Triumph Tiger 800 XC [2019–2020]: A Test Ride Through the Lens of Time
Introduction
The Triumph Tiger 800 XC isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a declaration of intent. Designed for riders who refuse to be confined by asphalt, this adventure-focused machine from Triumph’s storied lineup bridges the gap between on-road refinement and off-road grit. For the 2019–2020 model years, the Tiger 800 XC received over 200 upgrades, transforming it into a Swiss Army knife for explorers. Having spent a day threading it through mountain passes, gravel trails, and urban jungles, I can confidently say this bike wears its “do-it-all” badge with pride. Let’s dive into what makes this generation a standout.
Design: Form Meets Functionality
The Tiger 800 XC’s design screams adventure without sacrificing sophistication. Its tubular steel trellis frame and high-mounted exhaust give it a purposeful stance, while the 21-inch front wheel wrapped in a 90/90 Bridgestone Battlewing tire hints at its dirt-friendly DNA. The adjustable seat height (840–860 mm / 33.1–33.9 in) caters to a wide range of riders, and the ergonomics strike a balance between upright comfort and off-road maneuverability.
The bodywork is minimalist yet rugged, with aluminum sump and radiator guards standard. Handguards and engine protection bars come pre-installed, reinforcing its readiness for abuse. Triumph’s attention to detail shines in the LED lighting—especially the fog lamps—which add both style and visibility.
Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the Tiger 800 XC lies a 799 cc liquid-cooled inline triple, producing 95 HP (70.8 kW) at 9,250 RPM and 79 Nm (58 ft-lb) of torque at 7,850 RPM. The engine’s character is quintessentially Triumph: smooth, sonorous, and eager. The revised first gear ratio (shorter than previous generations) delivers snappier low-end response, making crawl-speed off-roading less intimidating.
On twisty tarmac, the triple’s linear power band is a joy. Roll on the throttle in third gear, and the bike pulls cleanly from 3,000 RPM all the way to its 10,000 RPM redline. The exhaust note—a blend of growl and whistle—is music to any rider’s ears. Fuel efficiency hovers around 5.74 L/100 km (40.98 MPG), giving the 19L (5.0 US gal) tank a theoretical range of 330 km (205 miles).
On-Road Experience: Tarmac Tamer
The Tiger 800 XC defies its 215 kg (474 lb) dry weight on pavement. The WP suspension—43 mm USD forks up front and a monoshock at the rear—soaks up bumps while maintaining composure during aggressive cornering. The Brembo 2-piston calipers biting on 308 mm discs inspire confidence, though the initial bite is less aggressive than pure sport bikes—a wise choice for mixed terrain.
The adjustable five-position windscreen is a game-changer. At highway speeds, raising it to the tallest setting creates a bubble of calm, reducing fatigue on long hauls. The cruise control system (updated for 2019) works seamlessly, and the heated grips and seats—standard on the XCA—are borderline decadent in chilly weather.
Off-Road Capability: Unleashing the Tiger
Switch to Off-Road Pro mode, and the Tiger sheds its civilized veneer. This mode disables rear ABS and relaxes traction control, letting you slide the rear tire with abandon. The 220 mm (8.7 in) front suspension travel handles rocky trails with ease, and the Bridgestone Battlewings strike a surprising balance between loose terrain grip and on-road manners.
Standing on the peels feels natural thanks to the wide handlebars and well-placed foot controls. The 21-inch front wheel rolls over obstacles confidently, though the bike’s weight becomes noticeable in tight, technical sections. For riders prioritizing off-road performance, upgrading to knobbier tires (available at MOTOPARTS.store) would unlock even more potential.
Technology and Features: Smarter Adventure
The 5-inch TFT dashboard is the command center. Bright and customizable, it offers six display styles, including a minimalist off-road layout. Six riding modes—Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, Off-Road Pro, and a rider-programmable mode—tailor throttle response and safety nets to your environment.
Bluetooth connectivity is absent (a glaring omission in 2020), but the USB/12V sockets keep devices charged. The LED lighting suite, including self-canceling indicators, adds modern flair.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The Tiger 800 XC’s rivals include:
- BMW F 750 GS: Lighter (212 kg / 467 lb) and lower-seated, the BMW excels in urban agility but lacks the Tiger’s off-road suspension and torque-rich triple.
- Yamaha Ténéré 700: A purer off-roader with a CP2 engine, but it sacrifices on-road comfort and tech features.
- KTM 790 Adventure: More powerful and lighter, yet its reliability and maintenance costs lag behind Triumph’s.
The Tiger’s strength lies in its balance. It’s not the best at any one thing but masters the blend of touring comfort, tech, and off-road readiness.
Maintenance: Keeping the Roar Alive
The Tiger 800 XC is relatively low-maintenance, but a few key areas demand attention:
- Oil Changes: Use 3.6L of 10W-40/50 API SH oil (with filter). Synthetic options from MOTOPARTS.store enhance longevity.
- Chain Care: The 124-link O-ring chain needs regular cleaning and lubrication—our store stocks premium chain kits.
- Brake Fluid: DOT 4 fluid changes every two years prevent spongy levers.
- Coolant: Replace every 48,000 km (30,000 mi) with ethylene glycol-based coolant.
- Spark Plugs: NGK CR9EK plugs (gap 0.7 mm) ensure smooth ignition.
For DIYers, the tubular frame provides easy access to most components. Consider upgrading to a high-flow air filter or stainless steel brake lines for enhanced performance.
Conclusion: The All-Road Champion
The Triumph Tiger 800 XC [2019–2020] is a testament to versatility. It’s a bike that’s as comfortable sipping espresso at a café as it is clawing through a muddy trail. While newer models have since emerged, this generation remains a compelling choice for its refined triple engine, robust build, and tech-forward features.
Whether you’re tweaking suspension settings, bolting on panniers, or swapping tires, MOTOPARTS.store has the gear to make your Tiger truly yours. After all, every adventure deserves a personalized touch.
Ride far, ride fierce, and let the Tiger lead the way.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 70 kW | 94.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 79 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection |
| Lubrication: | Wet sump |
| Max power @: | 9500 rpm |
| Displacement: | 800 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 8050 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke: | 74.1 x 61.9 mm (2.9 x 2.4 in) |
| Configuration: | Inline |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 11.3:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 3 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| ABS: | Switchable |
| Comfort: | Heated grips, heated rider/pillion seats |
| Lighting: | Full LED with fog lamps |
| Riding modes: | 6 modes (Off-Road Pro, Road, Rain, Off-Road, Sport, Rider programmable) |
| Instrumentation: | 5" adjustable TFT display |
| Traction control: | Switchable |
| Suspension adjustability: | Front rebound/compression, rear preload |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1545 mm (60.8 in) |
| Dry weight: | 215 |
| Seat height: | 840–860 mm (33.1–33.9 in) |
| Overall width: | 845 mm (33.3 in) |
| Overall height: | 1390 mm (54.7 in) |
| Overall length: | 2215 mm (87.2 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 220 mm (8.7 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 19 L (5.0 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 124 |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 150/70-17 |
| Engine oil: | 10W50 |
| Front tire: | 90/90-21 |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR9EK |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.7 |
| Coolant capacity: | 2.7 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 3.7 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000km or 2 years |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.10–0.20 mm |
| Valve clearance check interval: | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.20–0.30 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.9 bar (42 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Rake: | 23.4° |
| Frame: | Tubular steel trellis |
| Trail: | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
| Rear wheel: | 17 x 4.25 in spoked aluminum |
| Front wheel: | 21 x 2.5 in spoked aluminum |
| Rear brakes: | Single 255 mm disc, Nissin single-piston sliding caliper (switchable ABS) |
| Front brakes: | 2 x 308 mm floating discs, Brembo 2-piston sliding calipers (switchable ABS) |
| Rear suspension: | WP monoshock with remote oil reservoir, hydraulically adjustable preload |
| Front suspension: | WP 43mm upside-down forks, adjustable rebound and compression damping |
| Rear wheel travel: | 215 mm (8.5 in) |
| Front wheel travel: | 220 mm (8.7 in) |
