First Naked Bike!

Hey, I think triumph makes some of the sexiest and most dependable bikes out there!.. I have the option of getting either a ducati monster(which i would not prefer) or a 1997 Triumph Speed triple. Can someone tell me if the 97 tripple is reliable and in general an excellent bike? Also, any other info would help, since this would be a considerable investment for me. thank you.
jaya

[DEcosse]

I have a '98 T509 and well pleased with it. The subsequent models have slightly bigger engine & a few refinements in the later years but all pretty much the same basic package.
You'll do just fine with a '97! The reduced maintenance compared to the Duc will be easier on your pocket too!

[trypcil]

They are all pretty reliable but if you can bare it get a later model a 2000 perhaps, there's more hp to be had - the t509 had less rwhp than the t300 series bike - 95/96.
A 2000 model can be had for $4500 if you search - good luck! :razz:

Thanks so much.. i really appreciate your help. I have a few more questions.. my budget is currently around 4000 dollars. If you can tell me what year i could find a triple for that price, including a rough estimate on mileage, that would be great. Also, is the triple really that much more reliable maintanence wise compared to the ducati. Thanks again. cheers!
-Jaya

[crashmasterd]

On 2005-07-31 21:26, Jaya wrote:
Also, is the triple really that much more reliable maintanence wise compared to the ducati.

In a word: Yes.

[jjs2fup]

i have a black 97 triple with 13k for $4300

[scouselee]

Hi buddy, the T509 is a cracker of a bike, with 108ponies its not too bad, and yes its very reliable, just make sure you get it checked at the dealers to make sure all the recalls have been done.

[jdub3]

On 2005-07-31 22:34, crashmasterd wrote:

In a word: Yes.

i'll second that yes. based on what you've said i think you definitely do not want a ducati.

[jdub3]

btw, if you want cheap, reliable, fun, and naked also check out the sv650. it is all of those things. one of the best bangs for buck around.

is this your first bike? your not gonna find many people recommending a 885cc (1997) or more bike for the first ride. just checkin.

Although this is an old thread, I thought I should throw in that the early T509's had trouble with 4th gear. Check the engine number, if it is after 57946 then it has the revised cogs. If it's before, leave well alone. The old units go bang at about 14000 miles, and cost about £900 to get fixed.

I just bought a t509 and LOVE it :-D :-D :-D

[ This message was edited by: a1laserboy on 2006-05-27 02:38 ]