Triumphrat

dawgfan · 06-18-2006

Not being that mechanically sound I was curiousl about a few items I saw on the new Bonneville site..

* What is up with those Nology Hotwires (spark plug wires)? If used, do they require any other changes?

* If I were to get the EBC HH brake pads, would I have to get the disc as well?

* Why is the price of the Corbin Gunfighter SOOOOO much cheaper than the Sumuggler? Is storage space (just a teeny bit) really $400?

* Can the K&N cones get wet and be ok? Say it is raining and I just wanted to keep riding our HAD to get home.

In addition to considering trading the Bonnie for a more travel suitable bike, I am also looking at just POURING some $$ into the Bonnie instead....shocks, seat, brakes, etc.

Thanks so much.

eagle · 06-19-2006

I fitted Progressive 440 shocks and Progressive springs - which transformed the ride and improved handing. Expensive here in the UK (nearly £500 inc delivery and taxes) but might be cheaper in the USA.

Your K&Ns would probably be fine - after all they're oiled - so likely to repel all but the most torrential downpours! We use them in the UK with no problems - and we're the experts in rain! Down here in Cornwall they say you can tell it's summer cos the rain gets warmer!

I also fitted Triumph off road exhausts and a jetting kit. Sound nice without being to loud and give a bit more power - don;t know who much though - never had the bike dyno'ed.

Sheepdog · 06-19-2006

Hmmm, here is one person's answers:

The Nology wires require grounding. Apparently this makes some sort of a difference and results in more current going to your plugs. Some people have reported success with them...others have said the difference was subtle. My take is that they are probably just a good set of spark plug leads and if your bike needs replacements they're as decent as any.

The EBC HH pads work on any stock sized rotor that uses the stock calipers. These pads make a nice difference, improving power and feedback over the stock items. Break them in carefully.

From what I can tell, the storage (as well as the style) of the Smuggler does cost an additional $400. Corbin makes a really nice product, but no seat will be super-comfortable unless you refine your riding position. Assuming your decision is not about storage or style, play around with handlebars and other adjustable contact points first. It's a great deal less expensive than a new seat.

I've not had a problem with individual air filters getting flooded out in many years of riding. They are oiled and in a reasonably well protected part of the bike. If it's raining hard enough to get water in your motor, you will probably be experiencing other problems that will drive you to shelter.

bennybmn · 06-19-2006

As long as you are moving your filter probably won't even get wet at all. Maybe just a little. If it sits out in a heavy downpour with water flowing over it for a while then yeah... But I got those little pre-filters for mine.

Those brake pads will make a notable difference over stock! I put a floating rotor up front to prevent warping.

Definitely pop for some progressive suspension bits and some removable bags. That will make it real easy to go from rippin around the back roads to a long trip in no time. I don't know if they make EZ brackets for bonnies, but I love mine!