Big changes expected for upcoming 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200

A lighter and more powerful Triumph Tiger 1200 is on its way, with the new large-capacity adventure tourer going after the likes of the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure.

The British firm has posted teaser shots of a Tiger 1200 prototype, and it is clear that off-road capability will be a focal point for the overhauled model.

While information is scarce, it appears the new machine will almost certainly have a 21-inch front wheel, which immediately gives it off-road credibility and puts it on par with the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R in that department.

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From the photos, we can tell that the new Tiger 1200 is significantly slimmer that its predecessor and appears to take inspiration from the Tiger 900 range that was released last year. This likely means a new lightweight chassis and better agility for off-road riding.

Triumph has also promised a ‘more powerful’ Tiger 1200 and, while we expect the current 1215cc triple-cylinder engine to remain largely unchanged, Euro5 compliance and a different tune could indeed result in more power and torque.

It would make sense for Triumph to follow the Tiger 900 formula, which means we’ll almost certainly get multiple variants, with a GT and Rally version both likely.

To keep up with BMW’s popular R 1250 GS Adventure, it is also likely we’ll see a top-spec version with improved electronics, better suspension travel (possibly semi-active), and an increased fuel capacity. It will also be interesting to see if Triumph opts to employ the radar technology currently used by KTM, Ducati and BMW.

There is no word on a release date or availability, however it would be safe to assume the final production version will be unveiled before the end of the year, with a local arrival in the first half of 2022. The current Tiger 1200 starts at $26,600 ride away, but an increase for the new model is likely.

Given the recent announcement of a new Triumph motocross and enduro range, it is clear the British marque is determined to capture a new dirt-orientated audience. Former motocross champ Ricky Carmichael, and former enduro champ Ivan Cervantes have both been recruited by Triumph, and it is possible they have been involved in the development of the new 1200cc adventure tourer.