 First Bike
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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5 |
Hey Guys,
I am finally in the position to purchase my first bike and I have been seriously looking at the Triumph America. I have gone to the dealership and sat on this bike and it immediately felt like it was a part of me. I'm waiting to take the basic rider's class and get my motorcycle endorsement before I purchase it.
My question to you is this: Do you believe that this is a decent starter bike? I do ridden dirt bikes before and I've been on ATVs my entire life, so I'm not a complete virgin, but I have no experience on a cruiser like this.
I'd appreciate any suggestions!
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
It was my first bike. Do it. Just don't call it a "starter" bike, please. 
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 728 Likes: 1
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 728 Likes: 1 |
AmyLee, loves saying that her first motorcycle was a Triumph, and that she is still riding it. That Triumph being the 2002 Bonneville America.  Bob
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,738
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,738 |
Welcome to the forum Jeff.  If you are looking for a reliable motorcycle that handles, looks cool, sounds awesome with a set of pipes, gets a long at a decent amount of knots but could be improved in that department with a few mods, attracts elderly males when you stop who ask questions about what year its from and how they used to have one back in the day yada yada yada, has numerous accessories available to make it individual, makes Harley riders jealous even if they don't admit it, has enough sex appeal to make hot women fall at your feet and offer themselves to you, has a soul and dosn't smell like rice then this is the right bike for you.  but if you ask me, you should get a black Speedmaster instead because they are even faster still. 
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10 |
It wasn't my first bike but it's the best one I've had. Go for it.As for "starter" bike,if you start with this bike you may never want or need another. Just take it easy.Follow the advice of the rider's course. 
Dinosaur.
"Oh Man I only ride 'em.I don't know what makes 'em work". Donald "Oddball" Sutherland
"Don't let the bastards get you down". Kris Kristofferson
"I am only paranoid because everyone is against me". Larry [Frank Burns] Linville
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964
Stickman Yogi
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Stickman Yogi
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964 |
Hey Jeff... It's a bike with a soul, it's a bike with character and distinction steeped in tradition and culture. A Triumph is not just another bike... it is a Triumph and today's machines are better than ever. The America is capable of doing what cruisers do, cruising with style, elegance and charm. She's a great handler with enough power to make you smile. Take 'er on an all day cruise or a rip through the twisties... she's happy to do it all. Honestly, you can't go wrong (but then again, what did you expect to hear from members in a site called BonnevilleAmerica.com!). 
Live to love, love to live.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,227 Likes: 62 |
Wendy bought an America as her first bike and still has it. Forward controls will feel funny at first if you are not used to them.
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: First Bike
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1
Second Wind
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Second Wind
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1 |
Quote:
Hey Jeff...
It's a bike with a soul, it's a bike with character and distinction steeped in tradition and culture. A Triumph is not just another bike... it is a Triumph and today's machines are better than ever. The America is capable of doing what cruisers do, cruising with style, elegance and charm. She's a great handler with enough power to make you smile. Take 'er on an all day cruise or a rip through the twisties... she's happy to do it all. Honestly, you can't go wrong (but then again, what did you expect to hear from members in a site called BonnevilleAmerica.com!).
They should pay you to write the adverts.
I have no faith in human perfectability. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was 6000 years ago.
Edgar Allan Poe
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5 |
Thanks guys, it's great to hear that a lot of you had this as your first bike and enjoyed it. I wish that they had more safety courses around here so that I could get that out of the way and purchase this beautiful machine.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
Not only has it been a great first bike, it's a great re-entry bike. Many members here bought one of these bikes after not having ridden for decades in some cases.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 340
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 340 |
Quote:
Not only has it been a great first bike, it's a great re-entry bike. Many members here bought one of these bikes after not having ridden for decades in some cases.
That is exactly my case. This is my 6th bike, from dirt to street, and by far the best one. I can't put it better than Keith. It'll put smiles on your face ALL day long.
I'm speeding because I have to get there before I forget where I was going.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,616
Check Pants
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Check Pants
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,616 |
Quote:
I have gone to the dealership and sat on this bike and it immediately felt like it was a part of me.
Thats how it happened for me and I would up buying two, one for me and one for Karen.
Quote:
Do you believe that this is a decent starter bike?
The two mentioned above were first bikes for both of us.
SOLD: 07 Black BA, 39mm FCRs, TPUSA stage 1 head, TPUSA 813 cams, TPUSA 10.8:1 pistons, TTP #3 igniter, Specialty Spares Long Cannons, Tsukayu Hard Bags. 82HP/55tq
NEW: 19 Goldwing Tour DCT
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5 |
I didn't ask about this when I went to see the bike, but I'm curious. Does the America have any type of storage under the seat?
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1
Second Wind
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Second Wind
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1 |
I have no faith in human perfectability. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was 6000 years ago.
Edgar Allan Poe
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,580
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,580 |
Quote:
It wasn't my first bike but it's the best one I've had.
Go for it.As for "starter" bike,if you start with this bike you may never want or need another.
Just take it easy.Follow the advice of the rider's course.
What he said
As for storage, tool rolls and saddle bags don't look out of place with this style of bike, so you end up being able to carry a lot more stuff.
Oh yeah, you can fit a 24 pack of beer on the rack easily, and still have room for a passenger 
Too old to die young, too ugly to leave a good looking corpse
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
Quote:
I didn't ask about this when I went to see the bike, but I'm curious. Does the America have any type of storage under the seat?
There is a completely useless slot under the passenger seat, designed for the equally useless owner's manual. I'm sure it would get wet under there were you to actually keep the book there.
If you eliminate the stock airbox and get a Freak kit, you can have a small storage box under the seat. There are a whole host of other considerations when you do that, however (jetting, exhaust, etc.). It's still worthwhile, just not something to jump right into.
Brokenfixed mounted a small tube under the frame under the seat, but to me that's an awfully awkward place to stash just about anything.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647 |
My 2006 America was, and still is, my first bike. To say I have no regrets would be quite the understatement. I even talked a friend of mine into getting a speedmaster (first bike also) and although I don't want to speak for him, I think he's pretty happy I did. He almost bought a v-star for crying out loud. 
06 America 904
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Quote:
I didn't ask about this when I went to see the bike, but I'm curious. Does the America have any type of storage under the seat?
Well Jeffrey, I store all of my bike's electrons right under the seat...but then again, that's about the only thing my bike's battery stores. 
(...btw, I guess by now you've realized it's a forgone conclusion you're gettin' the America, right?!)
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,193 Likes: 22
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,193 Likes: 22 |
First Bike? Starter Bike?
I've owned around 50 bikes before this one.....and I dont want another now
Does this make it a 'Last Bike'? 'Finisher Bike'?
Enjoy
Al
I took the Road Less Travelled.
Now where the ****** am I?
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1
Second Wind
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Second Wind
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1 |
I think it does. Its a great starter, and finisher.
I have no faith in human perfectability. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was 6000 years ago.
Edgar Allan Poe
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,467 Likes: 3
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,467 Likes: 3 |
Not my first, probably not my last, but definitely a keeper!
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5 |
Yes, you've done a good job of convincing me that this is going to be the bike for me. I've been looking at bikes for about 3 years and this is the only one that I looked at and said "This will be mine".
It will definitely be my first bike, and I have a feeling that it'll probably be my last. I'm going to be able to go to the dealer on June 11th and pick it up. I can't wait!
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,164 Likes: 1
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,164 Likes: 1 |
AWESOME! 
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 19
Complete Newb
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Complete Newb
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 19 |
hi the speedmaster was my first bike and i dont have any regrets i go to a lot of bike shows and i honestly dont see anything else regardless of price brackets that i would rather be riding good choice
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1
Second Wind
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Second Wind
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,393 Likes: 1 |
My america was my fourth or fifth bike. I like it.
I have no faith in human perfectability. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was 6000 years ago.
Edgar Allan Poe
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
One day, early Spring 2002, I sat on a Harley Dyna, a BMW R1100R and a BMW 1200C. Then I sat on the Bonneville America and said the same thing, this will be mine. This is the one. 52k later still riding (when I'm not waiting for friends to show up to fix something I broke). Note: If you're not good with tools or otherwise mechanically inclined, pay someone to maintain your bike!
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,382
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,382 |
When I was ready to buy a bike, I looked at and rode most everthing out there... just wasn't satisfied (various reasons). Decided to go look at a Ducati Multistrada. Walked in the dealership and the first bike I saw was a Black Triumph Bonneville America. I bought it on the spot and haven't looked back since.
'06 TBA - Black, AI and Snorkel removed, K&N Drop In, Gutted Stock Pipes, 145/42, 2 turns out.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 582
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 582 |
this is my first bike a 2003 Bonneville America, had the same feeling lust at first site. Never regretted a moment. Ok I punched the motor to 904cc but no cruiser is leaving me behind (most likely following) especially when the road gets fun (umm twisty). most likely you like so many here will keep this bike (or buy another after deeply regretting selling one)for as long riding. Buy it ride it enjoy it be ready for the attention it brings.
"Got the wind in my face the road goes on for miles...."
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964
Stickman Yogi
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Stickman Yogi
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964 |
Some bikes end up being classics... this is one of 'em.
Live to love, love to live.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10 |
Good Choice
Dinosaur.
"Oh Man I only ride 'em.I don't know what makes 'em work". Donald "Oddball" Sutherland
"Don't let the bastards get you down". Kris Kristofferson
"I am only paranoid because everyone is against me". Larry [Frank Burns] Linville
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 144
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 144 |
I came to the 'America, after a lifetime of sports bikes. Realised that the days of the 'road-rockets' and blasting around are over to say nothing about retaining my licence. I have never owned a bike that gives me more pleasure in a safe and law-abiding (generally)  way. Its a great bike to personalise, its not expensive to run and its British, with a US twist. Just get used to the admirers 
My girlfriend thinks I'm a stalker...
Well, she's not actually my girlfriend yet.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 5 |
Haha Bugbear that pic is awesome. I really appreciate all the feedback that you guys have given. It's good to know that there's an active community focused on these bikes!
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 125
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 125 |
My '03 America is my first bike ever. I have never rode a motorcycle before either. I took the MSF course and then the weekend following I bought my America. I had the same thought as you, the second I sat on her it just felt right! She's balanced, nimble, forgiving, fast when you want her to be and controlled in the lower end. She's an all around great bike! I think this will probably be my first and last bike (in a good way). I gotta be honest, I wouldn't even trade my '03 America for a newer one (sorry guys). This one is mine for ever!
Last edited by QuantumSchema; 05/28/2011 11:33 AM.
2003 Caspian Blue America: Rush Exhaust, FREAK Kit, Almost Chrome Everything, 150/80/15 and 120/90/18 WWW, 18T and 42T Gears, Speedy Tach.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 125
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 125 |
Quote:
I love this picture!!!!!!
It definitely shows what I've been trying to describe to people about owning a Triumph!
2003 Caspian Blue America: Rush Exhaust, FREAK Kit, Almost Chrome Everything, 150/80/15 and 120/90/18 WWW, 18T and 42T Gears, Speedy Tach.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 144
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 144 |
The guy with the chain hanging out of his pocket owns a 94HD FLSTC classic in beautiful condition and after a weekend of riding with us was well impressed. Another pic from the same weekend pretty mixed bunch of bikes. 
My girlfriend thinks I'm a stalker...
Well, she's not actually my girlfriend yet.
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 231
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 231 |
My 02 America wasn't my first bike, but its gonna be the last one. Its awesome.
Send lawyers, guns and money, cause the sh*t has hit the fan!
-W. Zevon
2020 Bud Ekins T100
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Re: First Bike
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Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 538
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 538 |
Love my 08 speedMASTER BUT sorry its not going to the last..Great thing about Triumph are they don't cost a arm and leg to run soo I can SAVE UP to get a Road Glide or Street Glide
Are we there YET? I gotta go pee!!
08 SpeedMASTER, Black and Red!
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