BonnevilleAmerica.com | Forums Home | AUP | Disclaimer
Check out the new Gallery
wicked red 1100
wicked red 1100
by mag10, August 21
Windshield I need to replace
Windshield I need to replace
by philwarner, May 10
first ride
first ride
by NemoJr, April 1
Steve McQueen inspired
Steve McQueen inspired
by Feral, November 28
GaRally22
GaRally22
by chy, September 18
Previous Thread
Next Thread
Print Thread
Shame
#602139 04/11/2022 7:15 PM
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
Fe Butt
OP Online Content
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
It really is a shame. I remember when I could check in here several times a day and every time I did there would be new activity in multiple threads. I used to butt heads with Friar John or disagree with Big Bill or help any number of guys looking for advise, chat with Uncle Charlie or get mad at Dwights name calling or attempted belittling. The list goes on, I would give anything to be able to go 'round with Friar John, argue or not I liked the man and it was truly a loss when he passed. I miss Keith, and Mert and Angelis. I miss the Yutes, long time members will know who I mean. Just because I didn't mention some does not mean they are not missed just too long a list to mention them all. Some I met in person some were just friends on here that I thought I may meet eventually. I would love to see this place come alive again like in the past, bike talk political talk what ever the conversation went around to. I miss joking and talking with Rich. Not really going anywhere with this just thinking.


I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
3 members like this: Hermit, REBEL, findlay13
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602140 04/12/2022 2:21 PM
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 129
Likes: 13
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 129
Likes: 13
With the 9 Triumphs I've owned since I started riding again in 2007 (after a 20 year hiatus), there were 3 Americas, a Speedy. 3 Tigers, Legend TT & T-Bird1600. At one point between my wife and I we owned six bikes.
I kept coming back to the America, and now, after downsizing, my 2008 America is the only bike. I think it's my favorite.
I also wish there was more participation, but even on the RAT forum, the America section is fading. With the bikes out of production for so long, interest has waned.
Yes, a shame for such a lovely bike!

Last edited by VABird; 04/12/2022 2:23 PM.

The ride may be fun, but in the Great Scheme of things, it really is about the destination! John 3:16
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602141 04/12/2022 9:13 PM
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 3,174
Likes: 47
Loquacious
Offline
Loquacious
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 3,174
Likes: 47
A comment on RAT forum mentioned some have moved on to Facebook pages as well. I dont do Facebook although I have been known to creep using my wifes account on occasion. I miss Keiths musical videos I wonder if he still rides that America? at least he went out in style "just came back to say goodbye" If I ever drive through Trail I'll look him up. Hopefully the rest just cruised away on their own and not due to Covid.
You can always use the list to email someone if you need to know their status Or what they are riding today.

Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602142 04/12/2022 10:51 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 571
Likes: 19
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 571
Likes: 19
Agreed! Miss the old days. I signed on in January 05 and it’s been an interesting ride. lots of good memories on the forum and from the friendships, rides and rallys attended.

My only road bike is my America - runs great, is paid for, and I can still handle the weight! A lot has changed in the country, on the forum, and in the motorcycle universe since this all began. Would love to see the forum continue. I’ll. keep stopping by. Cya out there.


John 3:16
let's ride...

1969 Triumph Trophy 500
2004 America
2010 America
Re: Shame
roadie #602143 04/13/2022 12:56 AM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 211
Likes: 2
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 211
Likes: 2
Chy's post about his 20- year anniversary set off some nostalgic thoughts. There are probably a few of us that are hitting that point this summer. There was excitement in owning this new Triumph and it was reflected in the posts.
If I recall that January 2005 date was installed after a problem with the website. I'm not sure what my original date was but it was before that.
I did get down to Florida with BonnieUSA and over to the Great River Road with that group.
I still haven't given up on Georgia.

Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602144 04/13/2022 7:51 AM
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
Fe Butt
OP Online Content
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
It would be great to just talk to old friends no matter what they ride now.


I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
2 members like this: roadie, findlay13
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602145 04/13/2022 10:27 AM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 6,307
Likes: 3
Worn Saddle
Offline
Worn Saddle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 6,307
Likes: 3
Been awhile for a lot of us. Life has gone by and a lot has happened over the last 20 years. Maybe i'll actually go somewhere this year if covid let's me. Cheers


A word to the wise is not necessary. It is the stupid ones who need the advice. Pat
1 member likes this: roadie
Re: Shame
Dinqua #602146 04/13/2022 6:51 PM
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,150
Likes: 12
Learned Hand
Offline
Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,150
Likes: 12
I see the same sort of slow down on other hobby type forums. Sometimes they cycle (no pun) back up sometimes not. I was on a mead making digest that lasted from the late '80's until a few years ago.

This one has got to the point of being a stable group, no one stirring the pot, and a theme centered around a discontinued motorcycle that we have all had a hand in re-engineering. So what is left to do? We have sorted most of these bikes problems. I can't keep scattering motors just to have something fun to share!

Maybe we need a rally, if as Pat says, covid lets us.


05 speedmaster - 1100cc, 11:1 racing pistons, Carillo rods, thunderbike cams, ported and polished head, 2mm over intake and exhaust valves, Barnett kevlar clutch, scepter pipes, oversize manifolds, 45mm HSR's, TTP stage 4 firestarter
Re: Shame
Dinqua #602148 04/13/2022 11:16 PM
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 431
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 431
Yeah, Pat still lives. Way to go old man.
There are a lot of guys I would have liked to meet but.....


I've become comfortably numb
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602150 04/14/2022 7:39 AM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,056
Likes: 78
chy Offline
Loquacious
Offline
Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,056
Likes: 78
As the military taught me, life happens and people move on to other things. Some of us just got older I guess and our thoughts turn to other priorities.
Moe was up a couple of weeks ago and we talked about the site being pretty much a ghost town anymore. He keeps the thing running out of his own pocket and in restrospect I have neglected to acknowledge that or offer to help in quite some time but I intend to rectify that.
Hanging in and hanging on to the memories of the old days of Skillet and Larryshep, FJ and Willthethrill , Dinqua and the yutes joining forces with Yota and Charlie to terrorize local hotel owners. Wojo and Dragonslayer... Uncle Charlie and our extensive cast of characters over the years in all our glory immortalized in text and pictures for as long as anyone is intersted enough to keep checking in.. for now anyway.

1 member likes this: roadie
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602151 04/14/2022 10:18 AM
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 728
Likes: 1
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 728
Likes: 1
AmyLee and I still have her '02 Red TBA, we now live on the east coast (New Bern, NC), we also ride '10 T-bird and '18 Speedy. We did meet FJ at Dwights SWTF a few years back while living on the left coast. Hope to join in at the GA rally this year and any other activities for '22. Until then Happy Trails!

Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602152 04/14/2022 5:56 PM
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
Fe Butt
OP Online Content
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
I check in in the morning when I am having coffee before work and when I get home, every 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!
Re: Shame
Snert #602153 04/14/2022 7:52 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 6,307
Likes: 3
Worn Saddle
Offline
Worn Saddle
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 6,307
Likes: 3
Yea this old fart is still around. been retired and doing nothing. I already did everything else.


A word to the wise is not necessary. It is the stupid ones who need the advice. Pat
2 members like this: roadie, slvrsprint
Re: Shame
VABird #602154 04/15/2022 5:02 AM
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 99
Likes: 9
Member
Offline
Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 99
Likes: 9
I ride an American, 2006, currently has 123,525 miles, only big problem was replacing the electronic brain. Expensive $880.00 "Triumph tax". Only later to find out Yamaha makes exact same part for $ 300.00. Red line power sports, Winsted CT. Daren is the owner and chief mechanic.

Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602155 04/15/2022 6:16 AM
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
Fe Butt
OP Online Content
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
If true that should be in the vault. Do you have part numbers and what make and model the CDI came from? There are better after market options TTP Firestarter seems to be the best. I didn't know Yamaha had a 270 deg. twin.


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: Shame
The_Dog33 #602156 04/16/2022 10:00 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,251
Likes: 13
Saddle Sore
Offline
Saddle Sore
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 5,251
Likes: 13
Still around, still riding that 03 Red and Silver. I've owned several bikes in the last several years but can't let go of the Red Head even though she's been an electrical nightmare since new and still is.
I check in here a couple times a week, and post on occasion.

We kicked the ball around a few times about funding this site. I donated some $$$ to Jim (Moe) a few years ago.
I have no idea if what I donated was a drop in the bucket or a nice shot in the arm as I don't know what it costs to run a site like this.
If we knew the costs maybe we all could dig in the wallet to keep her afloat till were all gone. smile

Smoke em if ya got em.........


It's not speeding till you get pulled over.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqa1s4jhkQ8
1 member likes this: REBEL
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602157 04/17/2022 8:06 PM
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,053
Likes: 6
Loquacious
Offline
Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,053
Likes: 6
Have you ever taken the time to read some of the quotes regarding this site? Really brings back memories. And then there was FrankW always making fun of us northern folk when winter hit. He was a good friend from down under who I wish I could have met. Always loved the technical challenges some of you fellows came across myself included. It was always a group effort to solve them. And then there were the many times the fellows selflessly supplied parts, accessories and special tools often for nothing to the needy members. You couldn't ask for a better group. I was a member of the RAT forum but spent most of my time here. The banter between Dwight and Ian... spiced things up a bit. Keith provided a lot of entertainment and a moderating influence on the group. We did have a few individuals who spiced things up, sometimes too much but we got over it. And then we have today... Where are we going guys?

It's too bad Triumph has turned their back on the cruiser line for the most part. The only bikes coming close now are the new Speedy and Bobber. As already been said, with a discontinued line, the interest has faded. I think things really took a turn when the good Friar passed. I personally have continued to come back to this site even though I don't own an America any longer. I've seen very few on the roads and there aren't many up for sale. There isn't really much to these rides in terms of complexity which makes them so appealing to me. I love my Rocket but one day...


12 Rocket Roadster
03 Bonneville America
69 BSA Firebird Scrambler
73 Yamaha TX 750
2 members like this: roadie, mikemm03
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602158 04/17/2022 8:37 PM
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
Fe Butt
OP Online Content
Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,128
Likes: 51
I agree, the Loss of FJ was a turning 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!
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602159 04/19/2022 7:03 PM
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 571
Likes: 19
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 571
Likes: 19
Last time I met Friar for lunch we talked for quite a while about his desires for the site and his new Rocket III. I enjoyed some unforgettable rides with him back when. Agree with you guys, the site took a turn when he was taken from us.

Not long ago I spent a few weeks in Helena for a medical procedure. The wife and I spent a windy, cold afternoon in the East Helena cemetery looking for his grave. No luck. I found out later that he'd been cremated. He's one of those unforgettable people you cross paths with in this too short life.

I think Moe and others have done a great job keeping the site up, but it is also correct that Triumph followed the market and dumped its slow selling cruisers, with the exception as noted above, the bobber (a project FJ was very excited about) and the new Speedy. Glad you folks are still posting and dropping in from time to time. Some of us are also on the triumphrat forum. There's still people buying our bikes used and reaching out for technical advice over there. As someone pointed out above, times change, tastes change and people change. For sure America has changed. Too much some might say.


John 3:16
let's ride...

1969 Triumph Trophy 500
2004 America
2010 America
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602164 04/20/2022 7:43 AM
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 499
Likes: 5
Adjunct
Offline
Adjunct
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 499
Likes: 5
I came here in 2011 when I started riding again after a 27ish year lay off. I've been on and off, as I sold my first america, went through a string of other bikes, always regretting selling "fiona." I came back last year when I cleaned out the garage, and, like VA Bird, settled down to one bike, a 2016 america. She's not Fiona. But still a great bike, and my second favorite. I like it here. Just haven't had much to say - bike is how I want her, and I ride her whenever I can. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯


...you're gonna feel a little pressure....
1 member likes this: roadie
Re: Shame
The_Dog33 #602245 06/04/2022 7:05 PM
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,707
Likes: 3
Should be Riding
Offline
Should be Riding
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 10,707
Likes: 3
A few of the OG's still show up every fall in Arkansas for the annual rally, probably the only rally that hasn't missed a year since it was created. I post about it every year in the rides section but nobody new ever comes unless I get them from a facebook group. I still have my America, but ride my Tiger more


Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.

Link Copied to Clipboard
Rides
Ga Rally '24
by chy - 03/04/2024 1:00 PM
Pony Express /BA.com Journal reports
by - 05/17/2008 12:33 PM
Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 7.7.4