The Triumph Tiger spans 1994–2026 with 44 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2013, 2012, 2014 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1994, 1995, 1996. It delivers competitive fuel economy and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Triumph Tiger is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1994 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Triumph Tiger VIN — every digit explained
Every Triumph Tiger carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Triumph and the country it was built in (real Triumph codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Tiger.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- UKSAT · SMT
- Brazil97N
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Tiger, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Triumph Tiger have?
The Triumph Tiger has 44 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1994–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2014 Triumph Tiger recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. Triumph Motorcycles America, LTD (Triumph) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Tiger Explorer ABS A1 and 2013-2014 Tiger Explorer Spoke ABS XC A1 and Trophy SE A1 motorcycles manufactured November 17, 2011, through December 16, 2013. In the affected motorcycles, the electronic control unit (ECU) hardware and software may improperly detect the motorcyle's throttle position resulting in the motorcycle shutting down.
Risk. An unexpected shutdown increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Triumph will notify owners, and dealers will update and install new ECU hardware and software, free of charge. The recall began on January 24, 2014. Customers may contact Triumph at 1-678-854-2010.
2013 Triumph Tiger recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. Triumph Motorcycles America, LTD (Triumph) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Tiger Explorer ABS A1 and 2013-2014 Tiger Explorer Spoke ABS XC A1 and Trophy SE A1 motorcycles manufactured November 17, 2011, through December 16, 2013. In the affected motorcycles, the electronic control unit (ECU) hardware and software may improperly detect the motorcyle's throttle position resulting in the motorcycle shutting down.
Risk. An unexpected shutdown increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Triumph will notify owners, and dealers will update and install new ECU hardware and software, free of charge. The recall began on January 24, 2014. Customers may contact Triumph at 1-678-854-2010.
2012 Triumph Tiger recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. Triumph Motorcycles America, LTD (Triumph) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Tiger Explorer ABS A1 and 2013-2014 Tiger Explorer Spoke ABS XC A1 and Trophy SE A1 motorcycles manufactured November 17, 2011, through December 16, 2013. In the affected motorcycles, the electronic control unit (ECU) hardware and software may improperly detect the motorcyle's throttle position resulting in the motorcycle shutting down.
Risk. An unexpected shutdown increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Triumph will notify owners, and dealers will update and install new ECU hardware and software, free of charge. The recall began on January 24, 2014. Customers may contact Triumph at 1-678-854-2010.
2004 Triumph Tiger recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE FUEL CONNECTOR LINKING EACH OF THE FEED AND RETURN FUEL HOSES TO THE FUEL PUMP MOUNTING PLATE MAY FRACTURE FOLLOWING IN-SERVICE HANDLING.
Risk. FUEL COULD ESCAPE FROM THE FRACTURED BODY OF THE CONNECTOR ONTO THE ENGINE OR SIDE OF THE BIKE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 1-678-854-2010.
2003 Triumph Tiger recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE FUEL CONNECTOR LINKING EACH OF THE FEED AND RETURN FUEL HOSES TO THE FUEL PUMP MOUNTING PLATE MAY FRACTURE FOLLOWING IN-SERVICE HANDLING.
Risk. FUEL COULD ESCAPE FROM THE FRACTURED BODY OF THE CONNECTOR ONTO THE ENGINE OR SIDE OF THE BIKE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 1-678-854-2010.
2002 Triumph Tiger recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE FUEL CONNECTOR LINKING EACH OF THE FEED AND RETURN FUEL HOSES TO THE FUEL PUMP MOUNTING PLATE MAY FRACTURE FOLLOWING IN-SERVICE HANDLING.
Risk. FUEL COULD ESCAPE FROM THE FRACTURED BODY OF THE CONNECTOR ONTO THE ENGINE OR SIDE OF THE BIKE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 1-678-854-2010.
2001 Triumph Tiger recalls 3
Power Train:clutch Assembly:pedal/hand Lever(motorcycle)
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. THE CLUTCH CONTROL CABLE CAN FRAY AND FAIL. THE BARREL AT THE END OF THE INNER CABLE SEIZES IN THE CONTROL LEVER BORE, THEREBY STRESSING THE INNER CABLE.
Risk. THIS CAUSES THE RIDER TO BE UNABLE TO ENGAGE THE CLUTCH, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND INHIBITING DRIVING CONTROL.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CLUTCH CABLE. OWNER NOTIFICATIONBEGAN JANUARY 25, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 678-854-2010.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE FUEL CONNECTOR LINKING EACH OF THE FEED AND RETURN FUEL HOSES TO THE FUEL PUMP MOUNTING PLATE MAY FRACTURE FOLLOWING IN-SERVICE HANDLING.
Risk. FUEL COULD ESCAPE FROM THE FRACTURED BODY OF THE CONNECTOR ONTO THE ENGINE OR SIDE OF THE BIKE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 1-678-854-2010.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. A FUEL LEAK COULD OCCUR FROM THE FUEL LEVER SENDER LOCATED INSIDE THE FUEL TANK.
Risk. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, POSSIBLY COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL SENDER.
2000 Triumph Tiger recalls 3
Power Train:clutch Assembly:pedal/hand Lever(motorcycle)
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. THE CLUTCH CONTROL CABLE CAN FRAY AND FAIL. THE BARREL AT THE END OF THE INNER CABLE SEIZES IN THE CONTROL LEVER BORE, THEREBY STRESSING THE INNER CABLE.
Risk. THIS CAUSES THE RIDER TO BE UNABLE TO ENGAGE THE CLUTCH, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND INHIBITING DRIVING CONTROL.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CLUTCH CABLE. OWNER NOTIFICATIONBEGAN JANUARY 25, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 678-854-2010.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE FUEL CONNECTOR LINKING EACH OF THE FEED AND RETURN FUEL HOSES TO THE FUEL PUMP MOUNTING PLATE MAY FRACTURE FOLLOWING IN-SERVICE HANDLING.
Risk. FUEL COULD ESCAPE FROM THE FRACTURED BODY OF THE CONNECTOR ONTO THE ENGINE OR SIDE OF THE BIKE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 1-678-854-2010.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. A FUEL LEAK COULD OCCUR FROM THE FUEL LEVER SENDER LOCATED INSIDE THE FUEL TANK.
Risk. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, POSSIBLY COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL SENDER.
1999 Triumph Tiger recalls 2
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. OIL CAN LEAK FROM BETWEEN THE CRANKCASE HALVES.
Risk. THIS CAN RESULT IN OIL SPILLAGE FORWARD OF THE REAR TIRE AND COULD, IN SOME CASES, CAUSE VEHICLE INSTABILITY.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOWER CRANKCASE BOLTS.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE FUEL CONNECTOR LINKING EACH OF THE FEED AND RETURN FUEL HOSES TO THE FUEL PUMP MOUNTING PLATE MAY FRACTURE FOLLOWING IN-SERVICE HANDLING.
Risk. FUEL COULD ESCAPE FROM THE FRACTURED BODY OF THE CONNECTOR ONTO THE ENGINE OR SIDE OF THE BIKE. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TRIUMPH AT 1-678-854-2010.
Best and worst years for the Triumph Tiger
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 33 tracked years, the worst years are 2013, 2012, 2014 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1994, 1995, 1996.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 Tiger | — | Best | |
| 1995 Tiger | — | Best | |
| 1996 Tiger | — | Best | |
| 1997 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 1998 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 1999 Tiger | Power Train | Average | |
| 2000 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2001 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2002 Tiger | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 2003 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2004 Tiger | Fuel System | Average | |
| 2005 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2006 Tiger | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 2007 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2008 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2009 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2010 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2011 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2012 Tiger | Exterior Lighting | Avoid | |
| 2013 Tiger | Power Train | Avoid | |
| 2014 Tiger | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 2015 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2016 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2017 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2018 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2019 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2020 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2021 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2022 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2023 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2024 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2025 Tiger | — | Average | |
| 2026 Tiger | — | Average |
What are the most common Triumph Tiger problems?
The most-reported Triumph Tiger problems are Engine (1 reports), Gasoline (1 reports) and Structure (1 reports) — out of 9 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Triumph Tiger specifications & dimensions
The 2026 Triumph Tiger. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Triumph Tiger window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Triumph Tiger cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Tiger holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Triumph Tiger tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Triumph Tiger get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Triumph Tiger have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Triumph Tiger cost to own?
A Triumph Tiger depreciates at about an average rate. A typical example keeps roughly 46% of its value after five years — losing about 54% to depreciation. Check what a used Tiger is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 80% | $24,000 | −$6,000 |
| Year 2 | 70% | $21,000 | −$9,000 |
| Year 3 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 4 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 5 | 46% | $13,800 | −$16,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Tiger loses about 54% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — based on EPA economy at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Tiger ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Triumph Tiger safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Tiger yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
Tired of ads? Go Pro.
- Zero ads — clean, fast pages
- Exact mileage-adjusted car values
- Full research reports + PDF
- Market charts & price-drop alerts
- …and much more
How many miles does a Triumph Tiger last?
A well-maintained Triumph Tiger typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.5/5.
Check your Triumph Tiger’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Tiger’s VIN free →All Triumph Tiger model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Triumph Tiger — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 2025 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2024 Tiger | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2023 Tiger | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2022 Tiger | 5 recalls | — | — |
| 2021 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 2020 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2019 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2018 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2017 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 2016 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 2015 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2014 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2013 Tiger | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2012 Tiger | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2011 Tiger | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2010 Tiger | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2009 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2008 Tiger | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2007 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2006 Tiger | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2005 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 2004 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2003 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2002 Tiger | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2001 Tiger | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 2000 Tiger | 3 recalls | — | — |
| 1999 Tiger | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 1998 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 1997 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 1996 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 1995 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
| 1994 Tiger | 0 | — | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Tiger?
By owner-complaint volume, 2013, 2012, 2014 drew the most reports. 1994, 1995, 1996 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Tiger have?
44 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1994–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a Tiger last?
A well-maintained Tiger typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Tiger reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Tiger is 4.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Triumph Tiger warranty?
New Triumph models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Triumph dealer.
Where is the Triumph Tiger made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Tiger's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Triumph may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Tiger have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.