Is Triumph the new Harley?

[martybabe]

I'm a Pom living in Godzone because I saw the light. England was my home for many a long year though and as a consequence I'm still a fan of some British things. The English Football team and all the over paid prima donna poofters that dwell within, Coronation street and Rosie's Boobies, Cornish pasties and soggy chips.

One thing that surprises me since I've been here though is the fierce, almost Harleyesque, allegiance and loyalty to the Triumph brand. A quick flick through these pages will find many an outraged Triumph owner fiercely defending the marque from the merest hint of criticism , justified or otherwise. A fanaticism long associated with some Harley owners, seems alive and well in the Trumpy community of NZ.

So, I'm asking a genuine Question here, not criticising, just putting it up for debate. Why, why all this raving on about Triumphs, I freely acknowledge the global accolades that have been thrown at the speed and street triples, clearly excellent bikes to ride but .....

If anyone should be singing the praises of this British brand it should be the likes of me shouldn't it, I lived just a few miles from the re-birth factory in Hinckley, I admire Mr Bloor very much for saving the Brand but I simply don't get why Kiwis in particular think they're the shizzel.

Big Dave will disagree with me no doubt, but In England, in my experience, Triumphs do not invoke the kind of brand loyalty and fierce admiration they do here. I think we're all pretty glad that Triumphs exist but they wouldn't find them selves at the top of as many wish lists as you might think, given that we make the things, definitely no where near as much loyalty as the buy american Americans.

There you have it, even as a pom I don't get why yawl rate Triumphs so much, why the allegiance is as strong as some Harley owners have for their bikes.

What am I missing here, they just seem like rather ordinary bikes :blink: Sell me a Triumph guys, here's your chance to tell the great unwashed why you think they're the dogs bollocks!

[popelli]

two completely different cultures

in NZ the back patch scene is british american and european only

in UK they rode anything

prior to the early 80's harleys were just unobtainable

hence the huge triumph loyalty factor

[NONONO]

Nuff said.

[hayd3n]

victory is the new american harley

[Conquiztador]

Let's see...

Harley has that Americanism with it. Many buy in to it. There is all from stockings to beermugs with HD on it. Many love that. They instantly become a bikie by getting the twin. No need to be a rider.

Jap bikes have always had that 2'nd class stigma (sorry guys...) even if they today are as good (or even better) as everything else. You buy a jappa and you buy a bike. Thats it. Often for commuting. Sometimes for another reason.

European bikes have class. But fark, they are expensive! And a nightmare to get bits. And when you get the bits you need to sell the kids to pay for it. You keep the bike for a sunny day.

Triumph has always been the working mans bike. Ued to be simple to fix, cheap and fun to ride. Somehow the new creed of Triumphs have kept that image (even if today with CDI's, fuel injection, puters and watercooling it is all gone). They still are good value for money! Also remember that we are "next door" to Japan, so we have a bundle of s/h jappa bikes being imported here (check the 400cc class...) cutting down their s/h value. But mainly the Triumphs are fun to ride. Enough umph to take you outta trouble but no racing machines (w/o modifications).

Face it: Your homeland has got this one right! And we in NZ have realised that.

Also, a Triumph is OK when mingling with HD's, when parking next to Euro bikes and when riding in a gaggle of jappas. Best of all worlds?

[Fatt Max]

Coronation street and Rosie's Boobies

Rosie is the new Bet Lynch....ooohhhhhhh

[Milts]

Could be related to the fact that many of the Triumphs seem to be perfect for New Zealand roads, with all the corners, bumps, gravel, etc. This combined with the 'fun factor' they inspire and the value for money has made me a fan - and so I'm probably guilty of overdefending the brand when asked about them...

[martybabe]

two completely different cultures

in NZ the back patch scene is british american and european only

in UK they rode anything

prior to the early 80's harleys were just unobtainable

hence the huge triumph loyalty factor

Interesting, thanks for your views.


Let's see...


Face it: Your homeland has got this one right! And we in NZ have realised that.



But not yet the UK or more specifically me. Don't get me wrong, sales are good and there are a fair few about at most bike meets. You would think Triumph would outsell everything else by a mile In England but not so.

I used to frequent Stratford on Avon on most sunny Sundays, where, depending on the weather, there could be 3-300 bikes stretched out along the riverside. Passionate and patriotic as Brits are about Brit things, most Triumphs in the group would receive nothing but the merest glance from the passing throngs as they searched on for more interesting, perhaps more exotic machinery. The rather uninteresting/dull/ uninspiring Triumphs, generally only singled out by passing Yanks marveling at the fact that Triumphs were still being made.

Don't take offence at my descriptions above, I'm just trying to convey the general lack of interest displayed at the Trumpy section by yer average passer-by as I witnessed it. Indeed I have recently purchased a rather dull uninspiring looking BMW which I believe to be one of the best Motorcycles ever made, so lack of wow factor doesn't a bad bike make.

Here though I have witnessed grown men almost drool over a bonnie/daytona, whatever and I'm still a bit perplexed as to why one nation would find a particular brand of bike so appealing whilst another (the Manufacturers main base) are largely indifferent to the same brand.

Apologies for the generalizations, of course not every Kiwi rider loves Triumph and Obviously every Brit rider is not indifferent to Triumphs but I do feel there is a large gap between the nations in there view of the make.

[Big Dave]

Easy. Kiwis have better taste in motorcycles.

[Latte]

In NZ, Triumph isn't the new Harley, Triumph is the new Triumph. As mentioned above they were a "cool" bike to every facet of bikers (not out of place with any group as such), and were not out of reach like Harley's were. Although the quality/technology has changed a lot, they still hold that same place in a lot of peoples minds/hearts.

Coolest bike my uncle owned (imo) was a triumph Tiger , all black, looked like the paint was an inch thick, and had the Union Jack painted on the side covers. Was always getting asked questions about it - now a friend has just bought a street triple, and just as many people wander over to talk about it... seems everyone owned a Triumph at some point. (I'm thinking of joining the cool kids for my next bike hehe).

[onearmedbandit]

Jap bikes have always had that 2'nd class stigma (sorry guys...) even if they today are as good (or even better) as everything else. You buy a jappa and you buy a bike. Thats it. Often for commuting. Sometimes for another reason.



I'll bite. Maybe 30yrs ago, but then again maybe not. Z1? CB'6'? Original Katana's? Kawasaki's 2 stroke road bikes? Lets move into the 80's then. RC30? OW01? GSXR750F/G/H? And the current crop of Japanese bikes, well none of them are '2nd class' bikes, especially compared to anything the US or Britain makes. Oh ok I'll include the Italian's. Yep your Ducati/Aprilia/MV have some very tasty bits on, no doubting that. What's that? You paid how much? I could've bought a Japanese bike and fitted all those bits and more for the same money, and I'd be better off for it too.

Sorry, maybe from your perspective Japanese bikes are '2nd class', but not everyone shares that view.

[short-circuit]

Nuff said.

Fucken tasty...

Two other cases in point:

[Big Dave]

It's more about what is cool. If you don't understand that - I run courses.

[Conquiztador]

I'll bite. Maybe 30yrs ago, but then again maybe not. Z1? CB'6'? Original Katana's? Kawasaki's 2 stroke road bikes? Lets move into the 80's then. RC30? OW01? GSXR750F/G/H? And the current crop of Japanese bikes, well none of them are '2nd class' bikes, especially compared to anything the US or Britain makes. Oh ok I'll include the Italian's. Yep your Ducati/Aprilia/MV have some very tasty bits on, no doubting that. What's that? You paid how much? I could've bought a Japanese bike and fitted all those bits and more for the same money, and I'd be better off for it too.

Sorry, maybe from your perspective Japanese bikes are '2nd class', but not everyone shares that view.

Well bitten. Jappas were the Hyosungs of the past. That has changed. And so will the Hyosungs too (or not???). I fully agree that you get more bike for your dollar today (and even in the past in many cases) if buying a jappa. But it is not all about value for money fo all of us. Harley has spent millions on creating an image and have succeeded. Jappas have spent very little on building an image and they sell on performace/value for money. Triumph is somewhere in the middle and succeeding to grab buyers from both camps.

Infact when I tire of my K1 I was planning to get a stripple. No logic reason, just because.

[Conquiztador]

It's more about what is cool. If you don't understand that - I run courses.

Thought you were too cool to run?

[trustme]

I think of them as the new Beemers. I have always been a fan of the old airheads, they beat to a different drum but it seems that the oilheads are not as robust or reliable & can be an absolute nightmare when things go wrong
The modern Trump post '955' doesn't compete head on with the Jap bikes , they are well suited to our road conditions & appear to be bloody reliable, kind of like a more cost effective older Beemer.

[martybabe]

In NZ, Triumph isn't the new Harley, Triumph is the new Triumph. As mentioned above they were a "cool" bike to every facet of bikers (not out of place with any group as such), and were not out of reach like Harley's were. Although the quality/technology has changed a lot, they still hold that same place in a lot of peoples minds/hearts.

Coolest bike my uncle owned (imo) was a triumph Tiger , all black, looked like the paint was an inch thick, and had the Union Jack painted on the side covers. Was always getting asked questions about it - now a friend has just bought a street triple, and just as many people wander over to talk about it... seems everyone owned a Triumph at some point. (I'm thinking of joining the cool kids for my next bike hehe).

That's the kind of thing, well explained.


I'll bite. Maybe 30yrs ago, but then again maybe not. Z1? CB'6'? Original Katana's? Kawasaki's 2 stroke road bikes? Lets move into the 80's then. RC30? OW01? GSXR750F/G/H? And the current crop of Japanese bikes, well none of them are '2nd class' bikes, especially compared to anything the US or Britain makes. Oh ok I'll include the Italian's. Yep your Ducati/Aprilia/MV have some very tasty bits on, no doubting that. What's that? You paid how much? I could've bought a Japanese bike and fitted all those bits and more for the same money, and I'd be better off for it too.

Sorry, maybe from your perspective Japanese bikes are '2nd class', but not everyone shares that view.

Yup, Jap bikes make huge sense which is why I'm trying to figure out why one would choose a Triumph in preference.


Fucken tasty...

Two other cases in point:

:yes: Yes yes but all your proving is that you're passionate about the bikes, we've already established that you love em :love:



Easy. Kiwis have better taste in motorcycles.

A more eclectic taste maybe and good on 'em for that, better, meh.

[F5 Dave]

. . Triumph isn't the new Harley, Triumph is the new Triumph. . .
Eh,ahh, um, ooh.

Actually that is pretty good logic when you think about it.

I only bit at this thread 'cause at least Triumphs attempt to make their bikes handle & go, where the 'mercan bikes are so slanted in design - & for that matter fork angle that they will never be a proper motorcycle.

I'm a Yam fan & a 2 stroke nut, so my Tri buy was a complete surprise to myself.

[warewolf]

It's more about what is cool. If you don't understand that - I run courses.'Cool Dave' needs to change his username... :woohoo:

[warewolf]

I think there's a bit of sentimentalism attached to the British Empire, too. For a long time NZ was rife with Brit cars & bikes long past their use-by date in most other markets not geographically- and financially-challenged. In the early Hinckley years, NZ was Triumph's best market per capita.

[martybabe]

It's more about what is cool. If you don't understand that - I run courses.

No one can be cooler than BD, I'll just have to be Hot :woohoo:




The modern Trump post '955' doesn't compete head on with the Jap bikes , they are well suited to our road conditions & appear to be bloody reliable, kind of like a more cost effective older Beemer.

This keeps cropping up, better suited to our road conditions how persactly, are you saying a bonnie will smooth out this Luna landscape better than yer average Jipneeze motorcicle?

What about the looks, seriously, are we saying we would buy a Speed trip over say a Honda Predator on looks,not talking about which is actually the better bike, just lookswise, I can't see it myself. Come to think of it (apart from the Rocket) I think the range in general is a bit bland looking...maybe

[martybabe]

I think there's a bit of sentimentalism attached to the British Empire, too. For a long time NZ was rife with Brit cars & bikes long past their use-by date in most other markets not geographically- and financially-challenged. In the early Hinckley years, NZ was Triumph's best market per capita.

I think that has a huge bearing on it myself, well said Wolfy.

[admenk]

Triumphs look great to me....

231891

[martybabe]

Triumphs look great to me....

231891

Hahaha, still the first thing that springs to mind when I hear the name Triumph, a Bra for the way you are, not necessarily a bike for the way you are though eh.

Whatdya think though Ad, being from that side of the world, do you remember people queuing up and getting palpitations cause a new bike was coming out of Hinkley?

[F5 Dave]

The difference being that in the bikes you want the contents to stay on the inside:yes:

[Latte]

What about the looks, seriously, are we saying we would buy a Speed trip over say a Honda Predator on looks,not talking about which is actually the better bike, just lookswise, I can't see it myself. Come to think of it (apart from the Rocket) I think the range in general is a bit bland looking...maybe

This made something click in my head...... In comparison the CB looks a little more garish - a tamed down version of those early euro streetfighters with the huge tails pointing straight up and all the angles and fibreglass which I've never liked. Although I do like the CB now(would definitely own one) it's been a case of warming to tthe style over time. Whereas the triple does have the classic "purposeful" look to it.

Perhaps as a country we are a little reserved and like the bike that looks tough but understated . whereas other countries do like to show off a little more. The triumph has always managed to tick the boxes for us kiwi's (hence the "Triumph is the New Triumph" line before).

Just a thought....

[admenk]

Whatdya think though Ad, being from that side of the world, do you remember people queuing up and getting palpitations cause a new bike was coming out of Hinkley?

I remember everyone was excited about their "rebirth", but yes, once they arrived, I think they were seen as just another option to the available Japanese bikes. I thought about the Trophy (?) 1200 when I was after a tourer, but they were still a bit pricey for me then, so I ended up with an older FJ. My brother had the cafe racer style one with the twin headlights (don't know the model - shows how much I know) which looked fantastic, apart from the back end.

At the end of the day it's horses for courses so we all ride what we like and have our own favourites. Most people would probably think that my bike looks and goes like an old nail, but I like it, and that what matters eh?

[martybabe]

This made something click in my head...... In comparison the CB looks a little more garish - a tamed down version of those early euro streetfighters with the huge tails pointing straight up and all the angles and fibreglass which I've never liked. Although I do like the CB now(would definitely own one) it's been a case of warming to tthe style over time. Whereas the triple does have the classic "purposeful" look to it.

Perhaps as a country we are a little reserved and like the bike that looks tough but understated . whereas other countries do like to show off a little more. The triumph has always managed to tick the boxes for us kiwi's (hence the "Triumph is the New Triumph" line before).

Just a thought....

That too makes a lot of sense and I think the phrase I was grasping for was triumph have a bit of a staid image in the UK, respectable bikes but not so outwardly exotic/flamboyant/in yer face as an MV or a CBRrrrrrrr. In fact Britain is by and large besotted with sporty bikes and would sell their houses to have the latest R1 which boasts a massive 3HP hike over the last model, so yes I think you're on to something there.

Again apologies for the generalisations above but on any given Sunday in the Uk rows and rows of sporty exotica can be seen displayed at all the usual places, so many of the things in fact that they all look like thousands of examples of the same bike. Not particularly my thing.

Up North however, there is a far greater mix of machines at the biker haunts, much like NZ, a bit more conservative than the flash shandy drinking southerners. mmm

[Maha]

Probably a large percentage of it is that, in kinda envokes the bad boy image...
Go back to a time where most of us were unable to even climb onto a bike, the British bikes were the ''chosen'' mount of many a teddy boy, with his cuffed jeans/ Bril-Creme and black comb in his back pocket? what a killer image.

But Triumph triumped, they lasted the distance and are still here today offering up what can only be decribed as pure uniqueness. The Daytona was in a class of it own in the looks department, so different from any of the Jap sports bikes, the 675 and the Speed triple?....speaks for themselves really...the capper is the triple sound....opps excuse me, I just excited mself...:love:

[martybabe]

I remember everyone was excited about their "rebirth", but yes, once they arrived, I think they were seen as just another option to the available Japanese bikes. I thought about the Trophy (?) 1200 when I was after a tourer, but they were still a bit pricey for me then, so I ended up with an older FJ. My brother had the cafe racer style one with the twin headlights (don't know the model - shows how much I know) which looked fantastic, apart from the back end.

At the end of the day it's horses for courses so we all ride what we like and have our own favourites. Most people would probably think that my bike looks and goes like an old nail, but I like it, and that what matters eh?

Perfect example me old mate, I think you'd be hard pushed to find a biker in Britain that could identify all the Triumph models, they're just kinda Triumphs. I'm betting there are a few on here that could identify any Triumph just from a photo of an indicator.

As you say Horses etc, I can't entirely justify why I have a German and an American sat in my Garage but I love 'em....... most of the time.

[pritch]

Jap bikes make huge sense which is why I'm trying to figure out why one would choose a Triumph in preference.

Well, pickle me prunes! I just happen to have some recent experience in this regard.

By preference I would be a Honda owner but, as I've mentioned elsewhere here,
Bluewing only import a fraction of what is available. The range they offer does not comprise a coherent whole. Rather, it's more like full of holes. My first two Honda choices are not imported, when I went to order my third choice I was told they were out of stock. It's not like I didn't try...

I hate "Australasian agents", that's an oxymoron. I am, however, hanging out for the day Honda Australia take over Bluewing.

Recently I saw a Triumph that I liked and the thought process went something like,
"That's nice.
I've never owned a Triumph.
I've never owned a triple.
I'm having that."

Which is in fact a very similar thought process to when I first saw the S4R.
The marque and engine layout details varied of course.

Later, but also in the Triumphs favour, came the realisation that the first four bikes I ever rode were Triumphs but that I had never actually owned one.

And so, however irrational the decision, I find myself a Triumph owner.
I have no plans to buy a Union Jack or St George Arai though. Yet.

Early impressions indicate that the S3 is a great "real world" motorcycle. The power isn't all crammed up the top end. It pulls like a schoolboy from not much above idle. The suspension is firm but not ridiculous. That tiny "fairing" punches above it's weight.

Only downside so far is the seat height which is about as high as I can handle.

On Monday I'm off around the South Island for a couple of weeks. I should have a much more developed idea of the bikes capabilities and/or shortcomings after that.

Watch this space?

[Big Dave]

You might also factor in that the 1055i is the best mass produced road-going/street motorcycle engine produced so far - as in ever.

It has most of the the low down of a v-twin and most of the pull of an IL4 - in one package.

[davebullet]

I sat on the new Kwaka Z1000SX today. Nice machine, but didn't move me. I also think KAwasaki build quality is a bit below Yamaha and Honda and probably behind Triumph.

I haven't ridden enough bikes to compare, but I love the rev range flexibility the 1050 motor offers (as Big Dave alluded to).

:love::love::love::love::love:
<img src="http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=225881&d=1292135798"/>

[fliplid]

I got my Bonnie because it does what I want it to do, not because I wanted to stay "loyal" to a particular manufacturer. It's a bike that fires up and goes and does what it looks like it should.

[Grubber]

My 5 cents worth. First bike riden was an Ariel 350. Much noise and rumble. 2nd bike was a triumph 350 my bro owned. More noise etc. When i brought my first bike it was a BSA 650 Lightning.Next was a BSA 650 lightning also. It was the last 1973 model to be made. They were awesome bikes. Then was the Triumph 650 bonnie followed with a Bonnie 750. Yes they leaked a bit of oil but they were reliable enough.
Went on to buy my first jappa. Honda 750 F2. What a piece of shite that was. Engine wined and rattled and spat oil everywhere. Not good. Crashed it a few times due to it freaking out everytime it saw a corner coming.
Next was the best jappa i owned. It was the Kawa Z1000 1979 model. Brillaint in red and chrome. Had the Sagar exhaust on it and it sounded amazing.
I had many others a long the way including a couple of Harleys.
Never thought about the new variety of Triumph much till i took a mates Sprint ST for a ride some 7 years ago. I was blown away with the ease of handling and the ease of ride. All that down low grunt was just brilliant.
With no time to waste i brought my first of 3 triumphs and i FRIGGIN LOVE THEM AND WATCH THE FUCK OUT ANYBODY WHO DISAGREES WITH ME OK!:rockon:

[Smifffy]

I reckon the reason is simple.

If you are a baby boomer, you either rode one in your youf, your mates rode one, or someone cool you knew of rode one.

If you are Gen X, then your Dad rode one, or one of his cool mates had one, and your Dad has some bitchin' stories of going ton up on that back road, just out of town, that is now a yuppie subdivision.

If you are Gen Y, then motorbikes suck and drifting is where it's at, or maybe suburban drags on a Saturday night (on that back road, just out of town, that is now a yuppie subdivision).

[baptist]

That too makes a lot of sense and I think the phrase I was grasping for was triumph have a bit of a staid image in the UK, respectable bikes but not so outwardly exotic/flamboyant/in yer face as an MV or a CBRrrrrrrr. In fact Britain is by and large besotted with sporty bikes and would sell their houses to have the latest R1 which boasts a massive 3HP hike over the last model, so yes I think you're on to something there.

Again apologies for the generalisations above but on any given Sunday in the Uk rows and rows of sporty exotica can be seen displayed at all the usual places, so many of the things in fact that they all look like thousands of examples of the same bike. Not particularly my thing.

Up North however, there is a far greater mix of machines at the biker haunts, much like NZ, a bit more conservative than the flash shandy drinking southerners. mmm

:mad: I'm a cockney that hates shandy (and Pykies!) but I love Triumphs:bleh: I guess as a Student it is more a dream list than a wish list but once back earning full time a Truimph will adorn my driveway:yes: Just a bit to expensive at present.

I reckon the reason is simple.

If you are a baby boomer, you either rode one in your youf, your mates rode one, or someone cool you knew of rode one.

If you are Gen X, then your Dad rode one, or one of his cool mates had one, and your Dad has some bitchin' stories of going ton up on that back road, just out of town, that is now a yuppie subdivision.

If you are Gen Y, then motorbikes suck and drifting is where it's at, or maybe suburban drags on a Saturday night (on that back road, just out of town, that is now a yuppie subdivision).

Aint that the truth on so many accounts! I think it is a mixture of factors, style (yep understated class) and quality but the history as well, as a pommie petrol head Triumph and Jaguar just get me all goosebumpy 231986231987, 231988 enough said...

[Badgerclarke]

As a fellow pom having owned a Sprint RS and Tiger 1050 here are my observations. We left the UK at the end of last year and I would say that there is a lot of brand loyalty to Triumph over there, take a look at Triumph Torque. However I think that loyalty is starting to fade as existing long term owners are starting to feel ignored, of course the flip side is that the brand are attracting new customers with a string of new and exciting machines. They're also well priced in comparison to other brands such as Yamaha....unlike here sadly!

When I arrived I went around the local dealers trying to secure a deal on the outgoing Speed Triple model but they just didn't seem to be willing/able enough to shift on price despite the new model being just around the corner. Victim of a smaller market I guess? So I went and purchased a new Honda Predator at a great price instead. It's a great bike but doesn't have the character of a Triumph which is why the Trumpets are popular also I guess and I do miss being a Triumph owner.

As for Triumph being the new Harley....nah....it's the new BMW. Just take a look at the new Tigers and the spy shots of the new tourer look just like an RT.

[martybabe]

:mad: I'm a cockney that hates shandy (and Pykies!) but I love Triumphs:bleh: I guess as a Student it is more a dream list than a wish list but once back earning full time a Truimph will adorn my driveway:yes: Just a bit to expensive at present.


Aint that the truth on so many accounts! I think it is a mixture of factors, style (yep understated class) and quality but the history as well, as a pommie petrol head Triumph and Jaguar just get me all goosebumpy 231986231987, 231988 enough said...

The Hammers, Triumph, Jaguar, a cock a nee, you really is a Pom abroad eh :drinkup:





As for Triumph being the new Harley....nah....it's the new BMW. Just take a look at the new Tigers and the spy shots of the new tourer look just like an RT.

Thanks for your thoughts, interesting. The title of the thread may have thrown a few of you off maybe.

I was in no way comparing the bikes of Triumph and Harley, they are quite different thankfully, merely commenting that a lot of the owners of Triumphs are fiercely loyal, fanatical and defensive of the brand whenever they perceive criticism. It put me in mind of those Harley fanatics that wouldn't have a bar of anything none harley.

So Are the Triumph faithful as enthusiastic as the notorious Harley die hards or even more so and if so, why? what makes Triumph so special?

I think we've gone a long way to explaining it with some of the answers here, thank you all for your input.

[scumdog]

I got my Bonnie because it does what I want it to do, not because I wanted to stay "loyal" to a particular manufacturer. It's a bike that fires up and goes and does what it looks like it should.

Sums up why I ride my T-Sport.:yes:

[AD345]

Well I'm probably going to hell but I can't stand Triumphs

Never could.

The older ones, and new ones of the same style - the America, Bonneville etc just look nasty to me. The style is old and was nasty back then. Every man and his dog may have thought they were the coolest thing since glacial ice but the slab seat, the nasty bars and the ancient looking front end make them one of the few bikes that I actively dislike looking at - and I like the B-King!

I never understoof the "tough guy" image that goes with them either - they are such tiny fucking things that most guys look bloody stupid on them, a pumpkin on a pimple.

The Daytona and triples leave me cold, why not get a Japanese bike and have it done properly?

The new Thunderbird looks ok but doesn't inspire me.

I lusted after the Rocket III for a while - until I rode one.

Cramped and pointless

I've been on bikes for a long time now and there's always been plenty of people arouind that loved their trumpys. More power to 'em. You couldn't pay me to own one


Just as well BD doesn't know where I live :shit:

[superman]

Have you seen those street triples?!?! :gob:

[AD345]

Have you seen those street triples?!?! :gob:

Not my thing

[superman]

Not my thing

Lol I gathered that from your kingpin. Though those kingpins do actually look really nice :yes:

[Big Dave]

Cramped and pointless


Just as well BD doesn't know where I live :shit:

Or what drugs you are on! It's about the most roomy bike there is and the point is you can drift it out of the corners with the torque it produces.. Whereas that B-king is unrideable if you art over about 6'3".

[dogsnbikes]

Yup, Jap bikes make huge sense which is why I'm trying to figure out why one would choose a Triumph in preference.

I grew up with Jap bikes,and still brought a Triumph daytona 955i reason why....

Is that as soon as I sat on it I felt as one with the bike, since I'm 120+kg and over 6 foot that was top of my list,and Triumph tick the boxes for my needs and have found that with others I have spoken too so satisfaction in Triumph which wasn't found in other bikes at the time...

Yes.. Triumph has come along way from the days of old when it was often said that
"when you ride a triumph its not a question of if you were going too get there it was a question of when"

You still get the Diehard triumph guys that wont touch the hinckley triumph's,as they see triumph as being tainted by the japs

then you get the generation that grew up with the older triumphs like the TSS,TSX,ROYALS,JUBILEES,TIGER'S AND HURRICANES and they see traces of them in the modern range of bonnies,scambers etc without the breakdowns.....

then you get their offspring who know all about the old triumphs,and see the hinckley range more suited too there needs(dont wana upset the old guy with a Jappa) with the sports bike range catering too their boy racer needs.....

The demise of the Meridian Triumphs was seen as sad but was Also a good thing for Mr Bloor and the New Triumph range, with the Motorcycle world watching and guessing what would be....They needed too give the world something different, not something the jap brands had already sold too the world .......Yes the prices were over the top at first,but I think they have it about right now

So really you could say Triumph have seen that they need too supply a brand too the market place that would garantee bike sale's in 2 generations whilist getting the attention of a 3rd

[AD345]

Or what drugs you are on! It's about the most roomy bike there is and the point is you can drift it out of the corners with the torque it produces.. Whereas that B-king is unrideable if you art over about 6'3".


Its like berley for big aussie basketball players.........:chase:

You may be right with the drifting, I'm not brave enough to try it.
But it was cramped mate - sorry. Especially compared to mine, I felt like I was perched on the bloody thing with my knees around my ears.

I put my impressions about the RIII here (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/129341-Riding-the-blast-wave).

I was ultimately disappointed and all because of the riding position.


As for the B-King, haven't ridden one yet so I may be disappointed again, BUT, you might be surprised how many people are actually under 6'3" in height.

[baptist]

The Hammers, Triumph, Jaguar, a cock a nee, you really is a Pom abroad eh :drinkup:.......

I know mate, can you Adam and Eve it I only jumped on the oxo at Stratford to see me China and blimey geezer when I got off I was in Auckland!!!!!!!:doh: never was any good wiv a map eiver:facepalm:

[Paul in NZ]

One thing that surprises me since I've been here though is the fierce, almost Harleyesque, allegiance and loyalty to the Triumph brand. A quick flick through these pages will find many an outraged Triumph owner fiercely defending the marque from the merest hint of criticism , justified or otherwise. A fanaticism long associated with some Harley owners, seems alive and well in the Trumpy community of NZ.!

Fuggin immigrints with yer strange foreign ways.... You aint in the UK now matey - time to adopt the local fashions and go native or go back immigrintvilles where yer comes from...... :yes:

Back in the day Triumphs were the bad boys bikes - and some of em still like to think they are a bit bad and they want a triumph. Why not, its better than dressing up like a ghey pirate :innocent: Lots of em just wouldnt buy a japanese or italian bike so ..... Why not...

Personally I think all these new fangled Triumphs are rubbish mate - they look wierd and the cams are in the wrong place - in short, the REAL bikers stick with the old ways.... :innocent: (Just kidding - seriously sleep deprived, just back from the TOMCC rally)

[Big Dave]

As for the B-King, haven't ridden one yet so I may be disappointed again, BUT, you might be surprised how many people are actually under 6'3" in height.

Go to a sports venue now and it's surprising how many are over 6'3" too.

They must have had your handle bars in a stupid position - or it was the Roadster - which raises the pegs for better cornering clearance. Otherwise, The R3 Cruiser and the Tourer are amongst the most comfortable big-man machines on the market. Better than the Gold Wing, Ultra and I find them more roomy than the Vision (for example) where the non-adjustable handlebars pull too far back for long arms. Same with the FJR1300 and Concours 1400.

M109 and C109 are the next best in the cruiser class.

The main advantage of the R3 is it will smoke every other cruiser under 100k, but then 'performance cruisers' is a rather 'esoteric' domain hey.

[dogsnbikes]

the REAL bikers stick with the old ways.... :innocent: (Just kidding - seriously sleep deprived, just back from the TOMCC rally)

Like this guy on the saint

232075


Could be a former ghost rider

[Paul in NZ]

Like this guy on the saint

232075


Could be a former ghost rider

Hes the real deal mate - mad as a box of frogs and a wild as a night in a P lab with a latex clad lady dwarfand a jar of demented gerbils. Rode the long way to the rally with the moderns, 20km dirt road and when he gets there he dont need no stinkin tent... Yup! Slept out under the stars in his bedroll... fark!

He won 'Peoples Choice' at the bike show eh and it was a very popular choice too by all accounts. Bloody brill to see a bit of triumph 'History' being preserved instead of all the perfect restorations (nothing wrong with that - just nice to see the other angle)

I'm an utter pussy - Vicki followed me up in the wagon with the tents n all and we went the short way (In my defence this tendon thing is as sore as fuck so whatever). Anyway - we took out 'Best Meriden twin' with the TR6C. Hilarious fun and while it was a PIA we managed the modified diet thing OK and still had a great time...

Did we catch up mr Dogs? I met sooooooo many people and I'm shit with names plus the sleep deprivation from that dude with the shite singing and guitar at 4am was a bit of a special 'test'... Pissed down going through Levin FFS....

[skippa1]

My take on it is simple. If you want high horsepower, predictible handling, racing type performance in a reliable package, you go japanese sport bike. If you want a bit of "feeling" to your ride, you look at Ducatis, Triumphs,Aprillias, MV Augustas and Buells.

[Latte]

My take on it is simple. If you want high horsepower, predictible handling, racing type performance in a reliable package, you go japanese sport bike. If you want a bit of "feeling" to your ride, you look at Ducatis, Triumphs,Aprillias, MV Augustas and Buells.

The ape will let you have both :D - seems to be up there with the jap bikes in wsbk.

[dogsnbikes]

:corn:
Did we catch up mr Dogs? I met sooooooo many people and I'm shit with names plus the sleep deprivation from that dude with the shite singing and guitar at 4am was a bit of a special 'test'... Pissed down going through Levin FFS....

Yeah we did catch up on friday, when I brought the photographer around and pointed out the mascot you have on your mirror arm too him,

Now wasn't that Donald who did the singing,lucky he wasn't called duck as the Mrs certainly wanted too shove that guitar up his arse:shutup:

[baptist]

Fuggin immigrints with yer strange foreign ways.... You aint in the UK now matey - time to adopt the local fashions and go native or go back immigrintvilles where yer comes from...... :yes:



It's the British Invasion mate, music, Bikes and Pom's :lol:

[Brian d marge]

Fuggin immigrints with yer strange foreign ways.... You aint in the UK now matey - time to adopt the local fashions and go native or go back immigrintvilles where yer comes from...... :yes:

Back in the day Triumphs were the bad boys bikes - and some of em still like to think they are a bit bad and they want a triumph. Why not, its better than dressing up like a ghey pirate :innocent: Lots of em just wouldnt buy a japanese or italian bike so ..... Why not...

Personally I think all these new fangled Triumphs are rubbish mate - they look wierd and the cams are in the wrong place - in short, the REAL bikers stick with the old ways.... :innocent: (Just kidding - seriously sleep deprived, just back from the TOMCC rally)

Nz always did have deep seated self confidence issues .....

Stephen
who remembers fitting such bent handlebars to triumphs , ( they were all trying to make them as tall as possible )

when I first started in the garage .....

[Paul in NZ]

:corn:

Yeah we did catch up on friday, when I brought the photographer around and pointed out the mascot you have on your mirror arm too him,

Now wasn't that Donald who did the singing,lucky he wasn't called duck as the Mrs certainly wanted too shove that guitar up his arse:shutup:

D'oh! Dats right... Sorry, Shit I was blinking around that whole weekend - I swear to god I got less sleep than any rally I've ever been too...... We had an epic airbed failure - the ribs detatched inside so it ended up as all pillow and no bed - horrible to sleep on, perhaps storing it in the ceiling wasnt such a great idea....

Yup, Mr 'donald' was a real PIA. Vicki wasnt happy either - but IMHO there is very little point in discussing these things with drunks at 4am, you just end up even more awake still and they shuffle off and sleep like babies....

I really like the band on friday night but I'm still knackered - perhaps if I didnt drink so much in the sun then I'd feel better now eh... (nah)

[Paul in NZ]

Nz always did have deep seated self confidence issues .....

Stephen
who remembers fitting such bent handlebars to triumphs , ( they were all trying to make them as tall as possible )

when I first started in the garage .....

Dude - a lack of self confidence is not usually an issue if you can ride one of those bikes with bars like that....

[martybabe]

I didn't know anyone with a Triumph when I was a kid and when I first started to look at bikes my world was awash with Japanese machinery and a few guzzis/Laverdas/beemers.
Hardly any British stuff in my neck of the woods which is odd really as my city (Birmingham) and local area was home to many British Bike factories at one time.( BSA Birmingham small arms) Norton, Triumph etc. Arguably the center of the British bike industry yet we embraced the Jap invasion with open arms ?

So yeah, the heritage and Father son Loyalty just kind of passed me by, I remember a few die hards on Commandos and rocket threes, gold stars etc but by and Large, the japs ruled the roads by the early mid seventies.

Well it's been great talking bikes with yawl for a change, Better than slagging each other off over and over and I certainly understand the lure of the Trumpy much more than I did. Not a convert yet but I will certainly have a more serious looksee when it becomes time for a change. Honestly, they have never been on my radar, always dismissed as rather dull uninspiring things, then again I thought that about Beemers, boy was I wrong, never to old to learn I guess.

Cheers everyone, enjoy your ride whatever the name on the tank :niceone:

[raftn]

Personally I have always like the trumphys, they have suited what I want in the bike. I wrote a blog about Brand Loyalty, which probably sums up my thoughts well.

http://rogerfleming-raftnn.blogspot.com/2010/11/brand-loyality.html

In reality I am with Martybabe, I dont care what people ride, that fact that you are on two wheels means we share a common passion.

I shall leave you with this thought.

May your tank always be full,
and your side stand always up.

[Maha]

Personally I have always like the trumphys, they have suited what I want in the bike. I wrote a blog about Brand Loyalty, which probably sums up my thoughts well.

http://rogerfleming-raftnn.blogspot.com/2010/11/brand-loyality.html

In reality I am with Martybabe, I dont care what people ride, that fact that you are on two wheels means we share a common passion.

I shall leave you with this thought.

May your tank always be full,
and your side stand always up.

Surely the bike would fall over?...:corn:

[ukusa]

I'm taking my Trumpy on a Valentines date tonight, maybe around the hills, play with her throttle a bit. gently caress her through the corners. Then returning home to maybe a sponge bath & a jolly good buffing. :yes:

I am stopping short though, no flowers or chockies for her, she wouldn't appreciate them.

[raftn]

Surely the bike would fall over?...:corn:

Not if you a riding it!! It's not my fault that Honda riders don't get it up very often.....:facepalm: I am feeling very witty this morning...........or very bored....

[Swoop]

Why Triumph? Presumably with the after-sales backup and extensive spare parts inventory that Triumph have in NZ?






















Tui billboard time

[buellbabe]

I am fiercely loyal to Buell ...why? cos they are the most fun riding that I have ever experienced on a bike.

Yes I know this is about Triumphs, I will get to my point!

For that same reason Triumph is my 2nd most fav...almost as much fun to ride as the Buell and I would own one in a heartbeat if I could. (running out of room in the garage actually!)

I reckon Trumpy owners are loyal to the brand cos it has endured, they are hoonish without being OTT and most importantly ...like the Buell they have SOUL.

Hell YEAH!

[raftn]

I am fiercely loyal to Buell ...why? cos they are the most fun riding that I have ever experienced on a bike.

Yes I know this is about Triumphs, I will get to my point!

For that same reason Triumph is my 2nd most fav...almost as much fun to ride as the Buell and I would own one in a heartbeat if I could. (running out of room in the garage actually!)

I reckon Trumpy owners are loyal to the brand cos it has endured, they are hoonish without being OTT and most importantly ...like the Buell they have SOUL.

Hell YEAH!

Well said, but there is always room for another bike, have you considered putting one in the lounge? Yeah I know, I am just a wealth of ideas some times.

[buellbabe]

Well, I have plans for an extension to the garage...:yes:

[Maha]

Well, I have plans for an extension to the garage...:yes:

Have you seen this thread?...went from Triumph/Kawasaki to Buell pretty quickly.
Post 126...:yes:

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/134466-Triumph-or-Kawasaki/page9

[shrub]

and part of it is because a long time ago I used to own trumpies. They're kind of part of the NZ motorcycling legacy and most of us have owned one or had a father/brother/uncle/mother who has owned one (I can still remember my brother coming home with his Tiger 100), but there's more than that.

I love my bike because it's a triple, which means it sounds sublime, has an incredible power delivery (admittedly only about 90 hp) and pulls from 50 kmh in top with no snatch while being silky smooth. That engine alone makes it something special, and mine has the first generation carbed engine. Ride a 1050 or 675 and they make V twins and ILF seem very ordinary - and yes, I have ridden them all.

I also really like the fact that my bike is made by a company owned by one bloke, not a division of or asset of Volkswagen, Ford, Kawasaki Heavy Industries or whoever else owns the big companies. There are no shareholders, so ultimately John Bloor calls the shots, and all out profitability comes second to building lovely bikes from what I understand.

I like the fact that when I park my bike i can park beside a Gixxer 600 ridden by a power ranger, an old classic, a 1098 or a Harley ridden by a 1%er without getting funny looks - the only ones who are standoffish are the HOG brigade with all the regalia and the 2010 bikes. I also like the fact that I regularly have old boys coming up and telling me about the Speed Twin or BSA Gold Star they loved (and old girls telling me about going courting on a triumph).

I like the fact that my bike is a bit different - there are a gazillian v twin cruisers, insanely fast ILFs and even naked bikes; but mine is different. I like the fact that mine looks like something from the 60s, has great brakes, doesn't disgrace itself through the windies and is bulletproof reliable.

I also like the fact that for some reason triumphs seem to lend themselves to owner personalisation, and I know quite a few that are way off stock - and not just catalogue customs either.

There are faster/more reliable/better handling/louder/more expensive/cheaper/better braking and even better bikes out there, but that doesn't stop me loving my bike with a passion, and being sufficiently loyal to the brand that the only other brand I'd consider would be Moto Guzzi, but only for a 1000S.

[Banditbandit]

Surely the bike would fall over?...:corn:

Naaa .. just means you never stop ...

[avgas]

You might also factor in that the 1055i is the best mass produced road-going/street motorcycle engine produced so far - as in ever.
It has most of the the low down of a v-twin and most of the pull of an IL4 - in one package.
Just like this is the best knife in the world
232131

that is until someone pulls one of these on you
232132232133

[martybabe]

I also really like the fact that my bike is made by a company owned by one bloke, not a division of or asset of Volkswagen, Ford, Kawasaki Heavy Industries or whoever else owns the big companies. There are no shareholders, so ultimately John Bloor calls the shots, and all out profitability comes second to building lovely bikes from what I understand.

I like the fact that when I park my bike i can park beside a Gixxer 600 ridden by a power ranger, an old classic, a 1098 or a Harley ridden by a 1%er without getting funny looks - the only ones who are standoffish are the HOG brigade with all the regalia and the 2010 bikes. I also like the fact that I regularly have old boys coming up and telling me about the Speed Twin or BSA Gold Star they loved (and old girls telling me about going courting on a triumph).

I like the fact that my bike is a bit different - there are a gazillian v twin cruisers, insanely fast ILFs and even naked bikes; but mine is different. I like the fact that mine looks like something from the 60s, has great brakes, doesn't disgrace itself through the windies and is bulletproof reliable.

I also like the fact that for some reason triumphs seem to lend themselves to owner personalisation, and I know quite a few that are way off stock - and not just catalogue customs either.

There are faster/more reliable/better handling/louder/more expensive/cheaper/better braking and even better bikes out there, but that doesn't stop me loving my bike with a passion, and being sufficiently loyal to the brand that the only other brand I'd consider would be Moto Guzzi, but only for a 1000S.

Bloody good post I reckon, reasoned and passionate. The last passage in particular describes Perfectly how I feel about my Beemer, the difference between us though is that I would consider any make in the search for biking nirvana.

Nothing is not worth a look, though I confess I have my favourite brands, they will of course be looked at first then on down the list. Until this thread I have to admit that Triumph was down there in the also rans for me but clearly I'm missing something and they have moved up into the 'worthy of consideration' bracket.

[Swoop]

that is until someone pulls one of these on you
232132
Bishnu Shrestha (http://xnepali.com/a-gurkha-soldier-who-fought-40-train-robbers-to-be-felicitated-in-the-republic-day-of-india/)certainly knows how to use his.

[shrub]

Bloody good post I reckon, reasoned and passionate. The last passage in particular describes Perfectly how I feel about my Beemer, the difference between us though is that I would consider any make in the search for biking nirvana.

Nothing is not worth a look, though I confess I have my favourite brands, they will of course be looked at first then on down the list. Until this thread I have to admit that Triumph was down there in the also rans for me but clearly I'm missing something and they have moved up into the 'worthy of consideration' bracket.

Go and take a Triumph for a spin. I think you'll find they move up your list.

And a BMW boxer is another bike I'd consider as an alternative, probably an R1150GS because they are designed solely for riding a long way, and I like doing that.:niceone: