Triumph Explorer 1200
The Triumph Explorer 1200 has a top speed of 210 km/h (estimated; Triumph does not officially publish top speed figures), produces 137 hp and weighs 259 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.8/10.
The Triumph Tiger Explorer 1200 was introduced in 2012 as Triumph's flagship adventure tourer, powered by a newly developed 1215cc inline triple engine designed to compete directly with the BMW R1200GS. It received significant updates in 2016 with improved electronics and suspension, then underwent a major redesign in 2018 when it was rebranded as the Tiger 1200, featuring a lighter chassis, semi-active suspension, and a richer electronics package. It is notable for being one of the few large-capacity adventure tourers powered by an inline triple, giving it a distinctive character and soundtrack compared to twin-cylinder rivals.
137 hp
Power
122 Nm
Torque
259 kg
Weight
210 km/h (estimated; Triumph does not officially publish top speed figures)
Top Speed
6.5 L/100km (approximately 15.4 km/L, real-world average — note: varies significantly with riding style and load)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Watch the Throttle Bodies
Early 2012-2015 models are known for throttle body synchronization issues causing rough idle and hesitation. A throttle body balance service at purchase is highly recommended and fixes the problem reliably.
Strong Resale Value
The Tiger Explorer 1200 holds its value well compared to competitors like the BMW R1200GS, often retaining 60-70% of its value after 3 years. Its loyal Triumph following keeps used demand consistently strong.
Impressive Standard Features
Even base models include a full suite of rider aids — cornering ABS, traction control, and multiple riding modes — which were premium upgrades on rival bikes at the same price point.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced 1215cc triple engine, shaft drive option, 19-inch front wheel, adventure touring focus.
Revised chassis, updated electronics, improved suspension, cornering ABS, traction control, refreshed styling and ergonomics.
New 1160cc triple engine, updated frame, full TFT dash, improved off-road capability, adaptive cruise control option.
Used Buyer Review
"A characterful GS alternative that rewards thorough pre-purchase inspection."
$6,500-$11,000 usedThe Explorer 1200 is one of those bikes that rewards patient buyers. Get a pre-2016 model and budget for the faff — they're known for burning through rear tyres, the suspension feels wooden stock, and the dash electronics can get glitchy. That said, the triple engine is genuinely magnificent. Smooth, torquey, and effortlessly quick in a way that Japanese fours simply aren't. Long-haul comfort is excellent once you sort the screen buffeting with an aftermarket item. Post-2016 bikes received suspension tweaks and better electronics calibration — worth hunting those down specifically. Always check the bevel box for wear, inspect the heated grips wiring (they corrode), and make sure the TFT display works properly because replacements are eye-watering. Service history matters here — these need regular attention and skipped services compound quickly. Used pricing has settled into realistic territory now. A solid example with decent miles and full history represents genuinely good value against the BMW R1250GS. It's not as polished as the GS, but it's more characterful and considerably more entertaining.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Triumph Explorer 1200 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALIdle quality cold and hot, any surging or hunting
Oil residue around rear drive unit housing
Clutch feel, fluid level, wetness near slave cylinder
Coolant level drops, residue below water pump area
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid bike, maintenance-sensitive, avoid neglected examples
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Triumph Explorer 1200
Ducati Multistrada V4
Harley-davidson Pan America 1250
Triumph Tiger 1200
Bmw R 1200 Gs
Yamaha Super Tenere 1200
Compare Triumph Explorer 1200 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Triumph Explorer 1200 vs Ducati Multistrada V4
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Triumph Explorer 1200 vs Harley-davidson Pan America 1250
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Triumph Explorer 1200 vs Triumph Tiger 1200
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Triumph Explorer 1200 vs Bmw R 1200 Gs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Triumph Explorer 1200 vs Yamaha Super Tenere 1200
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Triumph Explorer 1200 Guides
More from Triumph
View all Triumph models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Triumph Explorer 1200? +
Throttle body balancing issues causing rough idle: Idle quality cold and hot, any surging or hunting (moderate) | Final drive bevel shaft seal leaks: Oil residue around rear drive unit housing (moderate) | Clutch slave cylinder failure or leaking: Clutch feel, fluid level, wetness near slave cylinder (serious)
Is the Triumph Explorer 1200 a good motorcycle? +
A characterful GS alternative that rewards thorough pre-purchase inspection. Rating: 7.8/10. Best for: Experienced tourers wanting character over German precision. Avoid if: You want plug-and-play reliability without wrenching.
What is the horsepower of the Triumph Explorer 1200? +
The Triumph Explorer 1200 produces 137 hp @ 9,350 rpm (2018+ model; earlier 2012–2017 models produced approximately 133 hp), with 122 Nm @ 6,650 rpm (2018+ model) of torque. Top speed: 210 km/h (estimated; Triumph does not officially publish top speed figures).
Is the Triumph Explorer 1200 good for beginners? +
Not really — the Triumph Explorer 1200 is better for experienced riders (137 hp can be intimidating). Experienced tourers wanting character over German precision Avoid if: You want plug-and-play reliability without wrenching
Is the Triumph Explorer 1200 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Triumph Explorer 1200, notably: Clutch slave cylinder failure or leaking (Clutch feel, fluid level, wetness near slave cylinder). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Triumph Explorer 1200 good for daily use? +
Experienced tourers wanting character over German precision Fuel: 6.5 L/100km (approximately 15.4 km/L, real-world average — note: varies significantly with riding style and load).
How fast is the Triumph Explorer 1200? +
The Triumph Explorer 1200 reaches a top speed of 210 km/h (estimated; Triumph does not officially publish top speed figures), producing 137 hp at 259 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Triumph Explorer 1200? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Triumph Explorer 1200, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/triumph/explorer-1200/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
