Two-time Dakar Rally champion Sam Sunderland has begun his attempt to become the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe by motorcycle, setting off from London on a the yet-to-be released Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer.
While Sunderland’s challenge will demand an extraordinary amount of time in the saddle, the motorcycle he is using has also become a significant part of the story. Images from the start of the attempt reveal that his bike appears to be a prototype of the next-generation Tiger 1200 rather than the Red Bull-liveried motorcycle previously shown by Triumph.
The motorcycle seen at the start line closely matches earlier spy shots of the upcoming Tiger 1200, including its distinctive new headlight. A radar sensor can also be seen mounted above the headlight and below the adjustable windscreen, further strengthening the connection between Sunderland’s motorcycle and the test bikes previously spotted.
The biggest changes expected for the next-generation Tiger 1200 are reportedly focused on its styling and electronics, while the engine and chassis are thought to remain largely similar to those of the current model. Having Sunderland use the motorcycle for such a demanding journey also gives Triumph an unusual real-world test for the updated adventure bike.
Sunderland departed London on September 5, beginning a six-leg journey covering more than 18,000 miles across five continents. His target is to beat the existing motorcycle circumnavigation record of 19 days, eight hours and 25 minutes, which has stood for more than two decades. The route begins with Sunderland travelling from London to Istanbul, before continuing into Southeast Asia between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. He will then cross Australia from Perth to Sydney before riding the length of New Zealand.
Triumph has selected the Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer for the attempt, putting its large-capacity adventure motorcycle through a challenge that goes well beyond the type of riding it would typically encounter. We can expect an official unveil at the EICMA towards the end of this year.
