I've been considering an "adventure" type bike for a while. Mostly because they're the closest thing you can get these days to a "standard" when it comes to seating position and handle bars, as well as for the versatility. Luggage and wind protection, etc. I'm exclusively asphalt, but since an Xc version fell into my lap, maybe I'll start exploring some gravel roads.
I've heard nothing but good stuff about the Tiger 800 (and the Triumph triples in general). The displacement and characteristics of the triple also fall nicely between my vintage Honda middle-weights and my ZRX-1100.
Last weekend, I test rode this 2012 Xc. I put down a deposit yesterday and will be picking it up Saturday. I'm looking forward to a new riding experience.
This bike has 12K miles and was loaded up with Triumph options. And THEN the previous owner threw the aftermarket catalog at it! I stopped tallying at $4,000 in extras. It was also just serviced my a Triumph dealer. I paid just under "high retail" for it, but the guides don't even let you take into account all the farkles. I'm happy with the deal and once I sell a couple of bikes from my vintage collection, it's paid for.
