Triumphrat

04-27-2005

Hello all, I have a few questions and was wondering if you could help me out.

I know that most may say that a speed triple would not be a proper bike for a beginner. However I am a meat mountain standing at six feet and weighing 280 pounds (or so

) And I'm not certain that most 'beginner' bikes would probably not fit me (or move me).

With that said I'm looking to get my first bike, and have a few requirements:

Comfortable riding position.

Stable.

Good fuel mileage.

Reliable.

Triumphs are a bit rare around my neck of the woods, but I have noticed a few sprint RS and speed triples on sale. All are 2000-01 model years. So they share the same engine correct?

On looks alone the triple seems to have a more comfortable mount. True?

What words of advice would you have? Not good for a beginner? Gas mileage? Things to look for when looking over these used examples? TIA for any information you can share.

04-27-2005

I am about the same size as you. My first bike was and is a 200 S3. So far so good. You will outgrow many starter bikes and as long as you are responsible person you can handle this bike.

mookieblaylock · 04-27-2005

tiger

PeteMcB · 04-27-2005

The RS and S3 both meet your criteria, but the S3 is probably a better bet for a beginner, if only because you have a lot more leverage on the bars on a S3. The RS puts more weight on your hands and that can be an issue when learning to do tight parking lot turns at lower speeds.

Things to look for:
Higher mileage is good, but be aware that the 12, 24 and 36,000 mile services are more expensive as that is when the valves have to be adjusted. When buying used I prefer higher mileage bikes as it means that the owner has been using it a lot. I'm always suspicious of low mileage examples as I suspect that it has either been parked up for a long time or the rider has just been using it for stunting etc.

As usual, check service history and be sure that the recalls have been done - the fuel connectors especially.

Gas mileage is good on these bikes, so that will not be an issue, 50+ mpg is easy, but with careful attention to throttle and brakes you can get that below 20mpg if you prefer :razz: