01:44 - Lubrification?? Yes, I know the word is 'lubrication' in English. I guess I'm already slipping into French mode, because it's 'lubrification' en français :)
As a Portuguese, I must say that the Algarve is good for vacations or during summer. All year around not much is going on. Totally get you. Go for it and good luck. Althouh I would've loved to meet you in person in Algrarve since I'm living here too, before you leave!
The right touch with ambitious details that made your speed twin much better looking without having the feeling that any parts were upgraded. That’s a difficult task to achieve but under my taste it’s a great achievement so yes keep it like that it’s unique enough. Belle bécane
Well, look what you made me do! This friday I traded in my dreadnought, Yamaha XV 1900 StratoLiner, for a brand new Speed Twin! And what a bike it is! All of a sudden it is fun to ride again! I have really enjoyed your videos, and they actually played a big role in my decision to switch bikes. And the fact that I was getting bored with that big old lump! A big thank you, and greetings from Sweden!
You read my mind on the carbon fiber, mate! That said, the bike looks awesome and I hope you continue to enjoy it. Congrats and good luck on your move! Looking forward to seeing what Lille has to offer… cheers!!
Love the mods, especially the black bolts. I remember back into the 70's, the yamaha 2 strokes used to have posidrive bolts. The only way to get them out was with a hammer type impact screwdriver, otherwise they would round off. I always replaced them with alan key headed bolts. Good luck with the move. After our current heatwave I can imagine biking is pretty sweaty in the Portuguese summer.
Thanks, Chris. The black bolts were a no-brainer for me, but one viewer has commented that he preferred the silver ones! The heat has been tough this summer, but it's starting to cool off a little now, so I'll be able to enjoy the roads here a few more weeks before heading back north. Ride safe :)
I’ve just bought one of these. It’s fully standard at the moment (save a tail tidy) and I think it looks absolutely awesome. That said, yours does look better! Great job on some tasteful customisation. 👍🏻
Owning three bikes myself I think you’ve done a nice job. I’ve added personal touches to my bikes regardless of what other people think it’s what I like not what they like.
I want to thank you for your reviews, based on them I bought the 22 speed twin 4 months ago as my first bike, I know you never recommended it as a good first bike and I was taking a risk. But so far I love it so much and it was your review that pushed me over the edge to buy one. I ride it everyday. I just switched to michelin road 6's tires and they are a spectacular tire, better for florida where it can downpour at any second while still having amazing grip and longevity.
Well, all I can say is that I feel humbled. I’m delighted (though not surprised…) that you’re happy with your Speed Twin. It is without a doubt the best bike I’ve ever owned, and I will definitely be putting some Road 6s on when the time comes. Thanks for taking the time to leave your comment and ride safe😊
All the best for the future. I’ve only stopped in Lille for work many years ago and saw the industrial side of town. For a moment I thought you may be returning to Lille for job opportunities. Keep up the good work 👍
I do like the replacement black hex bolts on the engine , might treat my scram to a set ..good luck on your move and wish you all the best going forward ..
I think the old Twin looks great better then new but who cares what we think if it gives you a big smile when you go to the garage thats what really counts. Ride safe Rocketman.
Many are of the same opinion as you, but I actually waited for the new model, because I found the original generation, with its conventional forks, just looked too old. Each to their own :)
@@RocketMan_Moto No worries RocketMan anyway just to let you know as you know I've been on about a Rs version of your bike & we are still waiting soo I was seriously interested in the kawasaki Z900 rs se that sold out almost straight away this year? 🥺 Well I've just found out that they are releasing a batch for next year soo I phoned my local dealer to see what the crack was & yes they are releasing another lot soo I've put a deposit on one for next march tho but who cares I've got one ordered!!! 😃👌🏻👍🏻
Oh wow, that's fantastic. I'm assuming that - like me - you saw TMF's video yesterday on the Z900RS. It had me looking up the Lille dealer's phone number and contemplating ordering one as compensation for having to suffer the Lille winter. I might give them a call tomorrow :)
@@RocketMan_Moto Yep absolutely correct I watched the TMF Review but it just confirmed that I had done the right thing as I put my deposit on, On Friday & I'm soo sick of waiting for an RS Speed Twin + I absolutely love everything about the SE it had to be done RocketMan!! 😃👌🏻👍🏻
Hello friend, the bike has been beautiful with details chosen in a sublime way, delicacy and taste... all the changes made up to the golden transmission chain are a success... wow! I'll probably buy this bike...or the Truxton...I'll see...greetings
Didn’t know that you were in Algarve for a short period of time. I hope that you enjoyed to be with us. I also wish you a good trip back to France. From my point of view all that you have done to your speed twin were modifications that resulted in fair and clear improvements 👌
Appreciate your honesty as always. Too many folk swear Triumphs are perfect in every way. For me, they’re low down the list for resistance to corrosion. The headers on Tigers, just like the Yam tracers, are fully rusted within 24 months.
Bonne chance!! I was anticipating a move from yourself and Mrs RM to Southern France. But I guess you have a lot of roots back in Lille. Still nice to hear you are continuing with the RM Chanel! SW France
Hi RM, a very stylish and imho improved look to your ST. Thoroughly enjoy your channel and its good news about your move back to France with more bikes for you to enjoy and share your thoughts on. Safe journey, atb, Alan.
Bon Chance Rocketman. Really looking forward to watching your videos in the months ahead. Very best wishes in your endeavours. Oh and I really love what you’ve done to your bike…😊
The bike looks great, my first thought when you mentioned moving north I wondering if you'd be heading to a wetter & cooler climate and would need a windscreen, anyhow congratulations on your decision to move closer to family. We made similar move 4 years ago moving from Kelowna BC Canada which in the summer resembles Portugal in the summer to Victoria BC which is damp and cold for most for of the year. (still haven't got use to the dampness) . Anyhow good look with the move, always exciting to open a new chapter! Cheers Dan
Rear shock upgrade makes sense if you found the adequate stock suspension feeling mushy when pushing on. The small cover on the right hand side is an inspection cover. The rest is your choice. Hopefully future models come with a larger tank, fully adjustable front and rear suspension and a simple cruise control for boring motorway routes. Plus heated grips as standard.
Your bike is beautiful! I think if it were mine, I would’ve painted the front and rear fenders with the tank/side covers but that’s my personal preference. Love it though.
Bikes been well thought out very nice.! I have a fully sorted Thruxton R think I’ve spend more on the custom work than I actually paid for the machine its becomes an addiction I’d suggest painting the headlight brackets on your bike in black & replace the rear sprocket with a more trick looking item to match the drive chain good luck with you next adventure…!!!
Hello RocketMan - love your reviews! Question for you, the oil reservoir you installed, can you provide the SKU or P/N as well as did you have to do anything with the bracket? How did you install?
Oil reservoir? Do you mean the brake fluid reservoir on the handlebars? It’s an original Triumph accessory. The dealer fitted it on delivery as part of the deal.
Like your videos :) I'm wondering if the Denali mini soundbomb got mounted? I'd like to get one for my own bike but from what I read it won't fit the Speed Twin.
The Sound Bomb did just about fit, but it was pretty close to hot parts of the engine & exhaust and didn’t look right, so I changed it for this horn from Hella. It’s a slightly larger version of the stock horn, and while it’s not as beefy as the SB, it’s less pathetic than stock www.amazon.es/HELLA-3AL-922-000-951-Bocina/dp/B00H8QOLNG
Hi Rocketman - well done ! Personally i'm more into green (especially british racing green :) but otherwise very nice ! I wonder are you happy with the Öhlins ? Did they improve the handling substantially ? I also love the clocks - can you see the warning lights on these or are they obscured ?
The Öhlins are extremely expensive, but offer a magical compromise between comfort and handling. You might like this video I did on them: th-cam.com/video/_1TQh2_hA94/w-d-xo.html As for the dials, yes they do look nice, but the lights are very difficult to see in the sun.
thanks for the link to the video, that really answers all my questions :-) I will probably go for the Wilbers on my Speedy, I had them before on the old TR Scrambler 900 and they worked wonders on that bike. As to the clocks, i'm not a fan of the stock ones (they'd be nice on a watch, but not on a bike !), i like the simplicity and readability of the Arton Works ones and will give them a go ! Ah, all those mods coming up ... next one will be the paint job and a new saddle from Crafton ateliers :-) @@RocketMan_Moto
hi rocketman loved your video on the transformation of your speed twin i am doing my 2021 hopper red up during the uk cold winter months just purchased a few goodies from MOTONE very impressed by the Quality .can you tell me where you purchased the carbon fibre covers for the carbs
Thanks, glad you like the end result. Motone is expensive, but very good quality. I bought my CF bits in the UK from rsrmoto.com but I just had a quick look at their website, so I could give you the link to the right page, and it would seem that they no longer offer CF parts. Sorry :(
Thanks, Hendrik. I know Courtrai too, in fact I would quite like to live in Belgium. Your houses are nicer than in northern France, and the roads are great. Maybe see you around? :)
I am really liking the upgrades and especially the new colour. I am curious about your views on the Thruxton, as the changes you are making are heading in that direction. I currently have a Street Scrambler and am looking to go to the next level. I had a loan Speed Twin 1200 for a month and was absolutely smitten.
Yep, I thought that would be something to consider. I will have to try one out before making a decision. Too many options really, I'm kinda thinking one bike might not be enough......Thanks for your reviews, really interesting and informative!
Hello, i remember that you have taken for test drive the Yamaha tracer 900, i am thinking buying a MT09SP for my collection which has the same engine with Tracer but i am wonder how this CP3 Yamaha's engine compare to Speed Twin 1200
Hi Mr Rocket Man can you tell me how the YSS suspension improves the handling and ride quality e. g. does the suspension make the ride more plush or does it make the ride harder and more bumpy. As I am only light weight 65 k kilos I wondered if it would make much difference to my 2020 model speed twin.The stock suspension is o k but it does tend to bounce me out of the saddle now and again. Can you please give me an opinion as to weather to change them or to leave the originals on Many Thanks Matt
The YSS shocks are much, much better than stock and definitely worth the cost. They are ‘tighter’ but also more comfortable👍 See my video on shocks here: REAR SHOCKS - Factory vs Mid-range vs Premium: is Ohlins suspension worth the extra? th-cam.com/video/_1TQh2_hA94/w-d-xo.html
Hi! RM. The bike looks really nice . You have an excellent eye for detail. The one thing that gets my OCD going, is the space between the back tyre and the mudguard. I think it needs a hugger or something to fill the jacked up look. regards . Aiden
Well, quite a change. Good luck with the move. Lille is not far away from Bruxelles....maybe a ride together one day? Even though, that part of France in winter is not inspiring for rides... Cheers, V.
It is on the small side, but honestly it doesn't bother me. I don't ride huge distances on the Speed - I've ordered a Honda Transalp for that - so its size isn't an issue. I found the new Honda Hornet more cramped, for example.
Thanks, Guy. Although I don’t like the discolouration, I’m not a fan of wrapping pipes: something a bit too first world war about the look. That plus the fact it traps any humidity and rots the pipes😬
Nice to see finished article 👍, good luck with move, hope you don't get too frustrated by those pesky 80kmh limits. Drove me mad this Yr on hols over in loire/dordogne. Love France though.
Thats great Mr. & Mrs Rocketman :) wishes of a great journey . Like i told you in the past, i keep my Triumph mostly stock with a couple small changes Love Her :) I really enjoy wacthing ur channel for information, news and opinions please do keep it up, and yes i do like ur Speedtwin and the changes she went trough. Meanwhile im here, let me ask you about the seat on the Speedtwin, i find it ok confortable but feel that could be better, specially a longer trip. Do you have any advice ? Do u know where to get a more confortable seat, that ofcourse wont clash or destroy the essence of the S>peedtwin ? Thank you so much, and u in Algarve or Lille i will keep following you.
Obrigado, Nuno. I personally don't find the seat uncomfortable, but I know some owners do. I believe the best 'invisible' fix is to get an upholsterer to insert some kind of gel padding, so that you improve the feel while still retaining the original look of the bike :)
Interesting vid, rocket. I am not a fan of carbon look nor plain black tank, but if u like it, that's all that matters. We r all entitled to waste our $ any way we like. Not a big triump fan, but I do have to admit, the stock color is a bit awesome. Anyway, ride safe, god bless u both.
Mate looks great.. I'm currently tossing up between the Speed Twin and T120 as my next bike when I'm able to upgrade in about 9 months due to License restrictions :( in Oz
Thanks, Daryl. I have ridden the T120, which at least here in Portugal is exactly the same price as the Speed Twin, and I much prefer the sportier ST. Each to their own, of course, but I would soon get bored of the T120...
[Sorry I’m very late to the party with this comment] Loving that BMW blue - it’s very subtle and looks stunning in the sunlight. The Triumph logo looks like a domed/gel affair as opposed to the original flat decal. Is this a genuine Triumph replacement part or did you find an after market supplier? Good luck with the move to France!
Thanks. The Triumph logo is OE Triumph from my dealer. It’s probably the thick coating of lacquer that makes it look like gel. We decided to stay in the Algarve after all😊
The climate really - I can use it all year round here, but poor winter weather up north will mean the car will (unfortunately) be my vehicle of choice :(
Although your decision is taken, I hope you have considered Périgord as an option before settling in to Lille: warm weather and direct flights from Bergerac to both UK and Portugal... Not to mention the excellent local wines enjoyed by the British community. And quite some bikers, of course 😉
Carbon is fine. It looks good on this bike. It’s more of a ‘tektro’ than a ‘retro’ anyway. How can people claim the carbon doesn’t belong as it’s not period correct when it has usd forks! I think you’ve done a great job; classy, restrained but clearly modified. Well done. Good luck with the move. I’m in the Dordogne. It’s getting a bit hot. See you nearer the north in a few years…
Thanks, Steve. I totally agree re. the carbon. Even the factory Speed Twin is a bit of a 'resto mod' to begin with, so adding a dash of bling is pretty harmless. Maybe see you on the roads some time :)
Overall I think the changes have been very good. That said I’d always prefer British racing green or red over black any day. Black shows up dust and scratches too easily. It is your motorcycle so you’re entitled to make any changes you want,regardless of what anyone else thinks. Life in northern France will no doubt be more central but a lot more expensive than Portugal non?
You already know I love your bike and its not important what we think its your personalised bike and its your opinion that counts! (But it looks good.) An unrelated question, did you attend any WorldSBK or MotoGP races at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve during your stay?
Paint job way better. Wasn’t a fan of the matte gray with yellow. How is the suspension upgrade yss? I may trade in my t100 purchased in april 2022 for the 22 red speed twin. Love the red. Your other mods look spot on. The carbon fiber on point. Test rode the other day and the stock pipes sound great so no need to switch out. Urbane pro gloves? They are excellent.
Thanks. The YSS were good, but there's nothing so plush as Swedish gold. I have ridden the T100 - a very nice bike, but the ST is just so much beefier. Yes, Urbane Pro gloves :)
@@RocketMan_Moto yeah. I love the t100. But when I made the mistake of test riding the 22 speed twin I got sucker punched. The perfect sweet spot of retro with sport performance. Exactly my style.
@@RocketMan_Moto exactly. Will be a harder decision as I’ve put my heart and $ money into some mods. Triumph bar end mirrors. Triumph bench seat. Fox shocks(just put on) which are excellent. Luckily I didn’t order the zard pea shooter slip ons yet. I’ll see if it is worth it. Downside I have nearly 8,000 miles on her since buying in April. 😎
Thanks, Paul. I see you have decided to close your channel? Pity, but I understand the pressures. My strategy is to see TH-cam as a hobby that provides a little pocket money. Nothing else. If you let it get to you, it can become overwhelming. Good luck in your future endeavours👍
@@RocketMan_Moto Thanks RM! Just having an indefinite break, have a couple of videos to get out first (Royal Enfield test rides). I think just having the channel as a hobby is the way to go, it's too hard to try and make a living out of it now unless you get extraordinarily lucky and your channel takes off. I think I'll probably end up doing the same, just upload when the mood takes me. I'm looking forward to your next chapter! Having ready access to bikes to test ride will be brilliant.
Hi great different view here! Forgive my ignorance but how does one get a job abroad for around 35 years and still be able to afford all your Bikes and grown up toys? Wish I had had the opportunity to have done it too, have a great Day !!!
@@RocketMan_Moto yes i made my fortune too’ 55years of wheeling a pick and a shovel’ i certainly chose the wrong profession ! But i do envy your choice of a taste of France and liberty 😜
Good luck with the move back to France, I keep getting pestered to move to France, but like your wife I don’t speak French, I’d be interested to hear a Brit bikers view of living in France and how easy or hard it is to fit in
Haha, I lived in Lille for 35 years, so I'm pretty well versed in fitting in there. It's not all good, of course, but the food's nice (better than Portugal) and it's close to the UK :)
If u wanted it black, instead of spending 800 why not just buy a pre face-lift that came in gloss black with gloss black side panels? It looks nice btw not knocking you as the black suits that bike, just curious as to why u took that route. Was it purely because u wanted the face-lift version?
Good question. I did wait for the face-lift model, because I wanted the better forks & brakes. I originally ordered the gloss black, but waiting times were 'indefinite', so I was pretty much forced to go with the next best option - boring matte grey :)
Good luck 🤞 in France 🇫🇷 Regarding your speed twin, I really want one, but I’ve spent too much on the bikes I already have Your mods are excellent and a big improvement on the factory look, so we’ll done 😄
The Algarve looks so awesome. Sometimes I watch just for the environment cuts. Your bike content is good but the location sets you apart. At least for me.
Great job, looks the business, personally don't like the piggyback shocks my pref would be YSS or something similar. Enjoy France, but surely riding a Triumph should be enjoyed on damp, drizzly UK roads!!!
I like your mods. I agree that stock bike is handsome but to me it's incredibly boring. You've managed to bring some shine and character back to it while keep it tastefull. Good tip regarding the bolts and I really like the subtle use of carbon.
![Triumph SPEED TWIN 1200 1-month OWNER'S REVIEW [Spoiler: it’s AWESOME!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FKExwTcsuSo/mqdefault.jpg)
![Triumph SPEED 400 vs 900 vs 1200 [QuickTest#36]](/img/n.gif)
01:44 - Lubrification?? Yes, I know the word is 'lubrication' in English. I guess I'm already slipping into French mode, because it's 'lubrification' en français :)
You´re starting to speak some portuguese :)
Thanks , great channel and enjoy your new adventure in France.
Very understated. Perfect.
Knowing when to stop is the hardest part.
Bon chance en France!
Thank you :)
I love the look, accomplished through good taste and restraint. It looks like a well done factory bike as opposed to a modified one.
That was exactly the look I was going for: factory plus. Thanks :)
As a Portuguese, I must say that the Algarve is good for vacations or during summer. All year around not much is going on. Totally get you. Go for it and good luck. Althouh I would've loved to meet you in person in Algrarve since I'm living here too, before you leave!
Thanks, Tiago. Maybe I should organise a meet with my Algarve viewers before we go?
@@RocketMan_Moto Im in. It's been a while since I wanted to meet you in person to be honest. Do that that's always anice adittion to any channel.
I'll have a think :)
The right touch with ambitious details that made your speed twin much better looking without having the feeling that any parts were upgraded. That’s a difficult task to achieve but under my taste it’s a great achievement so yes keep it like that it’s unique enough. Belle bécane
Merci pour vos encouragements😊
Well, look what you made me do! This friday I traded in my dreadnought, Yamaha XV 1900 StratoLiner, for a brand new Speed Twin! And what a bike it is! All of a sudden it is fun to ride again!
I have really enjoyed your videos, and they actually played a big role in my decision to switch bikes. And the fact that I was getting bored with that big old lump!
A big thank you, and greetings from Sweden!
Brilliant! A humbling, but lovely comment to read. Thanks! I have no doubt you will enjoy the fabulous Speed Twin. Best bike I’ve ever owned👍😊
You read my mind on the carbon fiber, mate! That said, the bike looks awesome and I hope you continue to enjoy it. Congrats and good luck on your move! Looking forward to seeing what Lille has to offer… cheers!!
Thanks :)
The black bolts look awesome, great finish to all the careful improvements you have done. Have a great trip back to France
Thanks, Armando :)
Love the mods, especially the black bolts. I remember back into the 70's, the yamaha 2 strokes used to have posidrive bolts. The only way to get them out was with a hammer type impact screwdriver, otherwise they would round off. I always replaced them with alan key headed bolts. Good luck with the move. After our current heatwave I can imagine biking is pretty sweaty in the Portuguese summer.
Thanks, Chris. The black bolts were a no-brainer for me, but one viewer has commented that he preferred the silver ones! The heat has been tough this summer, but it's starting to cool off a little now, so I'll be able to enjoy the roads here a few more weeks before heading back north. Ride safe :)
Good luck with the move. And hats off to Mrs. RocketMan for learning French!
Thanks, I'll tell her :)
Your Speed Twin has turned out to be exactly yours. Personally, I like what you have done with the Triumph. Best of luck on your migration north.
Thank you, Stephanie :)
Good luck on the next chapter !
Can't wait to see your new, broader brands reviews. Cheers!
Thank you :)
I’ve just bought one of these. It’s fully standard at the moment (save a tail tidy) and I think it looks absolutely awesome. That said, yours does look better! Great job on some tasteful customisation. 👍🏻
Thanks! Enjoy yours. Best bike I've ever owned, so I'm not worried you won't :)
Owning three bikes myself I think you’ve done a nice job. I’ve added personal touches to my bikes regardless of what other people think it’s what I like not what they like.
Thanks😊
Bon voyage! Looking forward to seeing how the channel grows. Love the speed twin too - great job. 👌🏼
Thanks, Matt :)
I want to thank you for your reviews, based on them I bought the 22 speed twin 4 months ago as my first bike, I know you never recommended it as a good first bike and I was taking a risk. But so far I love it so much and it was your review that pushed me over the edge to buy one. I ride it everyday. I just switched to michelin road 6's tires and they are a spectacular tire, better for florida where it can downpour at any second while still having amazing grip and longevity.
Well, all I can say is that I feel humbled. I’m delighted (though not surprised…) that you’re happy with your Speed Twin. It is without a doubt the best bike I’ve ever owned, and I will definitely be putting some Road 6s on when the time comes. Thanks for taking the time to leave your comment and ride safe😊
All the best for the future. I’ve only stopped in Lille for work many years ago and saw the industrial side of town. For a moment I thought you may be returning to Lille for job opportunities. Keep up the good work 👍
Thanks, Paul😊
Well done, the bike looks very tasteful. If you are happy with the mods that’s all that really matters. Safe travels moving back to France!
Thanks, Kevin. This video was actually from a couple of years ago. I’ve now sold the Speed Twin and we’re still in Portugal😉
@ lol, I never look at the dates. I get that response quite a bit. I will have to look up some recent vids so I’m in the loop, cheers
Looks so much better with the mods - Triumph should sell it like yours standard for the £11k asking price.
Thanks, Ryan. An ‘improved factory’ look was exactly what I was going for👍😊
I do like the replacement black hex bolts on the engine , might treat my scram to a set ..good luck on your move and wish you all the best going forward ..
Thank you, Gerry😊👍
I think the old Twin looks great better then new but who cares what we think if it gives you a big smile when you go to the garage thats what really counts. Ride safe Rocketman.
Many are of the same opinion as you, but I actually waited for the new model, because I found the original generation, with its conventional forks, just looked too old. Each to their own :)
Wow what a complete change for you with the moving RocketMan good luck with that & all the best!! 🤞🏻👍🏻
Thank you, Dave :)
@@RocketMan_Moto No worries RocketMan anyway just to let you know as you know I've been on about a Rs version of your bike & we are still waiting soo I was seriously interested in the kawasaki Z900 rs se that sold out almost straight away this year? 🥺 Well I've just found out that they are releasing a batch for next year soo I phoned my local dealer to see what the crack was & yes they are releasing another lot soo I've put a deposit on one for next march tho but who cares I've got one ordered!!! 😃👌🏻👍🏻
Oh wow, that's fantastic. I'm assuming that - like me - you saw TMF's video yesterday on the Z900RS. It had me looking up the Lille dealer's phone number and contemplating ordering one as compensation for having to suffer the Lille winter. I might give them a call tomorrow :)
@@RocketMan_Moto Yep absolutely correct I watched the TMF Review but it just confirmed that I had done the right thing as I put my deposit on, On Friday & I'm soo sick of waiting for an RS Speed Twin + I absolutely love everything about the SE it had to be done RocketMan!! 😃👌🏻👍🏻
Good looking bike, no doubt. Smooth move and I wish you (to both of you) all the best in your future plans.
Thanks, Nik😊
Hello friend, the bike has been beautiful with details chosen in a sublime way, delicacy and taste... all the changes made up to the golden transmission chain are a success... wow! I'll probably buy this bike...or the Truxton...I'll see...greetings
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement, Jose. The Speed Twin was always a great bike to ride, now it’s also a beautiful machine to look at😊
Can't wait to see the new adventures of Mr and Mrs RocketMan 🤩
Monsieur et Madame Fusée, s'il vous plaît :)
Your Twin looks just perfect now. Good luck in Lille!
Thank you, Goran :)
Didn’t know that you were in Algarve for a short period of time.
I hope that you enjoyed to be with us.
I also wish you a good trip back to France.
From my point of view all that you have done to your speed twin were modifications that resulted in fair and clear improvements 👌
Obrigado. Portugal has been a blast😊
I like this look you've put together a lot! Nice work.
Thank you😊👍
Appreciate your honesty as always. Too many folk swear Triumphs are perfect in every way. For me, they’re low down the list for resistance to corrosion. The headers on Tigers, just like the Yam tracers, are fully rusted within 24 months.
Thanks. I guess no bike/car is defect-free😉
Bonne chance!!
I was anticipating a move from yourself and Mrs RM to Southern France. But I guess you have a lot of roots back in Lille. Still nice to hear you are continuing with the RM Chanel!
SW France
Thank you. The south would have been nice, but all our friends & family are in the north & the UK :)
Hi RM, a very stylish and imho improved look to your ST. Thoroughly enjoy your channel and its good news about your move back to France with more bikes for you to enjoy and share your thoughts on. Safe journey, atb, Alan.
Thank you, Alan :)
Good luck with the move, and here's wishing you the best for the future, whatever that may hold.
Ride safe.
Steve
Thank you, Steve :)
@@RocketMan_Moto Was it something I said…we are coming to The Algarve for 10 days in October 🤣🤣🤣
I think it looks classier than stock 😍
That's a great compliment - thank you, Steve :)
Bon Chance Rocketman. Really looking forward to watching your videos in the months ahead. Very best wishes in your endeavours. Oh and I really love what you’ve done to your bike…😊
Thank you, Nigel :)
Far better than stock. All the best in your 'new adventure'.
Thank you :)
The bike looks great, my first thought when you mentioned moving north I wondering if you'd be heading to a wetter & cooler climate and would need a windscreen, anyhow congratulations on your decision to move closer to family. We made similar move 4 years ago moving from Kelowna BC Canada which in the summer resembles Portugal in the summer to Victoria BC which is damp and cold for most for of the year. (still haven't got use to the dampness) . Anyhow good look with the move, always exciting to open a new chapter! Cheers Dan
Thank you, Dan. I don't think I could ever spoil the lines of the Speed Twin with a windscreen. If it's that cold and wet, I'll just take the car :)
Nice idea about the black engine bolts, just replaced mine now and looks so much better 👍🏻
You’re welcome👍😊
Rear shock upgrade makes sense if you found the adequate stock suspension feeling mushy when pushing on.
The small cover on the right hand side is an inspection cover.
The rest is your choice.
Hopefully future models come with a larger tank, fully adjustable front and rear suspension and a simple cruise control for boring motorway routes. Plus heated grips as standard.
I don't really need heated grips, but another 20hp would be nice :)
Your bike is beautiful! I think if it were mine, I would’ve painted the front and rear fenders with the tank/side covers but that’s my personal preference. Love it though.
Thanks. Now sold, unfortunately😟
I think the bike looks awesome, you've done a fantastic job 👏
Thank you very much, Del :)
Bikes been well thought out very nice.!
I have a fully sorted Thruxton R think I’ve spend more on the custom work than I actually paid for the machine its becomes an addiction I’d suggest painting the headlight brackets on your bike in black & replace the rear sprocket with a more trick looking item to match the drive chain good luck with you next adventure…!!!
Thank you. I know where you're coming from. I did think of a black rear sprocket, but as you say the hardest thing is maybe knowing when to stop...
Congrats on the move, it should be great for the channel. All the best.
Thanks. Hope so🤞😊
Hello RocketMan - love your reviews! Question for you, the oil reservoir you installed, can you provide the SKU or P/N as well as did you have to do anything with the bracket? How did you install?
Oil reservoir? Do you mean the brake fluid reservoir on the handlebars? It’s an original Triumph accessory. The dealer fitted it on delivery as part of the deal.
The Speed is looking sweet 👌 Big news! Have a nice voyage. Hope I can still manage to go for a ride with you.
Thanks. Should be able to arrange something before we go😊
Like your videos :) I'm wondering if the Denali mini soundbomb got mounted? I'd like to get one for my own bike but from what I read it won't fit the Speed Twin.
The Sound Bomb did just about fit, but it was pretty close to hot parts of the engine & exhaust and didn’t look right, so I changed it for this horn from Hella. It’s a slightly larger version of the stock horn, and while it’s not as beefy as the SB, it’s less pathetic than stock
www.amazon.es/HELLA-3AL-922-000-951-Bocina/dp/B00H8QOLNG
Hi, love the channel and very jealous of your home in the sun with motorbikes! Do you have a link to the black bolts?
Yep, see the description👍😊
Hi Rocketman - well done ! Personally i'm more into green (especially british racing green :) but otherwise very nice ! I wonder are you happy with the Öhlins ? Did they improve the handling substantially ? I also love the clocks - can you see the warning lights on these or are they obscured ?
The Öhlins are extremely expensive, but offer a magical compromise between comfort and handling. You might like this video I did on them: th-cam.com/video/_1TQh2_hA94/w-d-xo.html
As for the dials, yes they do look nice, but the lights are very difficult to see in the sun.
thanks for the link to the video, that really answers all my questions :-) I will probably go for the Wilbers on my Speedy, I had them before on the old TR Scrambler 900 and they worked wonders on that bike. As to the clocks, i'm not a fan of the stock ones (they'd be nice on a watch, but not on a bike !), i like the simplicity and readability of the Arton Works ones and will give them a go ! Ah, all those mods coming up ... next one will be the paint job and a new saddle from Crafton ateliers :-) @@RocketMan_Moto
I agree re. watch dials. Arton’s are much nicer and surprisingly easy to fit. Just take your time👍😊
Bike looks really good 👍
Safe travels during your migration!
Thank you :)
I love it! Carbon fiber is OK, but all in all it's fabulous
Thanks. I actually sold my Speed Twin 3 months ago 😊
It looks better. Hope you keep it. I am tired of Portugal, too. I'm not sure I'd fancy Lille's weather in winter, though.
Tbh, last winter here in the Algarve was pretty miserable, too.
@@RocketMan_Moto I was in Thailand, but I agree. It gets very damp at night in Lagos. I'll look forward to videos showing Lille.
😊
hi rocketman loved your video on the transformation of your speed twin i am doing my 2021 hopper red up during the uk cold winter months just purchased a few goodies from MOTONE very impressed by the Quality .can you tell me where you purchased the carbon fibre covers for the carbs
Thanks, glad you like the end result. Motone is expensive, but very good quality. I bought my CF bits in the UK from rsrmoto.com but I just had a quick look at their website, so I could give you the link to the right page, and it would seem that they no longer offer CF parts. Sorry :(
many thanks rocketman i found some on a uk site ride safe @@RocketMan_Moto
Nice! As a Belgian not living far from Courtrai (Kortrijk), I know Lille pretty well. Pretty good riding roads in le Nord Pas de Calais as well.
Thanks, Hendrik. I know Courtrai too, in fact I would quite like to live in Belgium. Your houses are nicer than in northern France, and the roads are great. Maybe see you around? :)
I am really liking the upgrades and especially the new colour. I am curious about your views on the Thruxton, as the changes you are making are heading in that direction. I currently have a Street Scrambler and am looking to go to the next level. I had a loan Speed Twin 1200 for a month and was absolutely smitten.
You’re right, but the problem I have with the Thruxton is the riding position with those clip-ons
Yep, I thought that would be something to consider. I will have to try one out before making a decision. Too many options really, I'm kinda thinking one bike might not be enough......Thanks for your reviews, really interesting and informative!
Thanks, Graham. Let us know which model you go for👍
Hello, i remember that you have taken for test drive the Yamaha tracer 900, i am thinking buying a MT09SP for my collection which has the same engine with Tracer but i am wonder how this CP3 Yamaha's engine compare to Speed Twin 1200
It’s more revvy, more sporty, but it doesn’t have the low down torque of the ST
Understand that but is it exciting or i have to go for Speed triple 1200 rs, you see i need a 3 cylinder bike for my collection :)
Hi Mr Rocket Man can you tell me how the YSS suspension improves the handling and ride quality e. g. does the suspension make the ride more plush or does it make the ride harder and more bumpy. As I am only light weight 65 k kilos I wondered if it would make much difference to my 2020 model speed twin.The stock suspension is o k but it does tend to bounce me out of the saddle now and again. Can you please give me an opinion as to weather to change them or to leave the originals on Many Thanks Matt
The YSS shocks are much, much better than stock and definitely worth the cost. They are ‘tighter’ but also more comfortable👍 See my video on shocks here: REAR SHOCKS - Factory vs Mid-range vs Premium: is Ohlins suspension worth the extra?
th-cam.com/video/_1TQh2_hA94/w-d-xo.html
Hi! RM. The bike looks really nice . You have an excellent eye for detail. The one thing that gets my OCD going, is the space between the back tyre and the mudguard. I think it needs a hugger or something to fill the jacked up look. regards . Aiden
Thank you. I know what you mean, but I think any attempt to conceal the gap would look odd
Beautiful work!!
Thanks, Teddy :)
In Lille you definitely need the Dart flyscreen, the climate is more rainy and chilly.
Good luck with the move
Cheers
Thanks, but we’re still in the Algarve. Can’t resist the sunshine😊
Did you think about painting the fenders the same as the tank ?
Not really. I tried genuine carbon fibre mudguards but didn’t like the way they looked. I think the bike needs that bit of silver😊
Well, quite a change. Good luck with the move. Lille is not far away from Bruxelles....maybe a ride together one day? Even though, that part of France in winter is not inspiring for rides...
Cheers, V.
Thanks, Valerio. I must confess I am not looking forward to those interminable, dreary winters, but the spring/summer will be along quickly enough :)
The Missenden Flyer has recently done a trip through the North of France, Wallonie and Lux. Lots of pretty villages and roads.
Yes, it’s a pretty region… when the sky is blue😊
I too am interested in the speed twin but at six foot, I'm a little concerned with this bike being a bit small.... what is your take on that subject?
It is on the small side, but honestly it doesn't bother me. I don't ride huge distances on the Speed - I've ordered a Honda Transalp for that - so its size isn't an issue. I found the new Honda Hornet more cramped, for example.
Beautiful bike with thoughtful upgrades! Maybe some Michelin Road 6 tires for the cooler climate?
Good call. I'll definitely be fitting a pair of Road 6s when the time comes to change :)
Very nice bike, maybe black wrap exhaust pipes too, thoughts?
Thanks, Guy. Although I don’t like the discolouration, I’m not a fan of wrapping pipes: something a bit too first world war about the look. That plus the fact it traps any humidity and rots the pipes😬
Nice to see finished article 👍, good luck with move, hope you don't get too frustrated by those pesky 80kmh limits. Drove me mad this Yr on hols over in loire/dordogne. Love France though.
Thanks, Graham. Oh yes, I'm not looking forward to the overbearing French government :(
Looks good, a matt black finish on the tank and the head light would be great further improvement matching the engine covers.
Nice idea👍
I love stock, but I never have issues with making it your own. I really like the Matte paint, but will more than likely cover the yellow strip too.
The yellow stripe went on day one😊
Wow exciting news! Speed twin looks great!
Thanks, Pete :)
Great mods and the bike looks superb. Well done.
Thank you😊👍
@@RocketMan_Moto it is my no1 favourite bike
I think/hope I’ll be keeping it forever, as a testament to the petrol age
Thats great Mr. & Mrs Rocketman :) wishes of a great journey .
Like i told you in the past, i keep my Triumph mostly stock with a couple small changes Love Her :)
I really enjoy wacthing ur channel for information, news and opinions please do keep it up, and yes i do like ur Speedtwin and the changes she went trough.
Meanwhile im here, let me ask you about the seat on the Speedtwin, i find it ok confortable but feel that could be better, specially a longer trip. Do you have any advice ? Do u know where to get a more confortable seat, that ofcourse wont clash or destroy the essence of the S>peedtwin ?
Thank you so much, and u in Algarve or Lille i will keep following you.
Obrigado, Nuno. I personally don't find the seat uncomfortable, but I know some owners do. I believe the best 'invisible' fix is to get an upholsterer to insert some kind of gel padding, so that you improve the feel while still retaining the original look of the bike :)
Interesting vid, rocket. I am not a fan of carbon look nor plain black tank, but if u like it, that's all that matters. We r all entitled to waste our $ any way we like. Not a big triump fan, but I do have to admit, the stock color is a bit awesome. Anyway, ride safe, god bless u both.
The tank is actually very dark blue😊
@@RocketMan_Moto that's my point exactly, unless it's lord darth Vader, dark is characterless boring black; ask any trained ninja. 🤣🤣🤣
@@RocketMan_Moto oh, by the way, happy return to france; god bless the musketeers.
Ah ok, I'm with you. I originally ordered the bike with the gloss black paint, but the wait was too long, so I swapped for the matt grey
The black bolts do make a large improvement! As for Lille, dust off your umbrellas and all weather tires.
I will definitely be looking at putting some Michelin Road 6s on the Speed Twin
Mate looks great.. I'm currently tossing up between the Speed Twin and T120 as my next bike when I'm able to upgrade in about 9 months due to License restrictions :( in Oz
Thanks, Daryl. I have ridden the T120, which at least here in Portugal is exactly the same price as the Speed Twin, and I much prefer the sportier ST. Each to their own, of course, but I would soon get bored of the T120...
[Sorry I’m very late to the party with this comment] Loving that BMW blue - it’s very subtle and looks stunning in the sunlight. The Triumph logo looks like a domed/gel affair as opposed to the original flat decal. Is this a genuine Triumph replacement part or did you find an after market supplier? Good luck with the move to France!
Thanks. The Triumph logo is OE Triumph from my dealer. It’s probably the thick coating of lacquer that makes it look like gel. We decided to stay in the Algarve after all😊
I didn't get why the adv won't be suitable for France ? Just curious
The climate really - I can use it all year round here, but poor winter weather up north will mean the car will (unfortunately) be my vehicle of choice :(
Yea ...nothing beats a scoot for those days you can't be bothered with shifting gears..not in winter tho...good luck on the move ..cheers
Thanks, Adam😊
Félicitations! Nous avons beaucoup aimé aller à Lille quand on habité à Bruxelles!
Merci😊
Although your decision is taken, I hope you have considered Périgord as an option before settling in to Lille: warm weather and direct flights from Bergerac to both UK and Portugal... Not to mention the excellent local wines enjoyed by the British community. And quite some bikers, of course 😉
C'est vrai que c'est plus joli que le Nord, mais on vise Lille surtout pour retrouver la famille :)
Did you ever sell your YSS shocks, I am interested if not?
I’ve decided to keep them, as they may fit my next bike. But thanks for asking😊
Not problem. Have a safe relocation to Lille.
Thank you :)
Carbon is fine. It looks good on this bike. It’s more of a ‘tektro’ than a ‘retro’ anyway. How can people claim the carbon doesn’t belong as it’s not period correct when it has usd forks! I think you’ve done a great job; classy, restrained but clearly modified. Well done. Good luck with the move. I’m in the Dordogne. It’s getting a bit hot. See you nearer the north in a few years…
Thanks, Steve. I totally agree re. the carbon. Even the factory Speed Twin is a bit of a 'resto mod' to begin with, so adding a dash of bling is pretty harmless. Maybe see you on the roads some time :)
The bike looks great . . .this is how it should have come out of the factory. Good luck with the move.
Thank you :)
Nice job sir might try a few ideas on my 2019 lovely red speed twin,thanks for sharing regards fred
Thanks, Fred. Tweaking is half the fun :)
Overall I think the changes have been very good. That said I’d always prefer British racing green or red over black any day. Black shows up dust and scratches too easily. It is your motorcycle so you’re entitled to make any changes you want,regardless of what anyone else thinks. Life in northern France will no doubt be more central but a lot more expensive than Portugal non?
Thanks, Andrew. Portugal hasn't turned out to be much cheaper than France - everywhere is expensive now :(
You already know I love your bike and its not important what we think its your personalised bike and its your opinion that counts! (But it looks good.) An unrelated question, did you attend any WorldSBK or MotoGP races at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve during your stay?
Thanks :) No, I'm not really into moto (or car) racing, tbh
@@RocketMan_Moto Ah I see, I've heard that the track is quite nice and is a track I'd like to visit!
Quite a few of my biker friends here make regular trips to the Portimao circuit, but I always find an excuse not to go😬
Paint job way better. Wasn’t a fan of the matte gray with yellow. How is the suspension upgrade yss? I may trade in my t100 purchased in april 2022 for the 22 red speed twin. Love the red. Your other mods look spot on. The carbon fiber on point. Test rode the other day and the stock pipes sound great so no need to switch out. Urbane pro gloves? They are excellent.
Thanks. The YSS were good, but there's nothing so plush as Swedish gold. I have ridden the T100 - a very nice bike, but the ST is just so much beefier. Yes, Urbane Pro gloves :)
@@RocketMan_Moto yeah. I love the t100. But when I made the mistake of test riding the 22 speed twin I got sucker punched. The perfect sweet spot of retro with sport performance. Exactly my style.
It's exactly that - nobody NEEDS all the power/torque, but it's just so addictive :)
@@RocketMan_Moto exactly. Will be a harder decision as I’ve put my heart and $ money into some mods. Triumph bar end mirrors. Triumph bench seat. Fox shocks(just put on) which are excellent. Luckily I didn’t order the zard pea shooter slip ons yet. I’ll see if it is worth it. Downside I have nearly 8,000 miles on her since buying in April. 😎
Sounds fabulous😎
Looks bloody lovely to me !
Thanks, Chris😊
I can fully understand that decision Rocketman, hope the move goes well!
Thanks, Paul. I see you have decided to close your channel? Pity, but I understand the pressures. My strategy is to see TH-cam as a hobby that provides a little pocket money. Nothing else. If you let it get to you, it can become overwhelming. Good luck in your future endeavours👍
@@RocketMan_Moto Thanks RM! Just having an indefinite break, have a couple of videos to get out first (Royal Enfield test rides). I think just having the channel as a hobby is the way to go, it's too hard to try and make a living out of it now unless you get extraordinarily lucky and your channel takes off. I think I'll probably end up doing the same, just upload when the mood takes me. I'm looking forward to your next chapter! Having ready access to bikes to test ride will be brilliant.
Good for you. Take a break and forget about the cursed TH-cam algorithm :)
@@RocketMan_Moto Will do RM 👍
👍😊
Good luck with the move, on the plus side it won’t be so hot. This year has been too hot for biking
That's true. Thanks, Pete :)
Sounds great looking forward to more videos.
Thank you, Leonard
Hi great different view here! Forgive my ignorance but how does one get a job abroad for around 35 years and still be able to afford all your Bikes and grown up toys? Wish I had had the opportunity to have done it too, have a great Day !!!
Lol, not had that question before😊 I lived in France for 35 years before I came to Portugal. Most of my vast fortune was made there😉
@@RocketMan_Moto yes i made my fortune too’ 55years of wheeling a pick and a shovel’ i certainly chose the wrong profession ! But i do envy your choice of a taste of France and liberty 😜
Hi RM. I’d be keen to buy your ADV 350. I’m in the Algarve
Ok. I will probably be selling it around the end of Sept/beginning of Oct. Contact me in about a month at bmw59287@hotmail.com
Good luck with the move back to France, I keep getting pestered to move to France, but like your wife I don’t speak French, I’d be interested to hear a Brit bikers view of living in France and how easy or hard it is to fit in
Haha, I lived in Lille for 35 years, so I'm pretty well versed in fitting in there. It's not all good, of course, but the food's nice (better than Portugal) and it's close to the UK :)
For dissimilar metals, use a copper grease. I have aluminium valve caps on my Speed Twin, and I've never had a problem.
Nice tip. Thanks, Peter😊👍
If u wanted it black, instead of spending 800 why not just buy a pre face-lift that came in gloss black with gloss black side panels? It looks nice btw not knocking you as the black suits that bike, just curious as to why u took that route. Was it purely because u wanted the face-lift version?
Good question. I did wait for the face-lift model, because I wanted the better forks & brakes. I originally ordered the gloss black, but waiting times were 'indefinite', so I was pretty much forced to go with the next best option - boring matte grey :)
Wait.....you didn't get the hadron collier option???? 😜😜
Nice video.....subscribed!
Haha, thanks for the sub :)
Good luck 🤞 in France 🇫🇷
Regarding your speed twin, I really want one, but I’ve spent too much on the bikes I already have
Your mods are excellent and a big improvement on the factory look, so we’ll done 😄
Thank you very much, Greg :)
The modified bike looks absolutely brilliant. If you've got the money and vision and time, why not.
Thank you :)
Speedtwins are hard to find around here 100 120 are more available so just being able to have one is very cool
Wow, as bad as that? Triumph Algarve told me last week that there is currently a 10-month wait on the Tiger 850, but I thought the Bonnies were ok
The Algarve looks so awesome. Sometimes I watch just for the environment cuts. Your bike content is good but the location sets you apart. At least for me.
I do try to make the videos look interesting, good to know it’s appreciated. Thanks, Matt
Great job, looks the business, personally don't like the piggyback shocks my pref would be YSS or something similar. Enjoy France, but surely riding a Triumph should be enjoyed on damp, drizzly UK roads!!!
I had YSS previously, but wanted some gold bling, lol :)
I like your mods. I agree that stock bike is handsome but to me it's incredibly boring. You've managed to bring some shine and character back to it while keep it tastefull. Good tip regarding the bolts and I really like the subtle use of carbon.
Thanks :)
Absolutely gorgeous bike m8
Thanks, Colin😊