Mountain bike
*Vultures Knob>>>Bike Helmet

Advice on Triumph vs Honda?



Need Help.

Background - I had a 1989 Shadow 1100. Loved it, sold it in 1999 and regretted it ever since. I have wanted a newer Honda Sabre 1100 and am about ready to purchase one. I am not knowledgeable about motorcycles nor mechanically inclined. I know the Shadow series has a great reliability history. BUT....I was given an offer for a 2005 Triumph SpeedMaster 900 with two helmets, leather jacket that was never worn, dust cover & all-weather cover...all bought last year and the bike only has about 360 miles....all for $6500.

I am fairly poor, but this is a graduation present for myself. I want the Sabre, but I think the Triumph is a really good deal...and figure if I don't like it, I can sell it all next season and not lose much in depreciation...please help. New Sabre with no accessories for about $8k or the Triumph with many accessories for $6500.

You will love the Triumph. I just traded a Speedmaster in on a new Rocket III. Here are a few specifics. the Speedmaster is actually 865CC. It has a very low seat, and has dual front brakes and a more aggressive gearing than other cruisers.
With the Vance & Hines Exhaust, and K & N it is rated at 68 BHP which is more than most Dynas. It only weighs 540 # so its quick and agile
$6k is a great deal. Honda Shadows are a little uninspired, and very common.
The Triumph is not a bad bike but will need more maintenance than the Honda.
I will go with the Honda but if money are a problem take the Triumph.
Get the one that sparks the most interest in you.

The Honda is a more reliable motorcycle and is probably a smoother ride. The Honda also has more power, but weighs more..

The Triumph is more unique, but may suffer from reliablilty issues (mostly electrical).

If this is the only vehicle you own and reliability is a must, then the Honda is the best choice. However, if it is a second vehicle... well, the Triumph may be more "engaging" or "fun" to ride. Ride them both and discover which one you love.

Ultimately, go with what you want and enjoy the most.
I just sold my '03 Speedmaster due to financial concerns. It was bulletproof and I had absolutely no problems. The old leaks and electrical problems were on the old versions. The new Triumphs are truly modern motorcycles. You will love the crisp handling:no other cruiser can take it in the twisty stuff. Take them both for a spin and buy the one you like best. Check out the bonnevilleamerica.com web site. Great bunch of people with loads of info.
Mike
Tags
Trail Map Bike Pedals Bike Lock Bike Lights Bike Helmet Quad Bike Pocket Bike Mini Bike Chopper Bike
Related information
  • Small Daycare looking for donations to purchase 4 small bikes. Email helpmera@yahoo.com if you can help. taku?
  • What does this mean to you?
  • Can you tell me what you would do if this happened to you ?
  • Small Claims Court in Texas?
  • What should i get my 22 year old bf for xmas?
  • What is a good way of transporting my 14 month old?
  • What is a good way of transporting my 14 month old?
  • Was i wrong?
  •  

    Bike Categories--Copyright/IP Policy--Contact Webmaster