Well all, after two and a half years and 11,000 miles I swapped the Multi. Despite others problems, my mid 2010 1200abs was ( almost) faultless. Done two track days and many all weather miles. Had no plans to change, but had a surprise test ride on a Triumph Explorer 1200 and loved it. I was surprised and torn, I've loved owning & riding my MTS and usually wait until I've completely had enough before I change anything, but the Triumph just seemed to suit me better. I'll miss the kick in the pants when you crack the throttle open, but I'm loving the smooth engine running of the new bike. I've got a few things to sell now including one of Andys wheel spanners ( used once) and a paddock stand. Me know if you are interested.
Interesting - the shaft drive and standard wheel bolts are a big plus point for me over the Mutley. Like to hear what your thoughts on it are, a few miles into ownership?
I'll let you know when I've run it in. I ended up having two test rides, the second was a couple of hours and convinced me. First impressions are that it is heavy to push around in and out of the garage, but the weight disappears once you get moving, even at slow speed. Very stable in corners and confidence inspiring. I was also attracted to the shaft drive, which is brilliant. You can't really tell that it's not a chain and triumph say its maintainance free for the life of the bike. Ill be back in touch after a few miles
I'm fortunate enough to own both. I bought the Exploder in April and have done over 8000 miles on it. I recently had to complete a follow-up questionnaire to Triumph and the final question was "If there were one thing you would change about the Explorer, what would it be". The only thing I can fault it for is the switch for the hazard flashers is on the dash and to turn them on I have to take my hand off the bars and lean forward. On my ST4S the switch was on the right control and easily operated. The explorer is a superb bike, in fact probably the best I have owned and it eats miles with ease as well as inspires spirited riding through the twists. Had a great time staying on Stelvio for three days in August. I'm still running my Multi in and the rev limit is significantly higher than the Explorer when I was running that in. I found it a bit pedestrian having to keep down to 3.5K but once you can unleash it the Explorer packs a surprising punch. The Multi however has a much higher running-in limit and is going like a bomb even whilst being nursed along carefully. Tomorrow I'm taking the opportunity to ride the Multi from home to Exeter and back to get the miles up. Met office says biking weather all day:biggrin: Incidentally, the Exploder is doing 53 MPG on a run through Europe and the rear tyre still has plenty of life in it yet and despite being worn the handling remains spot-on.
Lots of talk of a revised Tiger 1050 Sport being released by Triumph soon. SSSA and Speed Triple engine according to the rumours.
best they sort the chuffin brakes out then, thats what finally prompted my lust for the multi to overcome my financial good sense, best thing i ever did.
Before I bought my Mutley I had a long test on the Triumph Explorer. It was great bike and the decision was a close run thing. I loved the smooth running of the Triumph and it could pick up its heels. However, it was heavy and came with nothing whereas the Mutley was lighter and came with useful stuff like centre stand, heated grips and panniers. When all these extras together with some new riding kit (included in the Ducati deal) where added up the final price wasn't vastly different. The real clincher for me was the OMG moment when you gave Mutley the berries! Sorry Triumph, I'll probably be back (had Triumphs for the last 10 years) but not until I've got that Ducati feeling out of my system!
The Explorer comes standard with centre stand, Switchable ABS, Switchable Traction control, and Cruise Control. On top of that apart from being hefty to push around it handles well and really shifts. It is more comfortable than the Mutley but doesn't quite have the power surge. It makes up for that by having low-down torque that can rip up trees. I couldnt choose between them which is why I have both. The fly-by wire on the Exploder is miles better than the Mutley and panniers are easier to get on and off. Top box comes with electric power outlet if you want it.
Has your Exploder got the no cost option of failing cam chain tensioner and rattling cam chain? Your comment about the throttle is intersting as the 3 mates of mine who have one hate the RBW throttle on theirs and complain that it's way too light and sensitive.
8500 miles since April across Europe and Scotland. No rattles no problems and sublime throttle control. Only heard of one cam chain tensioner failure on the owners forum and Triumph have rectified it immediately. The warranty appears to be gold plated and the build quality is as good as Ducati. The folk in Surrey Triumph Owners Club who have them have nothing but praise for them. One has just had his 10,000 mile service and there are no problems with his.
