Street Triple review [Archive]

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IdunBrokdItAgin

20th November 2009, 21:21

OK, with all the new threads being about ACC protests and the like (as well they should be) I thought I might try and post my first bike review to show why I came to KiwiBiker in the first place.

Reviewers previous bike:
Firstly, I think it is very important for any reviewer of a bike to say what they have come from before - or ride day to day- (for example if I try a Z750 after a Hayabusa, rather than a GN, then I would have a totally different perspective on things). In my case I upgraded to a 675 Street Triple from a Honda Hornet 250.

I will try and do this review in the same way as the bike mags do:-

Engine:
All I can say about the engine is that is has a double face to it. Under 6 thousand revs it is as docile and responsive as the hornet (which is a big compliment) but gets instantly more raucous once the twist of the wrist exceeds about an inch. This is where the engine comes into itself. Manageable but powerful. Don't underestimate the power delivery of the triple - it can still get you into trouble quite easily - but the linear power delivery means that as much as you twist your wrist that equivalent power will be delivered. Therefore it is a very manageable bike as long as you can manage yourself...
Being a triple it seems to supply the necessary power straight from about 3k of revs (like a twin does) all the way up the rev range, but does not trail off at the upper end (like a mid range inline four does). I have ridden both twins and mid range inline fours and can tell you that a triple picks up the best of both.

Handling:
It's about as light as you can possibly get from a 600cc+ bike. Wet weight is stated as 167kg which is pretty damn light as the 250 hornet is 160kgs. This means that is has the maneuverability of a 250 through the twisties with the power of a 600+ in acceleration. The best combination of the two - I sincerely think so.
However, it is not an open highway machine, if you want low revs at top speed then look elsewhere. It does feel rather busy for a 600+ bike at highway speeds.
I have heard criticisms about not enough torque etc. I personally think this is from riders of big v twins who are not fully appreciating the exceptional handling of this bike, versus its bigger torquier and comparatively heavier brother - the street triple would seem to fail in the long distance touring scene, but its superior handling more than makes up for it. Who wants a naked tourer after all?

Finish: Top notch. A few concerns have been given around triumph finish. The best way to tell about the quality of finish is to wash a bike (that way you get up close and personal), if you are dubious at all about the Triumph finish then offer to wash a couple of dealers' bikes (no loss to you or them but it may make them look at you a bit funny afterwards). No, I didn't do this but see it as a win/win for prospective bike owners/ dealers.

Sound:
Interestingly enough when I showed it to my mates their first comment was " It sounds like something is up with the engine - it's making a whirry clockwork noise".
This is the street under 6k of revs with a clockworky noise, take it above 6k and you start to hear that awesome sound which is a mix between a v twin rumble and the inline four busyness. In the first two weeks of owning the street I couldn't work out why people weren't stopping and staring at the sound. The reason - the best sound is reserved for the rider, being on top of the triple gives you all the aural pleasure you can need from a bike without going deaf. The first time you use engine braking on this bike - you will know.

Brakes vs Street Triple R: Can;t say for myself as I have't ridden the R version. All I have read and can say as a rider is that the brakes stop you as much as you want without losing traction. I have read criticism of the R saying that it's brakes are too good for the weight of the bike.

Suspension: Fine by me but who am I to say - not an expert in this field. But what I require is your ordinary commuting and a bit of weekend warrior rider needs from the bike. In that sense the suspension is not lacking at all. It can handle the bumps and isn't nervous. All depends on the size of the rider in my mind. The bike was made with an average rider size in mind, If you are severely heavier or lighter than the average rider then you may want an adjustable suspension, which the Street Triple R supplies.

Overall: An accomplished bike for sure. People seem to think there is some sort of British press collusion going on about how good this bike is. They are the kind of people who say "don't believe the hype".
All I can say is "do believe the hype" - the street triple is the definitive "jack of all trades and master of MOST". It is the street racer that anyone can ride, the hooligan bike that anyone can wheelie, it will make you look like Beelzebub to other roads users but you know it is a tame workhorse which can do anything any other bike can do, and then more!

blossomsowner

20th November 2009, 21:36

nice write up.......cheers.
There is a new green one in my local dealer that looks very tempting.

The Pastor

21st November 2009, 00:57

This means that is has the maneuverability of a 250 through the twisties with the power of a 600+ in acceleration. The best combination of the two - I sincerely think so.

What ?

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st November 2009, 06:29

What ?

I'm not going to explain my use of terminology. My review, my bike - like it or lump it but please don't pick it to bits to make yourself feel better.

Edit: That came over a bit more warlike than it was meant to. I don't claim to be a motorcycle journalist - rather just an owner putting up his opinion on his own bike. Please respect that.

The Pastor

21st November 2009, 11:24

I'm not going to explain my use of terminology. My review, my bike - like it or lump it but please don't pick it to bits to make yourself feel better.

Edit: That came over a bit more warlike than it was meant to. I don't claim to be a motorcycle journalist - rather just an owner putting up his opinion on his own bike. Please respect that.
ok well my bike has the POWER of a 1000cc, with the weight of a 250cc and the handling of a 600cc. It mainly harness the power from the elephant, the weight of a lepord, and the handling from dangerous bastard.

Or i could just be making up ambiguous bullshit.

short-circuit

21st November 2009, 12:48

ok well my bike has the POWER of a 1000cc, with the weight of a 250cc and the handling of a 600cc. It mainly harness the power from the elephant, the weight of a lepord, and the handling from dangerous bastard.

I'm liking the sound of that. What happens when DangerousBastard actually rides the Lepophant?

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st November 2009, 12:55

Deleted post

Blackbird

21st November 2009, 14:28

Thanks for fucking up my first bike review thread.

Just ignore the waste of space, that's what your ignore button is for:calm:

Excellent review and your comment about what bike you've come from (and indeed where you ride) are really valid points. I must say that I'm really impressed with it, even coming from something with 50 more horses!

As running-in is progressing well, I stuck my radar detector on it yesterday and today; my Italian screen arrived which I bought through eBay. Makes it look like something out of Predator! Just got to make time to get out and try it now:2thumbsup

sinned

21st November 2009, 15:13

Nice write up. I had a Speed Triple but next Trumpy could be the Street.

Well first impressions obviously don't last. Thanks for fucking up my first bike review thread.
Turd.
This is KB - expect this type of response and you won't be offended as much.

Just ignore the waste of space, that's what your ignore button is for:calm:

Excellent review and your comment about what bike you've come from (and indeed where you ride) are really valid points. I must say that I'm really impressed with it, even coming from something with 50 more horses!

As running-in is progressing well, I stuck my radar detector on it yesterday and today; my Italian screen arrived which I bought through eBay. Makes it look like something out of Predator! Just got to make time to get out and try it now:2thumbsup
That screen looks great.

James Deuce

21st November 2009, 15:22

I get it now.

http://kiwiridermagazine.blogspot.com/2009/11/jim-walsh-middle-road.html

sinned

21st November 2009, 15:32

I get it now.

What is "it"?

James Deuce

21st November 2009, 15:38

I dunno, you'll have to read the article and find out.

Blackbird

21st November 2009, 15:48

I dunno, you'll have to read the article and find out.

I do. There definitely is a "hoon switch" on the bike. It doesn't so much whisper, " Go on, you know you want to" or "Who you lookin' at?" as shouts it! Good job there isn't much traffic or Plod on my playground. I'd be in trouble if I lived in one of the cities :whistle:

Nice blog Jim:hug:

The Pastor

21st November 2009, 17:21

The Pastor

21st November 2009, 17:22

Go and kick down some sandcastles as that is effectively what you do online all the time.

have you ever done that before tho? Its mega fun.

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st November 2009, 17:28

I get it now.

http://kiwiridermagazine.blogspot.com/2009/11/jim-walsh-middle-road.html

That's a good read. Thanks

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st November 2009, 17:30

Just ignore the waste of space, that's what your ignore button is for:calm:

Excellent review and your comment about what bike you've come from (and indeed where you ride) are really valid points. I must say that I'm really impressed with it, even coming from something with 50 more horses!

As running-in is progressing well, I stuck my radar detector on it yesterday and today; my Italian screen arrived which I bought through eBay. Makes it look like something out of Predator! Just got to make time to get out and try it now:2thumbsup

That screen does look good. Got the factory one on mine, is good as well but I like it that there is a bit of choice of accessories out there for this bike.

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st November 2009, 17:32

Sorry, your review was AWESOME with 3 !!!, Totally rad. Loved it.

(it actually wasn't bad, i was just laughing at that one sentence as it makes no sence at all.)

I aint going to say it was brilliant, because it wasn't. If you can't handle it QQ some moar.

Fair play - I was bit drunk while typing it - surprised so much of did make sense when I looked at it the next day.

I also apologise about my comment before. It's a free world after all and this is the internet.

vifferman

21st November 2009, 17:45

Whelp, I think you should keep your experiences to yourself. Some of us are trying hard to be contented with our current rides, and don't need you, Blackbird and James <s>Joyce</s> Deuce extolling the virtues of these seemingly wonderful bikes and making us all malcontented and wistful. I've been with my woman for nearly 32 years now, and don't want to jeopardise that for a seductive lump of metal and plastic. :oi-grr:

Bugger off. :edit:

As for my bike - I thought I'd fallen in love with it again last night after listening to its lumpy idle with the restrictor out of the Satantune, and you've gone and ruined that. :weep:

Gubb

21st November 2009, 17:50

Whelp, I think you should keep your experiences to yourself. Some of us are trying hard to be contented with our current rides, and don't need you, Blackbird and James <S>Joyce</S> Deuce extolling the virtues of these seemingly wonderful bikes and making us all malcontented and wistful. I've been with my woman for nearly 32 years now, and don't want to jeopardise that for a seductive lump of metal and plastic. :oi-grr:

Mine's awful. Every time I ride it this wierd expression of disgust comes onto my face. The ends of my mouth seems to be pointing up. Odd huh?

vifferman

21st November 2009, 17:52

Mine's awful. Every time I ride it this wierd expression of disgust comes onto my face. The ends of my mouth seems to be pointing up. Odd huh?

Well, fuck you too then! And the horsie you rode in on. :weep:

Gubb

21st November 2009, 17:53

Well, fuck you too then! And the horsie you rode in on. :weep:
Thanks, that made it go away.

chester

21st November 2009, 20:07

Well, fuck you too then! And the horsie you rode in on. :weep:

that horse has 3 cylinders and puurrrrs :banana:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=112573

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st November 2009, 20:17

AllanB

21st November 2009, 21:01

short-circuit

22nd November 2009, 12:27

Just ignore the waste of space, that's what your ignore button is for:calm:

Excellent review and your comment about what bike you've come from (and indeed where you ride) are really valid points. I must say that I'm really impressed with it, even coming from something with 50 more horses!

As running-in is progressing well, I stuck my radar detector on it yesterday and today; my Italian screen arrived which I bought through eBay. Makes it look like something out of Predator! Just got to make time to get out and try it now:2thumbsup

Blackbird - looks ace :niceone:

Any chance you could post some more piccys of your bike with the screen on? Like a straight bike level side on and a front on (whole bike from a distance). Are you happy with it functionwise? It certainly looks damn good.

And what kind of detector is it you're running?

Blackbird

22nd November 2009, 12:39

Blackbird - looks ace :niceone:

Any chance you could post some more piccys of your bike with the screen on? Like a straight bike level side on and a front on (whole bike from a distance). Are you happy with it functionwise? It certainly looks damn good.

And what kind of detector is it you're running?

Cheers Iain! You've got a true side-on in the previous pictures. Here are some more which I took yesterday. I'll do a full bike shot tomorrow. Functionwise, I haven't tried it yet - only fitted it yesterday and haven't been out on it yet - maybe tomorrow too!

I've got an Escort 8500 X50 which I've had for about 3 or 4 years. It has a weatherproof cover and a "screamer" audible warning which you can see on the side shot in the first photos, mounted directly behind the headlights on the alloy support casting.

short-circuit

22nd November 2009, 15:08

IdunBrokdItAgin

22nd November 2009, 19:53

I likey a lot - has the appearance of floating above the lights which keeps that rugged naked appearance.

When you do get round to it, I'd love to see a full side on shot

sorry for the thread hi-jack wild weston (but Blackbird is resisting becoming an official "Stripler") http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/group.php?groupid=100

No worries about the high-jack, happy as long as it is all good stripler stuff.

Go on blackbird - become an official stripler - you know you want to.

Monkeynz

22nd November 2009, 20:04

I do. There definitely is a "hoon switch" on the bike. It doesn't so much whisper, " Go on, you know you want to" or "Who you lookin' at?" as shouts it! Good job there isn't much traffic or Plod on my playground. I'd be in trouble if I lived in one of the cities :whistle:

Nice blog Jim:hug:

Yep I have to agree, there is a hoon switch, only problem is being that it doesn't get turned off very often. I fitted the complete arrow exhaust system on mine about 3 months ago and all you want to do is screw open that throttle, the sound is just awesome. I absolutely love the street triple, I did a trip from Chch to Greymouth recently(about 2.5hours) and it loved it, can sit on the ton no worries and carves up the twisties and didn't have sore wrists not like my mates on their R1's and ZX10's.

HornetBoy

25th November 2009, 09:41

I want one!!! great review,hoping to get a test ride on one myself soon :2thumbsup

Devil

25th November 2009, 10:42

Took your time, Jim!

Here's my review from 2007 of the Street Triple.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=59911

Gareth51

27th November 2009, 23:32

Enough to turn a 58yr old respectable born again,with a 360' smile on his dial into a 16yr old hoon. Pulled a wheelie out of the driveway the other day and didn't give a f... what the neighbors thought :shit:

Haven't got it set up for touring yet so will probley take the Bonnie down to the SI KB rally next month

short-circuit

28th November 2009, 08:41

carver

28th November 2009, 17:08

Good idea stating where you've come from bike wise. The 675 is a great bigger bike and I suspect you'll find it a bit of a keeper!

Re torque - jump on one of the wizz bang 600 sport bikes - you'll suddenly realise the 675 is a grunter.

then you jump on a K1-4 GSXR1000 and think, that 675 is gutless

Monkeynz

28th November 2009, 19:05

then you jump on a K1-4 GSXR1000 and think, that 675 is gutless

Yes you are probably right but you just can't beat that sound of a triple through an Arrow 3 into 1 exhaust, just like a GP bike. And the torque, well...

James Deuce

28th November 2009, 19:13

Yes you are probably right but you just can't beat that sound of a triple through an Arrow 3 into 1 exhaust, just like a GP bike. And the torque, well...
He isn't actually. He's a pretentious ape with a prediliction for trolling hapless victims. Do NOT respond.

BikerDazz

28th November 2009, 19:15

Yes you are probably right but you just can't beat that sound of a triple through an Arrow 3 into 1 exhaust, just like a GP bike. And the torque, well...

right, that does it, I definitely fuckin want one:2guns:

YellowDog

28th November 2009, 19:54

OK, with all the new threads being about ACC protests and the like (as well they should be) I thought I might try and post my first bike review to show why I came to KiwiBiker in the first place......................

IMO - You need to have ridden a few more bikes to qualify yourself to write a good review. But I liked it anyway.

Your description of the exhaust sound was pretty much spot on. My Tiger only starts to really growl from 6-10k revs. Listen to what the other guys say about the Arrow can. It will transform your bike for you and really does enhance the appearance. I didn't want to pay the Arrow price, so I got the 'We've gone bust - grab a bargain' Micron Beta. There are lots of them about.

Glad you like your new ride. Excellent upgrade choice. Hope you are taking it easy out there.

carver

29th November 2009, 11:40

He isn't actually. He's a pretentious ape with a prediliction for trolling hapless victims. Do NOT respond.

poor you....

davebullet

30th November 2009, 12:48

Good idea stating where you've come from bike wise. The 675 is a great bigger bike and I suspect you'll find it a bit of a keeper!

Re torque - jump on one of the wizz bang 600 sport bikes - you'll suddenly realise the 675 is a grunter.

Torque is much the same. It's down to just how good you are at snapping through the gears on an IL4 to keep it in the sweet spot.

Blackbird

30th November 2009, 13:31

Torque is much the same. It's down to just how good you are at snapping through the gears on an IL4 to keep it in the sweet spot.

Peak torque is much the same for a Gixxer 600, an SV650 and a Street Triple but it's not just a case of snapping through the gears unless you're on the track. On public roads, it's hard to keep it in the powerband all the time with other road users clogging the roads (or your brain at half mast) so what you need is ability to respond from low revs.

Depending on the year of manufacture, a Gixxer 600 is producing peak torque (~46ft-lbs) at ~10500 rpm but is only producing ~25ft-lbs at 3000 rpm. An SV650 produces slightly more peak torque at 9000 rpm but produces 35 ft-lbs at 3000rpm. The Triple has slightly less peak torque at 9800 rpm BUT delivers 40ft-lbs at 3000 rpm and it's almost flat all the way up the range. Far better for those real life snap decisions.

Physics 101 really :yes:

IdunBrokdItAgin

30th November 2009, 13:51

Peak torque is much the same for a Gixxer 600, an SV650 and a Street Triple but it's not just a case of snapping through the gears unless you're on the track. On public roads, it's hard to keep it in the powerband all the time with other road users clogging the roads (or your brain at half mast) so what you need is ability to respond from low revs.

Depending on the year of manufacture, a Gixxer 600 is producing peak torque (~46ft-lbs) at ~10500 rpm but is only producing ~25ft-lbs at 3000 rpm. An SV650 produces slightly more peak torque at 9000 rpm but produces 35 ft-lbs at 3000rpm. The Triple has slightly less peak torque at 9800 rpm BUT delivers 40ft-lbs at 3000 rpm and it's almost flat all the way up the range. Far better for those real life snap decisions.

Physics 101 really :yes:

So that flat torque line is why it is always so instantly responsive then.:crazy:

Must admit I like just cruising along at around 4k rpms and then occasionaly just opening up the throttle slightly. Hardly any lag from the power and it always puts a big smile on my face!:yes:

Decided what my first mod will be - looking to get a d.i.d chain and renthal hard adonised sprockets (same size as originals) put on. The OEM chain is a wee bit crap, nothing up with the sprockets but they are a bit bland looking compared to the rest of the bike.

Should cost around the $400 mark but will remove some weight and may even deliver more horses (due to the improved chain) to the back wheel. Done lots of reading on the other websites - can't believe bikes still come with o ring chains now that 've read up about x rings.

Will post pictures when I finally get it done.

Blackbird

30th November 2009, 14:25

So that flat torque line is why it is always so instantly responsive then.:crazy:

....... may even deliver more horses (due to the improved chain) to the back wheel. Done lots of reading on the other websites - can't believe bikes still come with o ring chains now that I've read up about x rings.

Yep, torque delivery is everything. That's why bikes like the GSX-1400 are such potent road weapons.

The race boys may be able to confirm that the X-Ring has lower internal friction than an O ring (have you seen any sources of hard data?) - I wouldn't have a clue. However, I'd very much doubt that it has any measurable effect on the road.

I'd be better off dropping my weight from 82 kg to (say) 75 kg. Seeing as I like my food though, the biggest bang for my buck would be to fit high quality suspension to go faster. Having done it on the Blackbird and seeing the results, it's the first thing I'd go for on any other bike other than a few basics.

short-circuit

30th November 2009, 15:31

IdunBrokdItAgin

30th November 2009, 15:43

Yep, torque delivery is everything. That's why bikes like the GSX-1400 are such potent road weapons.

The race boys may be able to confirm that the X-Ring has lower internal friction than an O ring (have you seen any sources of hard data?) - I wouldn't have a clue. However, I'd very much doubt that it has any measurable effect on the road.

I'd be better off dropping my weight from 82 kg to (say) 75 kg. Seeing as I like my food though, the biggest bang for my buck would be to fit high quality suspension to go faster. Having done it on the Blackbird and seeing the results, it's the first thing I'd go for on any other bike other than a few basics.

As far as I've read the O ring is based upon an old design. The X ring is a newer design and is considered to last longer. It is all about whether grit etc can get in the seals and wear them down.

Anyway, here is a link to a page that descibed it all in one go:
http://www.quality-cycle.com/truth_about_motorcycle_chains.htm

For me - I always hear about there being a differential between what an engine can output and what is actually gets transferred to the back wheel (Manufacturers quoted performance versus dyno tests). The only thing in between the engine and the wheel is the sprockets and chain. Therefore having a good quality set up must go a long way to reducing this differential.

But for me, foremost it is about making the chain and sprocket look a bit more in line with the rest of the bike. Any improvements is performance is a secondary bonus only.

Cheers

Blackbird

30th November 2009, 18:44

Anyway, here is a link to a page that descibed it all in one go:
http://www.quality-cycle.com/truth_about_motorcycle_chains.htm

Thanks for the link and I might be thick, but where does it mention that the coefficient of friction is lower for an XRing chain over an O Ring one? Friction is one way that horsepower will be absorbed. The other is the weight of the chain. Neither will have much bearing on a road bike.

As you say though, performance gain isn't your main criterion in this case.

I'm planning to upgrade the headlights and stick a hugger on to give a bit more protection to the shock. Will look at a radiator guard a bit later and maybe the suspension when I know the bike more than I do now. Will replace the Dunlop Qualifiers with the Sport or Supersport versions of the Avon VP2. I want to slowly get it right for the 1000 miler Grand Challenge next year:yes:

IdunBrokdItAgin

30th November 2009, 19:27

Thanks for the link and I might be thick, but where does it mention that the coefficient of friction is lower for an XRing chain over an O Ring one? Friction is one way that horsepower will be absorbed. The other is the weight of the chain. Neither will have much bearing on a road bike.

As you say though, performance gain isn't your main criterion in this case.

I'm planning to upgrade the headlights and stick a hugger on to give a bit more protection to the shock. Will look at a radiator guard a bit later and maybe the suspension when I know the bike more than I do now. Will replace the Dunlop Qualifiers with the Sport or Supersport versions of the Avon VP2. I want to slowly get it right for the 1000 miler Grand Challenge next year:yes:

O and X are comparable in friction I think, x is just regarded as being better in terms of longevity. I'm thinking that a top name chain must be better than the standard OEM one (this is where I'm hoping any performance gains may come from - A bit through weight reduction and a bit on friction loss). Either way I'm not expecting it to transform the bike much.

How are you planning on upgrading the headlights? I've had a look around and can't find much in the way of upgrades. Headlight visibility is definitely a weak spot of the street triple. Rode the other night and the light it put out wasn't exactly brilliant. A friend of mine just bought a VFR. Now that throws out some serious illumination.

Put a rear hugger on mine a couple of weeks back. 15 min job - really easy. Expensive piece of plastic though.

vifferman

30th November 2009, 19:36

If you want to gain some HP through changing the chain'n'sprockets, the only way to do that is to go lighter, like from a 530 to a 525 or 520.

As for lighting, the first thing is to make sure the wires to the bulbs are reasonable gauge and that they run relays. Assuming the reflectors give a good spread of light, you could go up to a higher wattage bulb (if it takes H4 bulbs), but don't be tempted to go to blue-tinted bulbs: they look glarey and bright, but you actually get less useful light. However (but!) there are some H4 bulbs (the xenon ones?) that have a whiter light and give more output for the curren they draw.

Blackbird

30th November 2009, 21:35

I ran both 100W xenon and halogen bulbs at different times in the Blackbird. These worked pretty well. However, I think that the extra heat generated in the small headlight volume of the Triple would not be a smart idea. I don't really want to fit an HID unit just for night riding in the Grand Challenge, so a spotlight might be an option (with a relay Ian :yes:). However, I'll probably stick Osram Nightbreakers in first as the cheapest option trial. I've used them before and the same wattage as standard generates a much whiter and brighter light.

Tank

1st December 2009, 08:44

Tank

1st December 2009, 08:51

Last night I put a scratch on my nice shiny new tank (dome on bottom of jacket).

Being black it stands out like dogs balls.

Pissed beyond belief - and according to the neighbours somewhat vocal about it.

Anyways dropped a email to Short-Circuit - and he suggested some snake skins grip pads.

The reviews on the 675 forums give them a good writeup and I think they suit the bike (in Black anyways - not sure about on a green or orange tank).

Im ordering up a set today - what to you think of the looks?

Blackbird

1st December 2009, 09:12

Will be interested to hear how you get on with the NightBreakers - please be sure to come back and let us all know.

Yep, will do. Might try for a photo with the stock bulb in one headlight and a nightbreaker in t'other.

Last night I put a scratch on my nice shiny new tank (dome on bottom of jacket).

Anyways dropped a email to Short-Circuit - and he suggested some snake skins grip pads.

Im ordering up a set today - what to you think of the looks?

Did the same to the Blackbird, I think it must be a natural law to scratch a new car or bike early in ownership - commiserations!

Yep, they look pretty good:yes:. When I bought the Striple in Hamilton, I had clear 3M film put on as a kit as there's a guy in town that makes kits for a lot of different bikes. The kit consisted of knee cutouts and rear of tank, front of front guard, rear plastic by the pillion seat and for the polished alloy guards that your boots rest against. No idea how much they cost because for a cash deal and no trade, Heath at Hamilton motorcycles threw in ORC, the 3M protection and a Ventura rack.

vifferman

1st December 2009, 10:47

I ran both 100W xenon and halogen bulbs at different times in the Blackbird. These worked pretty well. However, I think that the extra heat generated in the small headlight volume of the Triple would not be a smart idea.
Yes, there is that.
I've run a 90/130 in the VF500 and the same bulb in the VTR1000 with no problems, and both were smallish enclosures - the VF metal/glass, the VTR plastic. The only problem I did encounter on the VTR was a wee bit of corrosion or a less than perfect contact on the VTR caused some resistance, which causes heat, which partly melted the bulb connector. Something to be aware of.
Are the headlight lenses on the Striple glass or polycarbonate? If the latter, you need to use "UV cut" bulbs, as they are specifically designed for plastic lenses.

Tank

1st December 2009, 13:20

vifferman

1st December 2009, 13:22

Looking for Striple accessories today and I found this:

The maintainance cost would be huge, and I reckon there are a lot of miles on the clock already, but personally I think this would make for a great ride.
LOL.
I hope she's a better biker than her pathetic husband - he drops his bike riding around town, and calls for a towtruck and waaaahmbulance.

2wheeldrifter

1st December 2009, 20:53

Looking for Striple accessories today and I found this:

The maintainance cost would be huge, and I reckon there are a lot of miles on the clock already, but personally I think this would make for a great ride.

Think it will be needing a full rebore... you can only hone so many times dude!

Blackbird

3rd December 2009, 09:22

Will be interested to hear how you get on with the NightBreakers - please be sure to come back and let us all know.

Have just ordered the Osram Nightbreakers from Autobulbs Direct in the UK (Well, Osram Night Racers but they're the same thing, just different packaging). I'll fit them as soon as they're here.

I took the Striple for a 100km-odd ride round part of the Coro Loop the evening before last to assess the standard lights in a mixture of twilight and full dark in twisty, unlit areas. I was pleasantly surprised! Dipped beam was a touch low and I might play with that a little. Full beam was pretty good, but could also be raised a touch. However, the nearside headlight did a great job of illuminating the verge, meaning that I could attack left-handed twisties at a reasonable pace. The offside headlight was perhaps pointing a little too far left as it didn't illuminate the centre line markings all that well when tackling right handers. Again, I might have a bit of a fiddle with that when the new bulbs are fitted.

In summary, the stock headlamps are perfectly acceptable, particularly where there are other light sources such as street lamps. However, for completely unlit twisty roads, particularly on the 1000-miler event; I'm hoping that the Night Racers will give the extra margin I'm looking for.

Results to follow in a week or two.

Chisanga

3rd December 2009, 12:57

I also found the standard lights to be good although I don't ride at night too often. On one ride I kept being asked at stops to check if I had my lights on full by the person I was following :)

Certainly can understand wanting better lights for long distance night riding.

Hope the new lights work well for you

Owl

3rd December 2009, 16:49

Have just ordered the Osram Nightbreakers from Autobulbs Direct in the UK (Well, Osram Night Racers but they're the same thing, just different packaging). I'll fit them as soon as they're here.

In summary, the stock headlamps are perfectly acceptable, particularly where there are other light sources such as street lamps. However, for completely unlit twisty roads, particularly on the 1000-miler event; I'm hoping that the Night Racers will give the extra margin I'm looking for.

Results to follow in a week or two.

It's a bit late now, but you may want to check this site out. http://www.powerbulbs.com/

Perhaps I should have posted sooner.:doh:

Blackbird

3rd December 2009, 18:42

It's a bit late now, but you may want to check this site out. http://www.powerbulbs.com/

Perhaps I should have posted sooner.:doh:

Prices for Nightbreakers look the same, but free postage with Powerbulbs - is that what you meant? Thanks, will keep it in mind next time:Punk:

Owl

3rd December 2009, 20:17

Prices for Nightbreakers look the same, but free postage with Powerbulbs - is that what you meant? Thanks, will keep it in mind next time:Punk:

No, I must have been looking at the wrong page, as I thought they were dearer. But yes, free shipping worldwide and they're pretty fast. I bought the "Phillips X-Treme" H4's from them a couple of months ago.:msn-wink:

avgas

3rd December 2009, 20:40

As for my bike - I thought I'd fallen in love with it again last night after listening to its lumpy idle with the restrictor out of the Satantune, and you've gone and ruined that. :weep:

Don't worry - we can fix that. Its called Viagra. Gives you boners for anything. Even honda's

Monkeynz

3rd December 2009, 20:48

Don't worry - we can fix that. Its called Viagra. Gives you boners for anything. Even honda's

A triumph speed or street triple must be viagra then because they do the same thing. I have to wait a couple of minutes before I get off mine to wait for the old bugger to go down, :laugh:

avgas

4th December 2009, 08:54

A triumph speed or street triple must be viagra then because they do the same thing. I have to wait a couple of minutes before I get off mine to wait for the old bugger to go down, :laugh:
Funny you mention that - when the speed first came out all bug eye'd i fell in love.
Talking to a old fella at the cold kiwi he said to me that with enough "Stone's" anything can look attractive to him lol

Gremlin

6th December 2009, 02:07

Another option for bulbs is the Hella range.

I'm currently using +90% bulbs for the KTM, because of all the country night riding, and for a better balance between life and performance, the +50% in the Hornet. Easily available as well.

IdunBrokdItAgin

11th December 2009, 13:18

Ok,

taken the plunge and bough a DID525VM X ring gold chain with renthal sprockets (original teeth amounts) from the UK. All up cost around $300.

Will let you know what they are like when they get here (and get put on).

Blackbird, also found out that the X rings are quoted as having 50% of the friction of O rings. Seems to be more in relation to wear than lost HP gains.

Cheers

James Deuce

11th December 2009, 13:24

Far out, excellent price!

Blackbird

11th December 2009, 13:44

Blackbird

11th December 2009, 15:38

Right, have now fitted the new bulbs. In the attached picture for comparative purposes, the headlight on the right of the picture has the new Osram bulb in it and the one on the left is the OEM bulb. The new one is visibly whiter/brighter but I'll have to go out and test them in the countryside. All I can say is that on the Blackbird, the Osrams were measurably better than OEM, but not as good as the 100-watt Xenons (which I won't be trying in the small headlamp volume of the Triple)! If you're wondering why the parking light on the right looks different, it's simply because the bulb supplier chucked in a pair of Extreme White sidelights for free so thought I'd give them a go.

One final thing... whilst the headlamps were apart, I thought that where the mounting brackets were riveted to the inside of the headlamp shell, there was the chance for rusting. I car-waxed the inside of the shell + tightening band and squirted some Spectro SX Chain Wax between the brackets and the shell. An ounce of prevention etc....

Swoop

14th December 2009, 14:13

Someone could get the impression that you are "as happy as a pig in shit" with the new ride...!
:clap:

Blackbird

14th December 2009, 14:58

Someone could get the impression that you are "as happy as a pig in shit" with the new ride...!
:clap:

Always good to have a new toy:niceone:. Its basic purpose is different from the 'bird but it's nice to be an 18 year old again:msn-wink:.

Tank

14th December 2009, 20:07

but it's nice to be an 18 year old again:msn-wink:.

I know that feeling !!!!

Anyway - using this as a 'all things stripple' thread.

This is what I popped on the bike to protect the paint on the tank and add some grip:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?p=1129569211#post1129569211

Headbanger

15th December 2009, 21:55

Guess what I'm picking up at 9.30am tomorrow....:eek5::crazy::woohoo:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports//auction-216984309.htm

Ok, thats probably a little easy to guess.

Headbanger

15th December 2009, 22:17

Does anyone know if the current models in NZ have a catalytic converters installed?

I contacted PJ's Parts in the states about buying a slip on muffler and they suggested that the AUS/NZ spec machines may need different mounting gear.

Looking at one of these babies.

Owl

15th December 2009, 22:19

Headbanger

15th December 2009, 22:22

Mint, though I think I already said that!;)

True, You picked up on one of my more subtle hints.:eek5:

I've been fighting the urge for the last couple of hours to post a thread in the main forum saying, FUCK ME, I HAVE A BRAND NEW SPEED TRIPLE.

Owl

15th December 2009, 22:32

True, You picked up on one of my more subtle hints.:eek5:

I've been fighting the urge for the last couple of hours to post a thread in the main forum saying, FUCK ME, I HAVE A BRAND NEW SPEED TRIPLE.

Yes and I understand that particular model has slightly better suspension than standard.

I'll look forward to your review!:yes:

Headbanger

15th December 2009, 22:50

Pretty sure the only difference is the detailing and the bolt on plastic bits (and gel seat).

The review should be interesting, I'll no doubt carry over my riding style from the Harley, Big handfulls of throttle, Jumping on the breaks a mile away from where I want to stop, putting it into corners like shes a train....:Oops:

carbonhed

16th December 2009, 09:34

The review should be interesting, I'll no doubt carry over my riding style from the Harley, Big handfulls of throttle, Jumping on the breaks a mile away from where I want to stop, putting it into corners like shes a train....:Oops:

Oh niiiiiice bike mate. Congrats!

Looking forward to the review.

shrub

16th December 2009, 16:49

my son has one and I rode them a lot when I worked at the local Triumph shop, and they really are something special. Incredibly user friendly.

Headbanger

18th December 2009, 00:13

Alrighty, 2 days with a speed triple.

I picked her up yesterday morning from an inner-Auckland bikeshop, I was in my ute so she went on the back for the drive home, Once I got back to paradise Wanganui I unloaded her and went for a 160km ride to do the first part of the "running in" cycle. I immediately hit the open road, only to discover the maximum speed I could get from the 3500rpm restriction was well under 100km/h and cars were attempting to kill me for being lame. So I ended up up doing multiple loops around the back roads.

Took her out again today and was able to go up to 5000rpm (133Km/h) which was far more fun, I finally get a small taste of the motor.

Impressions

Its quiet, real quiet, I could almost swear sometimes when I'm cruising along its not even running and I'm going to roll to a stop. I have noticed a massive drop in people in cars who are aware of my proximity, This is a massive constast in comparison to riding my Harley, and once again I heap scorn on the fools that claim car drivers don't hear a loud set of mean pipes.

Goes round corners well. Brakes work well. Reasonably comfortable. Gets better looking every time I look at it.

Seems to go alright but can't get too exited during the lengthy running in process. Sitting position reminds me the GPX 750 I owned many moons ago.

The first 100k's were a hard case as I'm so used to the Harley (read that as"I fucked up shit all over the place"), Obviously this bike does everything differently but I'm getting to know her real well.

IdunBrokdItAgin

20th January 2010, 09:33

New chain and sprockets have finally arrived from UK (must have finally thawed out over there). Cost was 128GBP wiothout shipping. Shipping can be fairly expensive but I was a bit sneaky and got a UK family member to post them to keep the cost down.

Getting them put on the bike tomorrow. Have already taken some before pictures - will take some after ones tomorrow.

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st January 2010, 20:49

OK,

chain and sprockets finally installed.

Must admit that they do look good - especially when compared to the OEM rear sprocket.

Performance wise - only tried them in a painfully slow commute home and couldn't really tell much difference, but will try them out at some respectable paces and feedback what I find.

All in all I think they look good but with the benefit of hindsight I should have waited until my OEM sprockets and chain were on the way out before upgrading. Proved to be costly in the end with purchase price, shipping and installing all adding up. Money would have most probably been better spent on half an exhaust upgrade.

But, I do like the look of them - they definitely improve the rear half of the bike. Before and after pics attached - judge for yourself.

Also, if anyone is looking to buy a set of OEM sprockets and chain used for only 3000kms then give me a shout - these fit the daytona as well as the street triples.

IdunBrokdItAgin

21st January 2010, 20:59

Forgot to add - did one last mod tonight - removed the strap from the seat. Pretty easy job - just undo a couple of bolts underneath the seat and take off the strap. Makes the seat look better IMO.

Next mods - stompgrips and a rad guard - hopefully they will be here soon.

carbonhed

22nd January 2010, 09:16

Looks good. I just bought the standard replacement parts for the 675 after 23000K. Seriously tempted by the bling but my wallet puckered.

May just be the photo angle but that new chain looks tight... may pay to double check.

IdunBrokdItAgin

22nd January 2010, 10:03

May just be the photo angle but that new chain looks tight... may pay to double check.

Yeah I noticed that when looking at the pictures as well. Bike shop told me to bring it back in after 500 kms as the chain will need to be adjusted. I'll keep an eye on it though for the time being.

Edit: checked the slack on the chain and it seems to be within the recommended 20 to 25mms. Must just be the angle of the picture.