Rocket III's though the years?

[lemansnz]

I took a new Rocket for a ride and I loved it.

The thing is I do not want to shell out for a new one and there are a few good second hand ones up for sale at the moment.
Also I'm not allowed a new one for a few years.
So do I wait or buy a good second hand one now.

So what I needed to know is.

What is the difference's or upgrades between the Triumph Rocket Classic's over the years.
And of course is there any thing to look out for on different years.

All I have found is that the early 05's may have had a cam problem with the key way.

[tbsrider2000]

I have a very early (July '04) model and have 42K+ miles on her without any mechanical problems. There are very few differences through the years so far. The oil drain bolts locations (there are 3, 2 for the sump, 1 for the tank) were changed early on. I have the earlier version, but the Triumph manual covers the later version.. The handlebar clamp has been changed at some point. There really hasn't been too many major changes.

There is supposedly an " upgrade kit" from Triumph that replaces the lower timing sprocket, timing chain tensioner, timing chain, and other bits. I'm sure someone will post what it contains. I haven't had a need for it.

Most Rockets seem to be owned by older people and are well taken care of, but like any bike, look for signs of abuse, such as how much adjustment is left in the clutch cable? does the rear tire look like it's been hot? brake rotors?, grooved? blue from heat? Maintenance records would be a HUGE plus!

[KingOfFleece]

You can enter the VIN at Triumph's website and see if there is any saervice note for that (or any) bike.

[TallRocket]

As best I can tell the Classic has seen very few external changes. I hope and expect that Triumph has learned and improved the internals. There is reason to believe they have given the list of parts included in the retro fix kit, (search back a couple of pages for the thread).

My advice is to test ride a Rocket Tourer and then ask yourself if you want to wait and purchase that bike new or a used classic. It really depends on what you are after, if you dig the classic then a used classic will be a real value and is basically the same bike as you can buy new off the floor.

Happy shopping

[lemansnz]

Thanks for the replys.

I prefer the Classic to the Touring and will buy one of them.
I will at this point I was going to buy a new one in about two years as I have just bought a new Sprint.

Since there has not been many or major up dates I will keep an eye out for a cheaper second hand one and do a trade.

I have one in my sights but would have to travel up to the North Island to do the deal.
I do not mind the traveling so much it is more of a time thing, just if the deal was to turn sore and waste a trip.