Triumphrat

mi2az · 09-17-2009, 07:36 PM

Well Guys,

I just joined up on your forum to find out which direction I want to go for my new bike. I currently ride a VSTAR 1100 Classic and Live in Phoenix Arizona, USA.

I was really considering the BMW R1200RT of GT1300, but to spend $20,000 USD and have to worry about Final Drive issues is very nerve racking. With only 3 BMW dealerships in the state of arizona and one of those has a very unscruplious reputation I am not going that route since it really leaves me 2 dealerships to work with.

I am also considering the BMW F800ST, since that is belt driven, less to worry about. I had not gone to see that one yet but will try to make it next week.

So far my favorite on the list is the FJR1300, wating to test one of those when Arizona Bike Week comes to town.

I initially went to look at the Triumph Sprint today, The handlebars were way to low and had a lot of weight on my wrists. I would defenitly need handlebar risers on that one.

Next to it was the Tiger SE, the handlebar position was great, it was extremly comfrontable and I believe it will not need any modifications. The Triumph Dealership is having an openhouse with free food and test drives. I will be going there Saturday to take one out for a spin. I hope I like it.

Thanks

Marty

robbie · 09-17-2009, 08:00 PM

Don't do it !!!!

If you do it will ruin your life

when your not out riding you will be on the internet or adding farkles

strangers will cross the street when they see you, you will have a strange grin on your face

you will learn one of bikings best kept secrets and it will drive you MAD

Dont do it

you have been warned

tigg-ted · 09-17-2009, 08:13 PM

I've owned both, had the Sprint for two and a half years loved it until my wrists gave out due the advancing years. Terrific engine.
I now have the Tiger and the position is great no aches or pains, good two up if required. Er indoors now wants to go out again.

Have good day out at the dealer and enjoy your test rides.
Will you have the deposit in your pocket? if so I doubt it will be
there on the way home!
Enjoy the Grin

RedBird · 09-17-2009, 10:22 PM

DON'T TAKE A TEST RIDE unless you have the money in your pocket! The Tiger will own you...........

Bruce.B · 09-18-2009, 08:30 PM

MI2AZ...

Dude, it's already too late. Just get out your checkbook and get it over with before someone else buys it.

I went thru about the same thing almost 4 weeks ago. Loved the looks of the Sprint but there was just no way for me. The dealer in ABQ (PJ's Triumph/Ducati) has a loaner/demo Tiger and asked if I wanted to try it. Did the formalities and he handed me the keys: "Take you're time; don't come back till you're ready to buy!" I was ready to buy after about 3 minutes but I cheated and stayed out much longer! Now I'm owned by a Tiger SE.

I went thru the RT vs. GT thing as well and had the same worry about the final drive. I did some reading on ADVrider.com and decided I just didn't want the threat hanging over my head.

So jump in... the riding's fine!

Medic09 · 09-21-2009, 10:20 AM

I have an '01 Sprint ST and just bought an '02 Tiger. I think the Sprint is fantastic, exhilarating. With risers on the bars and full bags it has been good for 500+ mile days to Northern Colorado and Arizona. It is very fast, stable on the highway, good on gas (steady 51 mpg/highway when cruising about 85 mph or, ahem, a bit more). The older bike's luggage has ample space. We go two up shopping and get a week's worth of groceries in.

BUT, I have a creeping back/neck injury that has recently become a constant problem. The wife (a very good doc) thinks even the mildly sporty posture of the Sprint exacerbates the problem. My bike is my daily transport, so what to do? She said to look at a Tiger. (How do you like THAT for a doctor's prescription. "Buy one Tiger and call me in a week."

)

I got on a used Tiger at a local BMW dealer. Took it round to PJs for them to give me a quick opinion and history. Within minutes I was ready to buy (despite the ugly color).

The Tiger has a comfortable posture, nice roll-on power, easy ability to swerve in and out of lanes/traffic. Sitting upright and higher gives a good view ahead and around. With the Sprint I have to lift and crane my neck. (I'm a short guy.) My test ride for about two hours was in pouring rain, and the bike was completely stable the entire time.

The new Tiger is, by all accounts, even more of a street bike than the 955i. You can always make minor mods to seat, windscreen, bars and grips - just like any bike.

Either is a great bike, but I think the Tiger design is more versatile; and it has been much better already for my aching neck. What's more, the Sprint 1050 looks more like other bikes. The Tiger is a bit unique, IMO.

BTW, PJs in Albuquerque is a great dealer. It isn't unusual for customers to come from Arizona to buy there. Give them a call to compare. PHX to ABQ is just a long day's ride. Try a little detour on the way through Salt River Canyon.