Looking at an '03 triple

basilla · #1 (**permalink**) 5 Days Ago

Hey folks, I am looking at picking up a used triple. '03 with less than 7,000kms.

What are the top things I should look for to ensure the bike is ok?
- No drop or accidents
- Fuel valve recall done
- Problem with one spark plug? all plugs recently replaced
- Sounds like it was stored indoors properley over the winter

Cheers!

Mark

triple3john · #2 (**permalink**) 5 Days Ago

There's not much to go wrong especially with such low miles. check condition of tyres and chain etc.Also check out the owner.In fairness most Triumph owners seem to look after their bikes. My 03 has 26000 miles on the clock and runs great,and it has been used in all weathers and conditions.

jaket · #3 (**permalink**) 5 Days Ago

rear hub maintenance is always a plus. I would seriously consider 1050 model. its just better

S_Mues · #4 (**permalink**) 5 Days Ago

Get it and You won't be disappointed. Got mine last year and am jones'n to ride just waiting on a new front tire. Seems around here the biggest concern is what color? 955s rule!!!!!

Gdsila · #5 (**permalink**) 4 Days Ago

Other than the fuel fittings, the only issue with SOME (not all) 02-04's were the headstock bearings. Check by sitting in front of the bike with someone sitting on it and grab the forks by the axle and push/pull straight forward/back with a good effort to see if the forks move.
Also if you test ride the bike and the forks "click" under hard braking its the bearings.
It'll cost a some $500 to replace at a dealer.

Speed3 · #6 (**permalink**) 4 Days Ago

Jaket, where are you coming from? The older 955's are virtually bulletproof! I did my rear hub bearings last year at 27,000 miles just to be sure they were in spec, not because they were seizing or anything. The 1050's aren't that much better, especially if you want a Speed Triple, and are on a limited budget! I have an '01 that goes pretty good, and two of my buddies just bought new 1050's. So I'll let you know how well they go in the twisties after this season. I think the difference in 955/1050 will come down to rider skill in the tight stuff. We'll see...

basilla · #7 (**permalink**) 4 Days Ago

Thanks for the tips folks. I'm liking the Triumph community spirit already!

PhilM · #8 (**permalink**) 4 Days Ago

Have 52,000 miles on my '03, no issues.
Take a look at the clutch cable where it exits the outer cable near the actuator arm, check it for wear and proper alignment.

PROMOD1385 · #9 (**permalink**) 3 Days Ago

Originally Posted by jaket

rear hub maintenance is always a plus. I would seriously consider 1050 model. its just better

That is a very carte blanche statement to make. I have owned an 02 and currently own an 05. I can honestly say that the 02 was much more comfortable on longer trips and the powerband was smoother. I like my 05 more for pounding around town but i dont notice the extra power a ton.