Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge New Triumph Cruiser?

I agree with you on the Rocket. Thats one of the most cosmetically challenged machines out there. Its a pity the design team could not have done a better job. Perhaps the design team was a bit "challenged" themselves. Although it must have been a task to build the bike around that massive powerplant. The radiator does nothing for the look of the bike but whatcha gonna do to cool that big monstrosity?

Americans eat salads? LOL. Mcdonalds, Burger King, Wendy's, Whataburger, and In and Out are in no danger of going out of bizness soon.

Heck I eat way too much junk food and baked goods at times ...only reason I stay skinny is the eight to ten times a week trip to the health club.

Being skinny makes for a lean profile on a naked Speedmaster with no windshield.

Guys, I've been asking my dealer (Manayunk Triumph, Philadelphia, PA, thanks) about this for some time, and the rumors are consistent if nothing else. Consensus is since the new 675 triple just came out, the new cruiser is probably next. My favorite rumor is that their target is 100 hp and 100 lb-ft of torque, and after just finishing about 1900 miles last week riding from NJ to Nashville, then to Indiana (ABATE Boogie Rally - highly recommended, but only if you like debauchery and such) and back, I have to confess wishing for more power. Even though the 790 gives me enough to keep up with the 1450cc Harleys and pass on the highway, I feel a little strained riding all day at 75-85 MPH. I think it's just the thought of pulling 5000 RPM for hours on end - doesn't feel right, although my bike (God bless Triumph) seems not to mind. After more searching, it sounds to me like they're considering a R3 motor, with one cylinder lopped off and turned 90 degrees to make it a vertical twin, albeit water-cooled. Sounds like they're going to some effort to make the radiator less obvious (it would HAVE to be less obvious than the Rocket III's!). I was hoping for air-cooled, but I have to admit that water-cooled is better for power generation and all that... So my current guess is a water-cooled 1500 cc version of my America, and I'm not ashamed to admit, I'd probably trade up if it comes to pass. I love my America - great looks, PLENTY fast, handles great, and all that, but I wouldn't mind the bragging rights, I guess.

My two cents on the R3 is that it's just over kill and another example that bigger is not necessarily better. The engine is two bulky and I agree on most peoples thoughts on that "aye curumba!" radiator. I think Triumph would be better served trimming the R3 down to 2000-1800cc's.

I would rather see Triumph come out with a larger version of our engine say a 1200cc parallel twin. Make it water cooled and fuel injected, with performance cams and pistons. I am sure Triumph could get 100hp out of that setup while only adding maybe 50 to 60 pounds to the bike.

Tom

I was thinking the same thing myself. 100 hp isn't that far off with a big bore kit, even air cooled (which to be honest, would be way cool). But if they stick with the 100 hp plan, with a twin, I'm feeling pretty good about it either way...

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Of course I'm pushing 72 real soon and "worn out" anyway.

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Well Brother Larry,
You are still my inspiration. I am almost 54, and looking forward to each passing day. But I ride! If you quit at 92, I'll take that as a possible (probable) stopping point. Ride On, you know what it's about. Of course I pray that you'll know when to stop (my bike is the best prayer closet in the world - when i'm on the open road). Much Love!

Isn't it about time to lock this thread and start another one on the new cruiser rumors?