Triumph Explorer v GTR

[SirToU]

Hi

Anyone gone from a GTR to an Adventure type bike - Triumph Explorer specifically.

I recently tried a street triple and the bottom end punch was amazing - wondered whether the Explorer 1200 had a similar kick?

or has anyone looked at changing the GTR for an explorer?

Neil

[Bryn]

Hi

Anyone gone from a GTR to an Adventure type bike - Triumph Explorer specifically.

I recently tried a street triple and the bottom end punch was amazing - wondered whether the Explorer 1200 had a similar kick?

or has anyone looked at changing the GTR for an explorer?

Neil

Hi Neil, I loved the explorer, but  my coccyx couldn't get on with the seating position.... did 5000 miles in 5 months on it, 23 trips to France included.

The bike was as smooth as a smooth thing, the gearbox good , ride by wire took a little getting used to but excellent, and the electronic cruise control was excellent on the peage's

The engine was mechanically noisy.... helped to use earplugs     I'd say though that the two year warranty should sort any issues. Screen as good as a BMW GS if not better... 

I'd say the Explorer would be just as quick as a GTR with less revving to get there...... the power delivery on the Explorer comes easy.... The GTR I personally feel you need to work it a little harder.....

You've also got an upright riding position on the Explorer which makes it a totally different experience than the GTR or indeed anything else similar  ( Spent a few years on FJR 1300's- a great bike but fancied a change, an FJR was in the running but the GTR won   )

Pillion wise my other half said today she felt 'safer' on the Explorer    ( could be due to me exploring the GTR's performance envelope with her on the back this afternoon   )

She reckons with a set of footpeg lowerers it will be comfy enough 

[O.C.]

Neil,

TBH I don't really get the explorer thing, maybe that's because I have been weened on Trials bikes and have had a couple of MX bikes over the years.

I have had a GS, as a pal of mine never stops raving about them, and I'd have to say that I disliked the bike , in fact I F*kn hated it, and Gillian found it extremely uncomfortable, plus I really dont get on with Twins, so it didn't last long in my shed.

BUT, There is always a case where one mans meat is another mans poison, and it wouldn't do if we all liked the same machines.

As I get older I feel that a lighter bike will be required, as the GTR is a big machine, I know it rides 'light' but manhandling it can, at times, be a bit of a strain, and as I do have a back problem I do worry about just how long I'll be able to comfortably 'manage' my beloved GTR.

A pal has just purchased a Versys 1000, which in many ways fits into the Adventure bike bracket, and I'll be listening to what he has to say about the big Versys, as it could be a better proposition for me for the future

I do think that the BMW GS phenomenon has become just that, but oh dear it's fugly bike if ever there was one. Who knows what the future holds.

[SirToU]

Thanks Guys

I love the GS, and I lived with one for a week - and I really loved it, I mean really loved it.  I was basically living on a mile long farm track at the time and oh, the joy was going to and from the main road.

Unfortunately, I don't like BMW's service attitude and my BMW experience wasn't great in the 12000miles I did in 12 months.  But, the whole concept of an adventure bike is a draw.  (although SWMBO doesn't lilke the GSA).  I did try the 1000 Versys for a couple of miles, but, I'm a self confessed nutter.  If your going to spend 10-16k on an "adventure" bike, then you'd better make sure your going to get your monies worth.

I've not done the enduro, offroad thing.... but I would.  I also wouldn't think twice about taking my "adventure" bike off road and I don't care how hard it gets. which means I'll quite happily take my "adventure" bike green laning.

That does mean, that you have to look at the capability, and that automatically rules out the Multistrada/Versys with 17" wheels. I've run a KTM 950 Supermoto and that was great as well, but not over distance.

Therefore at the moment, I am thinking about the changing the GTR, and there are a couple of options - GSA, Explorer or KTM Adventure or ignore the whim and just keep the GTR.

and just wondered what the opinion was.

Neil

[Bryn]

If you fancy at some stage taking the bike off  road I'd go for the GSA or the KTM ...and out of the two personally I'd go for the KTM... but both are capable... the GSA is a bit of a handful at the best of times   

[jenros]

as a off road guy myself,,,,the ktm ,without a shadow of a doubt,,,,,there is no greater!! ,they have a write up in this weeks mcn of the new version,,,the bees knees is the opinion!.

[Debs]

Anyone fancy a drink?

I will just let you boys carry on and put the kettle on, as all this has gone over the top of my head 

[O.C.]

Anyone fancy a drink?

I will just let you boys carry on and put the kettle on, as all this has gone over the top of my head 

  very good Debs   

I do think that having the best of both worlds is the idea of a GS, or GSA, but for me I'd still have a more suitable road bike, and go for a proper off roader, of which I've had a few, they don't have to cost the earth and will provide tons of fun

I had this



and this



and also this which 'spat' me off and made me realise that I aint as young as I used to be.....so it was sold....I don't miss it

[Bondu]

Recently had a go on a KTM SM-T, very tempted, it's comfortable (not as comfy as GTR), fast (feels quicker than GTR), handles (better than GTR)and feels very light. £4k cheaper than the 'big' stuff too

Continental trips? - GTR everytime

Commute, short UK trips & fun - KTM

[SirToU]

Thanks guys, if I was going down a dedicated off road route, would have to be a KTM EXC 450. :-)

Bondu, handling of the GTR, sorry, your trying to convince the wrong person.... The GTR will do whatever you want it to do, it's down to the rider... It's got two wheels, an engine and handlebars... What else do you need? Stabilisers?   

Neil

[Bondu]

You asked for opinions, I gave them, and no, I don't need stabilisers. It's how the bike felt to me.

[mecki]

If I had the money I'd probably get a KTM Duke for fun ride-outs on the weekend.
Off-road is just too much hard work and falling off at my age and with my weight not a good prospect.
Touring and shopping? - GTR of course! 

[Rusty]

GSA everytime 

[SirToU]

Thanks everyone, going out to play on an explorer today.

Was on the GSA yesterday, And I must say, BMW's attitude at SBW motor add was really good.

Will let you know how we get on.... :-)

Neil.

ps. Bondu, was only pulling your leg.... :-)

[SirToU]

Explorer was great... Perfect 2nd bike, but it's not a replacements for the GTR.

Unfortunately, Kawasaki (for me) have designed and built the perfect everyday road bike.... It's called the 1400 GTR.  And no matter what I ride, everything else just doesn't quite come up to the same expectation!!! Thank you Kawasaki.

You just got to add some of the "useful" options of BMW and Triumph to your catalogue!

Neil