 Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
I'm currently riding a Suzuki VStrom 650 and I am considering trading it in on a "cruiser" type motorcycle. Two of my riding buddies have VTX1300's, so that is another bike I was considering. However, the VTX just doesn't do anything for me in terms of visual appeal. Even the ride feels pretty bland. I've also looked at Moto Guzzi California series bikes and still have those as an option. But getting service & parts has been touchy, and I'm more interested in a bike that I can just get serviced when needed. Still on my short-list though.
But what I'm trying to compare currently is the Sportster XL1200C and the Triumph America. Without modification, the America has a better "fit" for me in terms of distance to the footpegs, handlebars, etc. I feel really comfortable sitting on the America. The Sporster might be ok after I ride it awhile, but it's possible I would want to change the handlebars to something a little more relaxed. The Sportster's footpegs feel closer, but I'm not sure it that would be any kind of problem for me. Definitely better than what I currently ride anyway.
But what I would like to know about is performance. Anyone here have any comments with regard to how these two bikes might compare in terms of performance. Also, how would they both compare for long distance travel?
Thanks.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 92
Member
|
|
Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 92 |
Alot may depend on where you live and what the climate is like. Neither bike likes to be out in, cold salt ridden british winters but the harley fares a bit worse i think.
As for comfort i have a speedmaster and 200+ miles a day is no problem, the america seat looks as if it should be even more comfy.
Ignorance is bliss
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
|
|
Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
Wait for the T-bird, and then compare. No problems with the America/Speedmaster with long hauls and they perform really well considering they are only 900cc. Cant say much about the Sportster as Hardly riders seem to stick to themselves over here in the UK
Ray(UK)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
|
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
JC,
While the performance of these two machines are very comparable, with the H-D having a bit more bottom end torque, and the Triumph having a smoother, higher revving and wider powerband among the two, and the America handles the twisties out there as well or better than any other "cruiser" on the market, well, the wording of your question here pretty much tells me that you're already inclined toward the Triumph.
And, IF you DO decide to buy the Triumph, I can assure you that you will NEVER experience any regrets about your purchase.
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,210
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,210 |
My buddy that I ride with has a 1200 sportster, we were going at it now and again like neck and neck with me pulling a way a little hitting 5th a lot later than him. But we havent got a chance to do it properly off the start with nothing but open road in front of us. Still he was the first to mention having trouble keeping up with me while riding. And at the end of the 150 mile day all I heard from him was that his butt hurts. We both have intake and exhaust modifications...of course mines a 790cc though
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440
Learned Hand
|
|
Learned Hand
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440 |
These bikes are in a very similar performance class. However, I looked at Sporsters first when I came back to two wheels last year, and like you, I discovered they didn't fit me well. Probably because I rode an HD TourGlide back in the '80s and early '90s, the Sporsters feel like toys. The America is different, more like the big V-twin cruisers, but nimble and better handling. Most of my riding is commuting to work at speeds around 50 - 80 MPH, and the America is perfect for that. I'm sure lots of folks here can attest to its usefulness on long tours also, I just don't get to do that anymore. I think the bottom line to all this is that the Sportster frame is too small. If it doesn't fit you as-is from the factory, it's time to move on.
'08 America Blue/White; Custom Headlamps, Custom Lowers, Clearview 20", Bafflectomy
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 517
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 517 |
Plenty of 400 miles days on my 07 America. 1200's are nice bike-fun-but I'd never ride 'em that far. The two bikes are similar in a few areas and the Triumph has it all over the H-D for a long cruise at 75 (or more). The Triumph is also dead nuts simple to work on, easy to hop up, and has a better rear suspention out of the box. As they say "you can always trust the trusty Triumph".
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,186 Likes: 55
Fe Butt
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,186 Likes: 55 |
Last Sporty I was on, granted a few years now so could have changed, vibrated way too much compared to my Speedmaster. I rode the old Triumphs for years and they vibrated too and about the same amount in my opinion. These new Triumph doesn't really vibrate at all. That is a plus if you like to go out on all day rides. I can just pull away from a Night Train, never raced a Sporty. I ride mine long distances and have never had an issue and am comfortable, at the end of most days I can still do more miles. Our bikes feel better at any speed to me , seems not as top heavy as the HD. Ya know , of course, you are on a BA/SM forum so you going to get a pos. reaction to these bikes vs. HD. I have given you my honest opinion but I am sure on a HD forum you going to get the same in reverse. I have been riding Triumph for the last 30+ years because I like the bikes and I didn't want to ride what everyone else does. The Triumph name carries a great history behind it too. Land speed records for one, Steve McQueen for another! Depends who you ask and when you start the clock but Triumph has been around a little longer than HD and is the longest continually produced motorcycle in the world, also open to debate depending on who you ask. These bikes tend to get more attention too, when I pull in with my HD riding friends people tend to look at my bike and strike up conversations about it and Triumph in general. Most importantly you have this forum and all the knuckleheads on it if you need help with anything. 
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,104
Learned Hand
|
|
Learned Hand
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,104 |
Love my America...
Rented a Sporty last Summer, and it felt like I was riding a paint mixer
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,937
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,937 |
Quote:
These bikes tend to get more attention too, when I pull in with my HD riding friends people tend to look at my bike and strike up conversations about it and Triumph in general.
That IS the biggest plus of ALL!!! 
And you may see me tonight
With an illegal smile
J. Prine
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 380
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 380 |
7500 mile trip with 0 (ZERO) problems from my bike or back end! Scottie 2005 Speedy no with 25,000 
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,685 Likes: 20
Monkey Butt
|
|
Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,685 Likes: 20 |
I have a lot of exposure on both. If you like the thump and low end torque of the 1200c go for it. If you want smooth broad performance go for the Triumph. The Triumph will feel like your V-strom as it has good torque through all bands. But, on performance it will feel kinda like it took a Valium. Remember you are getting off of a pretty zippy bike. Your V-strom in a straight line is about 2 seconds faster than an America in the 1/4 mile. Straight line 1/4 mile the Sportster if faster than the America by more than a second. Then again if you are a drag racer you are looking at the wrong bikes  They are both pretty darn slow as fast bikes go. IMHO, everybody has a Sportster, that ain't cool. Triumphs are cool! Oh, they are cheap to maintain, go real good, corner like a sport bike and ummmm, they are cool. You are on the wrong forum to get a middle of the road opinion. Go get the Triumph and live a complete life. You know you want one.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 738
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 738 |
Quote:
JC,
While the performance of these two machines are very comparable, with the H-D having a bit more bottom end torque, and the Triumph having a smoother, higher revving and wider powerband among the two, and the America handles the twisties out there as well or better than any other "cruiser" on the market, well, the wording of your question here pretty much tells me that you're already inclined toward the Triumph.
And, IF you DO decide to buy the Triumph, I can assure you that you will NEVER experience any regrets about your purchase.
+1
Test rode a 1200 Sportster and took it back after 10mins - not for me - too small and not great on when cornering. Triumph needs exhaust mods to allow it to perform like it should - then no contest!
One day as a tiger is worth a thousand as a sheep
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,971 |
Sportster - they put the engine in sideways by mistake
The back piston is in perpetual roast mode, in the wake of a constant 600 degree air mass
They've done so many that way, they just keep on doing it,
and hope nobody notices
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2 |
Get a nice used Speedmaster, pre-2007 model. You'll love it!
After you've ridden it a bit then you may want to trade up to a bigger bike in the 1600 cc range.
Good luck!
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 533
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 533 |
Quote:
After you've ridden it a bit then you may want to trade up to a bigger bike in the 1600 cc range.
Unless you value the characteristics of classic Triumphs; relatively light weight, responsive handling, quick revving, etc. Of course if you suffer from a combination of Harley envy and Triumph brand loyalty, there is no recourse but to get a p twin of sufficient size and gearing to allow matching revs with a Harley at cruising speed.
2018 FLHCS
2014 Surly Straggler - 16,000 miles and counting!
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 242
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 242 |
Love my America. Most fun bike I have ever had and she never lets me down.
08 America
Rinehart exhaust, Clearview shield, Viking bags and magic carb's
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647 |
My friend has a 1200 sportster. I'm a big guy, and the America fits me like a glove. When I get on his sporty, it feels tiny, I would compare it to the feel of a new bonneville or scrambler. The America just seems to me like a bigger, more comfortable bike, although it doesn't handle like a big bike. It's very nimble, as many here have said.
But when it all boils down, the sporster is a girl's bike. Be a man, ride an America!
Last edited by KaiserSoze; 04/14/2009 12:51 AM.
06 America 904
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
Thanks everyone for your responses. Quote:
Alot may depend on where you live and what the climate is like. Neither bike likes to be out in, cold salt ridden british winters but the harley fares a bit worse i think.
I live in Southern California. Warm weather, but salty air along the beach for sure.
Quote:
Wait for the T-bird, and then compare. No problems with the America/Speedmaster with long hauls and they perform really well considering they are only 900cc.
I like the look of the T-bird, but it would be out of my price range. I have looked at Moto Guzzi, Harley, Aprilia, and Triumph models that all fall within the $7K to $9K range (mostley used or demo bikes). I don't think it would be such a hard decision if the Triumph America or Speedmaster was around 1100cc. I'm not into drag racing or anything like that, but I would like a bike that has plenty of passing power on the freeway. I'd also like the bike to be able to handle the occasional two-up riding. While I'm happy that the 2009 Triumphs finally have fuel-injection, I was bummed to see they are still chain drive. I was hoping to see belt drive for 2009.
Quote:
While the performance of these two machines are very comparable, with the H-D having a bit more bottom end torque, and the Triumph having a smoother, higher revving and wider powerband among the two
Quote:
My buddy that I ride with has a 1200 sportster, we were going at it now and again like neck and neck with me pulling a way a little hitting 5th
Quote:
These bikes are in a very similar performance class.
This is what I was wanting to know. I've heard the Triumphs (America & Speedmaster) were about the same "performance-wise" with the 883, but was hoping they'd be closer to the 1200.
Quote:
I came back to two wheels last year, and like you, I discovered they didn't fit me well. Probably because I rode an HD TourGlide back in the '80s and early '90s, the Sporsters feel like toys.
It does feel small. For around town riding, I think that might be a plus. But I do 1 to 2 long-distance trips a year, so I'm not sure how it would be for all-day riding. The America feels bigger and more comfortable. Of course, my only experience with both these bikes is sitting on them at the dealer.
Quote:
Last Sporty I was on, granted a few years now so could have changed, vibrated way too much compared to my Speedmaster.
If that Sporty was a 2003 or earlier it didn't have the rubber mounted motor. I've heard those bikes will rattle your teeth out. The Sportster I'm looking at is a 2008. I might rent one for a day just to see what the ride is like.
Quote:
I have a lot of exposure on both. If you like the thump and low end torque of the 1200c go for it. If you want smooth broad performance go for the Triumph. The Triumph will feel like your V-strom as it has good torque through all bands. But, on performance it will feel kinda like it took a Valium. Remember you are getting off of a pretty zippy bike. Your V-strom in a straight line is about 2 seconds faster than an America in the 1/4 mile.
Coming off the VStrom, I think I'd prefer the smooth performance over the traditional "thump" of the Harley. Still, I don't want the blandness of the VTX. No offense to any VTX owners. I'm sure it's a great bike (my friends like theirs), but it just doesn't have a lot of appeal to me. As far as curb appeal goes, both the 2008 Harley Sportster Custom and the Triumph America/Speedmaster look great.
Thanks again for all your responses. Gave me lots to think about. The local dealer has a special deal going on in a couple of weeks where you can go in and ride any new Triumph you want. I'm going to make sure I test ride both the America and Speemaster to get a feel for them.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 734
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 734 |
Test ride a Triumph Tiger 1050 first before you decide.
---------------------
- 2007 Triumph Tiger
- 1982 Yamaha xj650 Magnum
- Previous 2004 Triumph America
- Previous 1973 Triumph Bonneville T140V 750cc
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
Quote:
Test ride a Triumph Tiger 1050 first before you decide.
I'd say the Tiger was probably the bike I should have bought when I ended up with the VStrom. I had already been riding a BMW F650 for 3 years by that point, and probably could have progressed to the extra power. But the VStrom has been a great bike, so no regrets. I'm only looking for a cruiser now because of some upper-back pain I have when riding a standard. I like the more upright feel of cruisers. I also like being able to stretch out my knees more on a cruiser.
Quote:
Sportster - they put the engine in sideways by mistake
That's what those guys on the Moto Guzzi forum keep saying. 
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1
Worn Saddle
|
|
Worn Saddle
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1 |
Quote:
I'm not into drag racing or anything like that, but I would like a bike that has plenty of passing power on the freeway. I'd also like the bike to be able to handle the occasional two-up riding.
Both the America and Speedmaster fit that bill very well. I've never had any problem passing on the freeway (or rural two lane) with my 790cc America...don't confuse CCs with the ability to go fast.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. Herm Albright (1876 - 1944)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 517
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 517 |
You may be a bit confused. An America/Speedie will eat up a 883-they are much more similar to a 1200.
As many have mentioned, you can ride one of our bikes ALL day no problem-day after day. 400 miles and you still have more to go-the Triumph is what you want.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 5,068 Likes: 1
Saddle Sore
|
|
Saddle Sore
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 5,068 Likes: 1 |
Interesting comparison - as we have BOTH of the bikes you're considering . See Photobucket below , and there's the Sporty .
Wife says if she had to do it again , she'd get an America . The 1200's a blast to ride , torque is amazing , but it is a shaker , and a hundred miles or so requires a short decompression . I'm 6'0" , and the HD is too small and short for me . Get the Triumph .
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,715 Likes: 5
Should be Riding
|
|
Should be Riding
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,715 Likes: 5 |
Quote:
As many have mentioned, you can ride one of our bikes ALL day no problem-day after day. 400 miles and you still have more to go-the Triumph is what you want.
I've done over a 1000 mile day on my America, not a single mechanical issue.
Stand out in a crowd, and the support group here is fantastic to boot!
Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
Nice pics, Wade. I didn't realize that the newer Sportsters still have a problem with shaking. Some of the articles that I've read regarding the bigger Harleys say you only feel the shaking when sitting at a stoplight, and it smooths out when riding. I take it that this is not exactly the case with the newer Sportsters?
Btw, I'm almost 6ft, but only have a 30" inseam. Makes it hard to find a bike that fits right.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440
Learned Hand
|
|
Learned Hand
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,440 |
Quote:
I like the look of the T-bird, but it would be out of my price range. I have looked at Moto Guzzi, Harley, Aprilia, and Triumph models that all fall within the $7K to $9K range (mostley used or demo bikes). I don't think it would be such a hard decision if the Triumph America or Speedmaster was around 1100cc. I'm not into drag racing or anything like that, but I would like a bike that has plenty of passing power on the freeway. I'd also like the bike to be able to handle the occasional two-up riding. While I'm happy that the 2009 Triumphs finally have fuel-injection, I was bummed to see they are still chain drive. I was hoping to see belt drive for 2009.
That's startin' to sound more like a Rocket III. Ya know, I've seen several sold used in my area at prices close to the upper end of your range. If I did more touring instead of commuting, I'd have to get one. That's huge torque for a MC, must be a real blast on the freeway!
'08 America Blue/White; Custom Headlamps, Custom Lowers, Clearview 20", Bafflectomy
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
Quote:
That's startin' to sound more like a Rocket III. Ya know, I've seen several sold used in my area at prices close to the upper end of your range. If I did more touring instead of commuting, I'd have to get one. That's huge torque for a MC, must be a real blast on the freeway!
I think the Rocket III is unique, but it's definitely too big for my intended purposes. I need something primarily for commuting and weekend riding, so I'm looking for a mid-sized bike. Btw, when I first heard about the new Thunderbird, I was hoping Triumph would come out with a 1400cc version of the Rocket III. What a cool bike that would have been!
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
|
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Well JC, you DO have a friggin' HACKSAW among your tools, don't cha????  (yep...the way I figure it, all's ya have to do is hack off that front cylinder and PRESTO, ya'd have yourself juuuuust about 1400cc o' motorcycle there, wouldn't ya???!!!) 
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 143
Adjunct
|
|
Adjunct
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 143 |
Thought I’d chime in here about my Harley Vs. Triumph observations. Last week I needed to visit the local Harley Stealership to purchase some handlebar risers. Don’t worry, they’re Custom Chrome Risers, not Harley OEMs (God forbid!). So, while I was in the Harley shop, proudly wearing my Triumph jacket, a couple salesmen and parts people asked me what I rode in on. They had no idea what the “America†looked like, as they thought it resembled a Rocket III and they all wanted to see this “new†Triumph. So, I stepped outside with Harley employees in tow.  A couple die hard Harley people turned their noses up but others happily and curiously sat on the bike and “kicked the tires.†The best compliments were: “long and low, she’s a sleeper†and “that vertical twin…nostalgic…†All in all they seemed pretty impressed. Then they became interested in me sitting on some of their bikes. The closest feeling bike to the America (everyone agreed) was the Fat Boy! So, here I am with a “Fat Boy Feeling†bike at half the cost. It was an eye-opening experience for both me and the Harley folks. Here’s my point, the Sportsters are a good looking bike with a completely different seating position than the America. If you want a great, comfortable ride, that Harley owners trade-up to (by purchasing the Fat Boy) BUY THE TRIUMPH. Also, a couple of my friends have Softails (larger engine than the 1200) and I can keep up with them at low speeds and pull away from them at higher speeds, when I’m in the powerband. Sure I can’t hear myself pulling away from the Harleys, but remember…â€she’s a sleeper!†
"It doesn't matter what you ride, as long as you're out there."
- Hells Angels President (Philadelphia Chapter)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
|
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Great story, well told, Matthew! 
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,616
Check Pants
|
|
Check Pants
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,616 |
JC (OCRider)...Im curious. Have you asked the same question on a Harley forum?
What have they come up with?
Id like to hear the flip side to this.
SOLD: 07 Black BA, 39mm FCRs, TPUSA stage 1 head, TPUSA 813 cams, TPUSA 10.8:1 pistons, TTP #3 igniter, Specialty Spares Long Cannons, Tsukayu Hard Bags. 82HP/55tq
NEW: 19 Goldwing Tour DCT
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
|
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Are you kiddin' here, Z-man???!!! Heck, I'd wager HALF of those folks over there would probably say somethin' like..."TRIUMPH??? When did they start makin' THOSE again???" I mean, didn't Matthew ALREADY say here that some of those guys at the Harley shop had NO friggin' IDEA what a "Triumph America" even WAS!!! AND, as WE know, these babies have "ONLY" been on the market some SEVEN years now, RIGHT?! Now don't get me wrong here Matthew, I'm not sayin' here that a lot of Harley riders are "ignorant" of other brands(okay...maybe I am  ), sooooo let's just say that some of 'em tend to be...ummm...somewhat "insular" in their thinking!!! 
Yep! Just like a good Single Malt Scotch, you might call me "an acquired taste" TOO.(among the many OTHER things you may care to call me, of course)
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
NOTAMs79, thanks for your story. I've had similar experiences with the Harley dealership when I've asked questions about Buells (go figure). I'm thinking your right about the America = Fatboy comparison. It just feels like a bigger bike to me than the Sportster.
Zmilin, as far as going to a Harley forum goes, I'm inclined to agree with Dwight here. While I know that there are real motorcycle enthusiast's who ride Harleys, there's also a large group of people who bought into the "Lifestyle" thing. They tend to get defensive when you try to compare any motorcycle to a Harley. Add to that what Dwight has already said; They just don't seem to know all that much outside the brand. Right or wrong, I feel other motorcycle forums have more information about various brands of motorcycles, so I have never bothered to join any Harley forum.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmaster
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,186 Likes: 55
Fe Butt
|
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,186 Likes: 55 |
And here I thought all Hardley riders were fair objective people when it came to bike comparison. I know I would be if I paid $20,000 for a bike worth about $9,000.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 2,671 Likes: 15
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 2,671 Likes: 15 |
I have ridden many H-D big twins & would not even consider a Sportster (but that's me). The BA/SM needs pipes & carb tuning (unless of course you get EFI), & it is well worth the effort. I personally prefer the ergonomics of the SM over the BA, & you get better front brakes & a tach, too. Throw in some foot boards & other accessories of your choice & you'll have a very nice bike that will be a joy to ride. IMO a BA/SM is a much better value for the money spent as compared to a Sporty.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,186 Likes: 55
Fe Butt
|
|
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,186 Likes: 55 |
If you compare a SM to a Sporty as far as what you get for your money I don't think there is any contest. I wanted the SM black engine and better breaks but I have the BA handle bars and pull back risers as well as the BA seat. My opinion on the SM vs. the BA is you look at the 2 and decide what you would want to change, then go with the one that would cost less or be easier to change. Like it is easier and less expensive to change the bars than to upgrade breaks. Under normal riding conditions I don't see much advantage to the dual disc since the BA single will lock up the front wheel if you yank it. Only advantage would be under very heavy use as in racing since the dual wouldn't get hot enough to fade as fast.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34
Greenhorn
|
|
OP
Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 34 |
The price for an '09 America or Speedmaster at my local dealer is the same, so it really would depend on the cost of each option. I didn't realize the SM has better front brakes, or the tachometer. I'm going to have to go back and take a 2nd look at the SM.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,968 Likes: 1
Loquacious
|
|
Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,968 Likes: 1 |
When I was looking for my bike I test road a 1200 Sporster and then an America. A stock sporty will pull a little better but that's it. The America was smoother, shifts better, handles better, looks better, gets more attention, and has way more cache. After you do a couple of performance mods the America or Speedy will stay with a 1200 sporster. In my mind there is no comparison. Checkout the classifieds and there are hundreds of Sporsters for sale.
|
|
|
Re: Sportster 1200 vs Bonneville America/Speedmast
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3
Old Hand
|
|
Old Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3 |
My OL has had 3 1200 piglets in the time that I've had my 800 (790) America. Now, she has a Lowrider and I still have the America. Both will do a tonne up quite handily. Both manage crooked roads well enough, but the America just feels better doing it, enough to give you the confidence needed to outrun the Sportster.
At idle, the Sportster engine movement is beyond the capacity if the rubber mounts and it shakes a lot. While riding, you can feel the aircleaner moving around by your leg, and that takes a lot of getting used to. If you do decide on an HD, get a big twin with the counterbalanced 'B' engine, those are nearly as smooth as the Triumph twins.
Sportsters have a smaller tank and a bigger appetite than the America and Speedmaster, so your range will be noticeably less.
I find the comfort on the America to be much better. This is as close as you will ever get to a 'one size fits all' bike.
As they are from the factory, the Triumph twins deliver a flat torque curve from above idle to redline. With exhaust and intake changes, the curve angles upward in a straight line from around 3200 RPM. There are no nasty surprises when opening the throttle at any speed.
If you look through the post archives here, you will find that the major complaint of new Triumph owners is that they find themselves looking for a 6th gear. This is not actually a fault with the bike, it just stems from the facts that these engines like to rev and they pull harder in top gear than seems right for the engine size.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
|
|
|
|
|
