Monday, July 21, 2025

Triumph Tiger 900 vs Tiger 800

 

Triumph Tiger 900 vs Tiger 800 The Ultimate Comparison Guide


Introduction:

When Triumph introduced the Tiger 900 to replace the long-running Tiger 800, adventure bike enthusiasts were keen to see how the new model would improve upon its predecessor. Both motorcycles sit at the heart of Triumph's adventure bike lineup, offering a blend of touring comfort and off-road capability. But which one is right for you?

This 3,000-word in-depth comparison examines every aspect of these two exceptional machines:

  • Engine performance and character

  • Chassis and handling differences

  • Technology and electronics upgrades

  • Off-road capability comparison

  • Comfort and touring features

  • Real-world ownership costs

  • Which model suits different riders best

Whether you're considering upgrading from an 800 or choosing between used models, this guide provides all the insights you need to make an informed decision.

1. Model History and Lineup Overview

Triumph Tiger 800 (2010-2019)

The original Tiger 800 debuted in 2010 as Triumph's answer to the BMW F800GS. Key characteristics:

  • 799cc inline triple-cylinder engine

  • Produced 94bhp in later models

  • Available in Road, XC, and XRx/XCa variants

  • Refreshed in 2015 with styling updates and improved electronics

  • Discontinued in 2019 after selling over 60,000 units

Triumph Tiger 900 (2020-Present)

The replacement model arrived with significant upgrades:

  • 888cc "T-plane" triple engine

  • Power increased to 93.9bhp (later 95bhp in 2023 models)

  • New GT (road) and Rally (off-road) sub-ranges

  • Pro versions adding premium features

  • Comprehensive electronics package

2. Engine and Performance Comparison

Power Delivery and Character

Specification

Tiger 800

Tiger 900

Capacity

799cc

888cc

Power

94bhp @ 9,500rpm

93.9bhp @ 8,750rpm

Torque

79Nm @ 8,050rpm

87Nm @ 7,250rpm

Crankshaft

Conventional 120°

T-plane 180/90/180°

Key Differences:

  • The Tiger 900's T-plane crank creates a firing order that mimics a twin at low revs (better traction off-road) while retaining triple smoothness

  • 10% more torque at lower revs makes the 900 feel stronger in real-world riding

  • The 800 revs more freely at the top end, appealing to sportier riders

Real-World Riding Experience

  • Urban Riding: 900's torque advantage makes stop-start traffic easier

  • Motorway: Both cruise comfortably, but 900 has stronger overtaking power

  • Mountain Roads: 800's lighter feel appeals to aggressive riders

  • Off-Road: 900's tractable power delivery inspires more confidence

3. Chassis and Handling

Frame and Weight Distribution

Component

Tiger 800

Tiger 900

Frame

Tubular steel trellis

Hybrid steel/aluminium

Wheelbase

1,545mm

1,555-1,560mm

Weight (wet)

212kg (XRx)

201kg (GT) - 221kg (Rally Pro)

Handling Differences:

  • The 900's longer wheelbase improves stability at speed

  • New aluminium rear subframe saves weight on the 900

  • 800 feels more flickable on tight, technical roads

  • 900 offers better composure when fully loaded

Suspension Comparison

  • Tiger 800 XRx: 43mm USD forks (180mm travel), rear monoshock

  • Tiger 900 Rally Pro: 45mm Showa USD forks (240mm), fully adjustable

  • Road Versions: 900 GT gets Marzocchi suspension with less travel than Rally

4. Electronics and Technology

Generation Gap in Features

System

Tiger 800 (2015+)

Tiger 900

Display

LCD with partial TFT

Full-colour 5" TFT

Rider Modes

Rain/Road/Off-Road

6 modes incl. custom

Cornering ABS

No

Yes

Cornering TC

No

Yes

Quick Shifter

Optional

Standard on Pro

Bluetooth

No

Yes with GoPro control

Upgrade Advantage:
The 900's IMU-based electronics represent a significant step forward, especially for:

  • Safety: Cornering ABS prevents lowsides

  • Off-Road: Rally Pro's Off-Road Pro mode disables rear ABS

  • Convenience: Integrated navigation via Triumph app

5. Comfort and Touring Ability

Ergonomics Comparison

  • Seat Height:

    • 800: 810-830mm

    • 900: 820-840mm (adjustable on Pro)

  • Wind Protection:

    • 900's screen adjusts without tools (GT Pro)

    • 800's screen more turbulent at speed

  • Passenger Comfort:

    • 900's seat is wider and plusher

    • Both have optional heated seats

Fuel Capacity and Range

  • Tiger 800: 19L tank (~250 mile range)

  • Tiger 900: 20L tank (~280 mile range)

  • 900's improved fuel economy (3.8L/100km vs 4.2L) gives it the edge

6. Off-Road Capability

Rally Versions Compared

Aspect

Tiger 800 XCa

Tiger 900 Rally Pro

Suspension Travel

220mm/215mm

240mm/230mm

Wheels

Spoked 21"/17"

Spoked 21"/17"

Weight

221kg

221kg

Ground Clearance

250mm

270mm

Off-Road Verdict:

  • 900's extra suspension travel handles rough terrain better

  • T-plane engine gives more controllable power in technical sections

  • 800 feels slightly nimbler in tight singletrack

  • 900's electronics package is far more advanced

7. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Tiger 800 If:

✔ You prefer lighter, sportier handling
✔ Want to save money on purchase price
✔ Don't need latest electronics
✔ Enjoy high-revving character

Choose the Tiger 900 If:

✔ You value low-down torque
✔ Want advanced safety features
✔ Plan serious off-road adventures
✔ Appreciate premium tech like TFT dash

Upgrade Verdict:

For most riders, the Tiger 900's improvements justify the extra cost, especially:

  • Torquier engine better for real-world riding

  • Superior electronics enhance safety

  • More capable off-road in Rally trim

However, the 800 remains a fantastic bike and represents great value on the used market.

Conclusion: Evolution of a Champion

The Tiger 900 isn't just a refreshed 800 - it's a comprehensive reimagining of Triumph's middleweight adventure bike. While purists might miss the 800's rev-happy nature, the 900's torque-rich engine, superior electronics, and enhanced capability make it the better all-rounder.

Final Recommendations:

  • Budget-conscious buyers: Late-model Tiger 800 XRx

  • Tech-loving tourers: Tiger 900 GT Pro

  • Serious adventurers: Tiger 900 Rally Pro

  • Sporty riders: Consider the Tiger 800's lighter feel

Whichever you choose, both Tigers offer the unique character of a triple-cylinder adventure bike that continues to set Triumph apart from the competition.