Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge Triumph America Handling

I'm trying to get some sort of idea about the handling characteristics of the Triumph America.
The only motorcycle I've ever owned was a Suzuki Boulevard C50 800cc.

How would the Triumph America handle compared with the Boulevard?

Regards,
-Ward

Not sure of the comparison part,what I have gathered from the guys on here who have had both is the Triumph handles better. I find it handles very well in the twisties, either version,America or Speedmaster. The SM comes geared slightly lower giving better low end torque while the America will run lower RPMs at highway speeds. Just a matter of sprockets to change that. The SM has better breaking but I ride both bikes and in actual stopping power I don't notice any difference since you can lock the front wheel on either one.(not a good idea to try that) Both bikes hold the corners very well,well enough to scrape pipes or foot pegs on the ground if you are agressive enough. The power to weight ratio seems better but I never rode a Boulevard so I can't say from experience just from what others have said. I am sure a couple members who have owned the Boulevard can give you a more detailed impression and comparison all I can do is tell you is after 30 years of riding I love my SM.

Thanks for your input Dog.

Regards,
-Ward

I would say better. Becuase the Boulevard weighs more and the v-twin configuration makes it hang a little lower. I'm not sure if it has floor boards or not, but those can drag also. The America is based on the Bonneville which handles really well, that's why ours do also.

I think center of gravity will be about the same. Turning radius should be almost identical. In short you will drive the America not noticing any changes until you twist the throttle. The chain drive over shaft and more horses will make is jump more at low end. Where the shaft pushed down on the road making the bike feel like it lifted a bit, chains don't do that.

In a week you will not notice any difference.

handles way better. my friend has a c50 before he got his victory and he could not even come close when we were in the twisties

Frank

The c50 is suprisingly pretty decent in the twisties. I had one. But the speedmaster that I now have is WAY better.

It's better on the highway as well. I did a recent trip from eastern up state NY to/from Boston and the speedmaster did VERY well. It's not "plushy" as the c50 but engine wise, I like it much better.

The ride is a little stiffer and VERY low speed handling is different because of the increased rake but all and all, the speedmaster is a much better bike in my opinion.

I had the c50 for a couple of riding seasons so if you have any questions, let me know.

I am also a member at the VR.

Don't know anything about the other bike, but our americas are great, forgiving, and handle very well in the turns.

very slow speed handling still makes my palms sweat.....