Triumph Thunderbird

[neatbik]

Anyone ridden one of these or had any experiance with them?
Cheers

[McJamweasel]

I've ridden a couple, sold a couple, polished a couple, MOT'd a few.

What do you need to know?
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[neatbik]

Whatever you can tell me really mate
Im considering one as my next bike, i like the looks and im thinking it might be fairly comfy.
Just need to know if they are reliable, how they handle, any probs to look out for

[McJamweasel]

Generally pretty reliable, they use the old Triumph 885 triple motor so are pretty over-engineered. I don't like the engine, it's a bit too agricultural for me but owners love 'em. Batteries need to be kept well charged, they do take a lot of turning over and trying to start one with a low battery can kill the sprag clutch. Air filter replacement means changing the whole airbox (only around £45 though so not horrendous), they are a sealed unit. That is unless you go for a K&N then you need to split the airbox. Service intervals are 6,000/12,000 minor/major. A minor is oil, filter & plugs, a major is everthing. Valve clearances are shim over bucket.

They're not the fastest machine, they have more of a torque line than a torque curve. Handling is OK, but they are pretty heavy and more of a cruiser in disguise than a roadster. The Sport version is quicker and handles better, but they are pretty rare and hold their money well.

Comfort is pretty good, especially if you can get one with the accessory King & Queen seat. If you can get one with a sissy bar on take it off and ebay it, they are like gold dust now.

How's that for starters?
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BCF: Be yourself, just don't be an arse.

[neatbik]

Cheers buddy
Just realised the one im looking at a sport, its an x reg, in white with 14000 miles, in mint condition. What do you think is a resonable price for it, considering its from a Triumph dealer.
How much better is the sport model? Basically im looking for a comfy bike i can pootle about on, i dont ride really fast so im looking for something that i wont have to rev and rev.

[Kickstart]

Hi

Charlotte has one and I have ridden it. She likes it, and hopefully she will write her comments on it.

Personally I am not that keen. The power delivery is just flat. Nothing happens. Hers is a very late one with a 6 speed gearbox, but loads of times I have found myself sitting in 3rd. Seems to make no great difference how hard it is being revved. Best way I can describe it is that it reacts to the throttle rather than the revs. Handling is OK. Brakes are adequate (although they can stick easily, they are also easy to free off). Changing the air filter is a total pain.

All the best

Keith
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[Mrs Kickstart]

Hi

I like mine, its low and stable so although it is very heavy you dont really notice.

Not so keen on the chrome and did not think I would like it but after a test ride which was more taken as joke than serious intention to buy, I bought it.

Its very comfortable and fast enough, but not a really quick.
I like the fact it its not really revvy and just pulls.

Mine had a problem with the ignition which was expensive but apparently uncommon.

I know where there is excellent condition 5000 mile S reg one for sale for arround 2200 (comes with kit if you need) and full service history.

Regards
Charlotte
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[McJamweasel]