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2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
#497594 08/05/2012 12:38 PM
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I have to replace my bike that was totaled about a month ago. I really liked my 2012 Triumph America. But I was looking at a 2102 Harley Super low. I am having a hard time deciding which one to purchase. Both are at the low end for each company. Both bikes are the same price give or take a $100 or so. Both have the same warranties.. Harley offers first service free. Triumph does not. That’s about $250 saving on Harley. Harley is made in the USA. Harley has a teflar/carbon fiber belt. This results in almost no sprocket wear. I’ve owned both bikes in the past. So now what do I do? I realize that I am on the Triumph page, but they are both really great bikes. The one draw back with Triumph is waiting on parts, being they are made in England. Some are soon to be made in India I’ve been told. Anyone out there have any pros or cons about either bike?

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497595 08/05/2012 12:43 PM
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Isn't the 883 quite a bit smaller than the America? Don't know if that makes a difference to you, but I am 6'3" and it does to me. The America probably has more power than the 883. I know my 04 Speedmaster is quicker than some of the bigger Harley's.


I'm built for comfort, I ain't built for speed
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497596 08/05/2012 12:55 PM
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Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497597 08/05/2012 12:57 PM
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Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Scottb1966 #497598 08/05/2012 12:59 PM
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Bottom line , take both for a test ride . Ride the pi$$ outta both ,then buy the one that puts the biggest grin on yer mug.
Or just buy the TBA ,you kno it makes sense

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Soren #497599 08/05/2012 1:03 PM
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The first service may be free, but going forward you will spend much more at the HD t-shirt store/dealership.


06 America 904
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
KaiserSoze #497600 08/05/2012 1:26 PM
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If money is a factor why buy bigger than a 750 anyway.
Another point that I have considered is that of efficiency in owning a twin cylinder machine whoever makes it , alot of twin cylinder machines run a counterweight shaft to cut down on vibrations and possibly robs some hp in the doing.
A three cylinder machine puts a sparkplug on their balance shaft and produces power whilst giving smoothness.
Save fuel be totally efficient and by a new Triumph Tiger 800cc triple.
Harley don't give you that option.


Peace in the country when the sun goes down , the corn is gettin' high
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Silky #497601 08/05/2012 1:54 PM
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I looked at both before picking up an America, obviously you know what my choice ultimately was. You can do a lot to customize a Harley to suit you personally, but I found the America a bit more unique, and nicer overall. It may be a "low end" bike, but the build quality is excellent IMO.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Silky #497602 08/05/2012 1:54 PM
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Money isn't an issue. The Harley is 18cc bigger and about 20lbs lighter. They are both of equal quaility and size. If the guy didn't turn left in front of me I'd still be driving my 2012 Triumph America. But I started looking and like the Harley. I am not really too fond of the peopel @ the Triumph dealership. They act like typical used car salesmen and are full of BS most of the time. The Harley store in town were very professional and friendly. I truly have nothing against either of the bikes them selves. As I stated earlier, the only issue is with Triumph parts. It took me 2 months or more to get my sissy bar.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Sayantsi #497603 08/05/2012 1:56 PM
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I totaly agree

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497604 08/05/2012 2:01 PM
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Which do YOU like better? Buy that one and enjoy the ride.
I know what i like. Sorry to be of such little help.


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: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zmilin #497605 08/05/2012 2:31 PM
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I'd buy what bike I liked best. I have two H-D dealers in town, one is great, the other full of Harley snobs you don't want to be around. I don't spend much time at the dealer so I wouldnt buy a bike based on its staff though. You had a Triumph, maybe try something different, but if you want opinions, I say go with the Triumph.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497606 08/05/2012 2:32 PM
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Just an observation of mine. It seems a lot of people that buy the 883 are soon disappointed for one reason or another and are looking to trade up. If I were to consider the sportster I would give the 1200 serious consideration.
Neither brand will have low cost parts or service at the dealer.


It's not speeding till you get pulled over.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqa1s4jhkQ8
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497607 08/05/2012 3:13 PM
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Quote:

I have to replace my bike that was totaled about a month ago. I really liked my 2012 Triumph America. But I was looking at a 2102 Harley Super low. I am having a hard time deciding which one to purchase. Both are at the low end for each company. Both bikes are the same price give or take a $100 or so. Both have the same warranties.. Harley offers first service free. Triumph does not. That’s about $250 saving on Harley. Harley is made in the USA. Harley has a teflar/carbon fiber belt. This results in almost no sprocket wear. I’ve owned both bikes in the past. So now what do I do? I realize that I am on the Triumph page, but they are both really great bikes. The one draw back with Triumph is waiting on parts, being they are made in England. Some are soon to be made in India I’ve been told. Anyone out there have any pros or cons about either bike?





Didn't you already make this choice on the other thread? I thought your TBA was the "nicest bike" you had ever owned? Perhaps I am confused, and if so, I echo all the sentiments here with particular focus on Mike. The 883 doesn't get you into the Harley club. Not that this should matter to you, but I have plenty of Harley friends and have been to plenty of events in which the 883 was referred to as a "chick bike". In the vernacular, that probably means a trade-up will be in your future, but ride both to decide.

Glad you are ok and have the opportunity to make this choice. That is the most important thing.


In Between the Dark and the Light..
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Ryan7771 #497608 08/05/2012 4:06 PM
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You are right about my statement. I really do like the America it is a great bike and the dealer is on hold with me right now. After looking at them both they both appear to be equal in size, weight, warranty and same price. I'm leaning towards the America. I still have the parts concern should I need any major parts. I'll let you know later in the week.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497609 08/05/2012 4:28 PM
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all I have to same is a 1200cc Harley is very evenly matched with a america a 883cc will be very under powered. I ride a lot with a friend that has a nightster and some times he gets away from me and some times i get away from him its all about what gear who was in. The only thing he has me on is very high end he pulls away at 85mph. I have never read a review were anyone was happy with the 883


Life need a little Triumph! 2008 Triumph Speedmaster, Single baffle drag pipes, lots of black powder coatin,K&N pods, AI removed, TBS needles and a procom cdi.
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497610 08/05/2012 4:30 PM
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If I were in your position and someone had taken-out my beloved Bonnie-A the bike I would replace it with would be a new Thunderbird !

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497611 08/05/2012 6:02 PM
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Quote:

I have to replace my bike that was totaled about a month ago. I really liked my 2012 Triumph America. But I was looking at a 2102 Harley Super low. I am having a hard time deciding which one to purchase. Both are at the low end for each company. Both bikes are the same price give or take a $100 or so. Both have the same warranties.. Harley offers first service free. Triumph does not. That’s about $250 saving on Harley. Harley is made in the USA. Harley has a teflar/carbon fiber belt. This results in almost no sprocket wear. I’ve owned both bikes in the past. So now what do I do? I realize that I am on the Triumph page, but they are both really great bikes. The one draw back with Triumph is waiting on parts, being they are made in England. Some are soon to be made in India I’ve been told. Anyone out there have any pros or cons about either bike?





It wouldn't surprise me a bit if HD was still using an engine design from 1936 in 2102


Contra todo mal, mezcal; contra todo bien, también
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
bigbill #497612 08/05/2012 6:14 PM
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Not to mention quite a bit of that HD wasn't made in the US. I have never been a fan of belt drive since a gravel road can destroy the belt and pullies and you have to take half the bike apart to change them.


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: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
The_Dog33 #497613 08/05/2012 7:06 PM
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Do you need to have much paint shaken? It's hard to beat an 883 as a paint shaker.

Also, do you need a bunch of new friends? You know, 'rugged individualists' that ride look alike bikes and all dress the same.

Do you want a bike that looks like damn near every other bike on the road?

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497614 08/05/2012 9:18 PM
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Why not try the HD? It's not the last bike you'll ever own and you'll learn something.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Bill #497615 08/05/2012 9:27 PM
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Quote:

Why not try the HD? It's not the last bike you'll ever own and you'll learn something.




LOL. That's for sure.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Smokey3214 #497616 08/05/2012 10:10 PM
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Buy the XR1200, get lots more twist and shout out it over the America and you won't have to have the dealership you don't like. Then again its 2-3k more money. But is more bike.

The America and the 883 are almost a dead heat in quality, ride and performance. Its a matter of what you like to look at. Both are good motorcycles. If you are looking for image the 883 is the Harley starter bike. It has no image. The Triumph is baby starter to the T-brd. I think it is way cooler. Toss a coin.

IMHO the 1300 Honda Stateline is superior to both of them. But is in a different class too with about a $2500 increase in money.

For the smaller cruisers you have the two isolated pretty well.


I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
bigbill #497617 08/05/2012 10:45 PM
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Quote:

Quote:

I have to replace my bike that was totaled about a month ago. I really liked my 2012 Triumph America. But I was looking at a 2102 Harley Super low. I am having a hard time deciding which one to purchase. Both are at the low end for each company. Both bikes are the same price give or take a $100 or so. Both have the same warranties.. Harley offers first service free. Triumph does not. That’s about $250 saving on Harley. Harley is made in the USA. Harley has a teflar/carbon fiber belt. This results in almost no sprocket wear. I’ve owned both bikes in the past. So now what do I do? I realize that I am on the Triumph page, but they are both really great bikes. The one draw back with Triumph is waiting on parts, being they are made in England. Some are soon to be made in India I’ve been told. Anyone out there have any pros or cons about either bike?





It wouldn't surprise me a bit if HD was still using an engine design from 1936 in 2102






Why BILL! That's called "Heritage", of course!!!

(...well, at least THAT'S what those H-D dealerships will still be callin' it in the year 2102, anyway!)


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: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497618 08/05/2012 11:14 PM
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And Skip..."Bottom Line" here...

The 883 Sportsters (DESPITE the fact that many of the Harley riders call it a "chick bike", which is neither here nor there in the vast reasons of owning one or not), is in regard the "equal" to a BA ONLY in the matter of PRICE...PERIOD!!!. A point, and a MAJOR point, which has been mentioned here earlier by a number of guys already in this thread.

The ONLY Sportsters which are somewhat comparable in performance with the ANY of the Bonneville line would be the 1200cc Sportsters, which are a heck of a lot more in price than are the Triumph Twins. Yes, I know the 1200 Sporties have a lot more displacement, but REMEMBER, the Triumph Twins' DOHC engines have a much WIDER rev-range which give you USEABLE power all the way to their redline at 7000RPM, whereas the Sportster redline just under 6000RPM and their horsepower(or "usable power") starts petering-out just under that redline figure.(I'm talkin' "Bone Stock" here, of course)

The ONLY advantage the Sporties have is their low-end torque...which as I've just stated pretty much runs out of steam at about 4000RPM and when horsepower starts kicking and which THEN on the Sportsters gives ya ONLY about 1500-1800RPM to "play with" on the Sportster until you hit redline(or "peak usable power"), and where you are then forced to up-shift into the next higher gear. In short, a much narrower powerband and rev-range at your disposal.

Secondly, even WITH the newer Sporties now having a "Dyna-Glide"-type rubber-mounted engine, they're STILL NO WAY as SMOOOOOOOOOOOOTH-runnin' as our Triumphs are...and once again...PERIOD!!!

THIRDLY, the ergonomics on both the 883s AND the 1200s are MUCH more cramped than they are on the Triumph Twins.

And so...NOW that I've brought ya "up to snuff" on just a FEW of the aspects of the bikes you're contemplating purchasing here........

You can EITHER listen to me OR ignore my wise counsel...'cause the last I've heard this is STILL a "Free Country", so do whatever the hell ya want!!!



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: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
satxron #497619 08/05/2012 11:36 PM
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Now Ron, HOW can you say the 883s are "equal in performance" with the Triumph Twin.

From MY first-hand experience riding my neighbor's XL883 just a few years ago(and before he dropped a couple Grand into it to put 1200cc jugs on it because even he said his 883 was "a dog") THAT 883 was not ONLY slower than my basically stock '02 BA, but also wasn't NEARLY as comfortable to ride as my Triumph is either. In FACT, I couldn't WAIT to switch back to my Triumph that day we were out riding together.

(...but hey, I SURE LIKE your idea about the XR1200...NOW you're talkin'...though, once again, the ergonomics on THAT baby aren't very comfortable, AND those fun machines cost a HECK of a lot more than EITHER an 883, naturally, OR our bikes...once again...PERIOD!!!)


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: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Dwight #497620 08/06/2012 2:21 AM
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Actually Dwight, the 883 will run just under even with our TBA all day long in the 1/4 maybe a tad slower and beat us in the 1/8 mile all the time. It cruises very well at 70 on the highway and rolls on power almost as good as the TBA. So from a practical stance in the area of performance it has as much thump as our bikes. If you just look at numbers the bikes are a dead heat. Look up the 1/4 mile and 1/8 miles times on them. Its all over the web. I ride with a very large group. The 883s run about even with me. I do not keep up well with them off the red lights. You also know I know how to ride a motorcycle. They are not outriding me. They run really well.

In the area of 1200, its a total different class of bike. Nobody is handling the 1200s with the TBA in performance.

So if you like the look and the performance is a match then its down to ride. There are a lot of folks that like the thin bike with bent elbows and knees. They sell a whole lot of sportsters. Personally I would opt for the cooler TBA. But not for performance. I don't think you are correct on that. They crank up differently and take getting used to. They are not slow by any means when compared to our bikes.

If you get off the XR1200 and get back on a TBA you will feel like you are on a moped.

But, my garage has a TBA in it not an 883. They do nothing for me in the appearance department. + I am not looking for another light weight cruiser. The poster is and he seems to like the style of the 883L.

I think he should also look at the 1300 Honda Stateline and the 900 Kawasaki if they still make it. Both very well behaved and affordable bikes.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Zookee #497621 08/06/2012 5:50 AM
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There is no way I would ride a snortster cross country. Okay I would, but it would not be my first or second or third or...choice. Give me one then I would! Heck I'd ride a moped cross country if someone wants to sponsor me. I digress...

The 883s are much smaller in stature than a Bonneville America or Speedmaster. They are top heavy too. They blow oil in the ham can which drips all over the freaking motor. The clutch adjustment is an excerise in taking stuff off. You actually have to set the timing on those things. Which involves drilling rivets. WTF? I'll tell you, buying a snortster is like being in Clarinda, Iowa listening to Glenn Miller while opening your draft notice in the mail. The most modern thing on the bike nowadays are the tank badge decals.

Ride a snortster for very long and you'll start to feel like a pretzel. I know...



Blowing gravel off rural roads
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
moe #497622 08/06/2012 9:08 AM
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It's a whole 'nother thread but this 'starter' BS cropped up again. Before my TBA I rode a 1500cc V-twin. I went to the TBA because I live in the mountains and it is simply a superior bike on challenging roads. The big V-twin is the starter bike in these parts. End of story.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Smokey3214 #497623 08/06/2012 9:26 AM
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Before I purchased, I looked at and test rode just about everything out there. When I sat on the Sportster, I noticed two things.. First, it felt a bit small to me (I'm 6 foot and 225lbs for reference), and secondly, the fit and finish just didn't seem up to par. It looked and felt like a cheaply built bike. In contrast, the build quality of the Triumph was far superior, at least to my eye.

As far as performance.. I dunno. I'll go with Rons assertion that they are about equal in performance going down a straight track. That doesn't matter much to me, as I can get to the speed limit plenty fast; and being able to do it a second faster or slower doesn't really matter all that much unless you are racing! But the real difference in performance, and one nobody seems to have mentioned, is in the curves. On twisty back country roads, my Triumph eats Harleys for lunch. In fact, I'll go so far as to say that the Triumph even handles the curves better than my Ninja.

One caveat though.. my Triumph is a Speedy, not an America, so while basically the same bikes, the riding position is slightly different; the drag bars and lower riding position may give it a slight advantage over the America in that respect.

Cheers,
Brad


To be old and wise, you must first be young and stupid.
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
MrUnix #497624 08/06/2012 9:54 AM
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Not going to add to the wise comments already stated, except for one. Check out the KZ Vulcans. Owned one in the 80'S, certainly not the best looking bike, but what a performer, and a very nice ride to boot. The newer ones have the Harleyesce thing going on, but a mate bought one and is very happy with it. Made the Rolling Thunder and was more than able to keep up with the HD Switchbacks in the crowd. Used to ride KZs alot and still fond of them.


Pacific Blue/White 2009 America in the TX Hill Country Not all that glitters is gold. Tolkien. Hmm Must've seen the chrome on my TA coming down the road.
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
MrUnix #497625 08/06/2012 9:59 AM
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I agree - handling is more important that acceleration - unless you are buying a bike to drag race it, which doesn't seem to be the case.

One thing about the TBA - the 12 handlebars being more swept back than on the 06 and earlier versions - def makes the America feel smaller.

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Sayantsi #497626 08/06/2012 11:22 AM
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The 883L has nearly a rigid ride with very little travel in the rear shocks. Again, that is not bad, its preference.

Moe, you know the new 883 has an ignition module. Once static set you don't set the timing unless doing the 1200 upgrade or other changes.

The ham can is two hex nuts. Clean your breather at a few thousand miles, midway between oil changes and you won't get any oil on the motor. The pop rivets (2) drill out about 5 seconds then self taping stainless screws into the backing plate and you are done. A 5 minute mod. (for all those times you have to set the timing

What is that White motorcycle in your garage? Looks like a TBA on a diet


I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
satxron #497627 08/06/2012 12:37 PM
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The three main reason why I would never buy a HD:

1. push rods
2. tappett valve
3. chain primary

All 1930 technology still being used at 2012 prices. The engine will not hold up in the comparison and it is even recommend for a tappett change out at 30,000 miles. What part of the engine is Triumph telling you to break down and replace at 30,000 miles?

Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
Trumpeteer #497628 08/06/2012 5:35 PM
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1,2,and 3 sound like a Chevy motor to me. Would you buy one of them?


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Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
satxron #497629 08/06/2012 6:27 PM
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Posts: 3,937




And you may see me tonight With an illegal smile J. Prine
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
erle #497630 08/06/2012 6:34 PM
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,937
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,937
Motorcycles and women






Some are better lookin' than others, some faster, some lighter, some more top heavy, others more expensive, etc., etc., etc.

BUT, their mostly ALL fun to ride, and I'd OWN as many different ones as I could!



And you may see me tonight With an illegal smile J. Prine
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
erle #497631 08/06/2012 6:40 PM
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194
Likes: 56
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194
Likes: 56
To be honest I wish our bikes had solid tappets and push rods. My old Triumphs did and I could adjust all the valves in about 15 minutes with only disassembly being the rocker access caps. I hate the shim over bucket set up we have now.I don't miss the chain primary.


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: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
The_Dog33 #497632 08/06/2012 7:00 PM
Joined: Sep 2010
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Second Wind
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Second Wind
Joined: Sep 2010
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I work on bikes nearly ever make and model on a daily basis. I can assure you I would buy another Triumph if I were looking to get another one.


I have no faith in human perfectability. I think that human exertion will have no appreciable effect upon humanity. Man is now only more active - not more happy - nor more wise, than he was 6000 years ago. Edgar Allan Poe
Re: 2012 Triumph America or 2012 HarleyXL883L?
StandingBull #497633 08/06/2012 7:35 PM
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 399
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 399
Wassappinin Yo ?


Peace in the country when the sun goes down , the corn is gettin' high
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