 Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Jun 2008
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Thought this group and forum would be best place to ask. I'm looking for honest, open feedback on owning a Triumph. I am seriously looking to buy either an America or Speedster. Have opportunity for what seems pretty good deal on 2007 new models on sale and was considering them on my short list already. I am in Northern Cal, SF Bay Area USA. Given week dollar, import cycle, etc... some things to consider.
1) Honestly, is Triumph a dependable bike if kept up well?
2) If something does go wrong, need repair, etc... are costs going to be really high for parts, etc...?
Obviously almost everyone here are fans, but I'd really appreciate honest input on making an informed decision, especially given it will be owning an "import" from my perspective.
CHEERS!
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Old Hand
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Old Hand
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In 5 years, I've had no problems at all, and I do not baby the bike. It has been well into triple digit speeds many times and that is miles per hour, not those sissy little kms.
Being a completely naked twin, it is much easier to work on than 4's and plastic clad sportbikes, which will save you a fortune in service costs.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Mar 2005
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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My '03 speedmaster was not my choice. It was my late brother's bike. He loved it; I did all maintenance and customization on it. I took ownership following his death. The bike has over 12,000 miles on it and has never skipped a beat. I ride it more then my Fat Boy or any of my other bikes. He was right! 
Strangler
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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I have about 40,000 miles on my America, and the only thing I had to do was adjust the valve shims once. But what pisses me off about this bike is the little vacuum plugs on the intake manifolds. They crack and have to be replaced. I make a trip down to Auto Zone about twice a year to pay 3.00 for those little squirrel condoms!
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
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Just under 20,000 miles on my Speedmaster and not a single mechanical problem. The only problem I did have was a warped front rotor. The dealer replaced both rotors under waranty, so no cost to me. The only operating costs you are going to incur will be oil changes, tires and gas. So just normal stuff.
Soren
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Good points. My other shortlist would be Suzuki Boulevard (C50/M50) or Yamaha VStar/Classic/Custom or Honda Spirit/Aero. Only HD I like is the VROD but out of my price range (my ex-college roommate did design work on the transmission so I'm partial I guess). Something in 650-900cc range, similar cruiser styling - not plastic-clad sports bike for sure!
Thanks
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Jun 2008
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Other question (I'll find out when I go into the dealer, but since I'm online now...):
3) On 2008 model, Triumph website mentions both carburetor and fuel injection - which is it? Is 2007 same as 2008?
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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i have 13,000+ miles on my america,never broke down.a very dependable bike,as they say at micky dee's... i'm lovin it.
stv
GRAND MASTER WIZARD
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Apr 2008
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3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
Joined: Apr 2008
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The only major expenses have been elective (darn that Fast Eddy!). My 2002, has only had oil changes and front brake pad replacement. Nor do I pamper this bike; the roads out this way are rough at best and it has tolerated extreme heat and cold with a fewer complaints than me! I bought this Triumph because my old Triumph (which is still running – it now belongs to a collector) was 17 years-old when I bought it and it ran like a top until I sold it 22 years later.
If it says “Triumph†it has to be good!
I would be unstoppable if not for law enforcement and physics.
2002, Cardinal Red & Silver
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
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Quote:
Other question (I'll find out when I go into the dealer, but since I'm online now...):
3) On 2008 model, Triumph website mentions both carburetor and fuel injection - which is it? Is 2007 same as 2008?
In North America, we wont see fuel injection until the 2009 model year. In Europe and Australia the fuel injected models started with the '08 model year.
Soren
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: May 2007
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Saddle Sore
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Saddle Sore
Joined: May 2007
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14,000 miles and not so much as a cough . Get one . Well , what are you waiting for ?
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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In my 30,000km it's never broken down, only costs being services... IMO you can't go wrong, bullet proof engines and easy to work on if you're that way inclined...Have spent a power of money on mine but that's been my choice, I have to be different and far too many stock Speedies around this neck of the woods, and for that matter very few America's in NZ at all...
05 SM Neon Blue/Black. Thunder Bike Cams & Pipes & Flowed Head. AI&Snork removed, Airbox Mods, 135mains, 42/17T, 140x80x17" TBS Front Wheel
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Quote:
Good points. My other shortlist would be Suzuki Boulevard (C50/M50) or Yamaha VStar/Classic/Custom or Honda Spirit/Aero. Only HD I like is the VROD but out of my price range (my ex-college roommate did design work on the transmission so I'm partial I guess). Something in 650-900cc range, similar cruiser styling - not plastic-clad sports bike for sure!
Thanks
those are also nice bikes, BUT... they are heavier and do not handle nearly as well as my Triumph did. (yeah, had to sell it, needed the $$$) I've ridden all three of those, dependable, yet boring.
Do the recommended AIS stuff (lots of info here in search) It will not only outrun those other bikes, but it's way more fun.
Oh, and you'll get lots of compliments and questions, so if you're really shy, just get a Hardley and no one will notice you. I can say that cause I still have a Harley...
mary 
Krashdagon aka Snappy
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Oct 2007
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Oct 2007
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6000 miles in 6 months of ownership with only one minor hiccup after a fuel stop on a VERY hot day. A quick crack of the fuel cap (thanks BA.com) and it was all good.
I looked at the Suzuki's (my last bike was a Suzuki) and I am very glad I went with the America.
Thom
I might be wrong, I sometimes am.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: May 2008
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I searched for a couple of years thinking this would be the last bike I would ever buy, I road several of my friends bikes; Road Stars, V Stars, Road King, Shadow 750. The more I road, the more confused I became. Just before I bought the Triumph, a dealer gave me a great deal on a Kawey and I almost got it, but something led me back to the Triumph dealer. He made me a deal I couldn't walk away from.
Every day after the day I picked that bike up, I am so glad that I held out for it, words can not describe. It does everything better than I expected. The curb appeal alone is worth having the bike and if you get one you'll know exactly what that's all about.
Only one thing to be fore warned about. Don't even leave the Dealers parking lot with the stock exhaust pipes. Anything over 55 mph. and you can't even here the bike running. Get the Off Road Triumph pipes or after market pipes if you want something louder. The Off Road Pipes sound pretty sweet and won’t ****** the neighbors off too much.
Chip Sciarra "07" America, N.C.Switch Blade windshield, Moto Lights, Tri. Off Road pipes
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Aug 2006
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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06 America bought new.Only 2 very minor glitches both my own fault. Both once figured out took 10 min. To fix at a cost of about 3 bucks.
The percentage you're paying is too high-priced
While you're living beyond all your means
And the man in the suit has just bought a new car
From the profit he's made on your dreams
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: May 2006
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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The reliability is there
Very simple technology, almost like a large lawnmower
Parts aren't cheap
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Aug 2006
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
In North America, we wont see fuel injection until the 2009 model year. In Europe and Australia the fuel injected models started with the '08 model year.
Soren
What? man I though they where alrealy here, guess that shows the last time I was at a dealershp 
Well one could say my lack of knowlage could be caused by the lack of need to visit said dealer. And my ignorance
stands as trubute to the bikes reliability.
The percentage you're paying is too high-priced
While you're living beyond all your means
And the man in the suit has just bought a new car
From the profit he's made on your dreams
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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The 2008 models also have a slightly different shape of the tank from the 2007 models. A little shorter and a bit wider. Some like it but I prefer the older shape.
My 2007 was my first motorcycle. Like everyone else, I couldn't be happier. It's a beautiful, reliable and nimble machine. You won't be disappointed until the end of the day when it's time to climb off.
2005 America, green/gray, gutted stock pipes, tall sissy bar w/ luggage rack, Saddleman's dual touring seat and Tourmaster saddlebags (and sissybar bag).
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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I have found reliability to be very good. Don't have as many miles on my bike as some others here, but so far no problems. My issue with some of the Japanese bikes out there is that they use lots of chrome plated plastic. The Triumphs have a few bits and pieces, but not engine covers, fender supports. etc. Go look closely at all the bikes you are considering and tap the surfaces to see if they are metal or plastic. Some people don't really care, but I prefer my engine covers to me made from steel or aluminum.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 3,954
Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Bought mine in '03, and have over 29,000 miles on it. Replaced items so far, a speedo cable, and a couple lenses on the tank console (the neutral and turn signal indicators). Other than that, never once a problem. The only other stuff I've replaced are maintenance items, the chain, front sprocket, and tires. For the first 3 years of the bikes life, it was stored outside, and for a good part of that, without even a bike cover! I used to wash it every week in South Carolina, but now only every month or so in Connecticut (a lot less riding and no good place to wash it and EXTREMELY HARD well water!). I had ONE no start experience after I got a little too frisky with a spray hose, but after the bike sat for a day and a half, and dried naturally, it started right up. I've ridden it through gale-force winds and horizontal driving rain in a really bad thunderstorm (I was leaning the bike into the wind while riding in a straight line to keep from getting blown into the side railing of the bridge I was riding (over the Ohio River), and despite the intense rain, it never hiccuped! Reliable, absolutely. I did 2 1800 mile rides on the bike and never worried about her quitting on me (well, ok, as with any real long trip by yourself, you always have that "what if" thought in the back of your mind).
As for the price of parts, I would venture to say no more or less expensive than any other bike just from looking around the parts store at a multi-brand dealer.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Old Hand
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Old Hand
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Quote:
Good points. My other shortlist would be Suzuki Boulevard (C50/M50) or Yamaha VStar/Classic/Custom or Honda Spirit/Aero. Only HD I like is the VROD but out of my price range (my ex-college roommate did design work on the transmission so I'm partial I guess). Something in 650-900cc range, similar cruiser styling - not plastic-clad sports bike for sure!
Thanks
My wife just had to have a Vstar. A year later, it was traded in on the Triumph. It had 35 miles on it including the trip to trade it in because it was gutless, a mechanics nightmare to work on and handled like a '50 Buick.
As to the fuel injection, it is being phased in as government approval is obtained in different market areas. See what happens when politicians vote themselves to be engineers? Some markets got fuel injection in mid - late '07, North America will have it in the '09 model year. Injected bikes have a bit more power, but are less tinkerable than the carburetted version, so that added HP will come at a higher price. Based on other brands, it will cost around $125 to $175 to get the controller remapped or around $300 to $500 for a tunable controller vs maybe $30 for a full set of 4 carb jets.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Jun 2007
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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If this hideous suzuki blvd thing is what youre comparing to the triumph its a no brainer...ahha  Heres another clone Honda VTX  The way gas and motorcycles are going youre gonna have to put an alarm beeper on that thing so you can find it in the parking lot..haha
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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16,000 miles gone camping with all our gear on the bike, been through several states, ridden in all summer weather conditions and haven't had a single problem. This is on 2 bikes since Wendy rides hers with me, one is an America and the other a Speedmaster. I have heard of them going well over 100,000 miles.
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: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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I have 15K with no problems at all. With minor maintenance she'll just keep running. I've never heard of any major engine problems other than a couple of BIG BORE upgrades gone wrong. A few have had CDI problems but they seem to be isolated.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating
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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 |
Passed 40k in May. Just getting broken in. Been to Sturgis, California, Arizona and several times up into British Columbia.
Speedo cable loop broke twice, rear brake light switch stuck on, and an evaporative control valve on a carb went bad. All replaced under warranty. Since then the only problems were due to mistakes I've made doing my own maintenance or aftermarket parts. And I'm huge, and therefore very hard on components...
Last edited by FriarJohn; 06/19/2008 11:55 AM.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Feb 2008
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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As to the fuel injection, it is being phased in as government approval is obtained in different market areas. See what happens when politicians vote themselves to be engineers? Some markets got fuel injection in mid - late '07, North America will have it in the '09 model year. Injected bikes have a bit more power, but are less tinkerable than the carburetted version, so that added HP will come at a higher price. Based on other brands, it will cost around $125 to $175 to get the controller remapped or around $300 to $500 for a tunable controller vs maybe $30 for a full set of 4 carb jets.
I bought a new 08 in the UK so I've got EFI and I'm hoping that'll mean I don't have to tinker with carbs, always been a bit of a blind spot for me.
I'm pretty sure ,in the UK at least, that the cost of TORs covers the re-map. I didn't see any additional cost on my receipt. OK, I'm biased, it's a British owned company even though a lot of parts are sourced elswhere and it's a parallel twin not a Harley clone V-twin (don't get me wrong, I really like Harleys, just not keen on the clones). I get almost as much pleasure just looking at the d**n thing as riding it, it's a thing of beauty. But then I admit I'm a sad git.
John
ps:- crikey! you can say git but you can't say d**n 
the trouble with the world today is apathy.
but I don't care
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Jan 2005
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"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Aug 2006
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
Is 'git' really bad?
git
Noun
Brit slang a contemptible person [from get (in the sense: to beget, hence a ******, fool)]
(please note the filtered word in the definition was the more common way of saying illegitimate child)
The percentage you're paying is too high-priced
While you're living beyond all your means
And the man in the suit has just bought a new car
From the profit he's made on your dreams
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Feb 2008
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Quote:
Is 'git' really bad?
Well no, but I didn't think d**n was either, at least it's in the bible.
the trouble with the world today is apathy.
but I don't care
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 135
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Feb 2008
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Quote:
Quote:
Is 'git' really bad?
git
Noun
Brit slang a contemptible person [from get (in the sense: to beget, hence a ******, fool)]
(please note the filtered word in the definition was the more common way of saying illegitimate child)
Yep, that sounds like me, although the last bit doesn't match (I was born in wedlock) the rest is close.
the trouble with the world today is apathy.
but I don't care
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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I will refrain from adding my 2c worth 
Ray(UK)
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Jan 2005
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"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
I'm aware of the definition of git, I just don't know how much impact it has. For example, there's an impact difference between "jerk" and "a-hole" (spelled out, of course). That's why you can use the former here, but not the latter.
So is git more like jerk or more like a-hole?
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Feb 2008
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Quote:
I'm aware of the definition of git, I just don't know how much impact it has. For example, there's an impact difference between "jerk" and "a-hole" (spelled out, of course). That's why you can use the former here, but not the latter.
So is git more like jerk or more like a-hole?
I would say in my case, jerk, in a harmless sort of way.I think.
Do you ever wish you'd learn to keep you gob shut?  That's aimed at myself.
Also I apologise for deviating from topic.
the trouble with the world today is apathy.
but I don't care
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,540
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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Posts: 1,540 |
I'm one of the lucky owners of a lemon bike. Its on its third cdi and currently in the shop again for starter issues. Bichr is on his 4th. And I think there are a couple of other owners with the same problems. But Triumph has stepped up covered parts on most of them.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,690
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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27,000 miles on my '05...1 igniter, 3 sets of tires, and alot of oil changes....
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Joined: Feb 2005
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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If you're not fond of being stopped by complete strangers who want to talk about your bike, and Triumph which they had in the 60s... don't get one.
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Member
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OP
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Thanks for all the feedback. I'm going to dealer this afternoon and see about closing the deal. I agree about the Japanese cruisers being very big, heavy and just bloated looking, with smaller displacement (at least ones in my price range). I didn't drive any yet but can imagine the "boat" feeling.
I'm also one for being outside the pack - in autos, didn't buy Camry, Accord, etc... bought new Peugeot 405 (back in '92 the last year available in US)... certainly was good and bad with that. Enjoyed car overall, but engine wore out badly even with regular maintenance/oil changes, etc... burned oil like an Iraqi well fire. Anyway, not to judge Triumph by Peugeot, but overall fight between my wanting to be different and worry about getting "burned". But I understand how Triumph did a complete "retool" of operations and been hearing good things, and having friend GM the local dealership keeps pulling me back toward them.
I'll let you know how it goes! Looking forward to it. Also really appreciate the welcoming feeling in this blog. Hopefully we'll meet up down the road.
Now AMERICA or SPEEDMASTER???
Cheers---
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Well, obviously America, although the Mary's who ride Speedmasters will try to draw you their way. But the America was first in the line of cruisers from Triumph once they came back, and still the best. Of course, I will strongly deny that I'm biased in any way, shape or form... 
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Re: Honest feedback - dependability and operating cost
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AMERICA , blue & white. The fact I've got one has not influenced my decision. Honest.
the trouble with the world today is apathy.
but I don't care
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