Triumphrat

smartin108 · 09-22-2009, 10:51 AM

Ok, I just ordered a blue/blue R3T. I am a very "seasoned" rider but all of my many years of riding has been on mid size standards and sport bikes. This will be my first big bike. In all seriousness, what situations do I need to be aware or avoid with the Rocket? Probably an odd question, but not to me.
Thanks.

wombat65 · 09-22-2009, 11:18 AM

Dont give it a big hand full without hanging on!

crazyman · 09-22-2009, 01:36 PM

I have an R3T.

Be mindful of what parking space choices you make. This is a very large bike. It's about impossible for me to back it up an incline. I'm 6' with a 30" inseam and my legs are stretched when flat footing the bike. Not enough leverage.

The weight is down low, so slow speed maneuvers aren't as bad as you might think. Other than those things, this is an awesome bike. Loads of power. More than "necessary".

Good luck and congrats !

smartin108 · 09-22-2009, 02:35 PM

Thanks Crazyman. Backing it up is a concern, since I didn't have much luck with it either. I think this will make an excellent Iron Butt bike.

R3T Convert · 09-22-2009, 04:24 PM

First off, congrats on the new bike. You'll love it.

I have a 2009 blue/blue R3T. I traded in a Kawa 1500 Nomad. That was a big bike, too, so I was used to muscling a big ol' bike around. No kidding, the Rocket III handles better. Lower center of gravity and better engineering and all.

Like the above rider responded, backing up can present issues. I was fortunate recently when driving into a tight dead-end with the wife on the back. I'm 220 lbs/5'11 and was able to back it up on flat ground; not terribly tough (but I'd prefer not to do that again).

I'd recommend some accessories to make the bike more comfortable for you. Seat, bar risers, higher windshield, dresser bars/highway pegs, etc. That's made a big difference for me, so far.

Keep us apprised of your progress.

crazyman · 09-22-2009, 04:36 PM

+1 on what R3TConvert wrote.

I bought the Triumph Long Haul Dual tour seat.... not that great. Just placed an order for a Russell Day Long.

I have the dresser bars, highway pegs, Clearview screen (19"), Quick release sissy bar, and some other goodies.

This is really a great bike. Just a few things to make it your own and you should enjoy this bike !

tiborttt · 09-22-2009, 06:57 PM

Way to go: blue on blue. Mine's an '08.
Agreed on the backing (or forwarding) uphill. I'm 6' with a 32" inseam, so my feet are flat on the ground, but it's still a load when working uphill.
Like you, I had all standards or sport bikes before this big guy. I'd rented a Road King (much lower) and Victory Vision (slightly narrower between the legs), so I had some idea of what was to come. I would say the number one thing you will have to get used to, is coming to a stop. First, you are braking a much heavier load than your previous bikes. Get used to it's braking capabilities. Second, your feet are propped up ahead of you on floorboards, instead of under you on pegs. A totally different motion to get your feet down, especially on a wide bike. Another note: Don't put your feet down too early if you are carrying a passenger. If you're still rolling a couple of inches, their floorboards may run right into the backs of your calves.
My seat is stock and I'm leaving on a 1800+ miles ride this Saturday, so we'll see how well my butt does. I think the stock bars are fantastic; sort of like the beach bars you buy for a Road King, but my arms are fairly long. Perhaps risers are a good idea if your arms are shorter.
Enjoy!!!

Lee · 09-22-2009, 07:53 PM

Congratulations on an excellent choice. I had not been on a bike for a few years when I bought my Rocket. The largest bike prior to the Rocket was not very big at all in comparison. It has a crap load of power and if you forget that it could be painful. Resist the temptation to tweek the throttle....for a little while be easy with it. I lifted the front tire off the ground with out trying and I started out on a right hand turn too fast and almost lost it early on. It weighs in around 800 wet but compared to other bikes with much less power it actually is not that heavy. Be safe and wear your safety gear. You have a unique bike and it will draw a lot of attention, Good luck with it.

R3Grandpa · 09-22-2009, 10:01 PM

I just bought one today. Will pick it up tomorrow. It is a used 09 with 2700 miles on it. It was just bought new in May 09. I got a great deal on it, and have heard nothing but good things about this bike. It's a black beauty. I am looking forward to putting a lot more miles on it.

justinrhenry · 09-23-2009, 09:15 PM

just so the rocket isn't too hyped here's my one complaint. riding the rocket too much (i ride my motorcycle to work every day) leaves me craving something smaller and more maneuverable to zip around on. i had to buy a 2nd bike for this very reason. i love both bikes... each has its purpose.