 New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2 |
Hi folks. Newbie, getting late start at 59, ready to purchase my first bike. Have never owned a bike and have taken the MSF course. Have been reading these forums for a few weeks, and have enjoyed all of the advice and knowledge of the members. I have been looking for awhile and have determined that the Triumph is a good bike, and not as expensive as a Harley, and will hold its value quite well. Which is the better buy, an America, Speedmaster? Is it as good highway bike? America seems to be a bit more comfy to me, but I was told the Speedmaster has a bit more power, but that is the least of my concerns, being a first bike. I appreciate any feedback. Hoping to buy this weekend. Thank you all and ride safe.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,726
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,726 |
Welcome to the site Wayne. If you buying a new bike there is no difference in performace of the two bikes. I don't think resale value varies to any degree either. Both are great bikes, if you feel the America is more comfortable, buy it. You should buy the one YOU like best. All the add on accessories are interchangible. I love riding my bike around town and on the highway. If you end up riding with all Harleys, like I do, you'll enjoy get all the attention everywhere you go.
Bob
2005 America, 904cc - sold. 2014 Trophy SE.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2 |
With the touring seat and sissy bar, with saddlebags and sissy bar travel bag, we just returned from a 2-up 600-mile weekend trip on the Speedmaster. Most of it was slab riding at an indicated 80 MPH.
You can't go wrong, both bikes are great.
Ride safe and enjoy!
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 220
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 220 |
Welcome.
Either bike is great, but your personal comfort should be the determining factor.
I share your thoughts on Triumph being a smart purchase.
I don't do a lot of highway riding but think my Speedy is wonderfully suited for cruising country roads or impressing folks around town.
Gerry
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,836 Likes: 5
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,836 Likes: 5 |
From one golden-ager to another,
You are certainly old and wise enough to know that there is no economically sound approach to anything with either brakes or breasts. The pursuit of anything with either attribute is to be based on desire, passion, and of course ‘fit’. You need to find what does those best for you and that’s your choice. I will say the BA seat has it all over the SM seat in versatility, and if you chose a SM, the dealer should be willing to swap seats. As for resale value – At your age don’t fuss about it, let your heirs worry about it.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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 Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,626
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 2,626 |
Steelheart- '03 Speedmaster Black/Yellow
The Hayabusa Killa
16" Shorties/140 mains/Airbox drilled
Procom CDI
"There is no cure for Celibacy. But we can treat the symptoms."
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3
Old Hand
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Old Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3 |
There are just 2 significant differences, they way they look and the way you sit. If you pick the one that you feel most comfortable on, the difference in looks won't matter because you can't really see all that much of the bike from the seat. Once you decide, it is very important to immediately start planning the longest possible route home because you won't want to get off the bike anytime soon. 
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,806
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,806 |
The Speedmaster just didnt fit me as well as the America. I loved both bikes, but the Amrica felt like it was built for me. You cant go wrong with either choice but buy the one that feels like it part of you
Chris
Pain heals, Chicks dig scars, and Glory last forever.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 338 Likes: 8
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 338 Likes: 8 |
DITTO!  AmyLee
AmyLee
'02 America, Cardinal Red,
2018 Speedmaster
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 760
3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 760 |
Welcome Pard. You started younger than I did. (62) The SpeedMaster has been a great first and probably last bike for me. If I was rich I would add one or two, but not get rid of my speedy. Dave 
04 SpeedMaster, Windvest Screen, Leatherworks Bags.
F&AM, WM 3 times
Rifle & Pistol Competitor
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 608
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 608 |
A consortium of scientists from Harvard, Princeton and Yale have found that the average IQ of the America rider is a full 15 points higher than that of the Speedmaster rider. Furthermore, researchers at the Masters and Johnson clinic have shown that America riders are 85% more attractive to the opposite sex than Speedy riders - who coincidentally turn out to be 85% more attractive to same-sex individuals than America riders. But don't let this in anyway affect your choice
If life wasn't so pointless and absurd, I would take it more seriously.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 122
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 122 |
Buy either one, I personally went with the America. I notice with age comes wisdom and you have exhibited it by not buying a Harley. You will be much happier with a Triumph and it will cost you less in money and @#%*#@!! in the long haul. Run don't walk to get one. Welcome.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97
Member
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Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97 |
I, too, am a "new" soon-to-be rider (not counting the 1.5 years I rode a Honda 360 in the 70's), and also in my ripe 50's. I've also been devouring all the info in this great forum for the past several weeks, especially reading about all the mods suggested. Now, envisioning buying an America, either brand new or slightly used, and being financially-limited, I'm wondering what the minimal absolute must changes/upgrades are. I've read about removing the AI and rejetting. This seems necessary. What should it cost? And, I've read tons about different pipes. Now, I'm not interested in increased loudness (been there, done that, with cars, sorry, cages!), but I've seen several negatives on the sounds of stock pipes (if they sound so terrible, why does Triumph use them?). Other additions I would want immediately are the light bar and an "invisible" windshield (without the CHIPS look).
Hopefully, my reply adds to the quality of this thread. And, I hope the starter (Wayne?) can benefit, as well as others. Good luck with your purchase!
JZ
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,138
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,138 |
JZ, All of us started off from the same place you are right now, so do not let it overwhelm you.  The AI has to go and that is a bare bones mod and will only cost you a few bucks.  Pipes can and will cost you big time money, my suggestion is try to hook up with as many Triumph owners you can and just listen to their bikes. Come to NH rally and experice them all. In the mean time knock out two baffles out of the stock ones and the sound will be acceptable.  If you have limited resources do the performance mod's first get the bike to where you like it then do the cosmetics after.  Good luck and welcome to the site. PS: Do not try to outspend Uncle Charlie he can outspend GOD he buys two of everything. 
John 06 America Mulberry\Silver
"Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time"
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97
Member
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Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97 |
>> In the mean time knock out two baffles out of the stock ones and the sound will be acceptable.
First, thanks for the reply!
Re: knocking out two baffles- how is this done? Will the dealer do it? And, how much can I expect to pay for this? Or, is this something an average mechanically-inclined person can do?
>> Come to NH rally...
When and where is this rally?!
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,664
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,664 |
Welcome, I love my America and you will to. Either bike is a good choice. Both bikes have forward controls and that is a little uncomfortable on long trips, unless you get some pegs that put your feet under your knees. There are some available StreetBoogie or you can make some like several other members.
Ride Safe,
Dennis
Triumph, it's how I live and what I ride.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97
Member
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Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97 |
Quote:
Welcome,
I love my America and you will to. Either bike is a good choice. Both bikes have forward controls and that is a little uncomfortable on long trips, unless you get some pegs that put your feet under your knees. There are some available StreetBoogie or you can make some like several other members.
Appreciated!
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,138
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,138 |
John,
You can do it yourself for nothing take you all about 15 minutes if you work slow.
The baffles are held in with three tack welds. The easiest way to do is to get a 24" piece of re-bar and grind down one end to make it look like a chisle. Use a flashlight to locate the welds and line up your home made chisle and one or two good whacks with a hammer and then just move on to the next one.
The fronts are easy the second set once you get them free you will have to fish them out with a coat hanger.
The re-bar you can get at Home Depot for .50 cent for a 24" piece.
The NH rally is the weekend of Aug 2 in Litchfield, NH. RobBA05 hosts it. We will most likely have 30 to 40 America's and Speedies along with a few Yamaha's and Harleys.
It is a great time to meet your fellow BA members talk bikes, get ideas and have some tech work done to your bike and take some real nice rides, BBQ and drink vast quanties of beer, shine and scotch.
Go to Rides and Rallies and look for NH Rally and all the info will be their. You can camp out in Rob's yard or grab a nearby hotel.
Alot of guys bring their wifes or girlfriends.
John 06 America Mulberry\Silver
"Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time"
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 4
Complete Newb
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Complete Newb
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 4 |
This is my first post on this site as I just found out about it a couple of weeks ago. I have owned my America for just over one year. I have just entered my 50's..lol. I have not done anything to the engine except required maintenance. It runs like a charm(just finished a 1500 mile round trip without a hitch). I would not be in any hurry to do anything. Buy it, ride it, talk to owners, and then decide where to spend your money. I have added a windshield, light bar, sissy bar, luggage rack, some Willie and Max Saddlebags, and a chrome chain guard. I intend to add the engine guards, highway pegs, chrome valve covers, move the front turn signals to the fork, and replace the stock hand grips with some ISO ones. These are all reasonablly priced upgrades though. I think my next really major purchases might be the mag wheel upgrade(790 dollars for just the kit). I like that look on the 2007 models(the upgrade kit is not the same rim as the 2007, but I like that type of look). I have thought about getting the the jets in the carburetor replaced, but that requires a different muffler which is louder(I am told). Not sure I want to do that.
Be Safe,
Sam
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97
Member
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Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97 |
Thank you. Really, thanks!
This is exactly what I expected to learn "in a nutshell"! This forum is an overwhelming wealth of info which can get confusing at times. But, this does it!
Until I get my "TBA"!
I am...
JohnnyZ
see ya, and thanks...
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97
Member
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Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 97 |
I just realized that, besides all the info in here, there are a ton of great stories! Photos too. Great stuff!
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 Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,425
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,425 |
if you dont want real loud but a mussely rumble, check out the BUBB pipes. not greatly loud like depters, but not wimpy like the stock ones. at idle is is mellow power sound. If you have everything stock, i would say the least of the changes would be removing the AI. get a uni filter replacement (low$$) and bigger main/slow jets. you will not regret it. I noticed a diff immieadatly.
Mal: "Y'all see the man hanging out of the spaceship with the really big gun?{ref, Jayne} Man's lookin' to kill some folk. So really, it's his will y'all should worry about thwarting."
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 386
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 386 |
Quote:
...Once you decide, it is very important to immediately start planning the longest possible route home because you won't want to get off the bike anytime soon...
So true. When I bought my BA I told the wife it would save on gas but I enjoy riding it so much that it takes me 15 min to get to work but an hour to get home. I'm guessing I burn just as much as in my truck straight to work and back! 
1982 Pontiac Trans Am...K.I.T.T. in progress.
"It looks like Darth Vaders bathroom in here..."
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 404
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 404 |
I am also a senior rider. Welcome. Buy what your heart tells you buy. Buy it and enjoy it. I have a Speedy and I love it. 14mths and 18000kms. ye ha!  not
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354 |
Quote:
if you dont want real loud but a mussely rumble, check out the BUBB pipes. not greatly loud like depters, but not wimpy like the stock ones. at idle is is mellow power sound.
If you have everything stock, i would say the least of the changes would be removing the AI. get a uni filter replacement (low$$) and bigger main/slow jets. you will not regret it. I noticed a diff immieadatly.
I'll be ordering my 07 America in the coming weeks. One of the local dealers offers a Performance package where they install unifilter, TORs, tweak the carbs. All for around $800. I was there, a while back, when a new modified SM was being picked up and liked the sound. I'm tempted to order Staintunes instead of the TOR's but I don't want to go hogwild at the start. She will be my first real bike (late 40's) and I'm really looking to the ride.
Blue/White 2007 TBA, Thruxton needles, Unifilter, AI removed, Polaris Bellmouth, Bubs, Nology Coils/wires, Lightbar, Ricor Intiminators, Hagon Nitros, Tall Sissy Bar w/luggage rack, Dart flyscreen & Lowers. 130 Mains, TrueGel Battery MG12-BS.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 220
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 220 |
I ditto Night Rider's comment. I get about 42 mpg but spend more on gas, cuz I can't stop ridin.
Gerry
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,664
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,664 |
Quote:
TORs, tweak the carbs. All for around $800. I was there, a while back, when a new modified SM was being picked up and liked the sound. I'm tempted to order Staintunes instead
I was not happy with the TORs, still too quite and a "slappy" pulse sound. I then bought a pair of stock Speedmaster pipes on ebay for 99 cents. I played with them, and when the tone was deep, they were too loud. I would recommend Staintunes, Speciaty Spares(since you're in Washington) or British Customs Predators. There are video clips on YouTube dot com that have the Predators, and that sound is what I want. But that $800 for the dealer's service will probably not make you happy. Get the SpecialtySpares from Dale for $420 and $35 worth of jets&UNI filter from Brent at NewSpeedmaster and you'll have over $300 left for more goodies. Look at Dinqua's jet calculator on his site - big help.
Ride Safe,
Dennis
Triumph, it's how I live and what I ride.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,193
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,193 |
Dear New Geezers,
I am INSANELY in love with my 06 America... my 7th bike, and it's my absolute favorite of all time. Keeps up just fine with the big boys, even with the 790 engine, which I'd wondered about pre-purchase(coming from 1200 and 1340 HDs).
Totally comfy with a cruiser feel, I love the wider bars, that's one of the main reasons I went with the America vs. Speedmaster- I'd ridden drag bars on several of my bikes, but for the longer hauls, my shoulders would get sore.
The only modification I did (other than customizing my stock seat to get me lower) was to go with the TORS pipes....just louder enough for my 45 yr old Geezerette ears(and I can stil hear the chicka-chicka-chicka of the chain....loving sigh).
Haven't done anything to my AI, and I notice no need...From go I can match any bigger bike now that I've gotten used to the gearing.... and today on the highway riding with a big fat 06 Road King all Screaming Eagle performance kitted up up, I had no problem at 80 on My Pretty Bonnie thinking that I was at the "end" of my power range.
The handling is perfection. And for anyone getting back into riding, or starting with a first bike, they're light enough at 500 lbs. to really be in control of your ride.
"Let your soul shine,
It's better than sunshine,
It's better than moonshine,
****** sure better than rain."
-ABB
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 122
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 122 |
45 and a Geezerette ? Why you have hardly reached middle age... keep on riding.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 201
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 201 |
Wayne, Welcome to the group. I am a newbie too and I bought my Speedmaster just a few weeks ago. I am just getting comfortable with riding a cycle again. For me, I liked the Triumph's looks and history and most importantly the Speedmaster fit me like glove. Also, It seemed like everyone and his brother had a Japanese cruiser or a Harley and I wanted something different. I haven't had mine on the highway a lot but when I have she felt highly capable of touring but, I would probably change seats if I wanted to do two up on her. Like others have mentioned get the one that fits 'YOU' and you won't regret it a bit. Get ready to get positive comments everywhere you go on it. Most of them will be from guys and gals around our age who have memories of all the classic Triumphs. Bob
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354 |
Quote:
Quote:
TORs, tweak the carbs. All for around $800. I was there, a while back, when a new modified SM was being picked up and liked the sound. I'm tempted to order Staintunes instead
I was not happy with the TORs, still too quite and a "slappy" pulse sound. I then bought a pair of stock Speedmaster pipes on ebay for 99 cents. I played with them, and when the tone was deep, they were too loud. I would recommend Staintunes, Speciaty Spares(since you're in Washington) or British Customs Predators. There are video clips on YouTube dot com that have the Predators, and that sound is what I want. But that $800 for the dealer's service will probably not make you happy. Get the SpecialtySpares from Dale for $420 and $35 worth of jets&UNI filter from Brent at NewSpeedmaster and you'll have over $300 left for more goodies. Look at Dinqua's jet calculator on his site - big help.
Skillet,
Thanks for the heads up on the Predators. I might invest in them. However, the Jetting Calculator does not include the Predator Pipes.
Also, does changing the pilot jets and/or shims help? I need to do some more reading.
One other question, with the Freak conversion kit installed, can I still mount the graters?
Thanks
Blue/White 2007 TBA, Thruxton needles, Unifilter, AI removed, Polaris Bellmouth, Bubs, Nology Coils/wires, Lightbar, Ricor Intiminators, Hagon Nitros, Tall Sissy Bar w/luggage rack, Dart flyscreen & Lowers. 130 Mains, TrueGel Battery MG12-BS.
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
Welcome Wayne and go with what feels more comfortable to ride for you on long journeys etc... Enjoy 
Ray(UK)
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2 |
Thank you all for your response, remarks, advice, comments, opinions, and generally positive attitudes regarding the TA. I will be ordering the TA Black this week. Thanks again, and if anyone is ever in Minnesota, give me a shout!
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Re: New purchase
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Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,337
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,337 |
Hey. Congrats and welcome. Quote:
... However, the Jetting Calculator does not include the Predator Pipes...
If you play around with the calculator, you will find most of the aftermarket brand pipes come out about the same. The calculator will get you close. You will need to fine tune from there. Every bike is different with the vacuum Kheins (carbs).
Quote:
... Also, does changing the pilot jets and/or shims help? I need to do some more reading...
If you change exhaust you will more than likely need to rejet. Most of the bikes are lean from the factory. Aftermarket pipes lets it breath better, which makes it even more lean. At the very least, you will need to adjust the idle mix screws. Above all, remove the AI. It will save your pipes from blueing, and if you change the exhaust, you will have horrible backfiring with the AI on the bike.
Quote:
One other question, with the Freak conversion kit installed, can I still mount the graters?
There are four of five flavors of this kit. The one from Brent will accept the cheese graters.
http://www.newspeedmaster.com/html/airbox_removal_kit.html
I don't have any experience with the kits...
peace~
2002 Bandit 1200/ GSXR cams/ 1277 BB Kit/ Holeshot header and can/ 38mm flatslides/ a good head/lotsa hp/lotsa tq- lots of rear tires...
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