortable in the higher position and that short-statured riders will appreciate the lower setting. Further, the seat is wide and comfortable for rider and passenger alike.
The bend in the handlebar is wide and great for road use and the tall windscreen offers nice wind protection. The wind screen can be adjusted without the use of tools.
Electronics
Two engine maps (Road and Rain), non-switchable ABS, on/off-adjustable traction control, a 5-inch TFT display, and 12-volt mini-power port make up the electronics package.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport is covered by a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
Quality
Triumph’s new Tiger 850 Sport oozes high-quality from its switch gear to the beautiful Brembo Stylema calipers. It, as standard with Triumphs, is easy to ride and approachable for many. A well-thought out machine for your well-thought out tour.
2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $11,995 |
| Engine: | 888cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, T-plane crank inline-3; 4 valves/cyl. |
| Bore x Stroke: | 78.0 x 61.9mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate assist and slipper; hydraulic actuation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | N/A |
| Frame: | Tubular steel |
| Front Suspension: | 45mm Marzocchi inverted fork, spring preload adjustable; 7.1 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Marzocchi shock, spring preload adjustable; 6.7 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Radial-mounted Brembo 4-piston Stylema calipers, radial master cylinder, floating 320mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Brembo 1-piston caliper, 255mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast alloy; 19 x 2.5 in. / 17 x 4.25 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Michelin Anakee Trail; 100/90-19 / 150/70-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 24.6°/5.2 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 61.3 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | N/A |
| Seat Height: | 31.9–32.7 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 5.3 gal. |
| Dry Weight: | 423 lb. |
| Contact: | triumphmotorcycles.com |
Cycle World Tested Specifications
| Seat Height: | 32.7 in. |
| Wet Weight: | 478 lb. |
| Rear-Wheel Horsepower: | 76.93 hp @ 8,030 rpm |
| Rear-Wheel Torque: | 54.99 lb.-ft. @ 6,930 rpm |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com