Project Motorcycles
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Adverturizing a 1996 Triumph Tiger "Steamer"
(Posted 09/05/2011)
Our latest project is a Triumph Tiger 900 We picked up a used 1996 in pristine a few weeks ago. With just more than 18,000 miles and everything in apparently good shape, This Tiger should be a good platform for our project.
The Tiger is considered an adventure motorcycle / dual sport. It might satisfy that classification with some work but off the showroom floor, it's more of a touring motorcycle. The seating position is upright with only a slight forward lean required to reach the handlebars. The footpegs are situated slightly higher than might typically be found on a touring motorcycle. Considering the location of the footpegs and handlebars, standing on the pegs while riding off-road would likely have the rider bent over; not a great position for visibility and control in the rougher stuff. The non-adjustable suspension feels vague on the dirt roads and will need to be set up for a combination of paved road and dirt riding. The fairing offers the best of all worlds in that it provides good wind protection but leaves the exgine exposed. The bike weighs in at a 461 pounds - dry. It's a heavy beast
On the positive side, the '96 Tiger is powered by an 885cc, 85 horsepower, water-cooled, carbureted three-cylinder engine with a six-speed transmission. We've been told that, aside from potential sprag and DAR alternator mounting problems, the engine is bulltt-proof. Just change the oil on a regular basis and check the valve clearance a little less frequently and we should be good.
Our initial impression is that the Tiger is terrific on the street. The engine offers respectable low-end torque which will be helpful in the dirt while also allowing for 80 mile per hour highway speeds without over exertion.
