 I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898 |
What gives, I recently went to sit on some new Triumph's ask I'm looking to get an America or Speedmaster or possibly a T-100 or Scrambler (I know I'm all over the place) @ anyway I sat on a 2014 America and the floorboards seem at least 2 inches closer and possibly higher than previous models, and they have dropped the seat height an inch, also the bars have way too much pull back now, heck the old bars on the America's were perfect! The newer bars are at least 2-3 inches closer now. I'm 5'10" and I feel cramped now whereas on the older models the bike fit me perfect. Not to mention now the rear fender is plastic! I love the new red bike but can these issues be easily fixed to the old style bikes or maybe I'm better off buying a 2008 speedy I have an eye on, I'm not bashing I just think they are pushing these bikes more to beginners/women
Triumph Scrambler Diablo Red & Silver (2014), Arrow Exhaust, FI remapped with TTP #4, 16 tooth sprocket, Triumph Gel Solo seat & Rack, Progressive 440 1" lowered Shocks, SAI & O2 Removal, Airbox Restrictor Plate removed.
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 Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 5,068 Likes: 1
Saddle Sore
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Saddle Sore
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 5,068 Likes: 1 |
Like the single disc on the Speedmaster. Cheap.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 407 Likes: 2
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 407 Likes: 2 |
When I got my America the foot controls did seem just a bit of a stretch. I was used to my Bonneville but I quickly adapted to the America's seating ergonomics. I have sat on the newer models and agree they seem just a bit too closed up. Prefer the foot controls of the earlier models, like the front turn signal location better on the latest ones though.
09 America, some modifications
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,694 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,694 Likes: 22 |
They seem to be condensing to one bike. 1 disc stops both bikes fine so they won't invest in dual. The masses spent a lot of time switching out beach bars for pull back, buying risers, buckhorns, drag etc. So they changed the riding position in response to that. Plus as a sales feature they can say "If this is too short and tight we have this Thunderbird here that fits you great.
My two dealers say sales for America and Speedy are dismal. They want more displacement and no chain to maintain.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
Quote:
My two dealers say sales for America and Speedy are dismal. They want more displacement and no chain to maintain.
Man, that's sad! People are missing out on a great bike. Trouble is, there are so MANY great bikes out there to look at. Just to stir up an old axe, they started to go wrong when they changed the tank. Now, they look a lot like some other bikes. Old time distinctiveness was what they had going for them. It's what immediately grabbed my attention. On a side note, I thought I'd look at some new America's online, just to see what the original poster was reffering to. Gave up trying to look at one after just a few minutes. (Granted, I'm not real patient) Checked a couple of genuine Triumph sites and couldn't get past second base without looking THROUGH a commercial or dropdown menu. Never did find just a plain ole picture of an America where I could study the bike.
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
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)
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62 |
They really are rapidly losing the appeal they had. They seem to be moving farther and father away from the classic Triumph ques they had that gave that nostalgic feel with the cruiser ergonomics mixed in.
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: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Perhaps THAT might be due to some thought that those of us who DO remember those "classic Triumph cues" have ALREADY purchased our BAs and Speedies, and NOW DAYS the people who MIGHT be interested in purchasing one of these Cruisers wouldn't know an Amal carburetor from a Lucas taillight lens, HUH?!
And so, perhaps those blokes in Hinckley have seized upon this very thought, EH?!
Well, at least that's MY guess here, anyway!
(...and not even taking into consideration here that EVEN SINCE the debut of our models, MANY of the Triumph "cognoscenti" who ARE well familiar with "classic Triumph cues" have thought the very idea of a "Triumph Cruiser" done in a "laid-back American style" as an "abomination to the marque" itself!!!)
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)
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 45
Greenhorn
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Greenhorn
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 45 |
well thats the first time i,ve had a look at the latest models ... and can say i won,t even be looking at what they are worth.I brought my 02 america because of the 790 motor and the fact it had carbs and spokes.I,m not sure about the rest of the world but in new zealand there seems to be a lot of early model speedys and americas coming on the market that have very low mileage and they are bloody cheap, twice the bike for half the price.
02 america,158 main,pods,homemade exhaust,sissy bar,box section high rise bars ... if it doesn,t need to be on there , throw it at an annoying neighbour lol
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
Thanks Dwight. Your point about the "older" crowd is not a new one. HD watchers have been worrying about that same kinda thinking for a while now. But how do you explain the huge sales in the new Indian cycle, which is TOTALLY about retro styling? Of course, everybody knows that Indian is "stealing" away HD riders, for the most part. And, isn't it true that the standard T100s are aimed right toward the "older" crowd? Crap, they are the spittin image of a classic Triuimph from the late 60s! (I wonder how sales of THAT model is doing?) It doesn't look good for our beloved America's as a model choice.
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
Oh, I forgot to add. Looked at the new pictures of the America, thanks to Dwight. Hooooo Hum.....Nothing special here. I actually think I'd be more inclined to buy a T100 for it's classic styling.
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,694 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,694 Likes: 22 |
Quote:
Thanks Dwight. Your point about the "older" crowd is not a new one. HD watchers have been worrying about that same kinda thinking for a while now. But how do you explain the huge sales in the new Indian cycle, which is TOTALLY about retro styling? Of course, everybody knows that Indian is "stealing" away HD riders, for the most part. And, isn't it true that the standard T100s are aimed right toward the "older" crowd? Crap, they are the spittin image of a classic Triuimph from the late 60s! (I wonder how sales of THAT model is doing?) It doesn't look good for our beloved America's as a model choice.
It looks retro but adds a belt, displacement and HP. Just look at the Scout. It appeals to both the new and old at heart.
The moment I saw my America in 05 at Pure Triumph in Florida, I knew I was going to buy it. It had carbs, it had spokes, it looked like a Triumph from two blocks away. An hour later they had my debit card and I had a bike. Several years later another one to mess with, another 790.
Then they injected them, stopped making them in England, rounded the tanks. Once they did that they kept making fabulous motorcycles. But I bought the retro like Dwight says. 13 years have passed since the first America came out. I fear the retro crowd that wanted them has already bought them.
So then you look at the more modern rider shopping Triumph. Well, for a few thousand more they get double the motor, HP, and torque.
I believe the America and Speedmaster may have a life expectancy problem in the next few years. I hope not but it doesn't look good.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 45
Greenhorn
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Greenhorn
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 45 |
The americas and speedmasters are value for money,and with the early ones being so easy to work on they make a great first bike.I agree with the fact that they may have a life expectancy problem but with damaged ones being so cheap it would pay to stock up now ....
02 america,158 main,pods,homemade exhaust,sissy bar,box section high rise bars ... if it doesn,t need to be on there , throw it at an annoying neighbour lol
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10 |
Quote:
When I got my America the foot controls did seem just a bit of a stretch. I was used to my Bonneville but I quickly adapted to the America's seating ergonomics. I have sat on the newer models and agree they seem just a bit too closed up. Prefer the foot controls of the earlier models, like the front turn signal location better on the latest ones though.
I agree Matt, when I first got mine the forward controls seemed a stretch but now I feel fine with them.I sat on a new model and it seemed a bit cramped.The America seems to be heading like the UJM cruiser to me.A friend had an 800cc Suzuki and looks of the front end reminds me of that a lot.Having said this I'd still buy one, but would have to modify a bit whereas the one I have looked good to go as is [to me]
Dinosaur.
"Oh Man I only ride 'em.I don't know what makes 'em work". Donald "Oddball" Sutherland
"Don't let the bastards get you down". Kris Kristofferson
"I am only paranoid because everyone is against me". Larry [Frank Burns] Linville
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 20,096 Likes: 2 |
Quote:
Thanks Dwight. Your point about the "older" crowd is not a new one. HD watchers have been worrying about that same kinda thinking for a while now. But how do you explain the huge sales in the new Indian cycle, which is TOTALLY about retro styling? Of course, everybody knows that Indian is "stealing" away HD riders, for the most part. And, isn't it true that the standard T100s are aimed right toward the "older" crowd? Crap, they are the spittin image of a classic Triuimph from the late 60s! (I wonder how sales of THAT model is doing?) It doesn't look good for our beloved America's as a model choice.
Hi Rich.
As to your point one: I wonder what the general demographic is of the new Indian purchasers. I'll bet it's skewed toward the older crowd who probably know of Indian's rich heritage.
As to point two: I have a feeling the standard Bonneville lineup probably outsells the Cruiser lineup by a quite a margin. I know I probably see at least 6 or 7 or more of the "standard" Bonnie line-up (the SE, the T100 and the Thruxton) for every Triumph Cruiser model on the road here in AZ!
(...and I view AZ as a "Cruiser-centric state", because H-Ds seem to outnumber all other makes of M/C by a LARGE LARGE margin around here, and whereas in my old stomping grounds of CA it seemed as though sport bikes were almost as prevalent as H-D cruisers were)
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)
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,268 Likes: 16
Saddle Sore
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Saddle Sore
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,268 Likes: 16 |
I've thought for sometime Triumph would faze out the America or Speedmaster. I don't see them fazing out both the America and Speedy as they need an introductory cruiser. Similar to the Honda Shadow.
Smaller displacement, lighter weight for first time cruiser buyers.
Back in 2002 the introduction of the America was a great marketing plan to help reintroduce the Triumph brand to the colonies. What better way than to create a "cruiser" based on the Bonnie power plant named the "America"
Whereas the Thunderbird lineup now has 5 variations of the model.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898 |
I'm leaning to a Scrambler now, go figure
Triumph Scrambler Diablo Red & Silver (2014), Arrow Exhaust, FI remapped with TTP #4, 16 tooth sprocket, Triumph Gel Solo seat & Rack, Progressive 440 1" lowered Shocks, SAI & O2 Removal, Airbox Restrictor Plate removed.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 663
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 663 |
For me, the newer Speedmaster (I have a 2013), is more comfortable than my 2009 America, and I loved that bike. I actually like the fact that the pegs have been brought back, and the lower seat height was a bonus.
2013 Speedmaster Matte Black
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,694 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,694 Likes: 22 |
The new ones are fabulous bikes! But they do not appear to be selling well.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898 |
The Speedmaster isnt as bad as what they have done to the America!
Triumph Scrambler Diablo Red & Silver (2014), Arrow Exhaust, FI remapped with TTP #4, 16 tooth sprocket, Triumph Gel Solo seat & Rack, Progressive 440 1" lowered Shocks, SAI & O2 Removal, Airbox Restrictor Plate removed.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62 |
Quote:
It looks retro but adds a belt
I would never buy anything belt drive, can't be fixed along the road and have to take half the bike apart to change one.
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: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
Quote:
Quote:
It looks retro but adds a belt
I would never buy anything belt drive, can't be fixed along the road and have to take half the bike apart to change one.
My Indian belt is supposed to last for 30 K before regular replacement. A big improvement over belts when they first came out, years ago. My local mechanic mentioned that HD has some kind of a two part swing arm setup, bolted apart(?) that makes the belt easier to replace. don't know myself. But Ian, you know that the days of working on your bike alongside the road are long gone now, unless you ride antiques, like we do. The crescent wrench has been replaced by the cell phone. One thing good about that, I still have a tool pouch, only now, I carry a spare set of glasses and a pack of gum in it!  Sometimes, when I look back, I think I was crazy to go clear to Canada or South Carolina on my Hinkley Triumphs. Sure, I could fix most anything on these bikes, but I never had to.
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62 |
I got almost 30,000 out of my last chain with no lube and I bet I could have gone the 30,000 but chose to err on the side of caution.I carry a chain breaker and master links so if it had broken I would be back on the road in a matter of minutes, same can't be said or done with a belt. I also only pop the master link and slide it out to change it, no other disassembly. Chances of a chain being damaged by gravel are almost non-existant too again same can't be said for a belt.
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: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
I'm aware of all the benifits of a chain. Not arguing with ya. Just gently nudging you into the present/future. Hard to believe you got 30 K from a chain.
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,225 Likes: 62 |
I changed it at about 23,000 or 24,000 and never lubed it. It really isn't in bad shape now and I have it hanging on the shed wall with the sprockets. Rear shows no visible wear and the front only slight wear. This is also why I think lube may actually serve to attract abrasive dirt and shorten the life of an Xring.
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: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,720
Check Pants
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Check Pants
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 5,720 |
There is a method in industrial practice where changing out a physically trapped bad belt is not conducive to production, where you take new the belt and wrap it up as tight as you can where a unmounted belt would be threaded within the machine and secure it with tape or zip ties within the mechanism (in this case, the swingarm), cut or remove the old belt and unsecure the new, then replace it, without having to drop the wheel/swingarm, etc. If you take a good look at your bike, you can see the feasibility of what I am describing. The downside depends on how well you can keep from diminishing the looks of your scoot with a lump of a collapsed belt hanging in there.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,995 Likes: 10 |
Quote:
I'm aware of all the benifits of a chain. Not arguing with ya. Just gently nudging you into the present/future. Hard to believe you got 30 K from a chain.
I've got 33,000Kms,a little over 20,000miles if my summin' and cypherin' is correct Rich. I think I should get another 10,000 out of it easyily.It will be interesting to see.
Dinosaur.
"Oh Man I only ride 'em.I don't know what makes 'em work". Donald "Oddball" Sutherland
"Don't let the bastards get you down". Kris Kristofferson
"I am only paranoid because everyone is against me". Larry [Frank Burns] Linville
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898 |
Bought a 2015 Scrambler, gotta love it
Triumph Scrambler Diablo Red & Silver (2014), Arrow Exhaust, FI remapped with TTP #4, 16 tooth sprocket, Triumph Gel Solo seat & Rack, Progressive 440 1" lowered Shocks, SAI & O2 Removal, Airbox Restrictor Plate removed.
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,268 Likes: 16
Saddle Sore
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Saddle Sore
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,268 Likes: 16 |
Quote:
Bought a 2015 Scrambler, gotta love it
super cool, where the heck are the pictures 
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Re: I think they have ruined the "newer" America's
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898
3/4 Throttle
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OP
3/4 Throttle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 898 |
Pick it up tomorrow, is Triumph Twin power the way to go for the Ecu?
In thinking D&D slip on''s as well, any other recommendations??
Triumph Scrambler Diablo Red & Silver (2014), Arrow Exhaust, FI remapped with TTP #4, 16 tooth sprocket, Triumph Gel Solo seat & Rack, Progressive 440 1" lowered Shocks, SAI & O2 Removal, Airbox Restrictor Plate removed.
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