 Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Complete Newb
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Frustrated with the displacement wars. I'm don't understand why when I was a kid, 1000CCs was a huge bike and now it is an entry level machine. I toured the US on a Kawasaki KLR 650 this year and it had plenty of power for me and roughly 50 lbs of gear (300lbs total).
I am looking at going to a street bike that I can tour 2 up on without goint to 1600CCs. I like the Thunderbird, but just don't see why it is needed. I have been facinated with the America and see lots of people that have bags and screens on them.
My question being, is there enough power for 2 up touring? Keep in mind, I dont want to do 100 MPH through twisties, but 80 MPH to keep up on a super slab every now and then would be needed. Do I really need to go to the big displacement for comfort?
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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Some say no but I say yes they work quite well. I have done 2 up touring and later camping trips where we had 2 bikes but all our camping gear including 5 room tent ,air mattress, clothes for 2 weeks, etc...These were trips from north east Pa to Conn., NH, Fl, Central PA, south Pa,up state NY, etc.. I was comfortable and wasn't lacking for power. My advice is try one and see what you think. Take a demo and leave your other 1/2 where you can pick her up then ride it on highway and back roads to get an idea. I ride a carbed 790 so not sure what the 865 would be like.
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: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Thanks Dog. Looks like you have some loaded up Triumphs on the camping trip! I managed to put a lot of stuff on a 33 gallon lockable container (Actionpacker) on the back rack of my bike.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Mar 2009
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Stickman Yogi
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Stickman Yogi
Joined: Mar 2009
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I hear ya, Byron. Heck... I remember when a 650 was a 'big' bike. Our 790s and 865s are great for getting the job done. Keeping 'er 'small' adds to the adventure of it all. Depicted below is my bike fully loaded and although it ain't 2 up, it IS fully loaded for touring, camping, cooking and nipping at the end of the day. Who needs a Wing when you can 'skip a light fandango' on a lean, mean Trumpet. 
Live to love, love to live.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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Quote:
Frustrated with the displacement wars. I'm don't understand why when I was a kid, 1000CCs was a huge bike and now it is an entry level machine. I toured the US on a Kawasaki KLR 650 this year and it had plenty of power for me and roughly 50 lbs of gear (300lbs total).
I am looking at going to a street bike that I can tour 2 up on without goint to 1600CCs. I like the Thunderbird, but just don't see why it is needed. I have been facinated with the America and see lots of people that have bags and screens on them.
My question being, is there enough power for 2 up touring? Keep in mind, I dont want to do 100 MPH through twisties, but 80 MPH to keep up on a super slab every now and then would be needed. Do I really need to go to the big displacement for comfort?
can the the America or the speedy be a 2 up touring bike ??
yes it can ..it can even pull a trailer ..I have done it many times ..and many fun fill times with my wife on this bike ......
and my oldest son and his wife rode this same bike for 2 years and have many fun fill times with his wife on that same bike ..
and this summer my youngest will be riding it ..
I have moved on to the bigger displacement bikes first was Tiger 1050 great biker for 2up touring ..and many fun filled miles on that bike ..also pulled a trailer with that one..
now my oldest son and his wife ride that one..
and I ride a Triumph RocketIII Tour 2300 talk about displacement wars ...but I will be honest this bike is the most comfortable of all 3 ..talk about a all day ride
good luck ..and remember you can't go wrong with a America or a speedy both great bikes
Ed 
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
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Keith, John, Ed and Dog -
Thanks for the input. I love seeing those bikes loaded up. I guess that inspires confidence. If I could ever figure out how to post photos on here, I would show you my touring setup.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Apr 2008
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Properly equipped, of course.  
And you may see me tonight
With an illegal smile
J. Prine
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Here is my KLR loaded up last year. 
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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Quote:
...My question being, is there enough power for 2 up touring? Keep in mind, I dont want to do 100 MPH through twisties, but 80 MPH to keep up on a super slab every now and then would be needed. Do I really need to go to the big displacement for comfort?
Our rides get around just fine!
Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Oil Expert
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Oil Expert
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As you can see by most of these pics, we can load these bikes down pretty good. And, I must add, still pass every thing else on the Interstate, other than a larger displacement machine of course, but I find most of them don't ride as fast as I do anyway. Ever. Loaded or not, two-up, or not, I tend to ride at least 9 miles over posted speed limits, and allowing for speedo error, that means (to me), keeping my tach over 5K, and my speedo needle north of 85 mph in a 70 mph zone. Loaded or not, two-up, or not. And my 790cc twin isn't even breathing hard after a 10 hour day, and I'm comfortable enough to look forward to the next 10 hour day tomorrow, too. You are where I found myself 8-9 years ago, when I thought I wanted (needed) that Honda VTX, and then the 1300 came out, and that seemed to be the perfect starter bike for what I thought I wanted to do. No way, no how, would I have ever put 80K on a VTX 7 years...nor had half as much fun doing it. People(like me now) on this forum convinced me the Triumph twin in a cruiser frame could do what I wanted without all the extra cc's. Or engine coolant. Or fans. Or shaft drive. Or an extra 150-200+ lbs. of extra weight. AND, THESE ARE TRIUMPH! I still can't stop for gas without attracting attention.... 
Last edited by Blackwind; 03/18/2012 12:22 PM.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Complete Newb
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Thanks for the input Blackwind and great photos Moe. I get the feeling that this is the direction that I want to go.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: May 2010
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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I have camped off my bike ridding 1 and 2 up. I am able to keep up with my dads 2007 Yamaha 1300 V4 venture all day long... until it comes to taking corners... I can ride circles around him. I also am getting 48-53 mpg 2 up (depending on load, wind, road type) compared to dad's 40ish!!!
07 TBA, 32" Turnouts, DIY Freak, hard saddlebags, 18" screen, dresser bars, highway pegs, floorboards, fog lights, amber run/turn lights front, red run/turn/stop lights back, blue speedo/tach lights, LED console lights
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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Absolutely not! Do not buy a TBA to tour. At their very competitive price, buy two, one for each of you.
As your Texas neighbor mine has been to Arizona Twice, Florida Bike week, and Myrtle Beach bike week. All without a problem. And I ride less than all the above folks.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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I agree with the buy 2 theory, 2 up is fine but each on their own bike is even better no matter what bike it is.
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Sep 2010
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Second Wind
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Second Wind
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Yep, I agree. Two up these bikes do the job well. One up on two bikes and you will no doubt have a blast.
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
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Complete Newb
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Now you have me back up to the $20K mark if I have to get 2. My girlfriend, although licensed, does not ever want to drive mine. I doubt that I would be able to get her on her own. It is more my hobby that she will partake in than our hobby.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2006
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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I that case buy one, have lots of fun and spend the rest on jewelry for her. 
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Oct 2010
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Quote:
Frustrated with the displacement wars. I'm don't understand why when I was a kid, 1000CCs was a huge bike and now it is an entry level machine. I toured the US on a Kawasaki KLR 650 this year and it had plenty of power for me and roughly 50 lbs of gear (300lbs total). I am looking at going to a street bike that I can tour 2 up on without goint to 1600CCs. I like the Thunderbird, but just don't see why it is needed. I have been facinated with the America and see lots of people that have bags and screens on them.
My question being, is there enough power for 2 up touring? Keep in mind, I dont want to do 100 MPH through twisties, but 80 MPH to keep up on a super slab every now and then would be needed. Do I really need to go to the big displacement for comfort?
I've toured 2 up on my Honda Steed, which is 400 cc I weigh about 300lbs, plus gear, plus my gf, etc. My Honda Steed is 30hp and I can do 70mph on it if needed, although it doesn't like it when loaded like that. A 600cc bike would do just fine and an 865 cc is overkill. So, to answer your question: you have more than enough to do what you need to do on an America or Speedmaster. A bigger displacement engine is just a penis extension
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Alex:
Seems that all we have is overkill in the US. I have seen travel documentaries of Thailand. Looks very nice.
I agree with overkill for myself riding. I was not sure that the 650 I toured with was that much of overkill and I was alone but heavily packed. I would say that an 865 should be ok for me and a passenger.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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My old 650 Triumph would pull me and Wendy together on it but on long rides it would get very hot and I could tell it was working hard, we were both over 200 lbs making over 400 lbs on it. We were getting ready to go to Laconia, Nh and I didn't think it was a good idea to load the bike down with gear and us. That prompted us to buy my SM and it did the job very well. Bought her BA the following summer.
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: Touring 2 up
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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I think it has been clearly established that if you want you can go across country on a Moped. Everything can tour.
Most folks with a Smart car or Toyota Camry in the garage would take the Camry on the 500 mile road trip. That said, for a trip I would opt for the bigger bike every time if it was available to me.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Complete Newb
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Saxtron,
That is just it. I can barely justify one bike, much less 2. I originally bought the KLR to commute and ride it almost daily. Then I took a trip and ended up realizing how fun touring can be.
The odd week out of 52 that I may take a long motorcycle trip makes it hard to justify the huge expense of a 16-1700cc bike. Just want to be sure that I am not underestimating the benefits of that type of displacement.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2006
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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If you are only going to take a long trip a year I would certainly do the America with a windshield, boards, and a back rest. It will drive all day long at highway speeds and never be labored at it. I have a very small removable windshield and a backrest and have done numerous 5-800 mile days on it.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
I have a very small removable windshield and a backrest and have done numerous 5-800 mile days on it.
Ever tried it 2-up Ron?
Do-able, enjoyable for sure ... but not that easy under full load.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2006
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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No, I would never do it two up but am sure it is doable. 500 miles two up is a very long ride.
When you say not that easy do you mean the bike has trouble or your butts have trouble, or both?
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
When you say not that easy do you mean the bike has trouble or your butts have trouble, or both?
Exluding our butts for the moment, after all, the bike is as comfortable as one makes it ... at faster speeds (where applicaple) extra power and weight would be more appreciated.
I say weight because I have found myself been blown around a bit on occasions (on one I found myself in a completely different lane).
I also suspect it's because I have spent a lot of touring on bigger bikes over the last 30 years (including two I currently have in my stable). You feel the difference.
Since you also have the Victory in your stable I think you know what I mean.
Again, I'm talking about 2-up and fully loaded for longish rides that take a couple of months (just the way I like 'em).
I've done a few with the Speedy, so it's definetely do-able. No doubt there.
See a couple below.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2006
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Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
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We are on exactly the same page. But if the they have only one bike and only about a week a year for a trip the Triumph would be fine for them.
When you get up over 700lbs. the wind has a harder time blowing you around. You are correct.
I think the price point on a bigger cruiser would well exceed that of a Speedy or America.
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Oct 2010
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Quote:
Alex:
Seems that all we have is overkill in the US. I have seen travel documentaries of Thailand. Looks very nice.
I agree with overkill for myself riding. I was not sure that the 650 I toured with was that much of overkill and I was alone but heavily packed. I would say that an 865 should be ok for me and a passenger.
Yeah, I find that a 600 or a 650 would be just right, with an 800cc engine having enough of a reserve to pull in those rare situations when you need the extra oomph. The bottom line is that a Speedmaster or America is just fine for 2up touring. There's no need to go for a 1600cc bike.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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Quote:
Quote:
Alex:
Seems that all we have is overkill in the US. I have seen travel documentaries of Thailand. Looks very nice.
I agree with overkill for myself riding. I was not sure that the 650 I toured with was that much of overkill and I was alone but heavily packed. I would say that an 865 should be ok for me and a passenger.
Yeah, I find that a 600 or a 650 would be just right, with an 800cc engine having enough of a reserve to pull in those rare situations when you need the extra oomph. The bottom line is that a Speedmaster or America is just fine for 2up touring. There's no need to go for a 1600cc bike.
no you will find your self down shifting to get that pull your talking about... when 2 up full loaded with these bikes ..buts that ok they do it just fine ..and yes you will have to make the bike fit you for the long ride..
some people put on different bars, seats,floor boards.mid pegs,back rest ..all stuff to make it better for them..and I bet some people do nothing ...
I now use my RT3 for all my riding ..would I go back to my America no....does that 850lbs & 2300cc make a difference oh yes ..a big one..and now lets but this in the hands of hands of some one that does not have a penis..."my wife"...she has many miles on my bikes..has over 800 miles days one each bike..the America,Tiger 1050,Rocket tour...
and will tell you the Rocket wins hands down then the Tiger then the America..but if you look at the order that is also the way the run in price ..
so remember when Touring 2 up look to the one seating behind you..
and I still say the America or speedy will do the job just fine ..its the best bang for bucks bike out there ..
ED
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Adjunct
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It's not a question of whether there are advantages to having a bigger bike, I think it's more of a question of: Do you need a bigger bike to tour for a week or two once a year? The answer, at least in my view is no. You don't need a bigger bike. It's ok to downshift sometimes, it doesn't have to be a perfect experience, but it's ok, it's more than manageable. In fact, it's a downright pleasant experience.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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Quote:
I think it has been clearly established that if you want you can go across country on a Moped. Everything can tour.
Most folks with a Smart car or Toyota Camry in the garage would take the Camry on the 500 mile road trip. That said, for a trip I would opt for the bigger bike every time if it was available to me.
And I would not, I am perfectly happy with my SM for touring all over the country and don't find myself wanting for anything. I have plenty of power bike is smooth and not working to run highway speeds and more loaded or not. In my opinion only reason to go bigger is a status thing or psychological.
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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Now the comfort of the passengers butt would be a good argument if she isn't comfy on the bike. Wendy had no issues with it and we rode well over 500 miles 2 up but only about 500 to 600 in a day.
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: Touring 2 up
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
In my opinion only reason to go bigger is a status thing or psychological.
As oft stated here, I also have bigger bikes in my stable. One of them long before I got the SM.
I didn't know I had status or psychological issues. 
Last edited by Bedouin; 03/31/2012 8:13 PM.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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Quote:
It's not a question of whether there are advantages to having a bigger bike, I think it's more of a question of: Do you need a bigger bike to tour for a week or two once a year? The answer, at least in my view is no. You don't need a bigger bike. It's ok to downshift sometimes, it doesn't have to be a perfect experience, but it's ok, it's more than manageable. In fact, it's a downright pleasant experience.
you did not get what I was saying we are talking about 2 up touring and we ride and camp a lot so it's very important for that person riding behind me to very happy ..or no one will be happy ...and she love's to ride with me and has been for over 26 years ...
I did not once put down the America or the speedy I said they will do the job ....
and as for what I want or need....
I WANTED a America I got one did I really need it noooooo I WANTED it.....
I WANTED A Tiger 1050 I got one did I really need it nooooooooo I WANTED it....
I WANTED A Rocket III Tour I got one did I really need it noooooo I WANTED
Ed
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Adjunct
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Adjunct
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Quote:
I did not once put down the America or the speedy I said they will do the job ....
and as for what I want or need....
I WANTED a America I got one did I really need it noooooo I WANTED it.....
I WANTED A Tiger 1050 I got one did I really need it nooooooooo I WANTED it....
I WANTED A Rocket III Tour I got one did I really need it noooooo I WANTED
Ed
Ha! Well, yeah, but I think the guy is also taking into consideration budgetary constraints. Wouldn't we all like to have a stable of bikes in our garage for each and every situation and mood?
But I think that we're in agreement that taking into account practical considerations, the America or the Speedmaster are more than adequate to tour 2up from a power, comfort and enjoyment perspective.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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Quote:
Quote:
In my opinion only reason to go bigger is a status thing or psychological.
As oft stated here, I also have bigger bikes in my stable. One of them long before I got the SM.
I didn't know I had status or psychological issues.
If you buy a bigger bike because you like it is not what I am talking about. There are a couple bigger bikes I would like to have but not because they are bigger or more powerful but because I like the bike. Maybe it is because I rode Triumph most of my riding life and am used to higher revs on the highway but my SM does everything I want it to effortlessly. I would like an R3T because it is another Triumph I don't have and I like it. I have yet to test drive one but I have sat on them and think it would be a nice bike to ride. I could change my mind after a test ride.
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: Touring 2 up
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
If you buy a bigger bike because you like it is not what I am talking about.
... bigger bikes I would like to have but not because they are bigger or more powerful but because I like the bike.
It's exactly the reason that they are bigger and/or more powerful that most people buy them.
Also, do you think the people who buy these bikes spend a lot of money and do not like them?
Or the ONLY reason being because of status or psychological issues as previously stated?
I'm not getting something.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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Blowing gravel off rural roads
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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Quote:
What I did find more informative than entertaining was your bit about the order of your beautiful wife's motorsickle ride enjoyment.
Moe, you've just reminded me of an incident concerning Kathy when she chose the Speedy over my RT1100.
This was 4 years ago and I actually posted it:
The Princess has chosen.
Sorry, the pictures and maps are missing as I changed over servers and didn't copy the pictures over (yet).
Last edited by Bedouin; 04/01/2012 7:32 AM.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,823
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,823 |
Quote:
Quote:
I did not once put down the America or the speedy I said they will do the job ....
and as for what I want or need....
I WANTED a America I got one did I really need it noooooo I WANTED it.....
I WANTED A Tiger 1050 I got one did I really need it nooooooooo I WANTED it....
I WANTED A Rocket III Tour I got one did I really need it noooooo I WANTED
Ed
Ha! Well, yeah, but I think the guy is also taking into consideration budgetary constraints. Wouldn't we all like to have a stable of bikes in our garage for each and every situation and mood?
But I think that we're in agreement that taking into account practical considerations, the America or the Speedmaster are more than adequate to tour 2up from a power, comfort and enjoyment perspective.
and if you would read my post... I tell him to go for it ..saying that the America and speedy are great bikes and will do the job..but also be ready to set this bikes up for touring ..with better shock's, wind shields, floor boards, mid pegs, saddle bags, maybe a better seat ...or maybe it will need nothing and be fine just the way it is...
but when you make a off hand comment..about why some has a bigger cc bike ???? next time think before you type ...because buying the tiger 1050 cc and the Rocker 2300 cc was a "husband & wife" decision ...
and any one that knows us...knows that we camp a lot and have pulled a trailer with each bike ..but the rocket ..but I am looking at hitch set up for that this year..and maybe even getting this camper.. web page
so you see theirs more to us buying bigger cc bikes then what most people think!!!!
Ed & Vicki
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,823
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,823 |
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Ed! I take it you mean when riding 2-up, you now use your RT3 for all your riding?
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and now lets put this in the hands of hands of some one that does not have a penis ...
lol. I can only imagine what this is. Sorry, just had to close that door. 
What I did find more informative than entertaining was your bit about the order of your beautiful wife's motorsickle ride enjoyment.
Quote:
... the Rocket wins hands down then the Tiger then the America..but if you look at the order that is also the way the run in price...
Lynn and I looked at the RIII tourer. Perhaps we should look past the R3's shortcoming and focus more on the actual butt/ride factor. Reading Vickie's preferences is enlightening. Lynn and I looked at the R3 setup as a super-sized BA. Is the pillion that much more comfortable or is the difference more in line with ride quality and that bit about super-sized? We explored the R3 vis-a-vis the wing of gold. I could live without all the GW accoutrements and perhaps so too Lynn could live without the pillion armrest, etcetera?
This is an axiom: "so remember when Touring 2 up look to the one seating behind you.."
P.S.: Ever think the reason of ride comfort order has the BA last? Perhaps, just maybe, like you think it could have something to do with those freaky loud pipes on it?
Happy Sunday to yous and the family!
well moe I ride the rocket most the time because my boys have taken over the other 2 bikes ...Eddie the tiger Allan the America..nothing like riding with son's..I think it going to be a good year
as for my riding partner ..I am blessed she has rode many miles with me in heat,rain,and great sunny days and does not complain..she does use a mp3 player ..
as for my upgrades over the years ..each bike brings something different to the table each in its own price range and I love all the bikes or I would still would not have them ....
but to day if going on a ride I take the Rocket short or long..and yes I did ride the America last week it's still a great bike and will tell any one that is looking at one get it you won't regret it
brother moe you have a great day hope you and your family are living life to it's fullest
Ed
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,685 Likes: 20
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,685 Likes: 20 |
I think if I was going to tour and wanted under 1000cc bike I would go with a factory set up out the door at $9,400 bucks. 950cc Star Bagger
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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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 |
I've ridden a 600 VLX honda over a lot of Thailand and there are times when extra power would have been an advantage.
I've ridden my America for awhile now in Australia and there are times when extra power would be an advantage.
I love my Triumph and it would be fine for an occaisonal tour but if I was touring in the U.S. or Australia constantly,I think I'd like something bigger for two up with loads of gear.
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56 |
Quote:
Quote:
If you buy a bigger bike because you like it is not what I am talking about.
... bigger bikes I would like to have but not because they are bigger or more powerful but because I like the bike.
It's exactly the reason that they are bigger and/or more powerful that most people buy them.
Also, do you think the people who buy these bikes spend a lot of money and do not like them?
Or the ONLY reason being because of status or psychological issues as previously stated?
I'm not getting something.
I don't know how to state it any clearer but you don't seem to get what I am saying.
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29 |
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
If you buy a bigger bike because you like it is not what I am talking about.
... bigger bikes I would like to have but not because they are bigger or more powerful but because I like the bike.
It's exactly the reason that they are bigger and/or more powerful that most people buy them.
Also, do you think the people who buy these bikes spend a lot of money and do not like them?
Or the ONLY reason being because of status or psychological issues as previously stated?
I'm not getting something.
I don't know how to state it any clearer but you don't seem to get what I am saying.
You kick off with a blanket statement like "In my opinion only reason to go bigger is a status thing or psychological." followed by another post with "unless you buy a bigger bike because you like it but not because it's bigger or more powerful".
I agree I don't get any of the logic in that equation ... but I already said that in my previous post.
Let's leave it it that.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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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 |
Hey Thanassis, in order to reinforce your argument against Ian's idea that owning a bigger and more powerful touring motorcycle is purely a "psychological thing", I'm somewhat surprised you didn't remind Ian about Eddy's little "incident" over there in Europe a few years ago when he was tryin' to pass that long-assed truck on that highway that one day, and when your BMW RT had NO problem passin' that sucker, but Eddy just BARELY missed gettin' creamed while on your Speedy while tryin' to do the same thing...and THIS was when he was JUST ridin' ONE-UP!!! (...in OTHER words, YEAH, one CAN tour on these babies, BUT with TWO-UP and with luggage, it suuuuuure is a mite tougher PASSIN' slower vehicles on two-lane roads out there withOUT the added benfit of increased "Roll-on Power", ain't it?!...in Europe or ANYWHERE for THAT matter, huh?!)
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29 |
Quote:
Hey Thanassis, in order to reinforce your argument against Ian's idea that owning a bigger and more powerful touring motorcycle is purely a "psychological thing", I'm somewhat surprised you didn't remind Ian about Eddy's little "incident" over there in Europe a few years ago when he was tryin' to pass that long-assed truck on that highway that one day, and when your BMW RT had NO problem passin' that sucker, but Eddy just BARELY missed gettin' creamed while on your Speedy while tryin' to do the same thing...and THIS was when he was JUST ridin' ONE-UP!!!
(...in OTHER words, YEAH, one CAN tour on these babies, BUT with TWO-UP and with luggage, it suuuuuure is a mite tougher PASSIN' slower vehicles on two-lane roads out there withOUT the added benfit of increased "Roll-on Power", ain't it?!...in Europe or ANYWHERE for THAT matter, huh?!)
Will I ever forget it. 
I has gone way past the truck and stayed in the middle of the road trying to nudge the oncoming car over a little (who came out of nowhere and was flying at us) while Eddy passed the truck. You know how close to the middle (and oncoming cars) I ride anyway.
The bastage wouldn't budge.
You've ridden that very same RT for several thousand miles around Europe.
I am sure you understand and appreciate the difference when touring.
Last edited by Bedouin; 04/02/2012 4:26 PM.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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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:
You've ridden that very same RT for several thousand miles around Europe.
I am sure you understand and appreciate the difference when touring.
Yep, I surely do! And so while I still dearly love my BA after over 10 years of ownership, and after having previously owned a 1980 Yamaha XS1100 Special for many years and then a 1995 Triumph Sprint and appreciating the passing power of those machines, I will once again reiterate that old "lament" of mine that IF Bloor's boys would've made and offered 1000cc versions of the Bonneville lineup (and with maybe upgraded suspension), I would have gladly paid what would probably have been a $2,000 premium for such an animal back when I purchased what has turned out to be my beautiful, reliable, extremely smooth-running, great handling, but what I've always felt was a somewhat slightly underpowered BA.
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29 |
Quote:
... that old "lament" of mine that IF Bloor's boys would've made and offered 1000cc versions of the Bonneville lineup (and with maybe upgraded suspension), I would have gladly paid what would probably have been a $2,000 premium for such an animal
I agree totally and would have done exactly the same, but they didn't.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 13
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 13 |
Wow. I left for a week and this thing was 14 replies. Now I am just reading through the 50 and wondering why we all just cant get along. Ha.
The question was will the bike be able to handle 2 up touring. The thing that I may want to say is that while I can take a night in a hammock, we are really just hotel people. Not taking anything other than clothes and cameras with us. I am just wanting to know will it have problems pulling all day. My 650 single had no issues at 85 MPH and had plenty (well not plenty) of passing power.
Bedoin - I appreciate the information. There is one thing that I don't understand. The map. How is the Atlantic on the wrong side of the land. Odd to see as I am always used to seeing east coast US maps.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,517 Likes: 29 |
Quote:
Bedoin - I appreciate the information.
Just a point I don't know if I clarified earlier ... both rides (albeit in Europe) in the 2 maps are 2-up, which, as you rightly say, is what this thread was all about in the first place.
Sorry it got cluttered up with non-related junk.
Bedouin.
Blessed are those eyes that have seen more roads than any man! (Homer).
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 13
Complete Newb
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OP
Complete Newb
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 13 |
Bedoin- I bet the Europe trip was great. Where are the photos? 
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56 |
Quote:
Wow. I left for a week and this thing was 14 replies. Now I am just reading through the 50 and wondering why we all just cant get along. Ha.
The question was will the bike be able to handle 2 up touring. The thing that I may want to say is that while I can take a night in a hammock, we are really just hotel people. Not taking anything other than clothes and cameras with us. I am just wanting to know will it have problems pulling all day. My 650 single had no issues at 85 MPH and had plenty (well not plenty) of passing power.
Bedoin - I appreciate the information. There is one thing that I don't understand. The map. How is the Atlantic on the wrong side of the land. Odd to see as I am always used to seeing east coast US maps.
If all you want to haul is 2 people and some clothes the BA will be fine. I have covered thousands of miles in The US doing that plus camping gear. In the end only you can make the decision as to what is big enough for you. Take each bike you are interested in for a test ride 2 up if you can and see what they do.
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,630 Likes: 7
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,630 Likes: 7 |
Quote:
The bike carries a fair amount...
  
Now the question must be asked, two of who? Certainly not two of me! 
We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
I'm not sure it could carry one and a half of me...
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56 |
Quote:
Quote:
The bike carries a fair amount...
Now the question must be asked, two of who? Certainly not two of me!
Good point
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: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,630 Likes: 7
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,630 Likes: 7 |
Quote:
I'm not sure it could carry one and a half of me...
I'm pretty sure it would carry me and a super model, at least until my wife found out! 
We all like to think of ourselves as rugged individualists. But when push comes to shove most of us are sheep who do what we are told. Worst of all, a lot of us become unpaid agents of whoever is controlling the agenda by enforcing the current dogma on the few rugged individualists who actually exist.
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 105
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 105 |
 3 or 4 days before Thanksgiving, 2006. Killboy pic Speedmaster & America = Mid weight cruiser classification Are they considered touring bikes? No. Can one tour on it? Why sure. There's one guy on the Iron Butt forum who rides a 150 something or other all over the nation. To each his own. Great bike for $8,000 new? Sure. My first choice for a 48 state tour? Nope. But that's just me. One of life's finer lessons - if someone does not agree with me, it doesn't mean either one of us is wrong. Big horsepower = small weiner? Absurd. I think that opinion is usually supplied by those lacking in both departments. I liked it better here when the disrespect wasn't part of the every day like it is now, which is why I stopped coming around for so long - too much like reading something along the lines of a dialog of the divorced but hey - that's just me. No one has to agree with that. ;-) If I found a genie in a bottle, and was given a choice of America/Speedmaster - Rocket - or T Bird... I wouldn't pick America or Speedmaster. On the other hand, I absolutely love my Speedmaster, despite it's shortcoming as an $8,000 motorcycle, such as a glaring lack of fork dampers, shaky electricals, stock shocks that I wouldn't put on a ricshaw, headstock bearings that are of laughable quality. Geez guys - you couldn't afford 3 or 4 more ball bearings within the race?
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,099
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,099 |
The only thing you hate about your bike is mine's faster,
and better looking. Oh, that's two things.
UC
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Re: Touring 2 up
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Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 136
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 136 |
I would say try it!
I ride two ip every day. I find the bike really only fails a bit on open highway 70mph when you hit a long hill and your forced to 4th gear. Or to open to full throttle. But tbh you kinda have to do that 1 up a lot of the time here in uk as its all hills where I live lol. It's a great bike two up. Ok so it's no t-bird but What have you got to lose?
We travel with me(19st) and the mrs (12st), a tent, 2 bags, a case of clothes, stove, food, and feck knows what else. Engine couldn't give a crap most of the time.
Only thing I would definitely do is change the shocks on the rear to something like the hagon 440 if you haven't already. The stock shocks will ruin your experience very quickly with the constant bottoming out on crappy roads with two people on the bike.
Quick! There's time 2B Wasted! :-P
2007 America
Harley FatBoy Short Pipes
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