Why I hate all cruisers EXCEPT one: The Triumph Speedmaster
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 มิ.ย. 2024
- Why do most cruisers suck? What are the cons? In this video, I will discuss the top 8 reasons I disliked cruisers and would not buy a cruiser - until I found the 2023 Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster. Some of those reason are extremely subjective and a matter of opinion or taste; others are more objective. Note: This criteria was applied to 2021-2024 Speedmaster.
This is not a Triumph Speedmater Review! That is a different video I will release later (assuming I see some interest) . This is a video that describes my subjective evaluation criteria for selecting a cruiser.
Contents of this Video
00:00 - Intro
01:22 - Cruisers Can Be Ugly
02:21 - Crusiers Can Be Damn Heavy
03:36 - Hating the V-Twin Engine and Sound
05:14 - Cruisers Lousy Lean Angle
05:41 - Lousy Handling
06:03 - BMW R18? No Thank You!
07:41 - Cruiser Tank Gauges Suck
08:43 - Uncomfortable Riding Position / Ergonomics
09:11 - Anything but a Harley Davidson Cruiser
09:55 - Speedmaster Stand Alone
10:37 - Speedmaster Work of Art
11:38 - Speedmaster Engine and Exhaust Sound
12:19 - Speedmaster Weight
12:39 - Speedmaster Gauge
13:20 - Speedmaster Lean Angle
14:19 - Speedmaster Comfort and Riding Position
15:14 - Triumph Dealership
17:39 - Speedmaster is the One!
In the video, I reference these Indian guys test riding the Speedmaster and a Harley Cruiser, here is the link:
• Triumph Bonneville Spe...
Thank you for watching - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Agreed on all points. I also ordered my Speedmaster after only sitting on one at a dealership. Had mine since April. It is an amazing bike.
Me too! Going to get it tomorrow!
I swapped the bars for flater ones. Before it was like holding on to a rocket powered wheelbarrow lol
Getting mine next year after 20 years no bike. 🙂
Me too! Then decided to add a scrambler 1200 to the mix and now I feel I have the best of all worlds!
Love my black and white 23 speedmaster- it’s the only bike I have ever kept stock. It’s comfortable and rumbles nicely - anything more would just be overkill for my taste
Right on Bro! You said everything that feel about this bike, I have a 2022 Speedmaster Gold Line , I absolutely love it , I added a Pyramid front fender extensor to my front fender, keeps the radiator clean, and I added a Dart Marlin Fly screen, fits the bike wonderfully, also , me being 6 feet tall, I wanted the beach bar adjusted a few inches up, so when the bike is upright, the hand grips are parallel with the horizon, it’s perfect that way , I just loosened the bar, pulled it up and then retightened it , it’s perfect.
I sometimes just sit about 10 feet away with a cup of coffee, and just look at it , it’s that beautiful! I’m happy that there’s others out there feeling the same about the Speedmaster!!! 👍🏼……Mike in California
I didn't mention the coffee thing, but ditto! I just sit there sometimes with my coffee in the morning (or rum and cokes on the weekends) and stare at my bike :)
Very good points about the Speedmaster. Im 23 and most cruisers dont look too appealing. I bought this bike in the same trim as you did and I love it to death.
🤙 Bought a 2022 Speedmaster for my 80th birthday. It’s a beaut. Great review!!
Congrats! Inspirational!
Triumph America owner here, I agree with you. Will never give up the America. Only pain is parts and accessories can be hard to source. You nailed it about the weight!
Sir you have just bought a life time motorcycle. Good luck with it.😀
I liked your directness, speaking style, clear mindedness and courage to say no to bikes that you don't like ( as opposed to go-with-flow thinking ).
Subed.
Your video got me interested/curious about Speedmaster.
I am sold on the Speed master , I heard nothing but great things about it .I had 3 Bonnevilles and I have a pristine restored 1969 Triump Bonneville t120 . I also have 3 other bikes . Now at my age in my 70's , I find my 2016 Indian Chieftain is now too heavy for me , when I back out and go around the corners I am afraid that I could dump it . Hopefully by the beginning of the New Year I will get the Master .
Appreciate the compliment, direct is the only way I know how to be :)
I live in the UK and I’ve had my black and white Speedmaster for 2 years now. Over the last 20 years or so I’ve owned many Harley Davidsons but The Triumph is by far the best bike of all. I agree with you on all your points.
18:37 I bought a triumph speedmaster , took delivery of it May 10th 2024 and it’s a 2023 leftover new! I love it! It’s so comfortable to ride and the seat is the most comfortable I’ve ever ridden on , I can ride for hours and not get saddle sore. The bike is perfect for me at least ! I did go to Harley dealers in my area to look at the heritage but all 3 Harley dealers gave me so much B.S. with dealer mark ups and calling me each week pressuring me I got turned off . I did have a triumph bonneville SE in the past so I went to my Triumph dealer after watching your you tube channel and bought one . Thank you for your honest and inspiring video 👍
Hi there. Very smart decision. I bought myself the same one in march this year after 27 years of abstinence. I don`t have the sissybar `cause my wife don´t like motorbike riding. I only pimped it a little bit with the machine disk brake oil reservoir cap (alu black - by Triumph) and a billet radiator guard kit (Union Jack in black) by Motone (British Company). Take care. Greetings from Hamburg, Germany🙋♂
I'm with you on most of the points as well. When I was first buying a bike I visited a bunch of dealerships including Harley Davidson. They fired up a few of the bikes thinking I'd love the obnoxious sound lol, not only do I hate the sound but how much they made the bike shake and vibrate. The Speedmaster is just so smooth and nicer sounding. Had my Speedmaster for 2 years now and still loving it! I'd go for something like the Royal Enfield Super Meteor as well I think, it's got a lot of similarity to the Speedmaster
I just bought the Triumph bonneville bobber and I love it.
Jesus, i agreed with every single point. Dad is that you?
Best critique ever! straightforward, honest no B.S. And I completely agree with you.
I am an old biker; 63, and I've always been more of a fan of naked standard / cruiser configurations over sports machines, although my ride on a Ducati 900 supersport nearly changed that. I agree with so much that you said; and it was an interesting and informative video, and very well presented I must say. The extended exhaust pipes that people seem to love fitting to cruisers nowadays are beyond me, they are so long that you almost need a trailer to cart them around, and as for all the fairings, walls and random furniture that gets bolted on, drive a car for pity's sake. I'm looking at getting another bike now and the speedmaster is right on the top of my list, what a beauty.
I feel the same way about cruisers. I have purchased Triumphs 5 out of 10 bikes Ive owned, they are practical, powerful, and well finished. Currently i ride the Speed Twin 1200 which is a hoot of a canyon carver but i often think of the speedmaster for longer jaunts. You'll likely scrape pegs at first but its no big deal.Congrats and great perspective!
Because of the weight alone on the these cruisers I’d have to agree with you and go with the Speedmaster. (ZX6R Rider here) The Speedmaster is Nimble enough in the twisties, and stable for the highways. Definitely a beautiful machine. Harleys are out of the picture for me. Way too heavy for no reason. Awesome video! Subbed
Hey Juddy! I figured from what Alex told me you were sports bike kind of guy only. Nothing wrong with that, that's been married for 35 years :-) but I definitely wanted something a little bit more comfortable, you'll get there one day too as you get older :-)
great review - I can’t agree more about the harley’s and my 23 Triumph SM just hits all the check boxes for me - It’s the only bike that I have kept stock since purchased
If someone offered you an R 18 I think you’d never look back! Great co tent from 🏴👍
I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this video. You hit every nail on the head! I own a Triumph America for the same reasons you mention here. I just moved back to the States from England and there was no way I was owning a Harley for the reasons you stated. I love my Triumph America for the same reasons you love that Speedmaster. Thank you. Well done!
Thank you, I appreciate the compliment
A very well spelled out assessment of the Speedmaster, translated, TWO THUMBS UP❗️
I own a 2020…and, it’s form & function at finest❗️
At 66 years of age, I refer to this Triumph as my “recumbent bike”…I also own a Triumph Tiger 900GT of which I am also morrrre than pleased…obviously a completely different beast but also a hoot in its own right.
I did go ahead & purchase a custom Corbin seat(heated)as well as a very comfy & back-sparing backrest for when I want to take those longer treks.
One more thing, I swapped out the forward controls for mid-controls(interchangeable with the Bobber)-far preferred the ergonomics, not to mention, superior handling when on the backroads.
One more thing #2, I did add handlebar risers which also enhanced ergonomics.
I have owned a slew of bikes & the Speedmaster would make the cut in one of the top 3 positions.
Thanks again for the thoughtful overview of the Speedmaster…in this category, we are of one accord👊
I love V-twin's but also love parallel twins and especially love the Triumph Bonneville family. This is a great and very honest review. One suggestion, don't pump the throttle when starting the bike. It's not an old, carburetor system, it's a computerized fuel injected system and it mucks up the computer. Twisting the throttle will creat hard of difficult starts. Just roll the throttle to where you get the slack out of the grip, then with just a wee bit of pressure on the throttle bodies, hold the throttle still, hit the starter, it will start perfectly. Again, great video.
Thanks. I did not know that, good advice
It’s a nice looking bike. I think they could have cleaned up the rear strut/passenger back rest assembly. Just my opinion.
Agreed with everything except one. I don’t like the R18, but I do like the old fashion airhead boxers like the R100. Ok, maybe it’s not a cruiser, just a naked bike. I ride it for more than 30 years now. I’ve changed so much through those years that it’s now really a bike that makers people turn their heads and giving thumbs up.
Great review and perspective on why you chose the Speedmaster over other cruisers!
I subbed...this guy doesn't hold back...😮😅
Brother
I respect what you said, i don't agree with all that you had stated on cruisers. I own a Dyna wide...and really enjoy it. Been riding 40yrs...have owned one triumph...and will not again...the maintenance costs are expensive. You chose your ride as we all do...hope you remain happy with the bike and ride safe. Peace
I'm not sure if this is new, but Triumph claims that the next servicing after the 500 miles is 10,000 miles. Time will tell but I hope I don't have any quality control issues
Finally,someone who hates HD as much as I do!
I like apples and I like oranges. They are very different and there are pros and cons to both. In the same way I absolutely love the Triumph Speedmaster and agree with a lot of what you say but I also love V-Twin bikes. I have a Honda VTX 1300 and I really love the bike. Both types of bikes look good to me kinda like how a big Dodge Ram pickup with lots of chrome looks good but a red corvette looks good too. The corvette looks good for a sports car but the Ram looks good for a pickup. If someone were to ask me "do you want a pickup or a sports car?" my answer would be "both". They serve different purposes. In the end, everyone just has to ride what meets their needs. I spend most of my time on the interstates so a heavy v-twin with good wind protection meets my needs. Nevertheless, If you want to buy me a Speedmaster I will be very grateful.
I gotta say I totally agree with you and came to similar findings on my own research…great to see honest opinions! Keep up the good work!
Thanks. Appreciate it
Man you are a brave man doing this video but I think you said it yourself. That you just don’t get it. I understand your reasons and respect how you feel. But….. I am a 58 year old man who has been riding since I was 15. I owned so many motorcycles in my time and have only found my Harley road glide to be the most comfortable bike ever. I own a bmw gs1250 as well and it kicks the Harley’s ass in every category except comfort. Of course I had to spend more money on the Harley to set it up like that. Handlebars etc. But it is truly the most comfortable bike for riding longer distances. That’s my opinion of course. As for the way Harley runs the business, yeah I got to agree with you. I’m not to keen on that. I can only tell you, long distance riding is awesome on my Harley. 🤷🏼♂️✌🏼
I heard a lot of good things about the royal enfield meteor 650 .
I still don't have a clue why you bought that bike. I do admire your leap of faith to buy before the ride. Bikes are built for different applications just like cars. One doesn't buy a Sedan de Ville Caddy to take on a twisty mountain road for instance. And for me your definition of a cruiser is overly expansive. Ultra Glides and Gold Wings are for long trips down the freeway and my custom Knucklehead Harley chopper was for weekend trips to the bars. To each his own and keep the rubber side down bro.
I was saving up for this bike in two tone, but I found a 07 America 865 , 2 tone blue/white for a steal. I love triumphs
HD big twins have many expensive mechanical issues. I have had my Sportster for 25 years and 400,000 miles on the original engine and 37 back tires and 17 front ones and 3 belts in 25 years. I have had my Triumph Tr-6 with a hard tail and magneto for 40 years.
I agree. Most crusers are so heavy they are a pain all day. Hardlys just sound like a broken tractor.
Fell in love so hard with this bike, I just bought a 2022 goldline after a 15 minute demo ride. This is my forever bike.
I know exactly how you feel. I'm hoping this bike stands the test of time
Great intro to the Speedmaster. In my motorcycle life I've had a bunch of bikes across the all brands (30+) including half dozen Harleys. Current ride is Honda F6B which is a minimalist Goldwing, great for touring. Looking for lighter weight bike for local/day rides. Love the looks & sounds of Speedmaster and pretty sure this is the next bike for me. Thx
I agree and have owned mine for 3 months now. One test ride sold me, its underrated. It's a head turner! Perfect
Good choice! I live in the U.K. and bought a Triumph America (your bike's Daddy pretty much!) back in 2003 a year after the model was released. This was back when the bikes were made in England before production was moved to Thailand but 20 years on and I still have it and she still rides great! Don't hate me but I also have a 2007 Harley Dyna (made by your fellow countrymen in the great State of Kansas!) that I love dearly! Both cruisers but each have their own character and personality. Ride safe and enjoy that Triumph!
I agree with all your points and that is why I believe Triumph Speedmaster is the most beautifully designed / best cruiser out there :)
Hello from British Colombia, Canada! I have to agree on everything you said about the Speedmaster! I am also a very happy owner of a 2018 Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster. I am so glad I did not join the Harley group, and I agree with your sentiments on that too. There definitely is something special about owning a Triumph. Even walking away from it, it makes you look back and smile. I have now just over 40,000 KM on my bike and all trouble free! I recently installed the floorboard kit, and wow! Definitely makes for more comfortable long trips. Happy trails, thanks for sharing!!
Youve chosen a beautiful bike! That engine is great (I may be biased on that point 😉) Thanks for the video.
I agree with all your points. I only discovered this weekend that my Bonneville is not ideal with a passenger and the helmet clinking. Plus I'm 6'4" and nobody is going to ride on the back and see over me. I've got the 2013 Bonneville t100. Love the looks and like you I'd rather display mine as art in my house rather than sell it. Love the look of yours. I'd consider upgrading which would also solve some of my issues with the bike.
I'm about 6 ft 3, and I had someone on the back and she was about five foot three, and she said that she could see a little bit better than being on the back of my sports bike because she's sitting further back. She still can't see over my helmet, but she has a lot more visibility in general than being pressed up against me behind me. I think the key is the sissy bar setup as well as the slightly elevated pillion seat
Like a man that knows his own mind.
Enjoy the ride.
I don't like a loud Harley, but I sure like the sound of a quiet one.
I like those speedmaster bikes but I will NEVER buy a bike that doesn't run tubeless tyres.
I picked up a 2 inch wood screw in the rear tyre of my suzuki a while back and I only noticed it when I was washing the bike, weeks later. I say weeks later as the head of the screw was worn away completely and I had lost zero air.
If that had been on a tubed tyre I probably would have been sliding down the road at 90mph when the thing blew out. Also I go on long day out rides, maybe 200-400 miles and I don't want to be sitting out in the a$$ end of nowhere with a holed tube when I could just stick a plug in the tyre (if needed) and ride home.
I hear you; makes sense. But just out of curiosity, and I haven't researched this, couldn't you just purchase after market tubeless tires?
Harley should have made something like Royal Enfield's Super Meteor.
If they wanted any customers under the age of 60...
I totally agree. That Triumph Speedmaster is good looking but most cruisers, including most Harley Davidsons just don't interest me.....Granted I'm a newer rider but the "standard" style bikes by Royal Enfield were just much more attractive to me. I do like their straight exhaust pipes on the Classic 350 ans INT (Interceptor) 650 which are standard style motorcycles.
I took a look at those bikes, and they are definitely vintage and retro looking:-)
You had me laughing throughout your video. A lot of your criticisms are spot on. Your honesty is refreshing.
Agree with everything you said. The Speedmaster is a work of art and if I could fit it in the elevator at my apartment in NYC I’d park it in my living room and get rid of the TV lol. Just love looking at it!
Brilliant 'from the heart' video. I appreciate that you might have denegrated Harley motorcycles but not the Harley riders. The speedmaster is a beautiful cruiser fashioned in the complex and busy roads of the UK with their roundabouts and curvy roads so they are built to be thrown around unlike Harleys which are built for US straight roads and intersections. Different horses for different terrains.
I have a 2012 model and it’s my favorite. Great commentary.
It's been a while since i started to dream about my first bike. Been riding a Honda scooter so far only. I couldn't make my decision clear for some time. Either i didn't like something about the design or practical points of particular models. I think my aim is clear now and i will be heading towards this machine. It looks and sounds stunning and comfy as well.
im not worried about the wolf but bears suck 😂. good personal view on the speedmaster, your right its not for everyone but neither is Harley or Kawasaki etc. each to there own. iv had yams/kawasaki/Harley and liked each bike for what it is. i have just sold my Harley 883 iron after 6 years of owning it and must say enjoyed that little bike a lot and made a lot of changes to it, just thought its time for a change and had my eye on the Kawasaki Z900rs for a long time, it no good me keeping 2 bikes as i work away from home a lot. The speedmaster is a very good bike and very popular in the UK/Europe and also in Asia. plus Triumph have a ton of after market parts for this bike and other Triumphs. my buddy that i share a lockup with to do work on our bikes has 3 Triumphs and he said the speedmaster is his favourite and so easy to ride and he is very experienced at bike riding. There are plenty of them in the UK/Europe new and second hand so i wouldn't worry about availability, Triumph won't stop building that one or the Bobber for a long while, just to popular to stop building it at the moment. All the best from the UK, have a good day.
Thank you for the info. You are absolutely right, everybody's got their own style and taste a performance requirements. And yes, I was worried that moving forward this year because Harley was banned from importation, that they would be harder to come by. I have actually gone back to the dealership a couple times, one of them was for the mandatory servicing, and they still did not have another Speedmaster in stock. Time will tell I suppose :-)
Don't know where you've come from, but suddenly you turned up on my feed, and I like Triumph. I've watched the first 2 offerings on this channel and subbed ya. Looking forward to what's in store and like the fact of not being flooded with videos. Good luck for your future here, Steve.
Thanks, man. I appreciate it.
I have the 2000 Triumph Thunderbird and love it. Speed master always on my list if I need to replace. How is that seat. Despite gel pad at my almost 70 would love saddle that is comfortable. Keep videos coming. Thank you.
So I don't have a frame of reference, and I've never had a Corbin, but I really like the new seat.. I don't think I've sat on something more comfortable
Great video - so many useful points in such a short duration - look forward to the next one. Slightly worries me though as I have enjoyed riding a Speedmaster in the recent past and was looking forward to having a more traditional cruiser, perhaps an 883 for local rides, but maybe I will have to think again....Tom, near Stonehenge, UK.
Very thorough and complete review of the bike. Your reasons for not liking cruisers is why I sold my Harley Heritage Classic. I wanted something lighter and more manageable and ended up going to a BMW F750. But if I was looking for a cruiser the Speedmaster would be it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
You're welcome :)
I’m with you, they’re gorgeous! I’ve had the exact same machine for a couple of years and it’s an absolute delight to ride and that engine… wow!
I have also got a Victory CCT which I bought so that my wife had a couch to sit on. It’s a 900 lb bike but I’ll tell you what, it’s way more nimble than my Speedmaster and actually feels lighter as soon as you’re above walking pace. Almost sport bike lean angles but as you say, stop on some gravel while you’re two up and she takes some holding upright. If you get the chance I recommend you ride one. Thanks for the vid.
Really? Way more 'nimble'? If I ever have an opportunity to try one out, I am going to test that, because I find that hard to believe based on specs alone. With the extra weight, extended rake angle and wheel base, it would almost have to violate the laws of physics :) Having said that, if you watched my 'Riding Two-Up' video, the Victory CCT definitely belongs on the 'First Class' for passengers. I suspect more women would want to mount the back of that CCT, than the Speedmaster, for long distance touring.
I hate it that there was a red one with dealer installed saddle bags and winshield and it retailed for $15k. I'm cheap. It was at San Diego Triumph
I'm not sure what is going to happen, but I fear they're going to be harder to get, and pricier in the future
A VFR is a keeper, especially a gen 5
Coincidentally, it is. 1998. Or maybe a 99, I forgot, I should know that :-) in the next video I plan to pray, I will be showcasing the Honda VFR in a comparison video as I first transition to the Speedmaster
Great video on most points, thanks, very much enjoyed it.
I currently own a modded 2017 Bonneville T100 and the Speedmaster is my next choice in bike as I get older (currently 60yrs)
I would never buy a Harley. Have many friends with them. Initial cost, maintenance and insurance costs are excessive compared to almost every other bike, and every man and his dog owns one - mostly due to the perceived street cred. In my opinion, they're too much of a one trick ponie.
I shit you not when I say how many hardened HD riders mosey on over and say "cool bike bro" when they see my T100 and that's before I fire it up. That straight twin unbaffled sound pricks plenty of ears!
- 3 things I don't like about the SM. I love my duel speedometer and tacho side by side on the T100. SM has the single, There's something very cool about the duel look.
2: Don't like the smaller tank @12 ltrs whereas my T100 is 14.5ltrs.
3: The lean angle on my T100 is superb and significantly more fun cornering than the SM, however, all 3 are not deal breakers but annoying to some degree. The first two are price point applications and understand that aspect. The lean angle in all fairness is more than acceptable coming from a cruiser perspective and arguably the best available.
We can all agree there is not a perfect bike from an objective view, but the SM is one helluva work of art coupling practical use-ability in what I call the semi cruiser bike iteration.
I will be buying one at some stage.
As for your first point, I guess that's not really a big deal for me. I'm okay with the tachometer the way it is. As for your second point, that is more than fair and I plan to bring that up in the review when I get around to it. I feel like I'm constantly filling up that tank. Pass for the third point, you are right. The Speedmaster does not Corner as well but you have mid controls on your T100, and I was looking for a low seat height cruiser with Ford controls.
It's great it doe's at least have a tacho and the cruise control is another added bonus. I guess when you get used to twin dials, the single looks bare - if they ever added another separate dial for the tacho and more importantly a larger tank, the SM would indeed be hard to knock back. Can I ask how many miles have you clocked up to date? Cheers. @@TheSpeedmasterRick
@@johnhowlett9829 I have a little over a thousand miles on it now
What exhaust do you have on your t100 for good sound.
I love Triumps. My first bike was a Bonneville back in 1969. You would hate my current bike, a Triumph Rocket III Touring. It's a beast but I love it. But I've been tempted to buy a Speedmaster. I think it may be the most beautiful bike in the world. That said, when I was at a Triumph dealership I sat on a Triumph Bobber which is very similar size wise as the Speedmaster and I couldn't stop laughing because it felt so tiny after riding a Touring. The feeling was profound. I felt like I was on a mini bike. But the Speedmaster is so beautiful that it makes my heart pound faster. Am absolutely beautiful bike! By the way, you say, "show stopper" repeatedly. I think you mean "deal breaker." Show stopper is a positive phase referring to something that's really good. Also, a 3-wheeler is not a substitute for a big bike. It's a completely different thing. One of the reasons we love to ride motorcycles is banking into a curve. You can't do that with a 3-wheeler. They're completely different than 2-wheel motorcycles.
It not exactly my kind of bike, I sat on the Rocket and it is a tight fit, but it does look and feel like a bad ass bike
Great video. Agree, no matte paint, a nice gloss to polish with the chrome. Younger folks seem to like the blacked out motors and matte. All great points you made. I have a Triumph Scrambler 900 in my stable, but I am certainly looking at the Speedmaster. Triumph fit and finish is outstanding. You have the perfect voice for FM radio. Cheers, safe & fun riding to you, Ronny in Canada
Good review. I have Triumph Thruxton 1200 R for those faster paced rides and Triumph Thunderbird Storm for more laid back cruises.
I completed understand, and think the same way, except I have my Honda VFR800 Interceptor for the 'faster paced rides' :)
@@TheSpeedmasterRick Excellent choice.
Excellent video, you nailed everything of your opinion on HD. The cruiser you chose is perfect bike. I’m in a Zx14r and seeking a cruiser like triumph
FINALLY somebody that dislikes Harley Davidson as much as I do. Totally overhyped, way too expensive, ugly, loud, etc. you pay for the name, that’s it!
Love that video. Also love the Speedmaster I’m in the market of buying a cruiser. I narrowed it down to the new Royal Enfield Super Meteor, or the Speedmaster.
Make sure you subscribe, I THINK (time pending) I will be releasing a new video in the next couple days that may give some data points to consider.
This bike comes loaded from factory , suspension and braking are excellent. Plus oil changes are very good as well ,not so often .Enjoy it!
Very good! I had a Kawasaki 650 Vulcan as a starter bike after passing my test here in the UK. Very good, no disrespect to it, but I had no love for it. It was just a bike to me, a good one, and perfectly functional. Traded for the Triumph Speedmaster. I'm obviously biased, but I adore this bike! I think you used a phrase like "work of art" and I totally agree!!! I love riding it, but I'm also happy just walking around it in the garage for a bit of machine love! I have one with the hand painted "coach work" on the tank that I drool over! Obviously don't buy one just for this, they're still built to be ridden, but I genuinely think that it has the makings of a classic that people will be fighting to get their hands on in the future....
I know exactly what you mean :-) I actually created a different video I think it was the one where I talked about height on the speedmaster, where I call out the Kawasaki Vulcan
A very thought out and articulate presentation. I agree with all your points about cruisers and your preference for the geometry and style of the Speedmaster. If my wife was willing to pillion I would have the Speedmaster, as it is she is not, so I have the Triumph Bobber, which is the same bike with a single seat and mid controls. I may yet manage to own both!!
I did look at the bobber as it is a badass looking bike in a different way. I'm kind of a big guy maybe that had something to do with it, but the seat did not feel as comfortable. It's a very cool looking bike
The Bobbers are V cool bikes, seriously cool - but the SM handles cornering and braking better, way more comfortable and takes more weight. But hey, I'd have both if I could 😉
I sold my bonneville because I moved and had to and your video makes me miss it .
Now I have the z650 kawi and I’m looking forward to getting on it , I’m expecting it to be much better then the bonneville. The z650 parallel twin has abs , mono link rear end and Kawasaki modern handling, plus it’s basically a standard riding position. Which is most comfortable to me .
But that 1200 looks interesting.
I can’t imagine what a 600 lbs plus bike would be like maneuvering unless it had reverse which they should if they’re getting that heavy . You made a good point about maneuvering on hills etc I never considered that regarding a heavy bike .
Most bikes through out history were 100 cc to 800 cc , it appears the big 1500 plus cc bike are a relatively recent phenomenon.
Yeah, I notice that a lot of people on the west coast do not really consider mountainous terrains in their discussions, but where I live, there are hills / steep inclines everywhere. As for the z650, not my type of bike and way too small for me (I mention the Vulcan as an alternative in my 'Height' video) - but from a quality perspective, I think Kawasaki's are great.
Agrees 90 percent you said: Need quiet bike.. need gas gage.. need clearance for tighter turns when in a jam maybe-safety reasons.. need see your gages without looking at your Dick ! 1- of my defensive driver needs is -automatic= 1- less thing to do when need knee jerk safety move- gas/brake/gas/brake.. add more and MEN will 1236 fk -up/ omg// moments.. The huge front brake is awesome.. the wider stance tires.. amazeing.. luv this also.. tyvm truth !
Love the Triumphs. Great bike. I don’t really get the “Speedmaster” name though…funny, don’t ya think? You may prefer the long flat seat eventually, both for adjustability and better two-up riding. I have ridden both the T120 and T100…both were great and super smooth. However, I ended up recently getting another HD Road King…this time the RKS. It rides like a dream and I love the character and sound of the engine, especially going through the tunnels and canyons here in Italy. Like anything else, the weight is something that you adapt to and over time don’t notice. Same as working out w/ weights…things get lighter. It has superior slow speed maneuvering capability, is agile and rides like it’s on rails, and on the highway the weight assists with stability. It’s a solid and balanced bike. All that being said, I recently jumped on a Ducati Scrambler and another T100 and this time they both felt like toys they were so light. Goes to show you how things change as your body adapts. Enjoy the bike…it’s a beauty and one of my favorites. I’ll add a T120 or Speed Twin to the stable next.
Yeah, the name is definitely a misnomer :)
Yes, I love triumphs but they choose strange names, calling lardy tourers Sprint or Trophy. I own a 'sprint' but think it is the wrong name for a long distance tourer
I have speed master I'm 5/11 it fits me. But 6/3 , no it is to small.
I am noodling with the idea of addressing the height issue. You are not the only one to bring that up.
Great review about British bikes, as coming from the uk, I can only say good choice and enjoy. We call it a gentleman’s bike
Seriously considering Triumph for my next ride. It will be either the Speedmaster or the T120. Been to the local dealership three times this month. ‘Just looking’ 😂
I'd be curious after you test ride both, which one you end up with
I have the Speedmaster, but the T120 is really the next one I want to get, likely just adding to the stable, because I do not think I could ever get rid of my Speedmaster. But I do the same thing, the dealership owner keeps asking me if the T120 is going to be my next one. :-) Hopefully so!
Well done.You said it right and kept it real. An American with common sense approach that's new !!!
I think you may have some confusion on a touring bike and a cruiser. That being said I do agree with a lot of things you dislike about those bikes and I'm going to definitely take a look at Triumph.
Excellent video. Props to you for telling it like it is and not giving a shit if somebody doesn't like it. You bought a great bike and there's probably one in my future. Ride on!
Thanks, man. I appreciate it!
Yes! I have been looking for a new replacement! I started on an zx7r the K2 model beautiful passed, my current is a GSxr600 to be fair it was only 8g new out the door and I don't care about size or statues it's a fun Machine, I love the Gixxersix, but I'm 45 now and distance is holding me back (yeah body too I get it), but I hate Harley, the name, the image, the price, I realize this is 8 months old vid, but I'm going to at least try one of these Bikes out and I love your review. It tells me to be open minded and try it.
Great review i agree with all of it love my Speedmaster great on Scottish roads.
Many of the, 'cruisers', that you showed are really touring bikes............ The Speedmaster looks like a retro-standard......
Great job! I agree.
'99 Harley Fatboy here. Lots about my Harley I love, most of which I modified it to my taste: low seat height, clean look like a hardtail, like Speedmaster, and I added a 6 gal tank for range, belt drive not chain. But I never understood the V twin design. Rear cylinder doesn't get the cooling it needs. The parallel twin makes infinitely more sense. So I am considering the Triumph Bobber or Speedmaster. Have found a company that makes belt conversion for the chain, but I haven't found a larger tank capacity replacement... yet. Happy riding!
Damn! That is some hard core modification determination :)
I never really bought into the belt drive conversion, although I do recognize its advantages, it was just never a priority for me. I will say, and more to follow in future videos (so subscribe :) that the suspension, because of my weight, is probably the biggest priority for me on the Speedmaster right now.
@@TheSpeedmasterRick Yeah, I grew up with chain drives, several Hondas and a Triumph Bonney, and later a Honda with a drive shaft. My first Harley ('02 Road King) came with belt drive, same as all Harleys since the '80s. No maintenance, no oil slinging, no chain noise. My '99 Fatboy has the original belt and now about 150K miles on it, still as good as day one. So I'm a believer that belt drive is the only way to go. I subscribed 🙂, so watching for new videos, especially about your trips on the Speedy. Happy rides!
Hey man, coming across this video 7 months later as I'm zeroing in my next bike with an eye for a Speedmaster. I agree with so much of what you've said about the aesthetics (no ugly fairings, weirdly large/long pipes, etc). My previous bike was an 883 Sportster which I loved though it was just a little small for me and had some practical limitations (notably: range, comfort, cargo). But I never really felt at home in the HD crowd and I really don't like the direction they went with the latest models, and definitely don't want to move up to their larger cruiser line for all the reasons you point out. But these Speedmasters... yeah. Looking like what a motorcycle is supposed to look like as you say. Gonna find a shop in the CA Bay area where I can throw my leg over one.
I see other folks here commenting here on the RE Super Meteor as another potential contender in this category. I think it has much to like as well (similar aesthetic checkboxes ticked, better lean angle, and also considerably cheaper), but I worry that it won't be enough bike for me given my experience on the 883.
How has the bike held up for you since then? Anything you'd have (or did, later) end up customizing on it? I do like a partially blacked out look and see a lot of 3rd party mods like motone to cover that later if I decide to go that direction. But I'm specifically curious if you ended up replacing the pipes or handlebars and what your thoughts were with that. Thank you!
So to answer your questions: The bike has held up great. If you want 'negatives' so to speak, check out my video regarding the Speedmaster and Tall people, there is chapter in there on the 'limitations' of the bike. I have not replaced the pipes, I have not / but may replace the handle bars, and I am probably going to replace the suspension.
Haha I see we can agree on everything you mentioned!
Very nice description of reasons why Speedmaster fits the bill for someone who isn't satisfied with the more "traditional" cruisers and the negatives associated with them. Thank you. Like you, I loved the bike when I saw it and came from an 800pound Triumph Thunderbird LT that was a bear (I know you don't like bears!) to move around. I wanted a lighter and more nimble bike that looked beautiful but couldn't find any until this bike. I got a Corbin seat that is dished out and moves me back a couple inches in the saddle... essentially stretching the bike out a bit for a tall 6'-1" rider as myself. I also got Motone 1" risers that move the bars up and back. Perfect for me now. The pipes sound great and I wasn't going to alter them. But I installed the x-pipe and that produced a deeper growl and more power. There are lots of accessories, but I really didn't do very much to dial in a really comfortable bike.
I am guessing those x-pipes really changed the look of the bike though, right?
The x-pipes replace the cat under the bike, so you can't see the change. Other than enhanced sound and increased power you would never notice the difference.
Im on my second Speedmaster, its just a fabulous bike.
I put the Bobber handle bars on my 2020 Speedmaster. It feels very good and very natural to me. Couldn't get used to those pulled back hand grips.
I am getting used to them, BUT I too was considering using the Bobber handlebars, and I still might, but I figured I would ride around a little more next spring before making a move like that. And I am pretty sure my first mod will be the suspension though.
I agree the "black bike" thing is waaaaay overdone these days. it's totally boring.
You were so so so good ! The review is absolutely a ten on ten on every aspect
Sanjeev, thank you so much!!! I am not sure if I agree with you, the more I look back, the more 'raw' my video seems to me. So I am extremely flattered that you / some people like it. I am just beginning this channel, and I will create videos as time allows (I don't do this for a living and it is not monetized or sponsored, and I intend to keep it that way), so please subscribe, it is the primary measure of interest for me - and as I mentioned in the video, I will not be bombarding your feed with videos every day or week - maybe once a months about average.
Agreed with all points. The noise of HD is actually caused by misfiring. They didnt know how to time the firing so fire everytime even when the piston is at the low point. Terrible engineering
GREAT review. That is a great looking bike. I think I need one to park next to my 900 Scrambler for, as you said, different purposes. This is hands down the cruiser I would buy.
Yes, the Speedmaster is an awesome bike, but for all around motorcycle riding, it needs to be supplemented I think with a different kind of bike
Totally agree with you, especially about the blacked out parts and the sound of the Harley.
I own the precursor to this bike, a 2011 Bonneville America 865cc & love it. Have to agree that the engine sound of the parallel twin was a key consideration for me as was the riding position with the swept back beach bars. And once i'd had it a few months I really noticed the comfort levels & regularly do all day 6-8 hour rural rides on it over here on Australia's East Coast & never feel any aches or pains as a result. I can't see myself ever owning any other brand of motorcycle again...
Ditto, mate :)
I’m 5’5” and I won’t trade my Low rider 2020 for a triumph had many bikes and this one fits me perfect 107 ci about 1750 cc . Plenty of power plenty of clearance super comfortable can’t complain
I'm a Virginian and buying a speedmaster.
Nice detailed review. 👏
Great job. Well spoken and carefully reasoned out about your preferences for your choice. Gave some food for thought about what and how to choose a motorcycle. Stay on this track and I suspect your channel will be VERY successful.