Triumphrat

TheFixer

I have the BMG Zodiac, which is great for warmer weather, but now that it is getting cooler I am consider a second jacket. I have it down to two jackets: Triumph Balham and the BMG Montana. I've read a lot about the Montana, so I don't think I can go wrong there but the cost is holding me back. Anyone own the Balham and able to share thoughts on its quality?


http://stores.triumphdetroit.com/ima...thr_mensLG.jpg

http://britishmotorcyclegear.com/montana-jacket.asp

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'02 Bonnie: Progressive springs, Works performance shocks, NARKed, AI delete kit, BC Sleepers exhaust, Jet Hot Coated Headers, +1 rear sprocket, Fork Gators, Black Engine Covers, NH M Bars, Eyebrow Badges.

jonkster

I recently bought the Balham Jacket. Quality seems pretty good to me.

It replaced my faithful old Stagg (an Australian made leather motorcycle jacket from the early 80's) because my wife said it was now a serious embarrassment and had to be retired.

Reason I raise that is my opinions on the Balham only come from comparing it to an old jacket - I can't compare it to contemporary jackets.

The Balham seems strong, well made, thick leather, handy 'inside' pockets for storing bits and pieces. Styling is understated and practical, which I prefer. It is a lot heavier than the Stagg. My wife likes the look of it as well (which counts for a lot).

I am very happy with it but miss the Stagg (for sentimental, not practical reasons).

the jacket in action:

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brmmm brmmm

TheFixer

Thanks for the input, Jonkster. How's the fit of the jacket? Did you order your 'normal' size or one size above for a more comfortable fit?

BTW - Track day looks good!

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'02 Bonnie: Progressive springs, Works performance shocks, NARKed, AI delete kit, BC Sleepers exhaust, Jet Hot Coated Headers, +1 rear sprocket, Fork Gators, Black Engine Covers, NH M Bars, Eyebrow Badges.

jonkster

I got it a bigger size, not so much for comfort but I wanted to be able to wear woolies underneath if weather got too nippy. I think if I got the 'correct size' it would have been a comfortable fit but less room for extra layers.

much fun!
.

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brmmm brmmm

zam70

Although not as classic looking, I really like the Olympia stuff. Their liners are thin but really warm.
The even have a "Bonneville" Jacket

http://www.olympiamotosports.com/men...bonneville.htm

http://www.olympiamotosports.com/viper/viper.htm

http://www.olympiamotosports.com/airglide/airglide.htm

http://www.olympiamotosports.com/gt_air/gt_air.htm

I personally use the GT Air - it is the most versatile jacket I have ever owned...they run true to size.

tomster

Fix,

I've been shopping for two seasons now for a leather jacket and I have both the Montana and Balham on my short list. I've tried on the Balham and it seems like good quality with some nice features (specialty pockets and nice suede zipper flaps). The leather is heavy and marbled (whatever that means). The price is also pretty good. Styling is straight forward with minor negatives (for me) on waist snaps (I prefer buckles) and not using brass. Also, it zips on the left (British thing).

Othes to consider might be - Frank Thomas Pacifica and the Rev'it Moto is a great jacket, but you can only get it from accross the pond. The moto is I think about $280 to $320 depending on dollar vs. pound. Has similar classic, straight forward design.

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BDKrivit

I just got the Balfour. It looks and feels great, well made. I got it for summer so the 500 weight textile seemed better than the 1000 weight of the Newham. There are also torso and sleeve vents that zipper. I am a US suit/blazer size 46 Long and I got the US sized 52; it just fits, snug on arms. Definitely cannot get a bulky hoodie under but there is a zip out lining included.

I got it from Detroit Triumph for $129 plus $12 shipping. Arrived quickly and in perfect shape. Everyone else is $199 plus more for shipping. Thanks Detroit Triumph-

CMart OR

I bought a Balham jacket about a month ago. So far am very happy with it. The leather is nice and thick and I am confident that if I went down, I would be protected. It's also nice that the armor is removable because taking it out makes the jacket easy to wear as a nice leather jacet, though due to the thickness of the leather, I expect it to be more comfortable to wear in this capacity after it's broken in a bit.

I'm 6'2, 215 lbs and I got a size 42, which fits well (not uncomfortable but fits to the body). I've seen people order a size or two larger but I'd worry the arms would be too long in that case.

Chris

TBirdDaryl

I don't have either jacket you're looking at, but I got a free leather "Thunderbird" jacket laster year. Triumph had a deal going last year when I bought my Thunderbird. Anyone going from a Speedmaster or America to the T-Bird got a free leather "Thunderbird" jacket. Frankly, I didn't expect much since it was free, but I have to say it's a very nice/quality jacket. I think they retail for around $460 or so. My point to posting is I would assume Triumph's other leather jackets are just as well made. Others have said the jackets you're looking at are heavy. Well, the T-Bird jacket is too. It's very heavy. I'm sure the elbow and shoulder protectors are part of the reason, but I imagine the thickness/grade of the leather has a lot to do with it too.

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Daryl

'09 Tiger 1050 ABS
'10 Thunderbird 1600

Reido

Just got one today!! Will post when I've had some miles on it