2012 Triumph Tiger 1050 and 1050SE – New Suspension, Handlebars and Colors

Triumph announced some updates to its Tiger 1050 and Tiger 1050SE for 2012, though at the moment it appears only the SE version will be offered in the United States.

The 2012 Triumph Tiger 1050 and the special edition version receive updated suspension with new damping settings for both the front and the rear as well as a stiffer rear shock. Triumph says the updates will provide a more controlled ride for both riding solo or with a passenger while brake diving is also reduced.

New black  anodized tapered aluminum handlebars are 20mm lower than the 2011 model’s handlebars for a more aggressive riding position. Other updates include fewer chromed parts and more blacked-out components.

The Tiger 1050 will again be powered by Triumph’s 1050cc Triple engine with a claimed output of 113 hp at 9400 rpm and 72 ft-lb. at 6250 rpm. Triumph claims a wet weight of 539 pounds.

At the moment, Triumph U.S.A. is only listing the 2012 Tiger 1050SE but not the base 1050 model which is available in other markets. The SE version comes in Diablo Red, Crystal White or a two-tone matte black and graphite color scheme while markets that are getting the base 2012 Triumph Tiger 1050 will only find it in a metallic Phantom Black. The 1050SE also comes standard with ABS as well as hand guards, center stand and color matched panniers, all of which are optional extras on the standard 1050.

The 2012 Triumph Tiger 1050SE is priced at $13,399, the same price as the 2011 model. The 2012 Triumph Tiger 1050, for those markets getting it, will also keep its 2011 pricing ($12,799 in the U.S.).

By Dennis Chung