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Really, that's what it was called...
Yesterday I went over to Bucks Motorsports and rode the bird. Wasn't really impressed with the bike I gotta say though. Kinda shaky in the bars and not what I expected. It did have tons of torque, but it was disappointing to me. And I really wanted to like it. In fact Jane went with me to make certain I didn't actually buy one. She liked a used 900 Trophy all fairing and bagged up but it started pouring rain and that was the end of the rides.

It would be a nice addition to ones collection

I almost bought a Trophy when I got the Tiger. Got to agree with the disappointment in the T-Bird.

Pat, I took one out while I had Belinda the Tiger in for some work this past weekend. You are right about the torque. It was totally unexpected, especially uphill in 2nd gear. Overall, I would agree with your sentiments. I didn't like the tank and the fact that I couldn't get to the clutch easily (no adjustable levers). I would like to try again with a proper seat and front springs, but there is no way I leave Belinda for a 'bird.

Now, I could add a Thruxton, Bonnie SE, or a Scrambler. That would make more sense....

Rode one last July...reminds me, I have to ride one again this year to see what's different

Agree with all the observations and would add that the instruments on the tank top are readable, but you have to drop your eyes to see them--just wish they were up higher!

I took a T-Bird out Friday. Dealer copied my DL and insurance card, warmed up the bike for me and told me to have fun. No restrictions (other than no passengers), no time limit and a 3/4 tank of fuel.

Loved the torque - especially when that JackAss jumped the light when I was mid turn through the intersection. Found myself shifting just for something to do, even when the engine didn't require it. 20mph to 70mph in 5th - no problem.

I didn't like the clatter coming from the engine and the gauges on the tank (needs a gear indicator). Other than that, I liked it. But after coming home and taking a spin on the America, I'll be keeping what I've got.

I'm glad they offered the rides though, I'd have probably never ridden one otherwise and now I can recommend it as an option to friends in that market .

I tested a T-bird today. It was pretty smooth, the torque was great, the controls were substantial, pretty comfortable, stopped well, & didn't handle nearly as well as my modded 07SM. Other than the prodigious low-end torque it seemed kinda soulless to me; that said, it was bone-stock.

The placement of the tank-mounted speedo & tach SUCKED. You have to take your eyes waaay off the road to see the speed, much less the tach.

It made me realize how much I like my SM.

I rode 2 in GA & liked them.

I will have to say that after watching Keith, "Airguy," ride his for a few days, perhaps my issue with the Thunderbird is that I suck.

After a 2200+ mile trip to Ga., I like mine even more, but then again I still have my pegs and a rear tire.