New Triumph Tiger 1200 range expected in NZ in December

Triumph’s overhauled Tiger 1200 range is expected to reach New Zealand in December 2026, bringing more power, self-lowering suspension and a new suite of radar-based rider assistance systems.

New Zealand pricing is expected to be announced in the coming weeks, with pre-orders open now. Four models will be offered: GT Pro, Rally Pro, GT Explorer and Rally Explorer.

The Pro versions retain 20-litre fuel tanks, while the Explorers carry 30 litres. GT models use cast aluminium wheels; Rally versions get side-laced spoked wheels, additional protection and an Off-road Pro riding mode.

The T-Plane triple now produces approximately 116kW at 9250rpm, an increase of around 6kW. A redesigned cylinder head, new pistons, lighter valves, revised fuel injection and a freer-flowing exhaust are among the changes.

Triumph says there is more torque available at low revs, with revised gearing helping reduce crawl speed and improve control during tight manoeuvres. Changes to the crankshaft, balancer shaft and camshaft profiles, along with revisions to the six-speed gearbox and shaft drive, aim to improve refinement and smooth transitions between acceleration and deceleration.

One of the biggest chassis changes is a common wheel and suspension configuration across all four models. Each now uses a 19-inch front wheel, 17-inch rear and 200mm of suspension travel at both ends.

For the Rally models, that means moving away from their previous 21-inch front, 18-inch rear and 220mm travel. The result is a more road-focused approach, although Triumph says the range retains off-road capability.

New Showa EERA Heightflex semi-active suspension offers Firm, Medium and Soft damping settings, selected through a dedicated button. Automatic preload adjustment compensates for passengers and luggage.

More useful for riders negotiating a heavily loaded adventure bike at low speeds is the automatic ride-height function. It lowers the seat by 30mm as the motorcycle comes to a stop, then restores normal ride height as it pulls away.

Combined with the two-position seat adjustment and a low seat, Triumph quotes a minimum standstill seat height of 790mm. Low-seat fitment varies by market, with it standard in some and an accessory in others.

The suspension also provides Centre Stand Assist, temporarily increasing preload to raise the rear and reduce the effort required to lift the bike onto its stand.

Comfort changes include redesigned rider and pillion seats with 10mm thicker foam. Heated seats and three-stage heated grips are standard across the range.

A waterproof phone compartment in the top of the fuel tank includes USB-C charging at up to 15W, with airflow channels and a cooling fan to help manage device temperature.

Front and rear Bosch radar support adaptive cruise control, Group Ride Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Riding Distance Assist, Emergency Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Rear Distance Warning.

Adaptive cruise offers Comfort and Dynamic responses, while Group Ride Assist adjusts following gaps according to speed and the position of motorcycles ahead. Forward Collision Warning can supplement its screen alert with a pulse through the rear brake pedal.

Emergency Brake Assist can increase brake pressure during heavy braking when a potential collision is detected. Blind-spot warnings appear through lights on the mirrors.

The electronics work alongside cornering ABS and traction control. There are up to eight riding modes, depending on model, and off-road modes can now be selected while moving.

Brembo Stylema brakes and the Tri-Link shaft-drive swingarm remain, while Triumph Shift Assist provides clutchless changes up and down the gearbox.

Restyled bodywork includes the tank, radiator cowls, beak and windscreen. A new adaptive LED projector headlight adds cornering illumination and automatically adjusts its beam level to suit changes in suspension height.

Triumph quotes 16,000km service intervals and a three-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Accessories include a new 58-litre twin-helmet top box alongside the existing 42-litre option, plus matching panniers.

A new Bosch seven-inch HD touchscreen brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Touch operation is available below 2km/h, with switchgear controls available while riding and voice operation through Siri or Google Gemini.