Talk me into/or out of buying a Triumph Tiger

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Vmass, thanks for that. Nice to have something to compare. That tiger is an 800.

From what I can tell from my little bit of research into the model differences, I believe there were 2 basic models of the 2015 Tiger Explorer:
XC (more off-road biased, spoke wheels).
XR (more road biased, cast wheels). This is the one in the link I posted.
both are 1215cc triples.

at least this is what I believe.

I will call tomorrow, get more info and try to schedule a test ride.

[Big Block]

They look really good. I was going to buy a Vstrom but they're pretty heavy, too heavy I think.

[Rich82GS750TZ]

The weight is something I’m aware of and one of the only items on the Con list for me that I'm seeing right now. I’m not afraid of a tall bike. I learned at 12 on a bike too tall for me. And often rode my dad’s SP 500 when I was 13-14. I am a bit afraid of not being able to pick it up if (when) I drop it. At 52 I’m not much taller than I was then, 5’8. Something I’ll have to practice. May have to start working out.

On the Pro list, this bike with its huge cases may be a better grocery getter than my MINI.

[JMHJ]

The weight is something I’m aware of and one of the only items on the Con list for me. ... I am a bit afraid of not being able to pick it up if (when) I drop it. At 52 I’m not much taller than I was then, 5’8. Something I’ll have to practice. May have to start working out.

Have you seen the method where you lean your back against the seat and pick it up with your legs?

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Have you seen the method where you lean your back against the seat and pick it up with your legs?

Yes, I’m familiar. I’m a big fan of Bret Tkacs. He’s actually not a big fan of that technique. He offers some alternatives for different situations. But I’ll let him explain.

[LAB3]

So where are you at on this bike? Did you pull the trigger? I love the fact I can maintain and repair my old beaters but am considering getting a newer bike just for the sake of not having to put as much effort into keeping it on the road. That new Honda Transalp is looking awfully good at $10k brand new but that's a pretty decent sized chunk of cheese compared to some of the used bikes out there.

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Just scheduled a test ride for next Tuesday

[Rob S.]

I'm a bit afraid of not being able to pick it up if (when) I drop it.

One of the reasons I no longer ride.

[Rich82GS750TZ]

Rob, we know that is the least of the reasons you no longer ride. (not poking fun) If I get this bike, I may have to come to the City and visit ya. Seriously. New York City would be quite the adventure on a bike.

[Rob S.]

Rob, we know that is the least of the reasons you no longer ride. (not poking fun) If I get this bike, I may have to come to the City and visit ya. Seriously. New York City would be quite the adventure on a bike.

It's all related. Technically, I could probably do it with a heel/toe shifter. Hmm...a 1972 Sportster has right side shift.

I feel it would irresponsible to ride if I couldn't clean up after myself. And I would never...

Yes. Riding a motorcycle in Manhattan...the ultimate thrill ride!

[Grimly]

Yes, I’m familiar. I’m a big fan of Bret Tkacs. He’s actually not a big fan of that technique. He offers some alternatives for different situations. But I’ll let him explain.

I'm absolutely gobsmacked at his nifty flat-cap / bunnet action.

[Rich82GS750TZ]

I'm absolutely gobsmacked at his nifty flat-cap / bunnet action.

Haha. He’s so slick with the helmet/cap exchange. It’s a thing with him in all of his videos. Self conscious about the baldness I guess. I met Bret and chatted with him for a few minutes at an outdoor manufactures bike event a few summers ago. He was super cool and easy going. That was where I first tried out a couple of Triumphs. Been on the hunt ever since.

[rphillips]

I wouldn't try to influence either way, everybody's wants and needs are different. If the new one arrives, it should get all the attention for a while. Just be sure the old trusty TZ still needs attention too... BTDT...

[Rich82GS750TZ]

I’ll be back on Saturday to pick her up

[rphillips]

Pretty dang modern looking bike... Hard to imagine how much technology has evolved since the TZ was modern technology... Congrats, should have time for quite a few miles before uh, you know, Old Man Winter!!!.