Triumphrat

revjavadude · 02-12-2010, 09:40 PM

I posted a similar message in Twin Talk, but thought it only fair that I seem advice here as well.

It's winter here in NE Ohio, so I haven't ridden either of these dream bikes, but am considering my options and seeking some advice. I've sat on a few in the showroom and am already in love!

I'm returning to riding after many years off the bikes. I'm in my late 40s and am not a small guy -- 6'2" 230lbs. I'm very attracted to Triumphs. Love the "old style" of the Bonneville. The cruizers (like the America) seem a bit more trendy. I'm wondering if one might be a better fit for a guy my size.

Looking to ride on weekends on open roads, short work commute in the good weather months, and just having fun.

Any wisdom from this group?

IAmTheDoGMaN · 02-12-2010, 10:02 PM

I'm a little bigger than you and I love my Speedmaster. I found that the Bonnie seemed a bit cramped, but I'm not at all used to that type of riding position. Even the Speedy can seem a bit cramped on long rides. My best advise is to wait and take each for a test ride if you can. I was sold as soon as I sat on the Speedy

herbkell · 02-12-2010, 10:13 PM

Disclaimer - I am a Triumph America newbie having owned my 08 for less than a week.

I am 6' but have long legs. i tried a number of bikes including the Bonnie (which I love the looks of) before sitting on and riding an America. It was love at first sight from a comfort point of view. The forward pegs suit my riding style and legs and it is a very comfortable bike for me. I will upgrade the seat at some point for something better suited to long hauls but the riding position is excellent for me. I don't even need highway pegs as I am able to take a short break by straightening my legs completely by "resting the back of my ankles on the pegs.

I suspect you will find the Bonnie cramped after sitting on an America or Speedie.

B02S4 · 02-12-2010, 10:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by herbkell

...I suspect you will find the Bonnie cramped after sitting on an America or Speedie.

What he said...^

revjavadude · 02-12-2010, 11:55 PM

Thanks for the insights and experience. Looking forward to trying the bikes.

skromfols · 02-13-2010, 10:38 AM

For the type of riding you do I think either an America or Speedy will suit you well. Try riding each and you'll find the one that says "take me home". I'm 6'3" and find the America very comfortable. I frequently go on group rides where we don't stop for 60-90 miles and find my America comfortable. Good luck in finding the right bike.

CanadaJack · 02-13-2010, 10:47 AM

I'm 6'2", 220lb and 57 years old. I've had my Speedmaster for 5 yrs and have ridden it for as much as 600 miles in a day. I find it to be a pretty comfortable ride and dead reliable too!

danf_florida · 02-14-2010, 06:08 PM

I like the handlebars and seat on the America better. Bad knees and bad back had a lot to do with my decision.

B02S4 · 02-14-2010, 07:42 PM

If you can arrange it I also recommend testing a BA &/or SM with foot boards instead of pegs, as it offers a different feel. I strongly prefer the boards on a BA or SM.

revjavadude · 02-14-2010, 11:36 PM

Thanks for the great responses everyone. It is helping my decision making, for sure. As soon as the weather improves and I can get a feel for how the bikes ride, I'm pretty certain I'll join the ranks of Triumph owners!

Thanks again for your advice.