Looking to buy...some advice needed

[gil60]

Hello all,

Been reading this forum for some time now, but first post.
Am looking to be an S3 owner soon. Looking used (that's all that is in the budget, and likely an '02-'04 955).
I've seen some with quite a few miles (over 30,000).
How long will these engines last, assuming they've been properly maintained?
What types of things should I look for (or look out for) when looking at used bikes?
Anything else I need to know (other than start a mod fund).

thanks,

Steve

[FL_Rat_Matt]

I don't have any experience with the 955's, but generally these Triumphs are really good. I have an 03 Bonneville with 29k, and an S3 with 15k, they have both been fabulous. You should have no troubles out of a fairly well maintained bike.
Just make sure everything works smooth, and that the motor has clean oil in it, and sounds good. A little valve noise is OK, but you should not hear rattling. Take a look at the battery and make sure you don't have any corrosion there.
If all the fluids are clean and the bike has good tires and chain and still looks good with 30k, it was taken care of.
Buying from an old guy instead of a teenager is a good idea too.

[sdgers]

Originally Posted by gil60

Hello all,

Been reading this forum for some time now, but first post.
Am looking to be an S3 owner soon. Looking used (that's all that is in the budget, and likely an '02-'04 955).
I've seen some with quite a few miles (over 30,000).
How long will these engines last, assuming they've been properly maintained?
What types of things should I look for (or look out for) when looking at used bikes?
Anything else I need to know (other than start a mod fund).

thanks,

Steve

Just look for all the normal signs that the bike has been well cared for as stated in the previous post.

Where are you located? I'm outside of Nashville, Tn and could show you an example of a well cared for '02.

Stacy

[gil60]

Matt, Thanks so much for the things to look for, and the vote of confidence on engine life

Stacy, I really appreciate the offer. I live in Southern Cal, so you're a little far.

thanks again,

Steve

[Speedy Russ]

One of the guys I ride with has a late 90's model Triumph Sprint Executive with well over 100,000 miles on it and still runs like a champ. I think Triumph builds engines that are just as capable and long-lasting as any other bike manufacuturer. And like other posters have stated, look for a well-maintained bike. Good luck!

[PhilM]

I have an '03 with 47000 miles on it.
Been an excellent bike. Valve settings never need adjustment and uses very little, if any, oil.
It's quick, comfortable, handles well and doesn't vibrate.
I do like the single sided swing arm very much.
The front brakes ingest a little air and need bleeding every 1000 miles or so. All I do is force the pistons back in the calipers and the air is eliminated.
Good luck to ya.