Triumph Tiger 1200 gets Active Preload Reduction

[advrider]

It’s time to get down, get down, and Triumph is signing on board for the idea. Specifically, I am talking about the auto-lowering suspension option that debuted on Harley-Davidson’s Pan America, and is now spreading to other flagship adventure bike models. This week, Triumph introduced Active Preload Reduction for its Tiger 1200, which appears to be aimed at the same task: Making the bike easier to handle as you slow to a stop.

It’s tied to the Showa semi-active suspension system which IS already available on Triumph’s latest-generation Tiger 1200 models (’22 and ’23 models). When the bikes debuted on the 2021 show circuit, we told you:

Both ends of the bike feature Showa’s semi-active suspension technology. Up front, you’ll find a 49 mm upside-down fork. The GT models feature 200 mm of travel while the Rally models have 220 mm. According to Triumph, the semi-automatic system automatically “adapts RSU preload settings for rider size and payload, and according to the riding mode.” Damping is adjustable by the rider using the bike’s backlit controls.

At the rear, there’s a Showa monoshock with semi-active damping and automatic electronic preload adjustment. The GT has 200 mm of travel, while the Rally has 220mm of available travel.

Now, with Active Preload Reduction option, your bike’s rear preload suspension will slack off, effectively lowering the seat height as the bike slows down to a stop. It takes about three-quarters of an inch out of the seat height, according to Triumph:

The new Active Preload Reduction feature allows these seat heights to be reduced further. Depending on the combined weight of the rider, pillion, and luggage this could further lower the height by up to .78” (20mm) when the motorcycle comes to a standstill, offering the rider greater ease and confidence. New Tiger 1200 owners will be able to access this new minimum preload feature by simply pressing the ‘Home’ button on the right switch cube for one second, as the feature will now come standard on all new Tiger 1200 motorcycles.

Sounds simple to use, as it’s activated only if the user chooses to do so. It’s included as standard on all Tiger 1200s, we look forward to real-world from Triumph buyers in the ADVrider forum. And, Triumph also says that if you have a 2023 Tiger 1200 without this feature, no problem—at your next scheduled service at a dealership, dealers can add this feature via a software update, at no charge.

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