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Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
#125199 01/21/2007 2:56 PM
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I was on this site about 2 years ago seriously interested in buying a Speedmaster. I ended up buying a Kawasaki Mean Streak 1600, instead. I still cannot get the SM out of my mind after all this time. I recently rode my Dad's Honda Ace 750 and had a really fun time on it. Don't get me wrong, the Mean Streak is awesome, but I want something different and something lighter. Please answer these question for me:
Has anyone compared 1/4 mile times between the old 790cc and the new 865cc?
Has anyone rode significant distance 2 up on the SM or America?
What would be the complete cost of install on a Big Bore kit?
Anyone had any major mechanical problems with their bikes?

Last month I went to Triumph Detroit and I am very serious about buying one, but I need that last little nudge.

Thanks everyone! Great site!

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125200 01/21/2007 3:09 PM
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superscythe,

I really can not answer any of your questions as I have an America, but welcome to the site.

Your questions will get answered. Good like and agian welcome to our site.

John


John 06 America Mulberry\Silver "Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time"
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125201 01/21/2007 3:11 PM
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Lane, bought my '05 America in February of '06 (sorry, not a SM, but basically the same bike) and have not regretted a minute. The front tire wore out at about 8,000 miles, and I lost an igniter around 11,000 miles, which was quickly remedied by my local Triumph dealer. The rear tire has about 400 miles left on it at 13,000 miles, but other than that, I have had absolutely no problems with her. The dealer up in Chattanooga Tennessee apparently had problems assembling the bike, as a side panel was broken, and the tank plate (chrome) was forced on, twisting one of the nut plates, I almost did'nt get it off to install my tank bra, but that was a dealer thing. If you opt to get the great price from Southern Power Sports, in Chattanooga, TN....Take extra care to check the assembly of the bike. I have not rode a significant distance 2 up on her, but do ride my son quite a bit on back, and it feels like he's not even back there (he's 14 and weighs about 90 pounds). Not interested in the "big bore" kit, as she has plenty of power for me, so I don't know about that. I am very pleased with my bike, and love her more everyday....would'nt trade her for anything.....doc

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125202 01/21/2007 4:10 PM
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Quote:

Has anyone compared 1/4 mile times between the old 790cc and the new 865cc?



About the same actually.
Quote:

Has anyone rode significant distance 2 up on the SM or America?



Ask moe about that one. I have ridden mine solo from NY to Georgia three times now.
Quote:

What would be the complete cost of install on a Big Bore kit?



Wiseco parts - $500
Machine shop work - $300
Misc parts - $100
Shop labor if you don't do it - ~$600+up

I heard of someone a while back (search the old threads) about someone that was doing the whole job for about $1500 I think it was.
Quote:

Anyone had any major mechanical problems with their bikes



They are pretty bullet proof.


A word to the wise is not necessary. It is the stupid ones who need the advice. Pat
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Dinqua #125203 01/21/2007 5:39 PM
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FACT: If you can look at a speedmaster (or an america) and have that itch to just jump on it and ride, then you will own one one day. Just a matter of time.

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
alabama_al #125204 01/21/2007 5:42 PM
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You've fought the yearning to buy one for two years?

How?

I saw my 03 and that was it. I hadn't passed my test at the time and was not even looking for a new bike...

Go and get one. You'll wonder why you took so long getting it....


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....
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125205 01/21/2007 5:50 PM
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*Looks at post's topic* Buy a speedmaster, or me 'n' the boys're gonna come round your place and get medieval on yo' ******!

Quote:

I still cannot get the SM out of my mind after all this time.




You're showing all the signs of Triumphamania - only cure is to go out and buy one immediately and forsake all other brands!

Quote:

Has anyone compared 1/4 mile times between the old 790cc and the new 865cc?


Not directly - but the 865 feels like it's got a little crisper throttle response when in stock, but very much the same overall. That's just from the "seat of the pants dyno test"... your results may differ.

Quote:

Has anyone rode significant distance 2 up on the SM or America?



How far do you consider significant? I regularly ride two-up on 4-6 hour day trips through any twisties I can find. Obviously the performance is better one-up, but my america still breezes comfortably through the trip with a passenger. More comfortable for the pillion with a back rest and the touring pad. There's a 1 piece touring seat available too if you don't like the america's dual seats. I don't imagine a pillion spending any real time on the back of one of those gunfighter seats the speedys have would be too comfy, specially without the backrest.

Quote:

What would be the complete cost of install on a Big Bore kit?



More than I can justify spending.

Quote:

Anyone had any major mechanical problems with their bikes?



Only when I bounced it off a traffic island at 35mph. Ouch.

Quote:

Last month I went to Triumph Detroit and I am very serious about buying one, but I need that last little nudge.



*nudge*nudge*

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Sandmann #125206 01/21/2007 6:15 PM
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As far as 2 up riding, I don't think my wife would ride really all that far anyway. We are both 5'9, I weigh about 200 and she weighs about 140. She probably would not ride more than 100 miles each way on the bike. I would get the America two person seat and a backrest for her, anyway. Does that sound reasonable for the comfort on the SM or BA?
By the way, for those that have changed to a 19 tooth front sprocket, what is your RPM at 60 MPH?

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125207 01/21/2007 6:22 PM
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Ive had my speedmaster nearly two years and have never regretted buying it.


Been there, Done that, Cant remember why! http://www.flickr.com/photos/12897423@N00/sets
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Hedgehog #125208 01/21/2007 6:31 PM
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Superscythe, I have the 19t sprocket but did not look at my tach since I installed it(shift by ear). When the weather clears I will let you know......Angelis


1200CC BIG BORE, W/WISECO PISTONS,.250 STROKED CRANK, PORTED/POLISHED HEADS AND LARGER VALVES, CUSTOM WELDED EXHUAST, DUAL 42MM MIKUNI CARBS.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Hedgehog #125209 01/21/2007 6:36 PM
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I've done a 1,700 mile trip 2 up with the stock America seats and a tall sissybar on my Speedmaster. I'm afraid though if I put some luxury like a touring seat on it she might get too comfortable. Hey, I already block most of the wind for her, what more does she need?

I did get a Harley Road King pad and back rest modded for her to fit my bike, but she said that seat was too wide, so it was back to the America pillion pad. I've since taken her on a trip to Mexico and she said it was much better. Pegs make a big difference. Get some kind of platform for her feet to rest on. I've got Kuryakyn pilot pegs on the back and that really helped. Iso wings are even bigger.

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125210 01/21/2007 7:54 PM
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I bought my 03 America new in May of 04. 24,000 miles with no problems. I've done most of the cheap and easy upgrades but will probably not buy a big bore kit. How it runs two up depends largely on how much weight you're carrying. If you weigh 275 lbs and your passenger weighs 200 it will probably not be good enough. On the other hand, if you total out at 350 or so there's plenty of umph. I had to bring a buddy back home after his Intruder died on a trip and we two porkers were well over the max recommended weight. NOT a good trip But when I've grossed out (relative term ) at less than 400 it's run just fine. That's with a 790 with a drilled out airbox, 132 mains, and TORs.


We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125211 01/21/2007 7:55 PM
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Quote:

Has anyone rode significant distance 2 up on the SM or America?



Well I'm really really fat so it's like I'm riding two up all by myself all the time. Only being able to ride 1/2 to 2/3rds of the year I've put on over 30k in 5 years. I've done a fair amount of touring on the bike even though others put me to shame on distance. I've been to Sturgis once, British Columbia a few times and toured around Idaho a couple times. I can ride from here to Spokane (315 mi as the crow flies but probably over 400 the way I go, avoiding the superslab) at the drop of a hat without thinking twice about comfort. I can keep up with just about any other cruiser in the twisties. I did lose a drag race once to a buddy on a 1300cc VTX who weighs barely more than half what I weigh, but straight lines are boooooring, anyway. Someday, when I have enough vacation time built up, I'm going to ride down to southern California to visit my family. That'll be a nice little trip. Of course, I think Nobby has us all beat for roadtrips.

So what I'm sayin' is BUY THE BIKE. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.


BA.com Caretaker | Friarsride | jb.com
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125212 01/21/2007 7:57 PM
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Oh yeah, RIDE ONE. If it doesn't make you smile it's probably not for you. Mine just felt right from the very first moment


We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125213 01/21/2007 8:31 PM
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Quote:

As far as 2 up riding, I don't think my wife would ride really all that far anyway. We are both 5'9, I weigh about 200 and she weighs about 140. She probably would not ride more than 100 miles each way on the bike. I would get the America two person seat and a backrest for her, anyway. Does that sound reasonable for the comfort on the SM or BA?
By the way, for those that have changed to a 19 tooth front sprocket, what is your RPM at 60 MPH?



I'm 6', 250 and the little lady clocks in aroudn 150 give or take a heavy jacket and two up is no problem with the 18 tooth sprocket.


Benny Black & Silver '02 Too many mods to list Not enough miles ridden
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125214 01/21/2007 9:08 PM
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I run a 19T sprocket and don't shift into top gear til past 70mph, so don't worry about rpms......

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125215 01/21/2007 10:24 PM
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Quote:

By the way, for those that have changed to a 19 tooth front sprocket, what is your RPM at 60 MPH?




My Speedy came with a 16t sprocket. That gave me about 3700 rpms at 60mph. I went to an 18t, which now gives me about 3300 rpms at 60, and about 4000 at 75. With a 19t you would be at about 3100 rpms at 60mph. The powerband really kicks in from 3500 and upward. If it was me, I'd stick with an 18t or less for serious two-up riding. I'm 230lbs and always ride solo, and I don't think I'd be happy with a 19t.

Regards,
Cody


I was born a long ways from where I was supposed to be. - Bob Dylan
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Cody #125216 01/21/2007 10:46 PM
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Stick with a 17 or 18 tooth sprocket for two up riding. I use a 17 tooth. As it is, my top speed is the same in 4th. and 5th. gear (110MPH) indicated. Wind resistance limits the top speed in fifth gear. I weigh 230 lbs. With a 19 tooth sprocket fifth gear would be wimpy and not as useful for me. I do not even use fifth gear for spirited riding.

Buy the Speedmaster, you will never regret it. Now is the time to buy a leftover 2006. Check Life Cycle in Kazoo also, they have some leftovers on their website right now. You can get out to the door, tax included for the sticker price when there is snow on the ground.

Good luck.


2007 FJR 1300 2007 V-Strom DL1000 2007 ST 1300 2007 Scrambler
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
BanjoBart #125217 01/21/2007 11:10 PM
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2900 RPM 60MPH in 5th with a 19T front sprocket. My 5th is not wimpy with a 19t, I am over 120MPH, it doesnt stop at 110MPH. Given 20 more horses with the big bore and some other mods it will have a monster top end for a little cruiser.

Mid 14s in the 1/4 both models. Speedmaster gets up fast but America comes on strong on the last 1/8th mi. They are about even.


I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125218 01/21/2007 11:13 PM
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I own several bikes, and I have to tell you my 03 America is the funnest bike I own. It has never been back to the dealer, absolutely no issues with it. Just do the regular maintenance and she be good. As far as touring, the wife says no, but I have a dedicated touring bike for her. The cruiser I had was all bling and sound, and every one has one. As far as I know, I have the ONLY ONE in this area of California. Most people really don't understand.

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
ANGELIS745 #125219 01/21/2007 11:21 PM
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just go test drive one.
good luck

mike


2006 neon blue speedmaster
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
mike57 #125220 01/22/2007 12:07 AM
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buy the bike, you will not regret it.


Warren 04 Caspian Blue and Silver America
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
AngusPT #125221 01/22/2007 8:15 AM
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once you ride one theres no convincing needed

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
grumps #125222 01/22/2007 9:47 AM
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You know how you buy something and at first you're happy but over time you want something else. That hasn't happened with my America. The longer I have it the more I love the bike. You can't find another bike that will bring that much enjoyment and attention for the price.

Last edited by Fishercat; 01/22/2007 11:46 AM.

Live Free or Die Velvet
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
grumps #125223 01/22/2007 9:48 AM
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Any of you Michigan or area riders, what has been your experience with any of the Michigan Triumph dealers? I think there are ones in Traverse City, Detroit, and Kalamazoo. I thought there was a dealer in Lansing that was selling them starting this year, too.

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125224 01/22/2007 10:23 AM
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Never bought a bike from them but I lived in kalamazoo for six years, hence my log in ID, and the guys at the kzoo store were pretty nice and seemed to know what they were doing. Small little store, a little old school. At the time they didn't have many bikes but I haven't been there in 3 years so things could have changed. Loved Michigan though, GO WMU BRONCOS!!

I bought a black '06 Speedy with BUB pipes about 2 months ago and it is awesome!! Best bike I have ever ridden! You will absolutely love it and the attention/conversations you get while ridding it. You HAVE to get an aftermarket exhaut for it right out of the box though or you won't be happy with the stock sewing machine sound. With the pipes, awesome! I love my BUB's and for $377 through British Customs and a few after market accessories through newspeedmaster.com, well lets just say riding has never been more fun!!!

Last edited by kzoorob; 01/22/2007 10:35 AM.

Black '06 Speedmaster, BUB of course.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
kzoorob #125225 01/22/2007 1:29 PM
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Unfortunately, I am one of those people that buys a bike and gets bored with it within 2 years. That is why I have only bought 2 brand new bikes in my life (lose too much money). However, I feel there is hope for me. I used to do the same with cars, until I bought a Jeep Cherokee. I have now owned 8 Jeep Cherokees and don't drive anything else. (although my next purchase may be a Dodge Nitro). I really just want to find a bike that I really like and stick with it. Maybe just change the paint and accessories once in a while. I have owned 3 Honda Magna's, and I have considered buying another one of those. I don't subscribe to bigger is better. My Mean Steak is great, but I prefer a bike around 550lbs, wet.

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125226 01/22/2007 1:51 PM
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"I really just want to find a bike that I really like and stick with it. "

Then you've found your bike my man. Nothing against any other bikes; if its two wheels and your not an a--hole your ok in my book, but if you've never owned a Triumph.... well you just have to. Its at least as "cool" as a Harley, has a great pedigree and its unbelievably fun to ride. Great handling, comfortable, and sound as well. I to owned a Cherokee and it is was no where near as cool or as fun as my speedy. It seems like everytime I stop at a red light the bike next to me says something like "awesome bike" or " I used to have a booney, wish I'd have never gotten rid of her (a couple of HD riders)" or a car will roll down their window and say "nice bike, I love it" Triumphs are truly original all across the bike line. Its hard to imagine anyone ever getting tired of one. Trust me, take the plunge head first, you won't be dissapointed!!

I thought about buying an HD or a honda 1300C before I got my bike but I am soooo glad I got the speedy. Have you ever sat on one? If not, go find one thats all it will take. To me it fit like a glove and from then on I just couldn't get anything else, period.


Black '06 Speedmaster, BUB of course.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
kzoorob #125227 01/22/2007 3:42 PM
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Yes, these bikes are great. It only takes a couple small mods to make them louder and faster too. I have spent very little additional money to get nice results. Besides, I hear fellow Detroiter Kid Rock has an America, so you'd be in good company. I believe a band member or friend of the band worked at the Roseville dealer. (herd this awhile ago, please correct if bad info.)
jeff

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125228 01/22/2007 4:05 PM
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super,
Now you're talking something I can relate too. My wife has a Magna and I ride both bikes. I really like the Magna a lot, it is fast, nimble and fun. But the Speedmaster is even more fun, it also has a lot more character that the Magna just doesn't have.
If you liked the Magnas, I pretty much guarantee you will love the Speedmasters.


A word to the wise is not necessary. It is the stupid ones who need the advice. Pat
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Dinqua #125229 01/22/2007 4:35 PM
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Dinqua-
I know this almost isn't fair, but how quick is the SM compared to the Magna. I loved the fit of the Magna, but missed some of the slow speed driveability of a V-twin. The SM might be a good compromise. Plus, the Magna's gas tank is much too small and regularly hit reserve at around 110 miles. A comparison between the Magna and SM would be extremely helpful in my decision, if you wouldn't mind.
Thanks

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125230 01/22/2007 4:44 PM
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Quote:

Dinqua-
I know this almost isn't fair, but how quick is the SM compared to the Magna.




that's like comparing a Jane to a Pat


allhailthefrenchpress
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125231 01/22/2007 5:02 PM
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Lane,
To be honest, the Magna is a tad bit quicker than the Speedmaster (even with my big bore). But having a red line at 10k is the reason behind that. Besides, no way 2 cylinders can outperform 4 cylinders/ 4 carbs of comparable size.
The range on the SM is a little farther as it has a 4.4 gallon tank compared to the Magna, but we usually gas up around 110 anyway just to be safe and not end up pushing bikes.
Also, many of the cosmetic bits available for the Magnas will bolt on the Speedys too. Jane and I have identical Iso-grips and I know the saddle bag brackets fit too. So do the mirrors.

Oh yea, Mert


A word to the wise is not necessary. It is the stupid ones who need the advice. Pat
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Fishercat #125232 01/22/2007 8:49 PM
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Quote:

You know how you buy something and at first you're happy but over time you want something else. That hasn't happened with my America. The longer I have it the more I love the bike. You can't find another bike that will bring that much enjoyment and attention for the price.




Dido, I saw an '05 America last June on a ride, following week went to the dealer and looked at an '06, sat on it, bought it, never looked back !


06 TBA Mulberry Red/Silver (SOLD!! 2010 Thunderbird LE 1700 :-) "We eat, sleep, breath, dream, live, love, and ride motorcycles ..."
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125233 01/22/2007 11:08 PM
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Quote:

Unfortunately, I am one of those people that buys a bike and gets bored with it within 2 years.



Hi Lane,
I gotta add my two cents here. I have always gotten bored with new bikes too. BUT, in December 2001, I received a call from the Triumph dealer that my bike was in, and would be ready for pickup the next afternoon. I had ordered a black America with the silver trim. When I arrived to pick it up, they informed me that my bike was solid black and that's the first one they'd seen without the silver swoosh on the tank. I looked at it and liked it. I told the dude I'd take it anyway. As I turned around, I saw this glistening Cardinal Red motorcicle screaming my name. I said, "Oh, that's sweet". Dude said it was not spoken for and I told him I'd rather have it.
I have not been sorry one minute. This is the best motorcycle I've ever owned. I've owned them all (remember i get tired of motorcycles quickly). No problems or breakdowns other than flat tires with my America. Absolutely flawless handling, great power band and comfort. If you gotta have more power, jump to a Rocket3. These bikes are the most laid back, comfortable rides in the world. You will not tire of this machine.
When I got home, my wife named her when she said, "Oh, she's a "Vera". I thought yes, that's it. Vera was the name of an old sweetheart and I liked it. But that name I did tire of, and I recently renamed the bike "Rosie" due to nothing but color.
I will tell you that there are two things I don't like about this bike: 1) Forward controls should be added to a bike, not manufactured into it. (easily fixed with additional pegs added under your butt for long distance riding). 2) I don't like chains. As far as the forward controls, the perfect geometry for a rider is a bike you can ride at 50 mph, let go of bars and stand up on it. I couldn't do that until I added the middle pegs. Now, all is right with the world.
I forgot to mention: Everywhere we go, I find people staring at her, talking about her, lusting after her. I get jealous at times, but I understand the desire. But she, like my wife, will respond to no man like she does me. I adore them both, and I care for them. (boy, this got weird in a hurry).
Get it, you won't regret it.


Ride Safe, Dennis Triumph, it's how I live and what I ride.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
superscythe #125234 01/22/2007 11:34 PM
Joined: Jun 2006
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Posts: 322
You want pure speed , get a sportbike, like a Triumph Daytona 675 or a Yamaha R6.
For crusing fun, got an America or a Speedmaster.
If you want to haul someone, get her one, too.
They're pretty small bikes, and you can even lower them.
I did ride a 450 Magna, not at all what I expected, but it was an old one. It felt faster than it really was.

You take off some AIS stuff from the Triumph motor, rejet it, add some slip ons, and it's just a fun bike. <G>
Mary

Oh yeah... I've got three basebats here... you've got your choice of being knocked upside the head with aluminum or ceramic...there... is that enuf convincing?

Last edited by Krashdragon; 01/22/2007 11:38 PM.

Krashdagon aka Snappy
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Krashdragon #125235 01/22/2007 11:43 PM
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,806
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I seem to remember a magna taking about 30 triumphs on a 75 mph ride through some very twisty roads or was that in another life??


Chris

Pain heals, Chicks dig scars, and Glory last forever.
Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
stern12 #125236 01/23/2007 8:00 AM
Joined: Jan 2005
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Bought my SM Sept 04, 25,000 miles and no problems. I may own other MCs in my life but I will never sell the SM.

Honda, Kaw, Yam, Suz, all make great machines. Triumph makes motorcycles, and you can not understand the prior statement unless you own one.

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
bogie #125237 01/23/2007 10:08 AM
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971
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There are two methods to cure your woes:

less thinking
and
more Speedmaster buying
;-)

````````````````````````

And part II:

You can't be too rich, too healthy, or own too many motorcycles

`````````````````````````````````

I own an '05 Speedie - I'd gladly give it away to-
(whoever wrassles it out of my cold dead fingers)

Even non-bike folk remark upon the looks of these Triumphs.
One guy said "You know, that bike is probably worth a lot of money."
I replied, "Yeah, especially since it was built at the turn of the century."

Re: Please, convince me to buy a Speedmaster.
Bucky #125238 01/23/2007 10:41 AM
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 999
3/4 Throttle
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Posts: 999
I only ride two up; the biggest problem was the seat had to change it out as the wife could not sit on the standard. Had to change the pipes as I did not like the sound rejected and had it Dyno tuned. The way it is now we did a nine hour trip no problems and will be doing it again this March.



The invisible One
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