 brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 17
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 17 |
I know this subject has been discussed many times, but after having my rotors replaced 3 times in 25k. I would like a permanent solution to warped front rotors. Does brents "kit" work? Are there any other fixes for this? 
2003 Speedmaster
1974 CB 750-4 Chopper
1995 chevy s10 350v8
1986 olds 442 455v8
1991 chevy k1500
My vehicles are "greener" than your hybrid
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 3,753
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 3,753 |
i have brents and it works really well. so far no problems
Frank
(Former)05 BA tbike pipes, ai removed, Freak, mikuni hsr 42's, 904, ported/polished head, 1mm oversized valves
NOW-2010 silver and black tbird
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,527
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,527 |
I cant offer any assistance. At 33k plus I still have a nice clean set of front rotors and the original pads are still wearing well.
"Proud to be an Infidel" ... "100% pure American Jingoist"
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
unusual for a speedmaster to have problems, most reports have been on the America. Some good reports on the EBC floating rotors/discs, but saying that one of the lads here in the UK has reported a warped EBC on his America..
Ray(UK)
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 885 Likes: 2
3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 885 Likes: 2 |
I had the rotors on my speedmaster replaced with just 1 month left on the warranty. Lately, I've noticed a slight 'pulse' starting to come back  Cheers, Brad
To be old and wise, you must first be young and stupid.
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
Get them replaced by Triumph, hassle the dealer..
Ray(UK)
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 37
Greenhorn
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Greenhorn
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 37 |
hey! 1britbike just trying to help and don't mean to insult anyone, Have you looked at the caleper? maybe is sticking and cousinig some drag on the rotor and worping it,this hapens alot on cars, does the back breaks work ok? 
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 Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,240
Oil Expert
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Oil Expert
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,240 |
Looking at the new Speedmaster and America on the show room floor last Saturday I notice the rotors are different on the new bikes. I bet I know why!  I wonder if the retro-fit? I asked the parts guy, and pointed out the differences, and he said he would have to look into it. I just wonder if you ordered new rotors for a 2003-2005 bike if you would get the new rotors or the old style? 
Keith
Houston
Ridin'Texas
'04 Speedmaster
AI removed, Pingle, UNI Filter, 1 shim, straight-through slash-cut TORs, Stage 1 DynaJet, 140 mains, 3 turns, 16/42 final drive, 115K
2020 T120 Black
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513 |
My advice... Replace the rotor with aftermarket performance rotor.
I had a Speedmaster and now have an America and both bikes had a pulse in the front brakes. I got the shop to check out the speedmaster. They found low spots in one of the rotors. When contacted, Triumph warranty said that they were not out enough to replace but to keep ridin the bike and it should clear up.
When the same thing happened to the America within the first couple thousand miles, I decided to not waste my time with Triumph and ordered an EBC rotor from newbonneville.com. I've had no brake problems since then and have never had a problem with the rear brakes. I was told that I could get the rotor turned. However, turning down motorcycle brake rotors is not recommended.
I have drawn the conclusion that Triumph is using "seconds" parts for the front brakes on the Speedmaster and America models. But, I am wrong sometimes.
Its more fun to be ridin'! I'm still ridin 
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,072 Likes: 82
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,072 Likes: 82 |
Quote:
I have drawn the conclusion that Triumph is using "seconds" parts for the front brakes on the Speedmaster and America models.
Huh? 
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513 |
"seconds" as in not the first or best or not quite to specification but willing to use them anyway to save on Mfg. costs.
Having personally had two brand new bikes of the same type within 7 mos of each other have the same issue while other models have not, causes me to draw that conclusion.
Having said that I realize that when in manufacturing, at times due to varying factors, bad runs of parts may occur and it is not feesible to check every part. It is assumed that as long as the part is within certain tolerances that there will be no major concerns as the part should function normaly within a normal expected lifespan.
I just happened to have two bikes with the same problem. I see from this forum that apparently many others have had the same or similar problem. But apparently the rotor problem was not widespread enough to warrant a recall by Triumph.
Its more fun to be ridin'! I'm still ridin
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,072 Likes: 82
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,072 Likes: 82 |
My response was based on your assumption that an inferior product was knowingly used to cut production costs.. I can't imagine why a company would willingly set themselves up for a lawsuit to save a few bucks.... especially on a safety issue such as brakes.
In todays times of vultures waiting in the wings of every business for the opportunity to sue anybody for anything, you'd think risks would be far greater than the gains. Furthermore, the price of replacing these faulty parts under warranty after sale would certainly outweigh any profit made from using inferior parts and in the end effect their all so important customer satisfaction goals.
Some faulty product may have made it's way onto the assembly line but to think it was intentional is quite a stretch.
If I didn't have faith in Triumphs manufacturing process.. and public conscience, I couldn't ride their bikes.
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,463
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,463 |
I can't see it being intentional either. If one was defective and caused an accident... They wouldn't risk it.
And my 03 has done far more miles than the 06, and I re-used the orginal one when I got the TBS wheel. And that's still fine.
Yet I'm on the second one on the 06...and I think that's on the way out as well. (though it's been 2 months since I rode it.) I can't see it being the rotors at fault. Not to go one after the other like that. Don't know what it is mind you...
Gina
03 America - Pretty stock - except the TBS wheel... 
06 America - missing, presumed in bits. With it's TBS wheel...
09 America - It's very blue....
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513 |
Quote:
unusual for a speedmaster to have problems, most reports have been on the America.
Quote:
I had the rotors on my speedmaster replaced with just 1 month left on the warranty. Lately, I've noticed a slight 'pulse' starting to come back
Quote:
Looking at the new Speedmaster and America on the show room floor last Saturday I notice the rotors are different on the new bikes. I bet I know why!
Quote:
Yet I'm on the second one on the 06...and I think that's on the way out as well. (though it's been 2 months since I rode it.) I can't see it being the rotors at fault. Not to go one after the other like that. Don't know what it is mind you...
Could there be a pattern emerging with the 05-06 Speemaster/Americas?
 Oops! Sorry. Didn't mean to imply that Triumph might use any part that did not fit within the industry's tolerance standards. As the rotor on my bike was within specs. But I still had that nasty pulse when front braking. Couln't be intentional though. I mean, ford pintos didn't catch fire from rear end collisions even though ford knew they could years before. Automotive industries are far too noble for that, especially Triumph 
Its more fun to be ridin'! I'm still ridin
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 17
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 17 |
Just an update on the rotor situation, ordered the ebc set-up from brent. I sure hope this doesnt happen again, Big $$$ for something that is a known issue on the speedy, america and bonneville range. IMHO the material used for the rotors is of poor quality(cheap) and too thin .Looking at my 750-4 front rotor it is twice as thick! 30 years old, and is not warped.
2003 Speedmaster
1974 CB 750-4 Chopper
1995 chevy s10 350v8
1986 olds 442 455v8
1991 chevy k1500
My vehicles are "greener" than your hybrid
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,179
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,179 |
Quote:
Just an update on the rotor situation, ordered the ebc set-up from brent. I sure hope this doesnt happen again, Big $$$ for something that is a known issue on the speedy, america and bonneville range. IMHO the material used for the rotors is of poor quality(cheap) and too thin .Looking at my 750-4 front rotor it is twice as thick! 30 years old, and is not warped.
I'm hoping the same. Started feeling a pulse and slight dipping on my front end at 12k miles. Just paid $204.31 through underbid (MAW) for my replacement (MD601LS/FA196HH).
Regards,
Tom
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,217 Likes: 61
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,217 Likes: 61 |
I'm hoping my scoot is the exception , so far my rotors are fine at over 15,000 miles. Wendys has a very slight pulse and I mean very slight,I'm gonna put a dial indicator on it and maybe chuck it up in the lathe and straighten it out.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971 |
I would tend to believe that Triumph ordered the rotors or materials to be made in good faith, and that the supplier had issues in the manufacturing process.
My 05 Speedmaster rotors are a might warped at 20,000 miles. I still remember the drop anchor event that caused it. I've lived with it as the dealer is so far away, and I never wanted that much down time for a warranty go 'round. Chalk it up to my lack of interest in the issue, or what have you. I'll probably up and go aftermarket from Brent when I get around to it one of these days. He is about offering quality goods, and IMO wouldn't sell something if it wasn't up to snuff. Last I knew, as a fellow Triumph rider, he uses and depends upon his own goods too.
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
What I cannot understand, Triumph have known they have issues with the front rotors, I have had a good few now and have even had the front wheel replaced, the front caliper replaced and still the issues are there. I have upgraded the wheels to solid rather than spokes and twin rotors and up to now no issues. It certainly makes you think why the problems and why triumph cannot sort it out, maybe they think the more people that go for aftermarket parts, the less they'll stop winging at them.
Ray(UK)
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,463
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,463 |
Quote:
It certainly makes you think why the problems and why triumph cannot sort it out, maybe they think the more people that go for aftermarket parts, the less they'll stop winging at them.
Why they can't sort it out.....because it's not all of them. If it was, there'd be a common cause and that they could answer.
I've been waiting for someone to say that it's riding style. If it was I'd have had problems with the 03.
But people not going in with warranty issues, that will extend the problems. If they don't realise how many people are having problems with the rotors they won't look (even more) seriously than they are. They changed mine, no problems, and I suspect they would again, if once I start riding again it's going. Having spoken directly to the Warranty Dept at Hinckley then I know that they are taking this seriously.
Think about it. If someone had an accident and it could be investigated that and found the brakes were the cause then it would do their reputation so much damage... No one would ever buy a Triumph again. Yeah they don't make the disks, but who does? I don't know, but someone on here may. But that won't be the name that gets splashed across the news networks, and in the magazines, it'll be Triumph.
I know having a bike off the road can be a pain - you are not all as lucky as me to have a Thruxton at your disposal -but it's for everyone else who gets problems in the future to get your rotors changed now. Even if you are looking to go floating in the future.
Sorry Lecture over.
Gina
03 America - Pretty stock - except the TBS wheel...
06 America - missing, presumed in bits. With it's TBS wheel...
09 America - It's very blue....
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971 |
The more I think about it, the more I agree I should try to pursue a swap for my rotors. I suppose the "Why did you wait so long" factor has kept me at bay until now. As a cheap bastid, I'm kinda used to the peccadilloes of low budget rides, and it just seemed like another thing to ignore. 
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971 |
I just spoke with Don, the Triumph service manager in East Hartford. He said warranty usually does not cover discs, but he would be willing to submit a "good will" claim to Triumph to see if they would cover it. Sounds reasonable to me.
Saturday is looking like 40F and sunny for Hartford County, so it looks like I'll go visit uncle Don this Saturday.
Good excuse for a ride.
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
Quote:
I just spoke with Don, the Triumph service manager in East Hartford. He said warranty usually does not cover discs, but he would be willing to submit a "good will" claim to Triumph to see if they would cover it. Sounds reasonable to me.
Saturday is looking like 40F and sunny for Hartford County, so it looks like I'll go visit uncle Don this Saturday.
Good excuse for a ride.
Triumph have had that many claims, they should replace the rotors free of charge.
Ray(UK)
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971 |
I agree, and also tend to believe that no matter how hard you drop anchor, you shouldn't be able to warp those rotors. Maybe I'm wrong. I don't know enough about it to say for certain.
My position at 20,000 miles is less than ideal, and there may not be too much rhythm I can get out of Triumph at this point in time, and I accept the responsibility for that.
I'll work with Don in patient collaboration, and see what comes of it. I believe he & I can roll the farthest on the issue if I don't push him to a challenged or defensive place. If Triumph won't chip in, perhaps we can negotiate a wholesale rotors value store credit or the like. We'll see. Truth be told, I'd prefer aftermarket rotors anyway, in case there are weak OEM rotors still in the supply channel.
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,179
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,179 |
Don't think it's riding style. I always down-shift to a stop and use both brakes evenly. I've never panic stopped this particular bike as far as I remember. Of all the bikes I've owned since '74, this is the first one requiring a rotor change at 12k miles.
Regards,
Tom
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 513 |
Quote:
Why they can't sort it out.....because it's not all of them. If it was, there'd be a common cause and that they could answer
I think the philosophy within the auto industry is that it is cheaper to settle a lawsuit than to research, recall, replace, retool.
If Triumph has changed the design on the newer bikes then they have addressed the issue.
Quote:
Think about it. If someone had an accident and it could be investigated that and found the brakes were the cause then it would do their reputation so much damage...
Good point, but if someone couldn't brake properly and ended up in a frontend collision, the brakes would appear to be damaged from the collision. Proving brake fault in that situation would be near impossible.
Triumphs are great bikes. I really don't want to ride anything else. I think I would like to park a Rocket next to my America for those really long trips.
You guys and gals in the U.K are really in a better position to communicate with the folks at the plant. I genuinly appreciate your efforts. Introduce them to this forum if you haven't already 
Its more fun to be ridin'! I'm still ridin
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 706 Likes: 1
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 706 Likes: 1 |
after 20000k's the disks on the front of my speedy have started to pulse mind you its only on easy breaking if 1 was to jump on them their fine no pulseing at all almost 2yr's out of warrenty whats the chances of Triumph telling me to ****** off if i was to aproach them 
04 yellow&black Speedmaster+the Money Pit{xj jeep}
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,463
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 3,463 |
Quote:
whats the chances of Triumph telling me to ****** off if i was to aproach them
What's it gonna cost to ask them? If they tell you to bugger off then it's cost you nothing, if they don't you'll get it replaced.
Ask em.
Gina
03 America - Pretty stock - except the TBS wheel...
06 America - missing, presumed in bits. With it's TBS wheel...
09 America - It's very blue....
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,693 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,693 Likes: 22 |
Quote:
I can't see it being intentional either. If one was defective and caused an accident... They wouldn't risk it.
I doubt they did it on purpose in original manufacturing but the rotors were probably made by the low bidder. Lots of problems and all they do is replace with the same stuff. That is suspect.
If you think they really care, call them up and ask for a new, redesigned CDI because so many have failed. Triumph is very happy to have a very high priced weak device that they buy for a few dollars and sell for $400.00.
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whats the chances of Triumph telling me to ****** off if i was to aproach them
Very high, but you never get anything from not asking.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: brake rotors (again!)
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 706 Likes: 1
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2007
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Gina&Saxton
good point the pair of you have made
on the list of things to do today call TeamMotto
04 yellow&black Speedmaster+the Money Pit{xj jeep}
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