Triumph have been updating their A2 motorcycles lately with the arrival of the new for 2021 Triumph Trident, and the new for 2020 Street Triple S. This time, Triumphs successful Tiger range gets the A2 treatment.
Using Triumph’s new 888cc T Plane triple engine which graces the newish Tiger 900. The 850 Sport keeps the engine geometry the same, but power is down from 94hp to 84hp in the 850 making it A2 eligible. Torque falls slightly to 82Nm. Both bikes claim an identical dry weight according to the Triumph data, so the 850 should feel marginally slower.
Keeping the Tiger 900’s high spec
The Tiger 850 Sport retains the high spec from the Tiger 900. It features a 5″ full TFT display, presenting information in a clear manner. Adjustable rider modes for road and rain feature, adjusting engine response and traction control levels.
The Tiger 850 Sport features all-LED lighting, including head, tail, indicator and DRL lights, ensuring little maintenance.
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We would guess that options to add the Bluetooth module will be a dealer fit, like on other bikes.
Identical geometry
Again much like the 900, the new 850 sport features the same 19/17in tyre sizes. The same front and rear suspension with Marzocchi 45mm forks and shock, with manual preload adjustment.
Also, the 320mm Brembo Stylema twin calipers are identical between the two models as is the 255mm rear disc setup.
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Even the chassis geometry is identical with an 830mm (810 low) seat height. 24.6degree rake angle, 830mm wide handlebars and a 20litre tank capacity.
Claimed fuel consumption is the same at 55.4mpg.
So what is actually new?
Somehow Triumph has released a new bike, which is identical in every form, except for the 3 P’s. Power, Paint and Price. Genius?
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To be less cynical, the new Tiger 850 is a great entry into adventure bikes for A2 restricted riders. Previously limited to the likes of the V-Strom 650 or the CB500X the new Tiger 850 gives a jump in specification and equipment. The restrictor can easily be fitted by dealers. The process installs a new twist grip and engine tune, which is easily reversible.
Less old man, more hipster
The paint colours are less old man and more youngster with the boring black, white or green being replaces with more exciting sporty colour schemes, in blue and red.
As with all Triumph’s there is a wide range of customisations available with over 60 genuine accessories, and also options of aluminium boxes or Givi boxes, and all of this comes with Triumph’s 2-year warranty.
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Price starts at £9,300 (£200 less than the Tiger 900), making it the cheapest tiger in the range, and will no doubt hold it’s value well making it a smart option for A2 riders on finance for their two year period before upgrading to an unrestricted A licence.
