There are a number of key differences between the two models. The XR has cast alloy wheels, with a 19-inch at the front, while the XC has spoked wheels with alloy rims and a larger 21-inch front. They have the same size of 17" at the rear. The Tiger 800 XC has longer-travel suspension at the front and rear, with 45 mm forks, compared with 43 mm on the Tiger 800 XR. The Tiger 800 XR has a motorcycle saddle adjustable from, while the Tiger 800 XC saddle is taller at. The XC has more aggressive off-road looks, including a small beak-like high-level mudguard at the front, similar to the BMW F800GS, a bike the Tiger is designed to compete against. Overall the XC is longer, wider, taller and heavier than the XR. The Tiger 800 XC was named "Best Dual Sport" for 2011 by Cycle World. Both models share most components, including the engine, fuel tank, instrument panel, steel trellis frame, and brakes, which have optional ABS.
The first generation came in 2 models, 800 and 800XC. Both bikes share the same frame and inline-three engine, which is derived from the smaller Triumph Daytona 675. In both cases an official Triumph accessory low seat lowers seat heights by 20mm. The 2011 model year featured a silver frame but from 2012-2018 the Tiger had a black frame with the exception of SE models that had a red frame and accessories.
For the 2015 model year, the Tiger 800 used a second generation800 cc engine with drive-by-wire throttle which Triumph claimed improved fuel economy by 17%. Traction control was also added. Optional versions of the Tiger 800 included various combinations of cruise control, auto-cancel indicators, an advanced trip computer, multiple driving modes. Hardware in some versions included engine-protection bars, an aluminum sump guard, a center stand, and WP suspension, which included adjustable front forks.
In 2018 Triumph launched a new generation of Tiger 800, claiming to have 200 undisclosed modification from the previous generation. There are 6 models on 2 variants:
Road-oriented: XR, XRx, XRx LOW and XRt with cast aluminium alloy wheels and 19" front tire and Showa suspension
Dual sport: XC, XCx and XCA with spoke wheels and 21" front tire and WP suspension with longer travel
All version have switchable ABS, twin 305 mm front brake discs and single 255 mm disc, LCD screens with digital instruments. The top version add features like led lights, more ride modes, Brembo front brakes, color TFT screen and heated grips and seat. The weight of the base XR version is 199 kg dry, while the top range XCA version has 208 kg.
