I thought the article was pretty accurate but written a little tongue-in-cheek coupled with a little hyperbole to make for an interesting read. I know why some would be offended concerning some of the remarks because you just dropped a couple grand more than a comparable SuzukiYamaHOndaKawasaki of a similar displacement…which I would add does boast more HP and get-up-and-go than the Bonnie. However, those bikes just are one in a sea of “plastic†chromed, non-inspiring junk. IMHO.
I have never ridden the TBA but I have ridden the speedmaster and wrote a review about a year ago. My observations were as followed:
1.) Lacked umph at highway speeds. Let’s face it guys/gals, the single most discussed topic on any Bonneville-based forum is how to improve the HP on these bikes.
2.) I thought the bike handled GREAT! I am surprised that the TBA could be that much worse than a Speedmaster so he must be comparing that aspect to a crotch-rocket.
3.) Much more action in the shifting department than I am used to. In my recent past I have owned a Suzuki Intruder 800 and a 92cu Victory cruiser and am spoiled by keeping the bikes in a higher gear and just rolling on the throttle. Why do I want a SM or TBA? The Victory handles slightly better than a firetruck and the Intruder is just plain ugly. I am willing to sacrifice Umph for a great looking bike that has character in spades. Which, by the way, the Intruder sorely lacks!. If I want speed and handling in a bike a Ducati will fit the bill--anything but a SuzukiYamahondakawasaki!
My 2 cents.
Last edited by schwartzkm; 10/13/2005 7:34 PM.
