Triumph Forum: Triumph Rat Motorcycle Forums http://www.triumphrat.net/ Triumph Forum: Visit TriumphRat for Triumph motorcycles information and Triumph forums. Forums covering the Triumph Twins, Triumph Speed Triple, Triumph Tiger, Classic Triples, Sprint, Daytona, and all Triumph motorcycles. en Fri, 24 May 2013 23:01:49 GMT vBulletin 30 http://www.triumphrat.net/images/triumphrat/misc/rss.jpg Triumph Forum: Triumph Rat Motorcycle Forums http://www.triumphrat.net/ Handlebar Reccomendations? http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-talk/239021-handlebar-reccomendations.html Fri, 24 May 2013 22:52:31 GMT Hey guys, been researching all day and haven't found a definete solid answer on peoples opinons. I'm really itchin' for some bar end napolean mirrors and would like to switch up the handlebars in the process. Right now I'm looking at M bars but I don't want to be leaned over like a crotch rocket, but I need something a tad bit more aggressive.

- I will not be putting on rearsets so I'm confused on M Bars. Are they too aggressive? I'm only 24 but my football days have caused little bit of back ache. Also would like to find a mirror that isn't too wide handling wise. Something somehwat similar to the stocks would be ideal.

- Looking for something to put Napolean bar end mirrors into too. So that is a must.

- A little more sporty than stock but not where I'm extending back and wrists is what I'm looking for. I've heard mixed on regular set M bars, that they are not too bent over. I'm 5'10 also. Superbars good? Too wide?

Any help would be awesome! ]]> Twins Talk desperado34 http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-talk/239021-handlebar-reccomendations.html Suspension tuning pro-tip: Have a pro do it for you. http://www.triumphrat.net/speed-triple-forum/239020-suspension-tuning-pro-tip-have-pro-do-it-for-you.html Fri, 24 May 2013 22:02:27 GMT So I've done about 1500 miles on my S3 and it felt like the suspension was set up too stiff - the bike consistently beat the crap out of me and wouldn't hold a line due to bumps in corners.

My visceral reaction was that I needed to reduce the pre-load on the rear shock to address the issue. After realizing that I don't have a c-spanner for adjusting the pre-load rings, I decided to just take the bike to my dealer and have them set the suspension up for me. Thankfully they have a pretty knowledgeable suspension tuning mechanic on staff.

Long story short - he ended up changing just about every setting on the front and rear suspension OTHER than the rear shock pre-load :rofl


I am a 170lb rider, and the actual changes to the factory settings on my 11' that he made were:

Front:
Backed off pre-load by 4 turns on each fork
Backed off rebound damping
Backed off compression slightly

Rear:
Backed the rebound damping off by a lot
Backed compression damping slightly

He said the biggest issue was the rebound in the rear was way too high in the wasn't allowing the suspension to recover quickly enough, thus causing it to bottom out on bumpy roads.

He also said that reducing pre-load often causes the bike to become MORE stiff because the linkage is progressive, so by reducing pre-load, the suspension would sag lower into the firmer area of the shock's travel - so in many cases ADDING pre-load actually softens up the bike's feel.

Anyhow, just food for thought - if you're having suspension issues and don't necessarily know *** you're doing, I recommend you take it to a pro and have them do it for you. If I tried to tweak the suspension myself I would have done the exact opposite of what was needed. The bike feels SO much better now. Well worth my $50. ]]> Speed Triple Forum Eugenius http://www.triumphrat.net/speed-triple-forum/239020-suspension-tuning-pro-tip-have-pro-do-it-for-you.html LED Signals http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-technical-talk/239019-led-signals.html Fri, 24 May 2013 21:36:06 GMT Has anyone had any experience with this product? ... Has anyone had any experience with this product?

http://www.superbrightleds.com/morei...-bulb/170/767/

It's a dual-pattern LED taillight specifically designed for motorcycles. It has a rear-facing red LED array that shines through the red brake/tail light lens, and a radial white LED array that shines through the clear window that lights up the license plate. Seems like something worth trying.

Also, I've found an LED-rated flasher relay that's an exact fit on the Bonneville. Tridon/Novita EP35, available at AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, etc. for around $13. ]]> Twins Technical Talk rbneil http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-technical-talk/239019-led-signals.html signal mirors http://www.triumphrat.net/classic-vintage-and-veteran/239018-signal-mirors.html Fri, 24 May 2013 21:05:10 GMT can I make these work with a positive ground system? http://www.jpcycles.com/product/405-607 can I make these work with a positive ground system?

http://www.jpcycles.com/product/405-607 ]]> shootist2004 http://www.triumphrat.net/classic-vintage-and-veteran/239018-signal-mirors.html Twisted Pete checkin in! http://www.triumphrat.net/the-welcome-center/239017-twisted-pete-checkin-in.html Fri, 24 May 2013 21:01:40 GMT Hey hey! What's goin on everyone?

My name's Pete and I'm new to the Twisted Throttle team. My goal here is to improve the relationship between Twisted Throttle and you folks, our customers, by serving as a conduit of communication. I'm hoping help you guys get your questions, concerns and ideas for new products or improvements to existing ones to Twisted so that we can better serve you guys here where it's most convenient.

So yeah... that's about all I've got for now but hopefully I'll be around enough to help.

Ride on!

-Pete

Ride on!

-Pete ]]> The Welcome Center Twisted Pete http://www.triumphrat.net/the-welcome-center/239017-twisted-pete-checkin-in.html 95 Thunderbird issues http://www.triumphrat.net/thunderbird-cruiser-chat/239016-95-thunderbird-issues.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:58:12 GMT Hey folks, I just bought a 1995 Triumph Thunderbird from a private seller. I love the bike, owning a motorcycle is everything I thought it would... Hey folks,

I just bought a 1995 Triumph Thunderbird from a private seller. I love the bike, owning a motorcycle is everything I thought it would be (good and bad). The seller said she hadn't ridden it in a while and I'm assuming it's been sitting in her garage for at least a year. When I got it home everything was fine for the first couple of days, now I'm experiencing some difficulties with it. I rode the other day and noticed it heated up really quickly (within 20 min. or so) and the engine temp light came on. When I got back home it sputtered out on the drive way and I pushed it into the garage to cool down and checked the coolant level and there was none in the reservoir. I replaced the coolant and saw the problem right away, I've got a leak somewhere, as it was trickling down the engine block and onto the ground.

I took it out the next day when it was still full of coolant and it lasted much longer, about an hour before the light came back on. It didn't sputter out when I got home this time though and everything seemed fine.

Today, I went out the garage just to start it and let it warm up for a bit. When I was listening to the engine, I noticed it was making a gurgling sound and a slight sputter sound. I looked at the exhaust and saw some white smoke coming out as well as flecks of oil on the ground. I tried to give the bike some throttle and it just dropped the rpms and killed the engine. Now the bike won't restart. It turns but won't restart.

I'm changing the oil right now, but I ordered the filter and it should be in tomorrow so I can't put the new oil in it yet. When I emptied the old oil out I did notice that it was dirty, but didn't see any signs of coolant in it.

Any ideas? I would really appreciate any input.

Thanks,
Daredevil ]]> Thunderbird Cruiser Chat Daredevil84 http://www.triumphrat.net/thunderbird-cruiser-chat/239016-95-thunderbird-issues.html developed heavy valve clatter http://www.triumphrat.net/daytona-deliberations/239014-developed-heavy-valve-clatter.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:44:12 GMT what is my most likely culprit... I know it isn't detonating its valve train noise... shim gone out? ]]> Daytona Deliberations SYKO http://www.triumphrat.net/daytona-deliberations/239014-developed-heavy-valve-clatter.html Triumph sponsoring AMA Superbike Races http://www.triumphrat.net/biker-hang-out/239013-triumph-sponsoring-ama-superbike-races.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:34:28 GMT Despite not having a pony in the Superbike race, Triumph is sponsoring the Birmingham round of AMA Superbike races at Barber this June. Of course,... Despite not having a pony in the Superbike race, Triumph is sponsoring the Birmingham round of AMA Superbike races at Barber this June. Of course, they are represented in AMA Supersport, and all the Triumph riders are making an appearance at the meet & greet.
http://rideatriumph.com/superbike-2013/



Sent from Motorcycle.com Free App ]]> Biker Hang-Out leemadinger http://www.triumphrat.net/biker-hang-out/239013-triumph-sponsoring-ama-superbike-races.html How to install fork springs http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-technical-talk/239012-how-to-install-fork-springs.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:31:57 GMT I just wrote this up for a customer and thought others may find it informative... or pathetically sad.:p (Customer has a Bonnie and Hagon fork... I just wrote this up for a customer and thought others may find it informative... or pathetically sad.:p

(Customer has a Bonnie and Hagon fork springs. Same basic process with most other brands. He also mentioned Thrux. fork caps.)

---

Changing out the fork springs is as easy as can be.

1 - If possible, support the motorcycle on a floor scissor jack, or at very least, on a centerstand. Have a 'hefty' friend around to help you balance the bike if only a centerstand is used. If you don't have a scissor jack or a centerstand, you can install the springs with the bike on the side stand, however only work on one fork leg at a time and skip the oil level part until you can get the right tools.

2 - Unbolt the handlebar center clamp(s) and push the bars forward or back to make room for the long springs to come out of the forks. Lay a towel down to protect the paint.

3 - Unscrew the fork tube caps. I want to say they're 36mm, but don't hold me to that. The steel spacers above the springs will pop-out about 1". Have a rag handy.

4 - Pull out the steel spacer followed by a steel washer, followed by the fork spring. Drag the parts across the rag to wipe off any oil clinging to the parts. You will need either a magnetic pick-up tool or a coat hanger with a small J hook to fish-out the washer & spring.

5 - The only tricky part is checking the fork oil level and adjusting it as needed. Here's where a floor jack comes in handy. With both fork legs fully compressed, and with the cap/spring/washer/spacer removed, measure the distance from the top edge of the fork tube down to the level of oil. A make-shift dip stick can be used. Compare the measured distance in mm and compare it to the "air gap" spec. on the Hagon box. 120mm, 125mm... something like that. Varies model-by-model. Add (or delete) oil as needed. A turkey baster from a Dollar Store works great to remove oil, and add it is well.

6 - With the oil level set, drop in the fork springs, followed by the steel washer. Look down the open tubes and make sure the washer is sitting flat against the spring top. Add the steel spacer. If the spacers are sticking out the fork tubes more than a couple inches, the washer is not flat against the springs. Spin and tap the spacer until it drops.

7 - If working from a centerstand, have your friend sit back on the seat to raise and extend the forks fully. Screw in the fork caps, but be very careful not to cross-thread the fork tube. Push down on the cap until it touches the fork tube and rotate clockwise slowly until you can feel the threads engage. Work slow and gentle with a wrench or socket to tighten. Any unusual resistance, stop and recheck how the threads are engaged.

8 - Reattach handlebars and adjust as needed.

Side Note: If you do switch to Thruxton adjustable preload fork caps, be sure to also buy the solid steel disks that are under the cap and above the spacers. Also, the spacers will need to be cut-down (or replaced with Thruxton spacers) to compensate for the added depth of the adjustable caps with disks.

That's it. Enjoy.


###

/M ]]> Twins Technical Talk Retro-Racer http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-technical-talk/239012-how-to-install-fork-springs.html 2nd Bonnie Owner http://www.triumphrat.net/the-welcome-center/239011-2nd-bonnie-owner.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:30:56 GMT Just purchased my 2nd Bonneville - 2012 SE - Orange/Black Have used these forums quite a bit in the past to help with buying gear and small... Just purchased my 2nd Bonneville - 2012 SE - Orange/Black

Have used these forums quite a bit in the past to help with buying gear and small repairs - decided to officially join!

]]> The Welcome Center Ponyboy Curtis http://www.triumphrat.net/the-welcome-center/239011-2nd-bonnie-owner.html Denali LED Lighting Overview Video http://www.triumphrat.net/twisted-throttle/239010-denali-led-lighting-overview-video.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:21:40 GMT We took a look at the line of Auxiliary LED lights we had developed under the brand of Denali and thought it made sense to do a video. Below is an... We took a look at the line of Auxiliary LED lights we had developed under the brand of Denali and thought it made sense to do a video. Below is an overview of the line to help you figure out which light best suits your needs.

http://www.youtube.com/v/kIMZB4HDpnQ...ersion=3&rel=0

All of these kits come with a complete wiring harness, switch and installation instructions. The only thing you will need besides the light kit is a mount. We have developed a few universal choices and a number of bike specific solutions.



I hope you enjoyed the video.



Kevin ]]> Twisted Throttle twistedthrottle http://www.triumphrat.net/twisted-throttle/239010-denali-led-lighting-overview-video.html 2011 Thruxton speedo acting up http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-technical-talk/239009-2011-thruxton-speedo-acting-up.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:08:49 GMT At steady throttle it will drop down 10/15 mph and bounce back up. Should I look at the Speedo sensor? Sent from Motorcycle.com Free App... At steady throttle it will drop down 10/15 mph and bounce back up. Should I look at the Speedo sensor?


Sent from Motorcycle.com Free App ]]> Twins Technical Talk Nick Goodwin http://www.triumphrat.net/twins-technical-talk/239009-2011-thruxton-speedo-acting-up.html Engine noise rattle on start up http://www.triumphrat.net/trophy-1200-triple/239008-engine-noise-rattle-on-start-up.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:04:58 GMT If the bike is not started for a couple of days there is quite a noisy rattle on start up for a second or so. I mentioned this to the shop mechanic... If the bike is not started for a couple of days there is quite a noisy rattle on start up for a second or so. I mentioned this to the shop mechanic and had it recorded on my maintenance notes. He wasn't worried and said that it was the hydraulic cam chain tensioner and they all do that? Is that correct, on other engines there are valves to stop the oil from draining completely into the sump so as to keep the oil in the line to the tensioner. Have other riders noticed this noise?


I am loving the trophy, it seems to be a great balance between sport and touring which is what I was hoping for. The only thing wrong so far has been a faulty battery. ]]> Trophy 1200 Triple steve rich http://www.triumphrat.net/trophy-1200-triple/239008-engine-noise-rattle-on-start-up.html <![CDATA[Several more rebuild questions... variety of Q's]]> http://www.triumphrat.net/classic-vintage-and-veteran/239007-several-more-rebuild-questions-variety-of-qs.html Fri, 24 May 2013 19:53:06 GMT Greetings All, I’m finally at the point where things can start going back together with my restoration project. All of the following questions are... Greetings All,
I’m finally at the point where things can start going back together with my restoration project. All of the following questions are in regards to a 1970 TR6R

The replacement Main-shaft bearing (big-end, left side) came with a seal on one side only. Vendor says it is at the user’s discretion to leave it installed or remove it. Can anyone offer a compelling reason to do one over the other (i.e., leave it in vs. remove it)?

During engine disassembly I discovered that the two case screws (to the front and rear of the intake and exhaust guide blocks openings, respectively) had not been reinstalled during a previous rebuild (although doubtful, they could have been left out at the factory). I really don’t see the absolute necessity of installing them anyway and intend to not install new ones. Would their backing out be blocked by the cylinder sleeve (backing out is my fear and source of reluctance to install them)? Again, can anyone offer a compelling reason to install them?

Alas, I neglected to gauge/measure the position/alignment of the rims relative to the hub flanges prior to disassembly of the wheels. I can’t seem to find any information regarding a recommended or required offset when aligning the rims so assume that the center of the rim should be centered between their respective flanges. Can anyone confirm that this is a correct approach, or reveal an offset requirement?

The OEM manual (General Data) gives the brake drum diameters as 7” and 8” ± .002”, rear and front respectively. I’ve measured both with a caliper and they are nearly spot-on, however the rear drum has some subtle grooves from the rivets of the old worn shoes that I would like to remove. I can’t easily quantify (without taking a mold impression) how deep they are, but I’m sure they exceed .002”. In anyone’s experience, has there been a higher “practical limit” to the brake drum ID observed? If so, how great was it?

Thank you all. More questions surely to follow! ]]> gormor http://www.triumphrat.net/classic-vintage-and-veteran/239007-several-more-rebuild-questions-variety-of-qs.html Hello...Jeez...this more complicated than ABS http://www.triumphrat.net/the-welcome-center/239006-hello-jeez-this-more-complicated-than-abs.html Fri, 24 May 2013 19:37:13 GMT Hi guys....First bike, Triumph Tiger Cub (GPO apprentice...err... a long time ago), retirement bike Triumph Tiger 800.......hope it will be as fast! Hi guys....First bike, Triumph Tiger Cub (GPO apprentice...err... a long time ago), retirement bike Triumph Tiger 800.......hope it will be as fast! ]]> The Welcome Center gallen13 http://www.triumphrat.net/the-welcome-center/239006-hello-jeez-this-more-complicated-than-abs.html