Triumph Tiger 955i (2001-2006)

Got probably one of the very last 955's in April 2007 with all the extras as standard (panniers, heated grips, centre stand). High upright seating position is comfortable and gives a great view when commuting or just out in the country. Engine has loads of grunt just where you need it, overtaking is so easy. Gearbox is ok but can be a bit clunky, I always seem to be adjusting the clutch cable. Handles great on our crap roads, soaks up pot holes and is easy to throw around (though it is a heavy bike once you stop). I added a touring screen (makes a big difference on the motorway), hugger, and Triumph top-box all of which have turned the bike into a great tourer. I'm not a big fan of the looks but its just so good to ride. I get just over 180 miles before the fuel light comes on! It tours, commutes, scratches, and will hopefully keep my licence clean (I had a Honda Blackbird before, totally awesome but totally dull at legal speeds and not good for city commuting). To sum up a fantastic everyday bike with loads of extras. Easy to ride, great tank range, comfortable over long distance.

Had my 05 for 2 years and 15,000 miles now, what a great bike, eats the motorway miles, slices through city traffic on a commute, loves the twisties and is great fun for a Sunday morning blast. Totally reliable although some of the fastenings could be better as they don't look great after two winters. A little top heavy (like many owners I have dropped mine whilst standing still) but very stable when moving. I will be hanging on to mine for a few years yet!

Only based on extensive test ride:- Pros: Sublime engine, intoxicating exhaust note, good chuckabilty, well equiped and British. Cons: Hot seat from start, ergonomics poor (even at 6' I felt I was reaching for the bars like a chopper), notchy gearbox, wind chill all down legs, tacky chrome bars, awful looks (subjective I know) and soft suspension.

I bought a Tiger 955i in June 2004 trading in my 1999 Daytona 955i. Ignoring the challenging looks the Tiger is a fantastic bike. It is comfortable all day. It has power just where you need it and the great view of the road ahead makes it very easy to overtake and keep up with much sportier tackle! The bike has been 100% reliable and is just great fun to ride on real roads without having to ride at silly speeds. At £6,999 with heated grips, hard luggage and a centre stand it is an absolute bargain. Get one while you can. Strengths: Pure versatility. Comfortable all day, able to take pillion and luggage, heated grips, fast enough on real roads and fantastic visability from the riding position makes overtaking a doddle. Weaknesses: Not exactly a looker, but when you ride it you don't have to look at it!!

Well the clutchwire broke after 300 miles and now the front brake has given up, no pressure at all. The engine sends buzzes to the handlebar above 4000 rpm. However the bike's nice to ride but quality is very poor even worse then Italian.