Triumph to go the distance with Explorer

We’ve seen a handful of images already and bizarrely, the only hard figure released by Triumph until Milan was the alternator output, although that was an impressive 950W. Now we have the rest of the numbers and there are no real surprises. The 1215cc three-cylinder engine makes 100kW, somewhere half way between Multistrada and R1200GS, although it’s pitched much more directly at the BMW: unlike the Honda and Kawasaki adventure bikes, the British version does claim off-road ability.

There’s a good package of electronics: the cruise control and traction control are enabled by the use of Triumph’s first ride-by-wire throttle system, and the bike comes with switchable ABS too.

The bike is designed primarily for long distance ability so rider and passenger comfort have been a design priority. The seat height, screen and handlebar positions are all adjustable, although the 20 litre fuel tank means the Explorer could have a smaller fuel range than the GS, maybe 300km to empty.

Importantly the bike does get shaft drive and unlike the Tiger 800 the instruments are operated by a handlebar switch rather than stretching to a button on the dash itself. A power socket is placed near the dash for heated clothing or sat nav use.

The wet weight is slightly less than Yamaha’s Super Ténéré at 259kg but well up on the GS’s 229kg. Pricing should undercut the GS when specifications are matched, and do note the industry-leading 15,000 km/1 year service intervals.