Sport-Touring, Triumph Style
The Sprint ST is a bit of a dark horse in Triumph's lineup. Despite the fact it doesn't get much fanfare or publicity, it is still a solid sport-touring platform for many long-range riders. Largely unchanged from last year's model except for improved headlight performance, power for the Sprint comes from a slightly detuned 1050cc inline-triple-the main difference from the Speed Triple's state of tune being an altered fuel map. Nonetheless, twisting the throttle still generates the same inline-triple excitement. Riding position is comfortable with higher-set bars and a spacious seat. Suspension duties are rather outdated, however, with a conventional 43mm fork up front, adjustable for preload, and a rebound- and preload-adjustable shock lying out back. Of course when ridden in its element the suspension performs the way it should. But on roads like the Dragon it quickly gets overwhelmed. The soft settings act more like a pogo stick than a damper. The binders could use an update as well. The non-radially mounted Nissin four-piston calipers offer good feel and modulation but lack any real bite or stopping power. Nonlinked ABS is optional, and the Sprint ST is available with a whole number of other options for the racer or utilitarian in you. Pricing starts at $10,999.
Same Name, Different Attitude
When Triumph decided to take the Tiger and strip it of any off-road pretenses, the company had big hopes for it as the do-it-all motorcycle consumers would flock to. Unfortunately that hasn't panned out as planned. Too bad, really, as the Tiger is a very capable machine. Again, its motivation comes from the 1050cc triple retuned from the Speed Triple, though this variation feels more powerful than its Sprint ST cousin. Long-travel suspension soaks up nearly everything in its path, though when carving the canyons the bike tends to wallow and seems unsure. For an adventure-tourer, however, it handles as well as anything else in the category, and the engine can keep up with the best of them. The Tiger's strong braking power comes from twin four-piston, radially mounted calipers that bite down on 320mm discs. They bring the Tiger to a halt quickly and offer great feel. For the person looking for one motorcycle to do it all, it would be hard to overlook the Tiger. Add some suspension upgrades and it really can be a jack of all trades. Standard models start at $10,999; add ABS for $11,799. Though part of the Urban Sports family, the Street Triple wasn't present during our time in Tennessee. Not to worry, however, as we spent some time on it back in the May issue ("Alternative Twins").