Triumphrat

tbox35 · 04-25-2008

Ok, a while back I introduced myself and my 78 140E that hasn't been started but garaged for the last 20+ years. It does a great job of collecting dust! I have checked into send it to be restored but can't seem to get a general time line or ball park price to get it running. I also do not know if I want to keep it or sell it to get another Ducati or newer Triumph Daytona. I love this bike and I have an emotional connection to it but can't see myself ever getting it restored. It kills me to have it sit in a garage but don't want to part with it. I have had multiple offers from $600 to $1,300 to sell it.

NHOJ from Maine · 04-25-2008

keep it...

or you will have purchased $1300 worth of regret.

why not have a go yourself?
a bird in hand, better than two in the bush.
just buy a new battery, change all fluids, attempt to start.. see what happens.
take it from there.

new bikes.. a dime a dozen..
sounds like you have some fond memories with this one.

i know on my bike, i will never have it 'restored' because every ding, scratch, and dent, takes me back in time, and all the fond memories...

i'm such a sap that way..

but if you aren't... i'll give ya $500 bucks for it sight unseen. -j

abmar · 04-25-2008

I have both a Triumph Bonneville and a bevel drive Ducati 900SS. As I'm sure you know they are totally different machines - the Ducati is a road burner (as are the newer belt drive Dukes) and the Triumph is comfortable at a more relaxed pace. The Ducati is a bear to handle at slow speeds and tight corners while the Triumph is in its element with those conditions. If you can afford it and have the space why not keep them both and use each appropriately?

Bruce Martin

tbox35 · 04-25-2008

I have also owned a 900ss and absolutely loved it. Unfortuanetly I cannot own both for a few reasons. I need to decide what bike will win the space in my garage. Sounds like a new reality show.

abmar · 04-25-2008

I suppose that it depends on how you do your riding. My guess is that the Triumph is probably history.

Bruce

skipperspride · 04-25-2008

I did not know the gear shifter was on the left side on a 78 bonnie learn something new every day

1759AG · 04-25-2008

Have to agree with abmar. Depends on what your riding plans are. If we are fortunate we have a newer model for everyday commuting and the vintage to ride as we please. I love the vintage models, but I rely on my modern classic to get me around everywhere.

Bryan

OzBloke · 04-26-2008

Personally, I'd keep both, but if you're in the position where you need to get rid of one, think outside the square a bit.

Why not approach a local Brit bike club or association, and see if any members are willing to purchase relatively cheaply with a few "conditions", eg:

- bike must be brought back to running and roadworthy condition
- for a couple of years, you get to ride the bike 1-2 weekends a year
- bike does not get broken up for parts

That way, you can undo your emotional attachment over time, you know it's going to a good home, and you still get to see/ride it occasionally.

just a suggestion....

tbox35 · 04-27-2008

OZ, I'm kind of confused about the organization you are taking about.

I went to take it out of my parent's garage where its been kept since 1983 (it's last registration year) and could't get it into my truck 1- my truck is too high and the ground clearance on the bike is low.2- the tires are flat again (what was I expecting for 30 yr old tires to hold air). Unfortuantly my plan to move it to my house has been put on hold for now. I did notice more things it needs, the engine cut-off switch snapped in my hand as I brushed against it. It looks very overwhelming to me right now. We'll see how it goes on the next attempt to get it here.

OzBloke · 04-27-2008

tbox,

Try googling TIOC and drill down for clubs in your area. also try British Iron.

Perhaps some of the other (more local to you) gents on this forum could suggest some local clubs.

Pete