Adventure Motorcycles

2020Triumph Tiger 1200 Desert Edition

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The 2020 Triumph Tiger 1200 Desert Edition is a capable adventure tourer designed for riders seeking serious off-road capability with modern comfort features. Known for its rugged Desert Edition styling, competitive power-to-weight ratio of 0.567 HP/kg, and practical 20-liter fuel capacity, it excels on challenging terrain and long-distance exploration. The heated seat and comprehensive LCD instrumentation make it equally suited to demanding backcountry rides and highway touring.

Capacity: 1215.0 ccm
Engine: In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 246.0 kg
Seat height: 835 mm
Power: 139.5 HP (101.8 kW) @ 9350 RPM

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Other years 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail82%

Cornering72%

City riding55%

Daily riding70%

Touring95%

Two-up85%

Track40%

Best for: Built for long-distance adventure touring with genuine off-road capability, blending shaft-drive comfort with a powerful triple engine.
Built for: A refined, torque-rich triple with premium electronics and semi-active suspension that rewards a smooth, confident riding style across varied terrain.
Not ideal for: Not ideal for riders seeking a lightweight, flickable machine for tight city streets or track-day lap times.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 835mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2020 Triumph Tiger 1200 Desert Edition, with a moderate knee angle of around 90 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

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Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1215.0 ccm
Power: 139.5 HP (101.8 kW) @ 9350 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 114 CO2 g/km
Torque: 122.0 Nm (12.4 kgf-m) @ 7600 RPM
Engine type: In-line three-cylinder, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.5671 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 85.0 x 71.4 mm
Compression: 11.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate hydraulically operated, torque assist

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2248 mm
Overall width: 830 mm
Overall height: 1470 mm
Seat height: 835 mm
Dry weight: 246.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.00 litres
Oil capacity: 4.00 litres
Ground clearance: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Tubular steel trellis frame. Single-sided, cast aluminium alloy swing arm with shaft drive.
Front suspension: WP 48 mm upside down forks, electronically adjustable damping,
Rear suspension: WP monoshock, electronically adjustable semi active damping,
Front wheel travel: 190 mm
Rear wheel travel: 193 mm
Rake (fork angle): 23.2°
Trail: 100 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Floating discs, radially mounted monobloc Brembo calipers, 4-piston, switchable ABS.
Front brakes diameter: 305 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Nissin 2-piston sliding caliper, Switchable ABS
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-R19
Rear tyre: 170/60-R17

Other

Color options: Sandstorm
Warranty: 24

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2020	2022	2023	2025	2026
Capacity	1215 cc	1215 cc	1215 cc	1215 cc	1160 cc
Dry weight	246 kg	246 kg	246 kg	246 kg	246 kg
Seat height	835 mm	835 mm	835 mm	835 mm	895 mm
Fuel capacity	20 L	20 L	20 L	20 L	20 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2020 Triumph Tiger 1200 Desert Edition is a stunning adventure motorcycle that combines power, performance, and style. Its 1215cc engine delivers impressive torque and acceleration, while the advanced electronics and suspension system provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The Desert Edition features a unique paint scheme and detailing that sets it apart from the standard Tiger 1200, making it a true head-turner on the road. With its rugged design and off-road capability, this bike is perfect for riders who crave adventure and exploration.

Overall, the 2020 Triumph Tiger 1200 Desert Edition is a top-of-the-line adventure motorcycle that offers a thrilling riding experience. Whether you're tackling rough terrain or cruising on the highway, this bike delivers exceptional performance and handling. With its distinctive design and advanced features, the Desert Edition is sure to impress riders who seek a powerful and stylish adventure bike.

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