Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: bpreynolds on April 15, 2015, 06:39:34 AM
-
Just read this recent report and it still surprises me.
https://ultimatemotorcycling.com/2015/04/14/triumph-motorcycles-maintains-position-as-1-euro-brand-in-us/
While I'm obviously biased and a fan of Triumphs - owning two myself, though one in pieces - I'm always curious why one foreign brand succeeds over another in the fickle US biker economy. My love of Guzzi also always makes me wonder where they could, should, and/or definitely shouldn't take cues from other companies as per their success. With all of Ducati's developments and all of BMW's engineering, it still surprises me that Triumph is the best selling brand in the States. I used to think the bike market here was all cruiser and sport and if a company could get a foothold in either or both, then they'd be set; yet, I'm not sure that's correct or even exactly how Triumph's success would fit into this theory. After all, can't be all Bonnie and Street Triple sales that bring them out on top.
The board here is always much better with history and other market trends too than I am. So I ask. Why Triumph?
-
Well, first off, they achieved that for only one month, January... which tells me that BMW is probably not far behind, and probably held that title previously. I also think we're not talking astronomical numbers (except maybe compared to Guzzi).
If I had to take a swag I'd say the reason for it is exactly what you were guessing in the first place.
The American market is, in this order, CRUISER, SPORTBIKE, Other Stuff (Adventure, Motard, etc.).
The rebirth of Triumph started slowly with JAPanInc. like Sportbikes, but took off once they addressed the primary US Market - "Classics/Cruisers".
Then I think they revitalized their sport line with even better styled and built modern sports/nakeds.
And on top of that they offer a smattering of "Other" bikes too.
It's the most well rounded line-up out there that is NON-ASIAN (which, like it or not still carries a stigma in the US). So I think they appeal to such a wide range of potential customers that they have grown remarkably well and are quite a popular brand.
In contrast BMW does well basically ignoring the PRIMARY market in the US (Cruisers, though I believe I remember reading that the R1200C variants represented a short lived, but noticeable spike in their US sales when they were first introduced).
If you think of it that way, BMW is doing very well going after the smallest portions of the US market.
Ducati is just plain so narrow of focus (and still carry the stigma of expensive/difficult service) to really be a player compared to the other two. Though the Scrambler and the longer intervals they've introduced help address some of that.
-
As an owner of an '05 Bonneville I'd say because they've got classic styling that's easy on the eyes, aren't too expensive, are dependable and well-built and have the same appeal (in a sense) that an HD has in that it takes you back to a different era. On top of that they also offer modern bikes that are legitimate rivals in performance and amenities to competitors.
I've owned several BMWs and they're amazing, capable bikes but the styling is never going to be for everyone. Ducatis are always going to be expensive and have a reputation as being finicky so that's going to weed out a lot of people.
My Bonnie is a great everyday rider. I live in NYC and, with a few modifications, it handles these rough conditions well, doesn't use oil and barely asks for any care. And even though they're EVERYWHERE I still get compliments on my bike all the time.
-
As an owner of an '05 Bonneville I'd say because they've got classic styling that's easy on the eyes, aren't too expensive, are dependable and well-built and have the same appeal (in a sense) that an HD has in that it takes you back to a different era. On top of that they also offer modern bikes that are legitimate rivals in performance and amenities to competitors.
I've owned several BMWs and they're amazing, capable bikes but the styling is never going to be for everyone. Ducatis are always going to be expensive and have a reputation as being finicky so that's going to weed out a lot of people.
My Bonnie is a great everyday rider. I live in NYC and, with a few modifications, it handles these rough conditions well, doesn't use oil and barely asks for any care. And even though they're EVERYWHERE I still get compliments on my bike all the time.
Ditto all of that.
My only addition would be to add that BMW's are very problem-prone.
I've owned the late model Triumphs and their reliability was excellent.
As you say, the Triumph also offers a level of performance (power) across their product line that appeals to a wide section (ages) of the motorcycle market.
-
As an owner of an '05 Bonneville I'd say because they've got classic styling that's easy on the eyes, aren't too expensive, are dependable and well-built and have the same appeal (in a sense) that an HD has in that it takes you back to a different era. On top of that they also offer modern bikes that are legitimate rivals in performance and amenities to competitors.
I've owned several BMWs and they're amazing, capable bikes but the styling is never going to be for everyone. Ducatis are always going to be expensive and have a reputation as being finicky so that's going to weed out a lot of people.
My Bonnie is a great everyday rider. I live in NYC and, with a few modifications, it handles these rough conditions well, doesn't use oil and barely asks for any care. And even though they're EVERYWHERE I still get compliments on my bike all the time.
:+1
-
They win because they offer something different that can compete on price with the major brand dealer down the street.
-
Triumph - best selling Euro Brand in North America. Why?
One word: Bonneville. (The original one)
The Current crop of Triumphs sell because of the image that the original Bonneville from the 1960s kindles in people's minds.
The New Triumph company didn't really take off until the New Bonneville was introduced in 2001, and it quickly became their top seller.
Yes, they've broadened their line and their market, but it's all thanks to Bonneville.
FWIW, "top selling Euro brand in North America" adds up to what? 400 to 500 units per month? Maybe less.
Harley and Honda are not shaking in their boots over this news...
-
right, a 16% increase over the 100 you sold last year is pretty easy.
also the dealers were dumping leftover 2013-14 bike because the 2015's were on the floor.
that being said my 2008 1050 Tiger might be the best bike I've owned out of over 40 (10 were Guzzi's' 2 still are) I was all set to buy a new 800 Tiger this spring but living in Gainesville Ga. my choice of dealers is a 2 hour drive through Atlanta or drive 100 miles to the next closest 2 dealers. Crap! Atlanta is Triumphs home in the US and they can't even keep a dealer near it. that tells me something.
-
We were going to buy an Aprilla Caponord (at least a Piaggio product) but became totally put off when the local Guzzi dealer screwed me .We defaulted to a Tiger XC 1200 from a MUCH better dealer and have never looked back. We considered buying in Toronto but no local service options made us consider local options. Past experience with Triumph made the choice pretty easy. Good bikes.
-
Triumph is doing well because they offer value per dollar and have more dealerships... Might be a good model for Guzzi to follow?
-
IMO triples are amazing, twins boring.
-
Our first motorcycle was a 1959 Triumph Bonneville. To this day any time my wife sees a Triumph the first words out of her mouth are "now that is what a motorcycle should look like". When it comes to name I suspect Triumph is right up there with Harley when it comes to us older folks. Could that have something to do with it? :BEER:
Matt
-
Our first motorcycle was a 1959 Triumph Bonneville. To this day any time my wife sees a Triumph the first words out of her mouth are "now that is what a motorcycle should look like". When it comes to name I suspect Triumph is right up there with Harley when it comes to us older folks. Could that have something to do with it? :BEER:
Matt
I agree. "Harley", "Indian", and "Triumph" are the three big names in American motorcycling. Regardless of actual sales volume.
New Bonneville sold like hotcakes because of the classic look and name recognition, instantly doubling the volume of the company.
That has allowed New Triumph to continually diversify their lineup, but Bonneville is still the biggie for name and brand recognition.
-
Good couple articles to read about the motorcycle brands and the market place.
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2015/05/motorcycle-reliability-and-owner-satisfaction/index.htm
-
Triumph is big with young riders. Probably the name. This bodes well for the future...
-
I know it's heresy to say out loud, but I think the Bonne is so freakin ugly.. Even the Asian retro standards that ape the Bonne are better looking than the real thing. The Thruxton is ok I guess but that's the only one that appeals to me.
Actually I think just about every bike Triumph makes is ugly..
Tho the Tiger is interesting to me, esp the 800ish CC one...
I will say two of the coolest Triumphs I've seen were posted on this board.. Rough Edge's old 60's (I think) Bonne... And someone else has recently got a sort of 'late model big red standard' that he's been sorting out and posting pics..
:shrug
I like Italian motos, French bicycles, Japanese cars, and Spanish women! :beer
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
-
(http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad271/mollys12/Exhaust%207_zpsuw9csdwi.jpg) (http://s943.photobucket.com/user/mollys12/media/Exhaust%207_zpsuw9csdwi.jpg.html)
My Tiger 1050 Sport. Sorry not available in the States.
Not as soulful as the Guzzi but pretty damn fine all the same.
-
Bravo, Triumph!
The Modern Classics are not just popular with young people and hipsters. They are popular with older people, too. They are readily available, they look good, they ride very easily, and they are not terribly expensive. In addition to a good dealership network, there is a huge after market. Even though our bikes were made in Thailand (the motors were made in England), my wife bought a 2013 Bonneville SE, and I bought a 2014 Thruxton, before we even considered Moto Guzzi. If we had known about Moto Guzzis, we might have bought two V7s instead (a Stone for her and a Racer for me).
Here's my Thruxton after I fiddled with it a bit, but before adding fork gaiters:
(https://scontent-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/10917439_10203364860064183_3402176056411157587_n.jpg?oh=1090b1c82aad5725be8a2ffcd1726b54&oe=55DB68F4)
-
Triumph paid attention and fixed their early manufacturing problems. A friend that was a multi brand dealer when Triumph first started said, "They're 10% of our sales, and 70% of our problems." Typical stuff that you still see on Guzzis occasionally, engineering and manufacturing apparently not talking to each other. ::) He dropped them at that time..
It didn't take long for them to get their act together, though, and they have been building a fine product for years.
-
Just to pile on: inexpensive, low seat height for women, and riding the wave of retro/cafe-look. Plus Triumph, as a brand, is considered cool. People want the t-shirts etc.
-
I'm just going to second what everyone else has been saying - retro coolness in spades, good dealer network, nice looking machines, etc...When Triumph came back to the states in 94 or 95, and put out the Speed Triple in fireball orange, it was love at first sight. I'd be hard pressed not to buy one if it came up locally. Oh yeah, also being a self proclaimed Euro snob (although I do love the new Indian), Triumph is just the logical choice. BMW and Ducati are too expensive and Moto Guzzi and Aprilia are too elusive.
-
Triumph also has a really good parts and service network , maybe better than HD or Honda .
:o
REALLY - there's no WAY you have a fraction of the options of OEM and aftermarket parts for a Triumph... no WAY ...
Though I give you at least the dealers might not have to order in a freakin' bolt or gasket...
-
Triumphs are also in big with the Street Hooligan Crowd.
(http://www.sportrider.com/sites/sportrider.com/files/styles/medium_1x_/public/import/page_element_images/146-1208-12-z%2B2012-triumph-speed-triple-R%2Bwheelie.jpg?itok=VuFeqLqS)
-
Triumphs are also in big with the Street Hooligan Crowd.
(http://www.sportrider.com/sites/sportrider.com/files/styles/medium_1x_/public/import/page_element_images/146-1208-12-z%2B2012-triumph-speed-triple-R%2Bwheelie.jpg?itok=VuFeqLqS)
Enough so that the Street Triple was copied by Yamaha, unfortunately the FZ09 still doesn't measure up except it is about $2K cheaper. The Bonnies may have put them on the map, but the 675, 800, 1200, and 1050 triples are keeping them there! All in packages that appeal to the buying public.
-
I've owned two Triumphs over the past decade, a 2007 Tiger 1050 and a 2009 Bonneville. Both were great bikes for totally different reasons.
The Tiger had what had to be the best engine ever made, a 1050cc triple, with a perfect torque curve providing grunt from the first twist of the throttle all the way up to the red line. It was also gorgeous looking, though a little top heavy for a road bike, which became a problem after I broke my ankle in a non-motorcycle related accident.
(http://i964.photobucket.com/albums/ae123/hlmiskelly/Tiger_zpsy3lisp5n.jpg)
I traded the Tiger for the Bonneville for two reasons; first, it was much lower and stable and, second, it offered huge opportunities for modification. I spent the next five years making the Bonneville uniquely my own with appearance changes and engine upgrades that took me from the basic 56 hp to 71 hp. It was a fun bike to ride, but I had reached the point where, in my humble opinion, any further modifications would detracted from the look of the bike. So I traded it for the beautiful '15 MG Griso that now sits in my garage.
(http://i964.photobucket.com/albums/ae123/hlmiskelly/Bonne_zpslvxh3zdc.jpg)
Overall, I rate Triumph design, performance and build quality as better than most Japanese companies, with Yamaha perhaps being the exception. None of Triumphs bikes are boring, and at the end of the day, that is what counts.
-
Triumph is an amazing success story . Zero to fifty thousand units annually in 23 years . Well , zero not counting those Harris built Bonnevilles that we never
saw . Honda certainly became larger faster , but that was in an era when the competition had gone soft , and the demand for small bikes was at an all time high . Bloor had a vision , and a solid business plan . The new company has restored some lustre to the English manufacturing culture , and proven that a British concern not owned by the Germans or Japanese is able to compete with and even beat the established giants .
There will always be an England
And Triumph's success proves that ;-T
Dusty
You've got it in a nutshell. ;-T
-
The Bonnies may have put them on the map, but the 675, 800, 1200, and 1050 triples are keeping them there! All in packages that appeal to the buying public.
I'd be surprised if that was true.
I don't think the sports HELP, but they represent the minority share of the American market so I would not expect the Triumph demographic to stray too much from overall market.
-
I'd be surprised if that was true.
I don't think the sports HELP, but they represent the minority share of the American market so I would not expect the Triumph demographic to stray too much from overall market.
I've read the Street Triple is their best selling bike worldwide. I'd have to believe it also makes up a strong level of sales in the States as well, likely not as much as the Bonnie, but I daresay it's up there. Or maybe not. I ain't no statistishean nor makret analist. ;D :D
-
Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised if worldwide the sales ranking was different.
-
Three reasons:
1. Broad range of good products. Excluding off-road bikes, they make something for everyone, and each model is a market leader in terms of performance, design, and customer satisfaction.
2. Reliability and quality. Triumph is by far the most reliable of the Euro brands, with fit and finish to rival the best of any manufacturer.
3. No boring bikes! Whether you want one or not, you have to admit that everything they make is interesting, a bit different, and instills pride of ownership.
-
I'd do another T100 in a heartbeat. Here's a short slide show of my riding buddy, Tom, and me in 2006, riding from NE Ohio out West. His bike was a 2001 model (very early one) .... mine was a 2003. Neither bike skipped a beat out and back. Mine lacked a few amenities compared to Tom's luxo Triumph! The Bonnies fits both of us, though I'm 5'8 and Tom is over 6'0". Both were powered by the early 790cc engines, and pulled close to 50mpg over the entire trip. More than enough motorcycle for a road trip.
http://s115.photobucket.com/user/bcgilligan/slideshow/Riding%20Out%20West%202006
And a short video of Tom's 2001 Bonnie equipped with Triumph TOR (Triumph off Road) silencers, doing a ride-by someplace in New Mexico.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbQBFtDOK5M
-
Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised if worldwide the sales ranking was different.
I guess when I think about it and this is the first time I've actually thought about it, I haven't seen another Striple in the Louisville area since I've owned mine now overy year whereas I see a Bonnie, Thurxton, or Scrambler probably once every 2 or 3 weeks. I take back my earlier statement. In fact, the Striple may not even be in the top 3 sales in the States.
-
Here are some interesting stats according to a consumer reports study.
Reliablity by brand
Brand Percent failed
Yamaha/Star 11%
Suzuki 12
Honda 12
Kawasaki 15
Victory 17
Harley-Davidson 26
Triumph 29
Ducati 33
BMW 40
Can-Am 42
With a larger sample size than in our previous motorcycle survey, now counting 12,300 motorcycles, we were able to add more brands and resolution this year. For this analysis, we adjusted for mileage driven over a 12-month period and estimated repair rates for 4-year-old models without a service contract.
Reliability is but one measure. We found that owner satisfaction creates a much different picture...
Owner satisfaction
Brand Would definitely buy again
Victory 80%
Harley-Davidson 72
Honda 70
BMW 68
Can-Am 67
Ducati 66
Yamaha 65
Triumph 63
Kawasaki 59
Suzuki 58
-
Here are some interesting stats according to a consumer reports study.
Reliablity by brand
Brand Percent failed
Yamaha/Star 11%
Suzuki 12
Honda 12
Kawasaki 15
Victory 17
Harley-Davidson 26
Triumph 29
Ducati 33
BMW 40
Can-Am 42
With a larger sample size than in our previous motorcycle survey, now counting 12,300 motorcycles, we were able to add more brands and resolution this year. For this analysis, we adjusted for mileage driven over a 12-month period and estimated repair rates for 4-year-old models without a service contract.
Reliability is but one measure. We found that owner satisfaction creates a much different picture...
Owner satisfaction
Brand Would definitely buy again
Victory 80%
Harley-Davidson 72
Honda 70
BMW 68
Can-Am 67
Ducati 66
Yamaha 65
Triumph 63
Kawasaki 59
Suzuki 58
We discussed this report some time ago and it's near useless.
It's self selected bias is because the sample starts with CR subscribers, who self report, and is limited to a mere four years with no correction for number of miles ridden per year or total miles per bike, nor any real quantification of what constitutes a failure. Is an ignition problem equal to a blown fuse or a light bulb, or peeling paint?
The only thing it shows is brand loyalty and perceived reliability mean little.
-
Relying on Consumer Reports for information about motorcycles is like relying on Popular Mechanics for advice on home decorating.
-
We discussed this report some time ago and it's near useless.
It's self selected bias is because the sample starts with CR subscribers, who self report, and is limited to a mere four years with no correction for number of miles ridden per year or total miles per bike, nor any real quantification of what constitutes a failure. Is an ignition problem equal to a blown fuse or a light bulb, or peeling paint?
The only thing it shows is brand loyalty and perceived reliability mean little.
But if this reflects perception of the owner regardless of details behind it.. ultimately is it not perception that creates the sale if one has little tribal experience with a brand but considering the purchase?
-
But if this reflects perception of the owner regardless of details behind it.. ultimately is it not perception that creates the sale if one has little tribal experience with a brand but considering the purchase?
Firstly it only reflects the perception of the owner who also reads CR.
But more importantly doesn't it show that even the CR owners (who you would expect to be most likely to care about reliability data) don't seem to actually care about reliability data.
No?
-
Here are some interesting stats according to a consumer reports study.
vvvvvvvvvvvvvvv
Owner satisfaction
Brand Would definitely buy again
Victory 80%
Harley-Davidson 72
Honda 70
BMW 68
Can-Am 67
Ducati 66
Yamaha 65
Triumph 63
Kawasaki 59
Suzuki 58
I think this list must be upside down......... :bike
-
Maybe this is from the Australian version of CR ::)
Dusty
Dusty, you and Landis are okay.
-
I walked into a local Triumph shop while looking for a specific bike. The salesman said he did not have the bike. I told him that I was actually looking for a Moto Guzzi Aluminium or Titanium, but could not find one locally. He gave me a funny look and responded, I want that Triumph over there, but my wife will not let me buy it until I sell my Moto Guzzi Aluminium in storage upstairs. Thanks to him, I have stayed on Wildguzzi, make post with poor speaking and spelling skills, make comments that are not acceptable to board donors, make suggestion on repairs, post useless comments and attend rallies. So if someone would buy my Moto Guzzi, I would go by a brand-x bike and go away. Would I own a Triumph, sure. I like the Speed Triple line and the old school Thunder Bird. Even though the components are made in Japan, Taiwan,Thailand and other countries. Assembled in England.
-
New Triumphs are nice machines... Retro? to me not really ,far too wide and tall but they do have a style of their own .
-
Huh, I had no idea.
Well, I bought a Triumph about a month ago. The triple engine is simply astonishing, so is overall quality and build. I mean the power plant is beyond anything I have ever experienced.
Triumph as a brand evokes in me a heritage, and strong brand identity. I have one Triumph shirt, and I will have more. I ordered a Triumph hat and vest pin.
Mary Anne is a hoot. No problems at 530 miles and first service this weekend. The Bonnies are very, very pretty to my eyes, but too heavy for my small frame. But they sure sell a lot of them. Given that, last time I rode my V7R to the big dealer where I bought my Trumpet, a guy on a Thruxton about broke his neck looking it over as I rode in, and he rode out. heheheheh
Guzzis are rare, and special...enough said. ;-T
-
I've considered them as they are nice bikes at a decent price point. I went with the original Bonnie killer; a Honda CB (CB1100 vs. the older CB750). I think it's a better machine than the current Bonnie, but you couldn't tell that by sales. The current Bonnie is selling much better than the CB1100. But I think many of the reasons I picked up the CB are similar to the reason folks had for buying their Bonnie.
-
Why? because they're great machines, I've been flogging the shit outa mine since 2006. It's been great!
Still enjoy the two old LeMans' but the tiger's been great!
js in Mo.
http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag65/guzzistajohn/hulstonmill022_zpsec3bd433.jpg
-
I love my Trumpet. this Is my second one and it's been as reliable as an anvil.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg138/Turin_photos/triumph_zpszgtddm7a.jpg) (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/Turin_photos/media/triumph_zpszgtddm7a.jpg.html)
-
I love my Trumpet. this Is my second one and it's been as reliable as an anvil.
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg138/Turin_photos/triumph_zpszgtddm7a.jpg) (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/Turin_photos/media/triumph_zpszgtddm7a.jpg.html)
Personlly, I think that is one of the nicest faired motorcycles ever produced. Just gorgeous. There was a yellow and black one with low miles and in good overall condition that I took trailer to see last year and was ready to buy. Remember I am about 140lbs. stinking, soaking wet. I drooled all over my boots; yet, I was just too worried the bike was too big for my puny frame. Man oh man was it gorgeous and gave the impression of being built like a tank. Awesome.
Plus Triumph, as a brand, is considered cool. People want the t-shirts etc.
So true. Well before I owned any Triumph my wife - who could give less even than a damn about motorcycles overall - pined for a Triumph shirt and kept saying how much "cuter" they were than the Guzzi shirts I had. :P
-
I owned a 67 Bonneville. Nice bike.
-
A Thunderbird Sport or a early speed triple (in fireball orange) would have been my second choice. The T-bird sport seems to be holding it's value better than any other early Trumpy.
Personlly, I think that is one of the nicest faired motorcycles ever produced. Just gorgeous. There was a yellow and black one with low miles and in good overall condition that I took trailer to see last year and was ready to buy. Remember I am about 140lbs. stinking, soaking wet. I drooled all over my boots; yet, I was just too worried the bike was too big for my puny frame. Man oh man was it gorgeous and gave the impression of being built like a tank. Awesome.
I can't feel to bad for you... I have the opposite problem. ;) Any ducati makes me look like a circus bear on a unicycle. They don't make sport bikes for the big and tall crowd anymore.
-
"....early speed triple (in fireball orange) would have been my second choice."
Always liked those bikes and I prefer the single head light over the animated version.
(https://geordiebiker.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/speedtriple.jpg)
I test road a late model Triumph Daytona and it was extremely uncomfortable, way worse than my Guzzi Daytona.
Honestly, I have no interest in buying one of their bikes and I guess its from owning a Norton for so many years. 8)
-
We had one of the orange Triple Challenge racebikes go through our shop back in the late 1990s.
I'd have liked to have bought it. The guy that did buy it rode the Hell out of it and really enjoyed it.
Another friend still has his black '96 Speed Triple and will probably never sell it.
The T300 series were really nice machines.
-
Our local Triumph dealer dropped Triumph brand and replaced it with Indian. :( Wonder how it working out? :BEER:
Matt
-
Many knowledgeable Triumph guys here. Dumb Triumph question of the day.
Is the "fake" carb's on the new bikes simply the equivalent for them as the "7" plates that are on the V7 Racers? Those Triumph folks can't be fans?
-
One of the BMW dealers in Denver added Triumph several years ago. They claim it keeps them in business.
-
Triumphs are cool because I bought one... ::)
-
I always amazed how popular the new Bonnies are, nostalgia must still play a big part in people's buying decisions.
I caught the tail end of the old Meridan Bonnies in the late seventies. Compared to the Japanese bikes of the time they were slow and unreliable. I never felt the need to own one and avoided long trips with guys on their Triumphs and Nortons because there was a good chance you would be spending time spannering beside the road at some stage.
The old school for years clung to the excuse their Brit bikes handled better and so justified the aggro of ownership. But the old line 'I can't make the rally because the crankcases are in the oven' started wearing a bit thin after a while and did nothing to endear me to the idea of owning one.
Fair play to the new Bonnie models they are a world away from the seventies bikes but the looks have a negative effect on me.
-
Well Molly I use to fell the same way when riding my Bonneville with my Harley riding friends. Had fun but compared to them well you get the idea. Never wanted a Harley after that. ;D :BEER:
Matt
-
When I was introduced to motorcycles, 40 something years ago, the Japanese bikes were taking over and if it didn't have knobbies and a high front fender, well it had no interest for me. So I never experienced the Euro bike thing. Only idea I had about Triumphs were second hand stories of something I had no knowledge of.
In the 80's I got my first street bike but even then never considered anything but Japanese (Yes, I fell into the GPZ craze!)
Today I have a new first year Thruxton, just because of the old school looks and riding experience, and garage a Street Triple R, my son's bike but my name is on the title and I have a key. ~; Those two bikes are actually pretty reliable and both a blast to ride for totally different reasons.
I know the two Triumph shops I frequent sell a lot of Bonnies (scrambler and Thruxton included), but they are moving a bunch of new triples too. OKC (flat land?) seems to sell more Tigers than the sport bikes and if you go by what Eurotek (dealer for BMW, Triumph, Ducati) sales guy told me, the Tigers, 800 and 1200, are about equal to the Bonnies. They just started offering Ducati, so will have to see how that affects their sales. Around here, I see quite a few Triumph triples blasting down the straight, flat two lanes.
Arkansas is only a few hours away, thank goodness!!!!
-
(http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad271/mollys12/Exhaust%207_zpsuw9csdwi.jpg) (http://s943.photobucket.com/user/mollys12/media/Exhaust%207_zpsuw9csdwi.jpg.html)
My Tiger 1050 Sport. Sorry not available in the States.
Not as soulful as the Guzzi but pretty damn fine all the same.
Is it just me, or do the multitude of visible bolts on the engine case distract others? My bud has a Street Triple, would lose my license in 2 months if I rode it.
-
Hey Darren you should bring the thruxton to the rat raid in jasper.
-
Is it just me, or do the multitude of visible bolts on the engine case distract others? My bud has a Street Triple, would lose my license in 2 months if I rode it.
[/quote
Can't see 'em from the seat and don't care what others think!
-
I always amazed how popular the new Bonnies are, nostalgia must still play a big part in people's buying decisions.
I don't know, I wasn't really aware of Triumph as a kid and my wife certainly never saw a Bonnie before the modern neo-classics.
Instead of nostalgia, maybe it's just a simple, honest, appealing design?
-
Thinking about it, I don't think I've ever had a bad experience riding a Hinckley Triumph. While I don't own one now, it is very likely that someday I will.
Demo Truck at a local dealership (four years ago?) -- Rode a 1050 Tiger and a Thunderbird, two-up with my gf. The Tiger was the best two-up machine I had ever ridden; with the Thunderbird a close second. The Tiger's 1050 triple was a superb engine, while the T-Bird's parallel twin was a nice change of pace from the typical cruiser v-twin. The Tiger did everything right, while the T-Bird was the best cruiser I had ever ridden (until the California 1400). Getting either of these or something similar became moot when my gf got her own motorcycle; now she doesn't want to ride as a passenger.
Bike Week (maybe three years ago) -- Rode a Thunderbird Sport and a Street Triple R. While my enthusiasm for the T-Bird faded, the Striple was a revelation. I immediately felt at home on that bike; it reminded me of my SV, only better in every way. In addition to the superb 3-cylinder engine, I really liked the combination of precise handling and forward riding position. At speed, the bike seemed to disappear beneath me, leaving only the view of the road and the sensation of speed. All I could think of was that this must be what flying with a jet pack must feel like. If money was no object, the Street Triple R would have replaced my SV, but in addition to really liking my SV, that bike is paid for, and never gives me any trouble, so I have a hard time justifying replacing it with anything else. (My gf rode a Bonneville SE at this event, and really liked it. I think if she ever grows bored with her Ninja, either a Bonneville or a Ducati Monster will be her next bike.)
Demo Truck at a local dealership (probably two years ago) --Rode a Tiger 800XC and came very close to buying one. A really superb motorcycle, but I was hesitant because the bike was a new model, plus it got some criticism in the press for its middling off-road performance. The test ride was strictly on-road, so a leap of faith was required; I didn't jump. Instead, I decided to work on my off-road riding skills at a lower entry price; I bought a used Suzuki DR650. I still think that want an adv bike as my next touring rig, so I am encouraged that the Tiger 800 has developed a good reputation for reliability, and that Triumph has revamped the mid-size Tiger for 2015. With its new Tiger 800XCx, it looks like Triumph has addressed all of the criticisms of the first gen Tiger 800XC. I am looking forward to reading some comparison tests of the Tiger 800XCx against the BMW F800GS.
To me, the new Tigers illustrate what another poster pointed out about Triumph -- that the company listens to suggestions and criticisms about its products, and does not hesitate to revise them accordingly. IMO, it is that kind of dedication to continuous product improvement that allows Triumph to thrive as a relatively low-volume motorcycle manufacturer. Piaggio Group would do well to take note of this.
-
Well Molly I use to fell the same way when riding my Bonneville with my Harley riding friends. Had fun but compared to them well you get the idea. Never wanted a Harley after that. ;D :BEER:
Matt
Way to enjoy riding a Harley is to never ride with anybody else who rides one. Works for me.
-
I've owned two Triumphs over the past decade, a 2007 Tiger 1050 and a 2009 Bonneville. Both were great bikes for totally different reasons.
The Tiger had what had to be the best engine ever made, a 1050cc triple, with a perfect torque curve providing grunt from the first twist of the throttle all the way up to the red line. It was also gorgeous looking, though a little top heavy for a road bike, which became a problem after I broke my ankle in a non-motorcycle related accident.
(http://i964.photobucket.com/albums/ae123/hlmiskelly/Tiger_zpsy3lisp5n.jpg)
I traded the Tiger for the Bonneville for two reasons; first, it was much lower and stable and, second, it offered huge opportunities for modification. I spent the next five years making the Bonneville uniquely my own with appearance changes and engine upgrades that took me from the basic 56 hp to 71 hp. It was a fun bike to ride, but I had reached the point where, in my humble opinion, any further modifications would detracted from the look of the bike. So I traded it for the beautiful '15 MG Griso that now sits in my garage.
(http://i964.photobucket.com/albums/ae123/hlmiskelly/Bonne_zpslvxh3zdc.jpg)
Overall, I rate Triumph design, performance and build quality as better than most Japanese companies, with Yamaha perhaps being the exception. None of Triumphs bikes are boring, and at the end of the day, that is what counts.
Damn nice Bonneville ya got!!!
I owned a '09 Scrambler but much prefer the 360 motor of the Bonnneville.
Until recently Triumph had the only triple available in the US and that drove sales in the naked and adventure category. Now Yamaha has brought naked and sport tourer and are garnering great reviews, I've had a demo ride on a FZ-09 and like the motor better the the triples on my Daytona 675 or Tiger 800 XC.....
The two nearest dealers have dropped the Triumph line recently because they say it was difficult to deal with Triumph USA. seems they had no say in the bikes they received from Triumph and because of issues with warranty support. We'll how long they maintain their number 1 position.....
Paul
-
Way to enjoy riding a Harley is to never ride with anybody else who rides one. Works for me.
It was late Summer early Fall of 1959 and my friends and I, about 6 of us, would go riding most afternoons. I was the only one that didn't have a Harley. I soon learned to wait until the last Harley was started before starting my Triumph. One kick, that was all, one kick. If it didn't start on the first kick something was wrong. Then someone would run out of gas. In those days, gas stations were closed by 2000. The fad was gas tanks that held about a gallon of gas. I soon learned my friends idea of riding a motorcycle and my idea were not the same. Come Saturday morning I soon learned riding alone was far more enjoyable than watching my friends kicking and fixing. To this day when I look at a Harley my memories from 55 years ago and much as I know they are a very dependable motorcycles but, naw, wouldn't trust that thing to get out of the driveway.
Road that Bonneville from Groton, Connecticut to Tampa, FL and back to Norfolk, VA and the only problem was a bent exhaust valve due to a missed shift at the drag strip in Tampa. :BEER:
Matt
-
Is it just me, or do the multitude of visible bolts on the engine case distract others? My bud has a Street Triple, would lose my license in 2 months if I rode it.
The bolts are made of unobtanium and are the only ones that can hold the warp drive in place. :BEER:
-
The bolts are made of unobtanium and are the only ones that can hold the warp drive in place. :BEER:
Actually, in honor of their fellow English countryman, 007, they bullet ends that shoot choppers. :D
-
Hey Darren you should bring the thruxton to the rat raid in jasper.
Rather bring the Street Triple R! ~;
-
Rather bring the Street Triple R! ~;
Ok! Do it!
-
Always liked those bikes and I prefer the single head light over the animated version.
(https://geordiebiker.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/speedtriple.jpg)
Yah. Those dual headlights put out a wonderful amount of ray, and they are quite distinctively Triumph; however, I could not warm to them on my Striple and just this week I ordered the now in production single headlight Motodemic conversion that should ship out on April 30th. Every single time I get off the bike I almost step away from it and look, thinking what an amazing machine. After conversion, it will be especially odd to look at the bike and actually too think, Damn that bike looks good ;D