Triumph Tiger (2008)
2008 Triumph Tiger
CarHunch analysed 305 real MOT records for the 2008 Triumph Tiger. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
The 2008 Triumph Tiger passes its MOT first time at 89.1%, well above the UK average of 80%, which is a solid endorsement of the breed's durability. However, one in five of these bikes have recorded a dangerous defect at some point, so mechanically sound pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable.
At just over 20,000 miles on the clock, these Tigers are running low mileage for their age, suggesting they've been ridden gently or stored frequently. The high advisory count of 6.0 per vehicle points to wear in minor systems rather than structural failure, but budget for routine maintenance on brake lines, hoses, and lighting as part of ownership costs.
What to check before buying a 2008 Triumph Tiger
Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.
- 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
- 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
- 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
- ⚠️ 20% of these vehicles have had a dangerous defect recorded. Enter the reg below — the full MOT history will show exactly what was flagged and whether it was resolved.
- 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.
Before you buy a Triumph Tiger
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
CarHunch may earn a small commission if you buy via these links — at no extra cost to you.
Mileage Distribution
Most 2008 Triumph Tiger vehicles sit in the blue band. If the car you're looking at is outside it, it's either unusually low or high mileage for its age.
Half of all 2008 Triumph Tiger vehicles fall between 13,330 and 25,689 miles.
2008 Triumph Tiger — Still on the Road
185 vehicles still getting MOTs in 2025 — 71% of the peak remain.
Based on vehicles from this manufacture year that had at least one MOT test in each calendar year. Data from 2014–2025.
MOT History Averages
Most Common MOT Issues — 2008 Triumph Tiger
Based on actual MOT test records for this model. Percentage shows how often each item appears across all vehicles in this cohort.
-
35.8%
Front Tyre worn close to the legal limit
-
31.2%
Rear Tyre worn close to the legal limit
-
29%
Front Tyre worn close to the legal limit
-
22.4%
Rear Tyre worn close to the legal limit
-
21.1%
Front Brake pad(s) close to minimum limit
-
20.9%
Front Roller brake test indicates slight fluctuation of brake effort
-
18.2%
Drive chain slightly loose
-
18%
Front Brake indicates slight fluctuation of brake effort
Data covers a 3-year window centred on 2008. Counts include advisories and failures.
Found a specific Triumph Tiger?
Enter the reg to see its individual MOT history, AI Hunches, and how it compares to this cohort.