A couple of years ago I considered getting a motorcycle. I had owned a Kawasaki and Suzuki 450-550, 15-25 years previously, both of which I owned for maybe just over a year combined. Always wanted a Harley but did not have the $ to invest in one.
So back to a couple years ago - I began researching "entry" level cruisers. Something less expensive than a Softail and under 1600 CC due to my inexperience. Further, I did not know if riding would finally catch on for me so did not want to start off paying $10K. I did not like the looks of Sportsters, so considered the more apparent options, Vulcan, Suzuki C50, Shadow or V-Star. The Jap versions modeled after a Harley Softail Heritage.
But then I came across a Triumph America. I remember the exact bike I discovered on Craigslist - 2003 Caspian blue. I thought, this is it! - the CC range and price I want with the nostalgia of a classic brand. My search was over WRT deciding on a make and model. I ended up selecting a 2008 America, blue and white and have modified it to give a classic American cruiser look.
My point with all of this is - had I opted for any of those fore-mentioned cruisers, I know I would be discontent by now looking to upgrade, likely to an American cruiser such as a Victory or Harley. Not that I may not someday do that, but I am really loving the America and am proud of the bike. It is not pretending to be a Harley, still has the vertical twin with enough of the cruiser styling I was looking for.
There are a lot of purists I know on this forum that don't appreciate some of the marketing targets that Triumph has reached out to in recent years; or some of the more recent changes the America and Speedmaster have gone through (fat tanks and such). But it drew me in as a fan and am grateful each day I ride my 08. Thank you for your attention!
