Triumphrat

coldnight · 09-12-2002

Hello Sprint 900 owners - I was wondering what you can tell me about S900's VS the 'current' Sprint ST. I've ridden a 2001 ST and really liked it... wondering if anyone has done a head-to-head ride and can fill me in. I like the SSSA but I can live without.

Thanks!!

Coldnight
( Which Sprint for me? )

jefftarlton · 09-19-2002

I remember the older Sprints feeling really big. Much more comfortable on a long ride than my 01 RS. The tradeoff is the newer one really is better in the corners. I'm 5-11 and about 200 pounds, taller or shorter people might feel differently.
Both bikes have engines I really like. Broad flat torque curves and enough power for me on public roads.
Jeff

coldnight · 09-22-2002

Quote:

On 2002-09-19 08:10, jefftarlton wrote:
I remember the older Sprints feeling really big.

Hummm - well, I'm just about your size (exactly) and the ST does feel much bigger then my current machine (86 honda interceptor 500) so I certianly expect any new machine to feel and be bigger. I really like the ST's cornering - and the older Sprints look HUGE compared to what I think the ST felt like. I guess I'll keep saving my dollars....

Coldnight

j98sprint · 09-22-2002

Something to consider-
The newest Sprint 900 is going on five years old, therefore, unless it's in brand new condition with no miles on the clock, it's probably worth no more than $5,000. And prices in the $4,000 range are not uncommon. In other words, they're a great bargain. The free-spinning 900 makes close to 100 horses and has a flat torque curve with about 50-60 ft-lbs where most of the riding is done. Yes, the bike does look big. But part of that is because of the large (6.6 gals.) gas tank. The classic Triumphs were said to have the most beautiful gas tanks in all of motorcycling; I consider that large tank on the older Sprints and current Trophys a piece that would even make the Italians proud. Also, I know first hand, that at 6' 200 lbs. you will have no problem at all handling the 900. If I'm not mistaken, the Sprint 900 seat height, at 30.5" is lower than the ST's at 31.something".

Of course, the newer STs will be more money, probably at least $3,000 more.
They do feel a bit lighter. They are a bit faster. All in all, a great machine to be sure.

So if you want a great bike AND an extra $3,000 to do other stuff with, buy a good used 900.

j98

coldnight · 09-23-2002

Are there still bags and options availible for the older Sprints? One of the things that I really want to do is be able to commute with my laptop and other gear in one of the cases on the bike...

Thanks for the pointers!

Coldnight

jefftarlton · 09-23-2002

The mid 90's Triumph factory hard luggage was made by Givi. Good stuff. I wouldn't be a bit scared of a well maintained 885cc sprint. They were very overbuilt and were as reliable as a BMW. The tank size is pretty much nullified by the newer sprints much better mileage. I remember getting 35-40 mpg on the 885 and I prety much always get over 50 on the 955 (47low and 55high). I consider the old 885 triples among the prettiest bikes ever built, so distinctive and so British without all the maintenance and vibration. You should buy whatever your budget and heart tell you. I could be happy on the old or new sprint.
Jeff

j98sprint · 09-24-2002

The bags, top box and all the other stuff are still available from Triumph. The current Trophys, with the exception of the fairing and dash area, are the same as the old Sprints. I know that in '02 the Trophy is a 1200 but the 900 was made up to I think last year. With all that luggage and a tank bag you'll have room to spare.

You know me, I'm God's own bore when it comes to the Sprint 900. I could sing it's praise all day, and I usually do.

The usual gang of no-goods and I will be in Mountainrider's neck of the woods in a couple of weeks and I might take my laptop. But I'm afraid they'll all laugh at me and call me a geek

j98sprint

coldnight · 09-24-2002

Well, you'll be amused at this... In Vermont there is a 328 club ( I think its 328 ) - anyway its goal is for you to ride to every town in Vermont, in one year. I plan to get a small/cheap digital camera I can stick in the bags of my Sprint or ST (when I have one) so I can take pics of myself or my machine in front of every town hall. In Vermont... then maybe I'll go and do NH too. I think NY state is right out of this adventure though. I'd never be at home.

Coldnight
Vermont - New Hampshire relations committe