Triumphrat

PRM068 · 09-27-2012, 02:51 AM

G'day guys,

looking at buying a Speedmaster and rode both the America and the Speedy the other day at a dealer.

I was absolutely stunned at how much I didn't enjoy the America and surprised at the stupid grin I got from riding the Speedmaster.

Now, the reason for the dislike of the America was probably the aftermarket pipes they had, because they were actually pretty annoying rather than being "lumpy". And the windshield caused both mine and my daughters helmets to nearly vibrate off on the freeway BUT....the Speedmaster actually felt like a whole different bike - I didn't want to give it back.

I had a Harley for a while, and now an old Kawasaki - I know I want a Speedmaster. I love the look and the feel of it.

So....are they generally that much different to ride or was mine a "once off". I don't even look at Americas now (to consider buyin), whereas before I rode that one I figured a decent America was as good as a Speedy.

Peter

Ru55boy · 09-27-2012, 04:41 AM

The fundamental difference between the two is the handlebar set up, and this obviously has a huge effect on the riding position.
Everything else is cosmetic.

If you find a good America for sale then you could always fit new bars and risers.

Sent from my Motorcycle iPhone app

vito · 09-27-2012, 08:13 AM

Its a very personal decision. When I was considering buying a new bike in 2011, I sat on the America, Speedmaster, and Bonneville. For me, the seating position on the America was by far the most comfortable. I ended up buying a 2011 America Touring model (with the windshield, leather bags, passenger backrest and luggage rack) which is set up like the 2010 model. The wider handlebars, for me, is more comfortable and feels like it makes turning easier than the more tucked in newer handlebars. I do agree about the stock windscreen, which created unacceptable (to me) wind noise and turbulence, but after upgrading to a Clearview screen I was happy. Performance wise there is little difference I believe between the America and Speedmaster since they share the same engine and basic set-up. This is my first Triumph and I have been extremely happy with it. I worried about power from this smallish engine, but I have no trouble getting away from stoplights ahead of all the cars, and can comfortably ride the highway two-up at 75+ so I am satisfied.

Luziana_Geezer · 09-27-2012, 09:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ru55boy

The fundamental difference between the two is the handlebar set up, and this obviously has a huge effect on the riding position.
Everything else is cosmetic.

If you find a good America for sale then you could always fit new bars and risers.

Sent from my Motorcycle iPhone app

+1

I wasn't aware of how much a handlebar set could affect the way a bike could handle OR contribute to the rider's comfort, but it does.

Short as I am (32" sleeve length), my arms are just long enough to effect relatively sharp turns, but a bit short for u-turns from a complete stop.

Ru55boy · 09-27-2012, 09:44 AM

You should try my current set up of 8" chump bars over the 5" Speedmaster risers...
Much slower to turn in and requires effort and concentration. But, very comfortable and really straightens your back!

A little extreme but demonstrates the versatility of our bikes.

Sent from my Motorcycle iPhone app

Ru55boy · 09-27-2012, 09:46 AM

Duplicate post deleted, d'oh.

PRM068 · 09-27-2012, 10:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vito

Its a very personal decision. When I was considering buying a new bike in 2011, I sat on the America, Speedmaster, and Bonneville. For me, the seating position on the America was by far the most comfortable. I ended up buying a 2011 America Touring model (with the windshield, leather bags, passenger backrest and luggage rack) which is set up like the 2010 model. The wider handlebars, for me, is more comfortable and feels like it makes turning easier than the more tucked in newer handlebars. I do agree about the stock windscreen, which created unacceptable (to me) wind noise and turbulence, but after upgrading to a Clearview screen I was happy. Performance wise there is little difference I believe between the America and Speedmaster since they share the same engine and basic set-up. This is my first Triumph and I have been extremely happy with it. I worried about power from this smallish engine, but I have no trouble getting away from stoplights ahead of all the cars, and can comfortably ride the highway two-up at 75+ so I am satisfied.

I've always liked the "look" of the Speedmaster (and America). You can't beat it in my opinion.

Mind you, I too was a little dubious about the motor.....I mean and 865 on a cruiser when everything else seems to have some whopping behemoth. Then I read some motorcycle articles questioning whether we really need these huge engines in bikes. then - after riding the other day - I came to the conclusion that the 865 feels just right for me. It was great. I had the 1600 in my Softail, and whilst it was a great bike, I simply don't need that kind of thing.

Nope.....a black and white Speedmaster is out there somewhere with my name on it. I'll just bide my time.

Peter

rockDAWG · 09-27-2012, 01:29 PM

I bought Speedy instead of America. The reason is dual disk front brake. Changing the handle bar is easier than upgrading to the dual disk. Thus is the reason of buying the Speedy.

YMMV

Sayantsi · 09-27-2012, 04:49 PM

I remember looking at both when I was looking at buying one or the other. In the end, the subtle differences led me to get the one that gave me the best deal, and I landed with an America.

Granted, i have an 06, but this is a good article: http://www.bikepoint.com.au/reviews/...-america-23012

CA_NJ_USA · 10-01-2012, 08:46 AM

I guess I will point out the obvious then lol

the front fork and wheel are different on the two. Both are "chunkier" on the America

and just an update the 2011-12 speedmasters have single disk up front. I was a little bummed on that. like why go from 2 disks to 1?
But you know I find the braking suffficient for this bike and the riding I do.

Just my 2 cents