I was going to take a KLR to Africa, or buy one in Capetown. But now it looks like I may be taking my girlfriend on part of the journey, and it's not a bike capable of taking two tall people plus gear.

I have an interesting offer from a local Triumph dealer here in Oregon... he's willing to sell me a 2006 Tiger at cost, plus hook me up with the local Triumph rep who will donate some other stuff for the trip. It's a great offer and I think it's a great bike... my question is if you experienced Africa guys think it would be an ok bike to take on my Africa trip (Capetown to Nairobi and back... up through Mozambique and Tanzania and then back through southern Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia.)

I'm not overly concerned about maintenence or need for parts, as the bike will be basically new and I don't expect any mechanical problems. The issue is how much hardcore off-roading is in the cards. I don't know much about the road situation over there. The Tiger is "mostly" a road bike but it's tall and has good clearance. I think it's capable for most off-road touring, as long as it's nothing too hardcore. I actually don't see too much difference between the offroad capabilities of the Tiger and the 1150gs... they're both heavy but have decent clearance and suspension.

thoughts-comments-advice??

__________________
Steven
www.twowheeledtraveller.com
Americas, '05-'06
RTW, poco a poco

You are right that there is not too much difference between Tiger and 1150 (or 1200) GS but if you are used to a KLR and its practicality, simplicity, ease of handling, then you may find Tiger really a heavy monster to deal with. Especially when you are lifting it up after inevitable falls in African off-roads.

can (someone who appreciate simplicity and ease of use instead of heavy comfort and high clearence)