There's a great sense of pride in buying an old bike, rescuing it from the back of a garage or dusty barn and bringing it back into the living so to speak. They are a joy and put a smile on my face especially during that first ride after finishing it! I will agree tho, that it's good to have a modern bike as your main ride, as these old dinosaurs WILL break down occasionally. But it's all worth it, as they are a pure old school experience with tons of charm. 4 wheels move the body but 2 wheels move the soul 😎
You are right about old bikes turning heads. When your dad starts his motorcycle, neighbors wander over to our garage to check it out, and one day a guy on the street corner stood at attention and saluted him!
Great looking Triumph. I got my first bike three years ago, a 1975 Honda CB750. I paid 2 grand for it and it's been bulletproof. I wanted to find something cool and affordable that I could learn to do the maintenance and work on. A 70's Honda CB was a great choice. When I was first looking for a vintage bike I wanted an old Triumph but was told by a motorcycle mechanic to start with a Honda CB, learn to do the basic maintenance then get a Triumph as your second bike. It was good advice. Last year I picked up my second bike, a 1964 Triumph TR6. I've been having a blast with it.
I agree there is a lot to love about older bikes, however, weight to horse power is not going to make your old bike competitive with a modern bike.The engineering of newer bikes is amazing. Weight distribution, braking, suspension are all superior on new bikes to older bikes. Yes the new bike is heavier, but it brakes harder, more smoothly loads the suspension and carves a corner better than an older, lighter bike. Speed isn't everything. I got the most smiles when I was zipping around town on a Vespa. The coolest ride is the one that makes you smile. I'm smiling on 2012 Triumph Tiger. Be safe, and take care friends. Thanks for the video.
My 1968 Triumph 650 Bonnie, was way more fun than my buddies 900 and 1000 Kawasaki LTD led sleds of the day. Torque and nimble - ness and the rumble, blows away ....just about anything.
My 79 Triumph has disc brakes , electronic ignition and great carbs weighing in at under 400 LBS. It doesn't need a mechanic to keep it running nor any skill to stop it or steer it. In fact its handling is legendary nothing today compares. Also it gets 57+ MPG. Best bike I ever bought and still own.
@@chev39rshSelling my 68 triumph killed me,...for about 40 years. I can still remember exactly how she felt. But I was young and dumb. So I just got another 650. A 1983 honda cx 650. 20 more horses and better brakes. I moved up 15 years. She's not a Triumph....but she's pretty cool; my first electric start bike ever. She's a little heavier, still a great 650 twin. I'd trade her for my old Triumph in a heart beat.
My day to day 'round town ride has been a 1968 CZ 125 since I bought it secondhand in the late '90s. Reasonable reliability coupled with super repair-ability just makes it unbelievably cheap to run. I rode it every day for about 8 years before I was finally forced to change out the original Czechoslovakian spark plug. It is so unusual in the modern era that it turns heads and starts conversations with young and old alike... and it cost me AU$1300 when the cheapest Chinese C-series Honda copies were selling for about $1500 here. With just a modicum of technical nouse many vintage bikes can become the best value for money vehicle you can buy. Especially the small two stroke commuters from days gone by when manufactures took it for granted that the owners would be the only mechanics to ever lay a spanner on it
I spent last summer on my 1952 Triumph Speedtwin 500cc and it was amazing. I had the great luck of being asked if I wanted to buy it from the estate of a friend of a friend's father-in-law. The father-in-law kept the bike in super condition and totally stock and original and I guess he drove it a few times a year, mostly on good days in the summertime. Since we live in Sweden, that's not very many. Riding a small British 500cc compared to my usual and preferred rides, which are Harley big twin flathead choppers, it was a surprisingly fun alternative. The bike starts easy with a light kick start, usually on the first kick, and is so smooth and mellow to ride. And the sound of a British parallel twin is almost as good as the sound of a flathead. I second the opinion on this post - vintage bikes give you alot of feel and joy, and in my experience more so than modern bikes. But that's a personal reflection and no truth whatsoever! Each to his own. I've got a few more hours of work until my '62 Harley Duo Gilde will run and take me around town. So come summer, I've got the choice of a '38 Flattie chop, a vintage '62 full dresser, and my super sweet Brit '52 pre-unit! Ride on and ride safe! preferably on something old.
My Dad had a 500cc "Tiger 100" in the 40's and I have wanted to ride one since I can remember. Is yours single carb? I might even do a test swap with my highly prized ZX9R 2nd party experience pending.
That 500cc Triumph was (especially the mid-sixties Tiger version that sold in the US) is such a cool bike!! I think its the one that started the Bonneville, Tiger 650's of the mid sixties. (By the time they bloated to 750's (like my 1977 Tiger), it began to loose some of that original character).
@@a5-30-31cts I rode a modern Triumph 1200. Great bike. Reality is if they were still being made like the originals they wouldn't sell many. There can only ever be one original. My 2003 ZX9R was my ultra passion machine, reality there is, as much as I love it, it's not soulful and relaxing to ride. My other bike, 2008 KLR650 is rock solid, dirt cheap and really takes me back to what riding was like in the 70"s. I find it very soulful and relaxing to ride so I forget it has the lines of a Carnival Ride and has lime green plastic all over it. None of my bike's turn any heads but they are very much like I've always ridden; perfectly imperfect. If I see an old motorcycle around you can bet I'll be the first to stop, admire it and appreciate it fully. And after all, what could be more satisfying than having someone walk away from his own bike to enjoy admiring and taking in every line of your bike?
I have been Riding for 58 years and have had many bikes. Sold off most of my vintage bikes but still have 6. I still have a 1982 Honda 450 Nighthawk. It runs perfectly and is a lot of fun. I also have a Harley, with 140,000 kms no issues and no failures. It is basically maintenance free. Yes it is heavy but it certainly isn’t slow or clunky. I liked your video even if I didn’t agree with all of it.
You’ve made a great, thought provoking video- BUT, if you aren’t handy with a spanner, forget it! I’ve restored and recommissioned several bikes now that have come from people who couldn’t maintain it. It’s just sad! And with shop rates here in Australia at 150 dollars an hour, you’ll be broke if you take it to someone. And trust me when I say “simple to work on” is great until you find rounded bolts, opened up Philips heads screws, ceased parts, carbs that constantly clog (use fuel stabiliser folks!) Having said all this: I love vintage bikes! Get a vintage bike!
I take some issue with the bonneville on track claim. The bonnie easily outbrakes the old one simply by the merit of having modern discs. ABS is just icing on top. The imroved frame and suspension also put the new one ahead of the old.
I'm going to assume that you have never ridden an old Bonneville. Weighing 200 lbs. less is more of an advantage in braking and handling than better brakes and whatnot. So says Sir Isac Newton.
If you have been riding lass than 50 years when you get on a 60s bonneville remember the shifters are on the other side. Scary in an emergency if you have a lot of modern muscle memory
@@garyhoward4064 You couldn't lock the front brakes on my old Honda 750 K2. Even though I had double discs...ofc because they were made of a rust free material :/ You could go really fast on it if you got used to the limitations of the suspension, frame and forks. And other unique characteristics like really wrestling it down, coming into a tight corner, only to have it fall the last bit if you didn't meet it with more throttle, but that made the front forks starting to bend out of alignment and making it hard keeping the right path. It also made the bike not wanting to go further down making it even harder to keep the right position through the bend. To take care of that problem you have to counter steer to be able to drop the bike the last couple of centimeters. Hard to drive hard? Yes! Fun? All the time :)
The rectifier failed on my 1973 Norton Commando a few months after I got it. Bought a solid state replacement I saw in a J.C. Whitney catalog which also eliminated the zener diode. Forty eight years later it’s still doing the job.
Put a new stainless steel nut on my zener diode on my lovely shiney footrest mount a few years ago on my 1970 Norton Commando 750 that I bought in 1973. Fifty two years later, it's still doing the job too. It has the right owner.
Wish I had known this back in the day when I bought an open ( no filte, as designed) Norton Dominator SS, 600 cc that shocked many a British bike rider, as well as Sportsters solo versus me with a passenger. Slow when I bought it when about two years old. Slow til my mechanic turned the 1.1::1 ratio rocker arms around the way they were supposed to be. Back in the day both my bike and my Jaguar had Lucas electrics. Back then Lucas was known as the Prince of Darkness. Feeling the vintage bikes calling me. Your solution much better than just packing two spare Zener diodes.
@@stancoleshill8925 I have a mk1a 1973 850 that belonged to my dad he bought it in 1975 . I first rode it aged 17 after passing my open bike licence . Still the bees knees . Mum never liked bikes we had 7 of them
Hope to buy my second Norton soon. Doing all my due diligence before parting with several stacks of lettuce. I remember Zener diodes quite well -,always carried TWO spares after first time. Do you know the specs for the diode? What do you like for solid state? Anything special about doing the conversion? Do you recall Lucas’ nickname? The Prince of Darkness. Had a Mk II Jaguar also. I already know more than I prefer about Zener diodes.
Back in another lifetime, (1963), I bought my first bike, a 1959 650cc Triumph Thunderbird. Had no problem handling the weight, as was able to sit with both feet flat to the ground, which I'm told greatly improves one's balancing the bike when at rest. Since that time have owned a 1967 Yamaha YDS 3 250cc, and a 1982 Honda CBN 250cc. Today after a 35 year absence from riding, I've just bought a 2022, Royal Enfield 350 Classic, in that stunning color of Halcyon Green. After riding it through heavy traffic, I can agree that it's weight becomes more apparent in stop/start situations than my old Triumph did. On the move though, it's fine, feels light, handles beautifully, belying it's 195KG wet weight. After looking at the reviews of many makes and models, The RE 350 Classic ticked all the boxes pertaining to, Price, Paintwork, Seat comfort on long hauls, ABS to both front and rear wheels, Petrol economy, as in 2.6 liters per 100 kilometers, or in the old money, as near as dammit to 100 MPG, (UK gallon= 4.5 liters), EFI, Handling, and superb attention to detail in keeping it's retro styling close to the original Royal Enfield Bullet. It may have a top speed of almost 120km/h, but then realistically, where it shines, is that this big single is quite tractable, pulling away strongly from a mere 20km/h in 3rd gear without the slightest hint of laboring. It's a bike built for cruising. Another interesting point of note, is that reviewers the World over were/are unanimous in their praise of this motorcycle and indeed other variants of the Royal Enfield stable...
My very first road bike was a 1954 BSA B31, 350 cc single cylinder. I think '54 was when BSA went away from the old plunger suspension and began to make bikes with a swinging arm suspension. It was easy to work on, easy to start and easy to ride. What's probably been forgotten about most of those old British singles is how interchangeable internal parts were, not just from one model to another, but also from different makes. Pistons, rings, valves and valve springs were commonly the same between BSA, Ariel, AJS, Matchless etc. If, like me, you owned a B31 or a B33, you could fill the inside up with Gold Star components, add a big Amal GP carby and to all intents and purposes, you had a Gold Star without the good looks!
Good on you for introducing the kids early to the sound and feel. Seeing you giving rides on the tank brought back vivid memories. I was three and I still remember. I'm 69 now. Looking back at my motorcycle history, I realize it was a huge chunk of my life. Favorite bike? Whichever one I'm on at the time.
One thing you failed to mention with the older brit bikes, and older bikes in general. As people have worked on them over the years and replaced original parts with newer more reliable parts. They're often better now than when they came out of the factory.
I didn’t watch the whole video, so this might already be mentioned, but imho the chance that there is invisible damage, is also significant. My bike is in the shop for the third time in a row (!)at this moment. Because searching for the root of the problem is hella hard sometimes. The ‘improved’ carburator needles set that the previous owner had done, not only throws a spanner in the works, but the original parts of the carburators also appear to be damaged by doing so in the past.
Ok,you convinced me.I'll keep my old T 120R that I've had for 40+years.I don't care if people look at me or not,it's just familiar and still fits,just like my Levi bell-bottoms.It matches my 69 truck.Now to find parts for my very early Rickman and no,I don't facebook.
I've had my 78 Bonneville 750 here in England for 29 years and love riding it, but it's too valuable and too good to use in the winter when they cover the roads with salt, so this year I turned to the dark side and added a 1980 Suzuki GS550. It was cheap to buy and mechanically simple and, most importantly, I'm now enjoying riding all year round without worrying about ruining the Triumph.
I love the old bikes and working on them is such a joy for me. Taking a beater a restoring it is a great feeling. Just got an 86’ virago 1100 that all original but has been sitting a long time. Can’t wait to finish it. Another great thing about learning to work on bikes is you can pick up bikes for dirt cheap from people not mechanically savvy.
I have still my second motorcycle that I bought back in 1973. to this day. And has been the most reliable machine ever out of all that I have bought. and owned! It being a 1945 EL Harley. Always wakes right up every spring. Has carried me all over the lower 48. My first bike was a 1966 Honda 305 Scrambler, which I sold for $438, and bought the old Knucklehead Hawg, for $200
Excellent video. I've got a shop full of vintage bikes in various states of restoration. I've restored several starting with boxes of parts. There is nothing like a vintage bike. I had a 1950 Harley Hydra Glide when I was in high school. I had one of the new Triumphs but it just doesn't have the charm of the old ones. Luckily I have a few 😁
That's awesome! Id love to see your bikes. Did you share them on Instagram or somewhere? I'm a part of most of the vintage Triumph groups on Facebook too. Per your other comment, my bike is a 68 triumph t100c. I've got a video talking about it called "what is like to ride a vintage motorcycle"
@@bartmotorcycle I saw that video 👍. I have a couple of T100's. One is a pretty nice one and the other one, which I just finished putting together and rewiring, was pretty bad shape. There was water in the forks, transmission, engine and would have been in the gas tank but it rusted out with about a hundred holes in the bottom. I'm putting together a video I'll post to my TH-cam channel. I don't have any social media accounts, don't have the time, need or inclination for them, not that I'm anti-social.
I bought an 83' Nighthawk 650 10 years ago (first bike) and rode it a couple times before moving far away. I finally had the opportunity to move it here last year and started riding again. Man, it was fun, but I did notice there was some lack of power. Not knowing exactly what might be wrong and figuring everything could use a refresh after 40 years, I spent several hundred and 20 hours replacing piston rings, gaskets, and cleaning the heck out of the valves. A few mistakes and several swears later, the bike sounds incredible! I took it for a test ride and holy smokes does it have more giddy-up! I could've easily just bought something newer but this was so much more satisfying. And you're right -- old bikes hold their value. I could probably sell it now for what I paid for it. The only problem is there is no way I'd sell this bike; love it.
My first and current motorcycle is a 1976 Honda CB750A and it is awesome!! So many people compliment it everywhere I go. Outside of having to replace all of the old brittle rubber components with new stuff when I first purchased it, it has been absolutely bulletproof! Great video!!
I had a '67 Triumph TR6 back in the early 1970s. It was a great bike and I loved it. There were some cons, even back then. It shook. I lost two license plates, the left rider's footpeg came loose and once a month or so you had to tighten about every fastener or something else would come loose out on the road. Yes, I had loctited the peg bolt. The other problem was its gearing. It was a wet dream to ride on the two lanes and back roads. On the freeway, however, the engine was not happy spinning along at 70+ mph. England has slower roads. If you're willing to take care of things and keep to the back roads, an old Triumph is as much fun as you can have with your pants on.
Couldn‘t have said it any better. That‘s actually why I just bought me a CB 750 Four K2 from 1974. Costs a small fortune, but it‘s cool like hell and I can really understand it. Besides it still performs.
I never expected to see a Triumph T120 becoming more valuable than my BMW R100s. But the Triumph is a nice looking bike. You seem to have bikes worked out.
I still own my 1981 Yamaha XV920RH, which I bought new 41 years ago. It is equipped with it’s original Hannigan Super sport fairing and has some improvements. She has been all over North America and still breaks 100 miles per hour. While it’s not as fast as my Honda Firestorm, she is comfortable and sounds great!
I have only owned 2 motorcycles. In 1969, when I was 21, I bought a 1965 Triumph Bonneville. Loved it for 5+ years but had to sell it to finance my education. (As a student in France, I owned a Velosolex - a 32cc front-wheel drive machine that I would not consider to qualify as a motorcycle). About 15 years ago, I bought my second motorcycle. I was about 60 when I bought a 1939 Royal Enfield Bullet. My old Triumph would top 120 miles per hour because of some minimal performance modifications; the Royal Enfield struggles when it gets over 60 miles per hour, but it has original paint, original upholstery, and matching numbers. It looks like it has been through a war (because it has). It is the queen of the show at local gatherings. I have never owned a motorcycle with an electric starter. Sometimes, I machine my own parts on my 1934 Southbend lathe. I'm no longer about going fast, but I miss my Bonneville. It was a dream to handle. My two best friends had Nortons (we were the 'hooligan types' of the pre-Japanese era advertising slogan "You meet the nicest people on a Honda." Quite possibly the more boring people, too. Back then, we would hide behind billboards to embarrass Harley owners (we easily out-accelerated and out-handled them up to about 80 miles per hour). Brit bike chicks were easy to spot; they always had nice figures but bad complexions from being spattered with castol. I was lucky to survive during the 1960s and started writing my memoirs during Covid. The Triumph figures very prominently during my reckless youth. The only thing that compares with bikes is airplanes, but I returned to bikes and classic cars because they are cheaper.
My first motorcycle was a 1968 736 cc Royal Enfield Interceptor. I was only 15 when I got it. It never occurred to me that it was fast or anything like that. To me it was just freedom and now I’m almost 70 with 11 motorcycles in my garage: 2 small Japanese, 2 Harley’s, 3 Ducatis & 4 English, (one Velocette, 2 Commandos, and one Bonneville.) All but one is vintage. I still would love to get a ‘68 interceptor.
Thank you for a great post. I have just become the proud owner of a 1986 gs850gg Suzuki it was the closest to original spec I had seen and at a sensible price too. I love the lines, the sound and the simplicity of it and yes it does give you a sense of achievement when you work on these bikes doing basic maintenance and leave real engineering to those who really can put years of fun riding on your bike by giving you peace of mind when you throw your leg over it. Totally agree with your take on these older bikes, your bike looks and sounds magnificent. Tell your dad, if 350's are his thing, to keep an eye out for a Honda 350 four they look and sound amazing. Anyway, thanks again for a great post.👍👍👍
My first experience on a motorcycle was when I was about 6 or 7 years old and I was visiting family in Cincinnati. My Dads cousin had a 650 Triumph Bonieville and he gave me a ride ! I had been bitten by the bike… my dad bought my brother and I mini bikes and go carts and eventually when I was around 13 a Honda cl100 scrambler! My brother had a cl175 he was 2 years older. My Dad rode a cb 450.. mine you this was in the mid 70s… through the years I’ve had many many motorcycles… but the favorite that I own now is a 71 cb175 and a 72 cb500 four… I think they are absolutely the best
I have a 64 panhead harley that I've had for 42 years got it for my 19th birthday and still ride it also got a 56 panhead about 4 years ago I love them, tank shift, foot clutch, kick start only, they both will go 100 mph plus reliably
Memories of riding my Honda CB500T is exactly what’s keeping me from buying a vintage bike, the terrible handling, the subpar brakes, the incessant handlebar vibration, the constant fiddling with spark plugs, points, and carburetors; no thank you!! Not to mention the horrendous seat.
You're absolutely right. I've got my sights on an early 1970s Honda CB450 twin or CB550F. I just missed out on the former in a recent motorcycle auction here in Britain and can't wait for another chance in November to own one. I do have a modern CB650 so it would be cool to own its grand dad.
Just came across your channel today definitely a new favorite,I ride a 1982 suzuki gs750e,and absolutely adore it,and it definitely turns heads,not as flashy as your triumph but definitely has it share of admirers
My first was a BSA Thunderbolt 650 single carb 1967 righty shifty and kick start lefty brakey rode it many years. Then let it go .Later got TT 500 1977 Yamaha had it for 38yrs rebuilt it three times this is not what rolled off the show room floor still weights 350lbs still competitive. Thumpers sound so good with a comp exhaust system !!
Great video, there is certainly something very cool about riding an old bike. I ended up selling a 2015 BMW R1200R because I prefer to ride my 1984 BMW R65, so much more character and plenty quick enough for everyday riding. I’ve owned the R65 for 22 years and will never sell it.
Just purchased 1974 BMW 60 / 6 excellent condition, low miles, very nice bike. My personal preference are the / 2 s owned seven or eight of them and that's my for sure my favorite all-time
I totally agree with you. In my garage there is a 1970 Bonneville and a 1976 Goldwing. I also have a modern Triumph but the old ones are such great rides. On the other hand, I have four Monarks 98 cc from 37 and 38. They are also fun to ride but only for like 20-30 kilometers. As always, choose your weapons!
Going nearly 100 mph on my 1951 Triumph Thunderbird was more than fun, it was terrifying. I only did it once, late at night. It was clear that if I didn't hang on for dear life, the slipstream would snatch me clean off the machine. That said, my current 1973 Bonneville handles like a dream, makes good power and is very reliable. If only I knew a good mechanic. - Z
The most reliable bike I ever had is a 1941 Indian Chief, which was my wheels for 7 years. Most unreliable 57 cu in. Indian Scout stroker with twin Linkert carbs. In 1965 I rode a new Bonnie and was blown away by the performance. Current ride is '79 XLS with S&S motor and sidecar (arthritis got me.). Yup, I love old bikes.
My old Triumph five hundred stuck in second gear a few miles from home. Got her home took off the right side cover, and there were a bunch of little metal plates in there. Took them out, filed off any burrs or the edges..??...just cleaned them up a little. Put it back together, and it worked fine. That was 45 yrs. ago.
@@pauliebots My 500, and later my 650 bonnie,and earlier my 250 BSA....none of them ever gave me problems, and dammitt I wish I still had them all; they were the best.
My 650 Bonnie was the ultimate, even compared to my 500 Triumph, but the brakes sucked. I rode the old 900 and 1000 Kawasaki's my buddies had back in that day, and they were fast, but just big old straight line lead sleds. My 650 was light, torque full, and way ,way more nimble.Total perfect mix. Sold her 40 yrs. ago. I just got a 1983 Honda cx 650. She's got more horses and way better brakes, and shaft drive and she's not too complicated,I've got torque, and I'm not quite as light and nimble, but not too bad. It took me 40 yrs., but I went from a '68 all the way up to an '83 ! It's great being behind the times..I love old stuff....and it has nothing to do with being cool. Old stuff is just cooler.
I have BMWs from 68, 72, 75 and 76. Thay weigh from 425 to 465 lbs. The 75 R90 is plenty fast, and they all are very useful. The 68 600 and 72 750 are my main bikes. And I can and do do all the work myself. No computers, no electronics. And they are a lot more comfortable and handle better than most people think. And yes, they do look a lot better and turn heads.
I agree. My dream bike would be a perfect condition 1984 Honda XL 350 my second would be a 1975 Honda XL 350. They were just built different back then. Some of the newer technology is great but the old air cooled bikes were incredibly easy to own, change the oil clean the air filter adjust the valves once in a while and swap your tires when they were out. You didn’t have all these crazy service cycles with so much to do and so many parts to break. Don’t get me wrong they’re very cool if people want them but for me something simple I can just get on and ride whenever I want that’s always going to work and it is easy for me to maintain on my own without having to do it every couple months is a huge advantage for what I want. There are definitely better bikes out there but there’s something to be said about simplicity and the old bikes were just built tough. The old Japanese bikes anyway, the old English vintage bikes were complete junk they broke down they lied they were just a mess and horrible engineering and too primitive. Honda did it right for a lot of years and they still make some great bikes but those 70s and 80s Hondas were just built different and they weren’t the highest performance but they were very good performance and incredibly reliable and tough. There a new bikes I love, as much as I’ve always tried to hate BMW the newer 12 1250s are pretty amazing even the electronics and all the writing modes are amazing and I hate electronics but they did it right they left it in motorcycle left you full control on it and use electronics to kind of enhance that And they’re amazing but they’re also 20 grand. I can get an old Honda XL and fix it up nice for four grand and that has recently gone way up because they’re very popular now. And the cool thing is a lot of those old bikes have held on and they’re still making them, an XR 650 L is almost the exact same thing as an early 80s XL 600, do you have other bikes like a Yamaha TW 200 and it’s almost identical to the way they were in the 80s they added electric start in the helmet lock in change the colors but hardly changed anything else at all and the good part is as long as they keep making them people are going to keep buying new ones meaning there will be more used ones available and they keep coming for a long time. They didn’t ruin it by changing it. I KLR 650 is another example though it has the water cooling and it definitely a little more to the street side for a dual purpose and it’s a pig it’s turkey but not a ton of horsepower and it’s not super fast but they’re just awesome to own and they build them like a truck so they’re tough. And people should get what they want if you really end of the tech and you’re willing to spend the money and put in all the extra service and repairs you’re going to encounter then that’s cool and you should go for it but there’s a lot to be said for old bikes and the nice thing is you get to see their track record. If I buy a 1983 Honda XL 350 I know exactly what I’m getting, I like the new 300 in the 450 but there’s so much new technology on there. The four 5030 having some problems and the upgrades are replacing the computer and you’re talking to her $3000 on top of a 10 or $11,000 bike, that’s a little ridiculous but that’s always the risk you take when you buy something new and I really like the 300 rally but it’s still not built the same, the old bikes were much tougher can I send some of the Honda excels with over 100,000 miles on them and I’ve personally seen several over 50 and 60,000 miles. I’m not sure that 20 years from now we’re going to see a bunch of CRF 300 running around with 100,000 miles on them, I’m not sure the electronics will hold out, I hope they do but when you get your hands on one you can definitely tell the difference and yeah it might be a little lighter but it feels a little cheap and plastic and flimsy. Another thing is Comfort, a lot of new bikes have tiny rockhard seats and they’re really pushing them to cutting edge race tape performance end unless you’re out there racing or pushing the edge of whatever they decide to do they’re just not very comfortable or practical. He’s old Bikes Kind of entered into the beginning of the modern technology in the 70s and stayed pretty comfortable through the 80s but a lot of the bikes by the late 80s started having really hard uncomfortable seats and riding positions and that’s cool for racing but most people aren’t racing and they’re just not all that comfortable. I can get on a Honda XL 600 and ride around for four or five hours and the vibration bugs you a little butt you’re gonna get that with any single cylinder bike but they have nice big cushy seats and white bars in great riding positions and they’re just really comfortable. The new ones have these rockhard little motocross seats on them and the street bikes are kind of the same. Some of them have more comfortable seats and luckily you have companies like seat concepts that make more comfortable versions of them but as old Hondas had nice big very comfortable seats which may not be perfect for racing but 99.9% of the riders out there aren’t racing them they’re just cruising around and these old bikes were very comfortable and especially in the dual purpose they had reasonable seat height, 75 XL 350 are you in the 500s weren’t jacked way up there with motocross suspensions and they were incredibly comfortable to ride and sit on an even the 80s models though they had higher seat heights still had nice comfortable seats. There’s definitely something to be said for simplicity an old CB or XL Honda, almost any other Japanese bikes from that era we’re just amazing super dependable and just kind of the pure essence of a motorcycle with good performance but they were very practical and comfortable and easy and tough, the new bikes are all built like Ferraris and Lamborghinis these were built like pick up trucks, they’re just way more practical for most people and if you get over the thing where you read all the magazines and have to have the latest and greatest and you’re trying to impress and show off to your friends I think a lot of people would be very happy on a decent running old bike like this and have just as much fun I’d be much more comfortable doing it spend a whole lot less money and they’re getting something dependable that’s built to last forever. The worst things you can do to these bikes or any bike has just put them in the garage and not ride them. An old CB 500 or XL 350 from the 70s, that’s almost as comfortable as your car. Lol
I ride a 35 year old B M W / K75 c I've owned it for about 15 years and it's not everyone's cup of tea , but it pulls like a train it's in good nick and everything works perfectly on it , you can service it for about £50 that's filters oil and a set of spark plugs , it does about fifty m p g , I paid at my last renewal fully comp insurance £ 70 , thirty pounds was administrative costs, it's a very comfortable ride nice note out of the engine etc , I know people with modern bikes that can cost £500 or more just for a service , I think older bikes are more fun you ride them and can fix or service them without the Labour costs of a newish bike , mine also would be a great project for a cafe racer something I've considered but haven't got the time , I need a smaller bike for convenience to flit round on so I'm keeping my eye open and selling my B M W . Great video , I do love the Triumph and old B Ms .
I’ve had a modern Bonneville (SE) and a vintage one (1979 T140EXB) and in many ways the vintage bike was better (although no, it didn’t brake as well). The vintage bike didn’t have the snappy roll on from idle that EFI bike had, but then it was actually much more predictable/progressive (and satisfying) at lower rpms. Then about 4000 rpm the vintage bike would take off like a rocket ship. The newer Bonnie did all things pretty well, but felt sterile. Even the older riding position (Western bars like the Fonzie bike) was much more engaging and comfortable. PS for those who don’t know, the 1979’s were 5 speeds, with disc brakes and RITA electronic ignition (which was excellent).
Nicely done ! In the mid 60's had a then 'older' Bonnie. Looked a lot like your's but had the "pea shooters" replaced with megaphones. Loud! great bike but endless carburetor issues . Easy to work on but a pain dealing with metrics, British manuals and getting parts. Went to a Honda in 69. 1970 bought a new CL 350 ($695). Test rode the BIG CB750 but didn't have the $1295. They were trouble free and a joy. Until seeing your video today I always thought it was just me waxing poetically that these older bikes were lighter and quicker with half the hp. I thought my 350 was as quick or quicker than the newer Honda 1100's. 350cc use to be a fairly good sized bike but today is a kiddie size. Wish I could have bought a Snort-n Norton though.
I have several vintage 63-65 Honda’s. That’s all that I ride and I can tell you that maintaining them is easier than most anything these days. My dream vintage cycle is still the Vincent Rapide C (50’s era) with any luck that will happen. Lastly, I know what you mean about being fascinated by “modern” cycles, mine is the Ducati 916, wow I love that bike, but may never get one! Lol! Great work, I agree with everything you say !
@@bartmotorcycle are you a fan of BSA? Have you seen the very early Kawasaki’s W2, that were basically BSA lightnings…67ish I think. Kawasaki revived them and they are now called w650, w800. I’m sure you’ve seen them. Anyway I’m determined to find one of those and add it to my collection
@@garyb2392 you know I'm not a huge fan of the old bsa's just in terms of style. To me they always liked like a 'not as cool' triumph. Like I would rather have a Norton commando or a vellocette thruxton than a bsa. But yeah those newer Kawasaki retros are almost better looking than they modern bonneville. Heavy and underpowered still but very cool. Hopefully you find one!
@@bartmotorcycle I completely understand the sentiment because that’s how I felt when I first set eyes on the Kawasaki w2 a” cooler looking BSA”. My Hondas are 305, so top speed, comfortably, is 50mph. So I take it along the streets and some country roads. I’ve personally never taken them on a freeway, though I know people who have. At this point in my life retro style over speed is my preference. For me Royal Enfield’s classic 500, over w650 or Bonnie
I am just getting into motorbikes and I find myself gravitating towards old bikes. But I would not want an old bike to be my only and main way of transportation. I feel that I am getting more of a tinkering project than a vehicle with many of the bikes I find online. As you said, you’d be more of a mechanic than a rider. Don’t get me wrong, I am not one to shy away from getting my hands dirty. But if I have to be at work at 7am I don’t want to have to pray that my bike will fire up today. Or get up 2 hours earlier just in case I need to do some wrenching or catch the bus. I have a very dear friend who has a…temperamental bike (a BSA if memory serves). It is a gorgeous thing. But it won’t start for a long time if it is too cold, too hot or too humid or if the moon is not in the right phase. Okay, the last one is obviously made up but you get the picture. That would not be for me at all. But then, this dude has the patience of a saint. I don’t 😅
Nice video mate, I used to have a Triumph Bonneville in the late 60's. I paid £400 pound's for it new, wish I still had it, they are worth a fortune now over here in the uk.
Nicely summarized. Metric bikes are much easier to work on than imperial. I've an old bonnie and while it's a beast to ride it's a PITA to work on. Small bore Honda singles or large 4 cylinders are my favourites. Bikes after 1970 mostly have brakes, reliability and power all sorted.
Wentworth forever! There will always be a unique British mechanical system! The ones that came with my old 61 Dom SS 600 were King Dick brand, I am not jiving you.
Tell your Grandma to stop buying you socks for Christmas every year and start buying you Zenner Diodes. Any one who has owned a vintage Triumph will know what I'm talking about. Lord Lucas was the inventor of darkness.
Quite impressed with the crate your bike was delivered in. Damage during transport and the expenseof shippping has always been a concern for me when considering out of state auctions. Would you care to share who was used, the cost and if you were satisfied with their service?
Motorcycle shippers. Pretty expensive but totally worth it if you've got a nice bike. You can get shipping for about half with quotes on Shiply but I'd go with motorcycle shippers
I owned a Triumph Bonneville, a '58 or '59, whatever the first year of production was. Had a BSA 500 single, and later a couple Honda Scramblers, CL models. I think your dad's CL is a 305 not a 350. I seem to remember the 350 being a CB model. Maybe not. It's been a lot of years and I may be remembering wrong. The best thing about the older bikes is that they look like a motorcycle and not a refrigerator on wheels. Older is better.
I agree. Older motorcycles look like 'motorcycle' to me. And also they sound and feel like motorcycle. I like 1970, 80s models more than most modern bikes. Modern motorcycles have too much tech for my taste and they cost more than they should as a motorcycle imo.
Early 750 fours are great bikes, but as soon as you applied the brakes in corners they stood up, (caught me out a few times), bit heavy on the front end too. Z900's were the 70's dux nuts, good brakes and handling, all the Z series were quick bikes. But for me, the 69' Bonny is gravy!
I'm insanely impressed how lucky I got with my bike. I'm 14, wanted a project car or bike, found a Yamaha XZ550 for $450 Canadian dollars, and it's the perfect balance between a sportbike and a naked bike, classic mechanical bike and modern convenience. Carbureted liquid cooled self canceling signals (I guess I'll never experience the turn signal staying on pain), and it was sorta a test mule in a way for new tech in the lineup. Anyway it's been the perfect combo of giving me hope and motivation of it running well and being fixable at home and also being incredibly complicated so I don't wanna try to figure out how to remove the fog light wires I ripped off from the ugly fog light.
Agree, had an XZ400 which was a Japanese domestic model with a 400cc v twin, and it was slow as f**k but it was so comfortable to ride and it was my first new bike so it has a special place in my heart. Had an RG500 after that but sold it after 6 months because it was so quick and would have killed me.Sold it for equivalent of $3500 USD and kicking myself as one sold here (in New Zealand) for 27000 USD a few months ago!
I just bought a 1981 bmw r65 for $2500, it’s such a fun motorcycle to ride. It handles amazing, it’s super comfortable, weights 450lbs roughly but it feels lighter, and the boxer engine sounds and feels amazing, sure it’s a little sluggish for 650cc’s but everything about the bike just feels right, the horn also sounds like road-runner and I can appreciate that. I don’t think I will ever own another motorcycle other than BMW (I’d love an r18 after I get more experience and some more muscle), though I might consider a triumph bonneville since that was my first option before I found the r65
Man I love that sound. I learnt to ride on a BSA Bantam 125. In 1979 I bought a brand new Triumph Bonneville T140. Now the most powerful Triumph was a Triumph Trident T160. Even though the Bonny and Trident were both 750's the Trident would leave a Bonny in its wake. You mentioned Royal Enfield. Now Enfields were never in the same league as the Triumph's however, they would leave the modern Enfields no matter which on in the dust. Oh also in the 70's the T100 was the Triumph Tiger.
Vintage bikes like Triumphs and BSAs etc were designed and built by men who had a passion for motorcycles and rode motorcycles. They were proud of their work and passed that pride on to the owner. Modern motorcycles generally are more funtional and reliable but they just don't have the grin factor of old bike on a twisty country road, no matter how much faster they may be. When I park my old girl at the local coffee shop, I can be sure that I'll end up in a conversation with random passers by or fellow bikers which makes for more of a community. If you're looking for a little more than just high speed scratching around corners, try a vintage bike. You'll get to share information, rides, bike shows and just a lot more interaction with your fellow bike riders than you will with a modern blaster. They're just more fun!
Those are quantum assumptions.. reliable Japanese bikes demolished the British industry.. on more than a few occasions people have admired the condition of my Interceptor. What year is it? It's a 2020.. no way! Yup.
@@sscbkr48 I'm assuming that you are referring to a Royal Enfield Interceptor. People admire it because it is styled to look like the great old British bikes like the original Royal Enfield Interceptor. Or is that another quantum assumption?
Enjoyed seeing your Pop at the party. Nice video and congrats. you managed to get through it without prefixing comments with " like ". It gets like irritating
Right on man! Love the video. I ride a 78 Suzuki GS750 (72 HP). I could easily afford to ride a new bike, but every time I compare the specs, I think why the heck would I give up all the performance and even reliability of my old bike for a new one? The new Kawasaki W800 has about 2/3 of the HP of my Suzuki! And you're right about so many Harley riders. I have several vintage Vespas and Lambrettas and often don't get waves from Harley guys and I think "Dude! You couldn't even START my scooter, let alone ride it!"
My ride as an undergrad was a 1956 Triumph Tiger 100 500cc twin with touring setup. It was a wonderful machine, though it took a bit of maintenance... somehow, I never had a mechanical regulator on bike or (later) car which didn't cook the battery. Much later, for eight years my wheels were a 1982 Honda GL500I SilverWing Interstate shaftie, which was for me the perfect machine, and I sold it very regretfully. Both were stunningly attractive bikes and their 500cc motors had plenty of power to overtake semis on the motorway or interstate. Both carried me safely through some wicked thunderstorms, and the Triumph in particular got me out of some tight spots by being so manouverable. As for sound, the difference is that the old Triumphs were 360 degree timing, whereas the Honda and the modern Triumphs have 270 degree firing. The old Triumph sound really stirs the soul! PS: 1983 Honda GL650 Silverwing Interstate!
Bart, the best bike I ever owned was a 1974 Laverda 750 SF2. The thing bellowed its way thru many great miles. I paid about 2500 dollars new, sold it 10 years later for a bit more.
My friend from work had a 1000 standard triple. 1974. 2400 miles the electric starter sprag clutch gave up. He disassemble the whole bike and boxed it up. While on a visit to Italy was able to find parts. Since I worked on his Ducatis he asked if I would put the Laverda back together. 3 truck loads and 2 books. Paint the frame.sort and clean,wax parts. Head, valves, brakes, fork's, wires. New clip on bars. Electronic ing, smaller coils. Clean and sync carbs. Big backfire when it started and shook the garage door on the rollers. Waxed my truck, clean windows, new shirt and deliver the bike. Felt like I was in a parade. Photo album of the build.
Picked up a 1980 CX500 non-runner a couple months ago real cheap and so so happy I’ve got her running. Rebuilt all myself and wow such satisfaction. Absolutely loving riding her now, so much power and feels amazing. Although I must say I miss the work in the garage, waiting for something else to go wrong almost eagerly ahaha (sure it’ll come soon)
I'm still riding my 1989 BMW R100GS I bought new. I've forgotten all the work I've done on it over the years. I'm 67 now and it is getting a bit hard for me to get on and off the thing. But I can't imagine life without it. It is like a member of the family now. No fuel injection, just two big fat Bing carbs that even I understand how to tune. I've changed starters 4 times (Valeo junk) and a couple of diode boards. Lots of other stuff over the years. I learned a lot from this bike. Only stranded me once in 32 years after getting drenched in a driving rain. Worked fine after drying out.
I've been amazed how helpful the vintage Triumph community is. Everyone I've talked to has given me help and advice on restoring my '61 T120R. They seem to want to spread the knowledge and keep the old bikes alive.
Hi Bart. I’m an old head who rode a rare & fast Norton 600. Now ISO a classic era British motorcycle & am close to making a deal with the owner of a Norton Atlas 750 1963. Looking for any and everything Re: vetting & maintenance of same. For all the reasons you gave plus not getting any younger so I am zeroing in on being on my own retro Brit bike. They were da bomb in the day and still are.
Great job Bart your videos are really good. I actually finish all your videos I always stop halfway through others I find your content much more appreciated anyway thank you and ride on.
Back in 1979 I bought a 1956 BMW R60 with a Steib S250 sidecar....I was 19 at the time. Gave $1500 for it. 43 years later this wonderful machine still holds a special place in my garage.....along with 4 other vintage BMW's
I’ve had 18 bikes in my life and the one garnering the most attention is my 1994 “Malibu Barbie” KLR it’s easy to keep running ( just maintenance ) I’ve added to the wild paint scheme by painting things like foot peg mounting brackets the luggage rack etc…brightly contrasting colors and the ladies ( old and young)are commenting on it almost every time I stop! It’s big and goofy and I’ve driven it all over the great southwest and even into Mexico ( in the mid 90s) sadly that’s not safe anymore.I got it used and have had more fun on it than any other bike I’ve owned! It will go anywhere I’m willing ! Duel sport - Touring it’s a great life ! Ride On👍💪
The reason why older products are better than modern products is the motivation. They were made from passion and of course they had nothing to follow. But the real reason is they were more motivated to make a great product where today it's about chasing a demographic. People want bikes that are easy to ride and reliable. They really want them to look cool, which should not be hard to do, but reliability is key. I'm getting a 1971 Honda CL450, 50 years old and ride it as one of my main rides. 50 years old and it still works. Just Imagine.
Cool video. Nice Triumph. Bikes I've owned: 1974 Honda CB450, 1978 Suzuki GS1000, 1980 Kawasaki Z1000, 1989 Yamaha FJ1200, 2002 Kawasaki ZRX1200. My hands down favorite was the GS1000. Should never have sold it, but college was more important at the time.
I’ve been working on an ‘81 Yamaha xs400s for the past year, I’m currently restoring the dual carbs so that I can actually get the engine to run. They’re Mikuni carbs and I will have to rebuild both of them, as the entire bike has been sitting out since it was wrecked a bit over 80k. If they don’t I might try a EFI conversion if I’m desperate for it by the end. Plan to keep it somewhat stock save for the lights, paint and air filters.
I don't miss the vibrations of my '72 BSA A65L. At high revs my hands were not in contact with the grips. Now I ride a Moto Guzzi. They never developed much from "vintage", maybe with the exception of the latest model that is water cooled and has the latest tech.
I bought my first bike in 2012, an 82 CB650 Nighthawk, have had 5 bikes since but I can’t part ways with my Honda 650. After 6 years of sitting in a corner it should be rolling again this summer after a full engine and carb refresh. Can’t wait
Yep, boomer here and having ridden 60s triumphs, my current T100 is just flat out overweight! Of course the old 60s Bonnie’s with their vertical split crankcase leaked oil and the electrics were dodgy, but they were fast, lightweight and nimble machines compared to the current Bonneville. I would add though, the 2001 Hinkley Bonneville I was sadly compelled to sell was a happy medium. Air cooled and significantly lighter than the current crop, with a modern engine design, electrics, etc.
Yupp spot on. The modern classic Triumph are tuned for torque, they're big heavy torque machines, basically cruisers which is cool. But the original legendary triumphs were revvy lightweight machines
I have a 1966 Triumph T100 500cc motorcycle that is unbelievably small and light weight. It weights like a modern 350 machine and would be perfect for a small stature rider.
That’s a beautiful old Triumph you have there, your comments make a lot of sense as well, most of my bike are older ones, 1955 James Captain, 1991 900ss, 1977 CB750, 1976 GT250A, and so on, love working on and riding all of my bikes, ironically I tried a 1970 Bonneville and bought a modern 1200 Thruxton instead 😂, I’d still love to own your Trummy though, it’s a beaut 👍
Splayed port engines like your Triumph will never be made again, but they make for the most graceful exhaust system ever used on a motorcycle. Add the twin splayed carbs of a Bonneville with the chrome air filters poking out the sides and it gets just plain sexy. A real work of motorcycle art.
Dad have a 1942 harley davidson wlc and as a 16 year old i bought myself a soviet Dnepr. It had been standing outside since 2003, and im now on the road to restore it and make it as original as it can get
I like my Royal Enfield Continental 535 GT. The low revving engine is really nice. And you are not encouraged to thrash the engine. I've had it for five years and people really like it, especially now they don't make them any more !!! People like the sound my bike makes and they watch me go past. They are very rare where I live !!!
I have a late 30s BMW R75 sidecar and 40 500cc BSA WM20. Completely in love with both of them. The only time I take the modern HD bagger out is when the ride is over say 50 miles. Old hard tail bikes are hard on my old bones. I stupidly sold my 63 Triumph 500 Daytona, i got good money but I still kick myself for selling it to this day.
I'm in the prep stage on replacing my '83 Honda Magna's electrical into something less complex, and is able to use leds. The kid I got it from wrecked the wiring. Luck for me he didn't touch the engine wiring. I've come along way in the last 18 months.
I got a 1975 Honda CB550 before I bought my 97 Softail custom and I love them both for different reasons. My Honda needs some love and I can't wait to get riding both in the summer
There's a great sense of pride in buying an old bike, rescuing it from the back of a garage or dusty barn and bringing it back into the living so to speak. They are a joy and put a smile on my face especially during that first ride after finishing it! I will agree tho, that it's good to have a modern bike as your main ride, as these old dinosaurs WILL break down occasionally. But it's all worth it, as they are a pure old school experience with tons of charm. 4 wheels move the body but 2 wheels move the soul 😎
You are right about old bikes turning heads. When your dad starts his motorcycle, neighbors wander over to our garage to check it out, and one day a guy on the street corner stood at attention and saluted him!
Great looking Triumph. I got my first bike three years ago, a 1975 Honda CB750. I paid 2 grand for it and it's been bulletproof. I wanted to find something cool and affordable that I could learn to do the maintenance and work on. A 70's Honda CB was a great choice. When I was first looking for a vintage bike I wanted an old Triumph but was told by a motorcycle mechanic to start with a Honda CB, learn to do the basic maintenance then get a Triumph as your second bike. It was good advice. Last year I picked up my second bike, a 1964 Triumph TR6. I've been having a blast with it.
Look at Jay Leno on 1964 Triumph Bonneville...You'll fall in love...er with the bike not Jay!
@@asacarrick1440 I've seen that video a few times. I love that bike. Jay's got the best motorcycles.
I've owned many Honda's and rode them like I stoled them and no problems
@@daveco1270 if we had Jay Leno's money we could all own prestene vehicles two and four wheel .
how was it going to right hand shift? was it hard?
I agree there is a lot to love about older bikes, however, weight to horse power is not going to make your old bike competitive with a modern bike.The engineering of newer bikes is amazing. Weight distribution, braking, suspension are all superior on new bikes to older bikes. Yes the new bike is heavier, but it brakes harder, more smoothly loads the suspension and carves a corner better than an older, lighter bike. Speed isn't everything. I got the most smiles when I was zipping around town on a Vespa. The coolest ride is the one that makes you smile. I'm smiling on 2012 Triumph Tiger. Be safe, and take care friends. Thanks for the video.
My 1968 Triumph 650 Bonnie, was way more fun than my buddies 900 and 1000 Kawasaki LTD led sleds of the day. Torque and nimble - ness and the rumble, blows away ....just about anything.
My 79 Triumph has disc brakes , electronic ignition and great carbs weighing in at under 400 LBS. It doesn't need a mechanic to keep it running nor any skill to stop it or steer it. In fact its handling is legendary nothing today compares. Also it gets 57+ MPG. Best bike I ever bought and still own.
@@chev39rshSelling my 68 triumph killed me,...for about 40 years. I can still remember exactly how she felt. But I was young and dumb. So I just got another 650. A 1983 honda cx 650. 20 more horses and better brakes. I moved up 15 years. She's not a Triumph....but she's pretty cool; my first electric start bike ever. She's a little heavier, still a great 650 twin. I'd trade her for my old Triumph in a heart beat.
I’ve got a 1976 2 stroke! It’s a money pit but I love it so much! I wouldn’t swap it out for a modern bike with ABS, TC etc!
In the same situation.Except mine is not running. 😒
My day to day 'round town ride has been a 1968 CZ 125 since I bought it secondhand in the late '90s. Reasonable reliability coupled with super repair-ability just makes it unbelievably cheap to run. I rode it every day for about 8 years before I was finally forced to change out the original Czechoslovakian spark plug.
It is so unusual in the modern era that it turns heads and starts conversations with young and old alike... and it cost me AU$1300 when the cheapest Chinese C-series Honda copies were selling for about $1500 here.
With just a modicum of technical nouse many vintage bikes can become the best value for money vehicle you can buy. Especially the small two stroke commuters from days gone by when manufactures took it for granted that the owners would be the only mechanics to ever lay a spanner on it
P.S. Oh yeah, also such bikes tend to gain rather than loose value...
I spent last summer on my 1952 Triumph Speedtwin 500cc and it was amazing. I had the great luck of being asked if I wanted to buy it from the estate of a friend of a friend's father-in-law. The father-in-law kept the bike in super condition and totally stock and original and I guess he drove it a few times a year, mostly on good days in the summertime. Since we live in Sweden, that's not very many. Riding a small British 500cc compared to my usual and preferred rides, which are Harley big twin flathead choppers, it was a surprisingly fun alternative. The bike starts easy with a light kick start, usually on the first kick, and is so smooth and mellow to ride. And the sound of a British parallel twin is almost as good as the sound of a flathead. I second the opinion on this post - vintage bikes give you alot of feel and joy, and in my experience more so than modern bikes. But that's a personal reflection and no truth whatsoever! Each to his own.
I've got a few more hours of work until my '62 Harley Duo Gilde will run and take me around town. So come summer, I've got the choice of a '38 Flattie chop, a vintage '62 full dresser, and my super sweet Brit '52 pre-unit! Ride on and ride safe! preferably on something old.
Love the note out of the Triumph engine , nice machine, Luck you keep hold of it , ride safe .
My Dad had a 500cc "Tiger 100" in the 40's and I have wanted to ride one since I can remember. Is yours single carb? I might even do a test swap with my highly prized ZX9R 2nd party experience pending.
That 500cc Triumph was (especially the mid-sixties Tiger version that sold in the US) is such a cool bike!! I think its the one that started the Bonneville, Tiger 650's of the mid sixties. (By the time they bloated to 750's (like my 1977 Tiger), it began to loose some of that original character).
@@a5-30-31cts I rode a modern Triumph 1200. Great bike. Reality is if they were still being made like the originals they wouldn't sell many. There can only ever be one original. My 2003 ZX9R was my ultra passion machine, reality there is, as much as I love it, it's not soulful and relaxing to ride. My other bike, 2008 KLR650 is rock solid, dirt cheap and really takes me back to what riding was like in the 70"s. I find it very soulful and relaxing to ride so I forget it has the lines of a Carnival Ride and has lime green plastic all over it. None of my bike's turn any heads but they are very much like I've always ridden; perfectly imperfect.
If I see an old motorcycle around you can bet I'll be the first to stop, admire it and appreciate it fully. And after all, what could be more satisfying than having someone walk away from his own bike to enjoy admiring and taking in every line of your bike?
I have been Riding for 58 years and have had many bikes. Sold off most of my vintage bikes but still have 6. I still have a 1982 Honda 450 Nighthawk. It runs perfectly and is a lot of fun. I also have a Harley, with 140,000 kms no issues and no failures. It is basically maintenance free. Yes it is heavy but it certainly isn’t slow or clunky. I liked your video even if I didn’t agree with all of it.
You’ve made a great, thought provoking video- BUT, if you aren’t handy with a spanner, forget it! I’ve restored and recommissioned several bikes now that have come from people who couldn’t maintain it. It’s just sad! And with shop rates here in Australia at 150 dollars an hour, you’ll be broke if you take it to someone. And trust me when I say “simple to work on” is great until you find rounded bolts, opened up Philips heads screws, ceased parts, carbs that constantly clog (use fuel stabiliser folks!)
Having said all this: I love vintage bikes!
Get a vintage bike!
I take some issue with the bonneville on track claim. The bonnie easily outbrakes the old one simply by the merit of having modern discs. ABS is just icing on top. The imroved frame and suspension also put the new one ahead of the old.
I'm going to assume that you have never ridden an old Bonneville. Weighing 200 lbs. less is more of an advantage in braking and handling than better brakes and whatnot. So says Sir Isac Newton.
very true. a 70's bike can be light and simple, but you want to add disk brakes.
About braking, ABS compensate well for inexperienced average bikers. In Moto GP racing there is no ABS on the bikes.
If you have been riding lass than 50 years when you get on a 60s bonneville remember the shifters are on the other side.
Scary in an emergency if you have a lot of modern muscle memory
@@garyhoward4064 You couldn't lock the front brakes on my old Honda 750 K2. Even though I had double discs...ofc because they were made of a rust free material :/
You could go really fast on it if you got used to the limitations of the suspension, frame and forks. And other unique characteristics like really wrestling it down, coming into a tight corner, only to have it fall the last bit if you didn't meet it with more throttle, but that made the front forks starting to bend out of alignment and making it hard keeping the right path. It also made the bike not wanting to go further down making it even harder to keep the right position through the bend. To take care of that problem you have to counter steer to be able to drop the bike the last couple of centimeters.
Hard to drive hard? Yes! Fun? All the time :)
Old bikes are like time machines... The feeling is priceless.
The rectifier failed on my 1973 Norton Commando a few months after I got it. Bought a solid state replacement I saw in a J.C. Whitney catalog which also eliminated the zener diode. Forty eight years later it’s still doing the job.
Put a new stainless steel nut on my zener diode on my lovely shiney footrest mount a few years ago on my 1970 Norton Commando 750 that I bought in 1973. Fifty two years later, it's still doing the job too. It has the right owner.
Wish I had known this back in the day when I bought an open ( no filte, as designed) Norton Dominator SS, 600 cc that shocked many a British bike rider, as well as Sportsters solo versus me with a passenger. Slow when I bought it when about two years old. Slow til my mechanic turned the 1.1::1 ratio rocker arms around the way they were supposed to be. Back in the day both my bike and my Jaguar had Lucas electrics. Back then Lucas was known as the Prince of Darkness. Feeling the vintage bikes calling me. Your solution much better than just packing two spare Zener diodes.
@@stancoleshill8925 I have a mk1a 1973 850 that belonged to my dad he bought it in 1975 . I first rode it aged 17 after passing my open bike licence . Still the bees knees . Mum never liked bikes we had 7 of them
Hope to buy my second Norton soon. Doing all my due diligence before parting with several stacks of lettuce. I remember Zener diodes quite well -,always carried TWO spares after first time. Do you know the specs for the diode? What do you like for solid state? Anything special about doing the conversion? Do you recall Lucas’ nickname? The Prince of Darkness. Had a Mk II Jaguar also. I already know more than I prefer about Zener diodes.
@@mattgoodmangoodmanlawnmowi2454 Classic British Spares markets a replacement for the rectifier and zener diode. It’s called Tympanium.
Back in another lifetime, (1963), I bought my first bike, a 1959 650cc Triumph Thunderbird. Had no problem handling the weight, as was able to sit with both feet flat to the ground, which I'm told greatly improves one's balancing the bike when at rest. Since that time have owned a 1967 Yamaha YDS 3 250cc, and a 1982 Honda CBN 250cc. Today after a 35 year absence from riding, I've just bought a 2022, Royal Enfield 350 Classic, in that stunning color of Halcyon Green. After riding it through heavy traffic, I can agree that it's weight becomes more apparent in stop/start situations than my old Triumph did. On the move though, it's fine, feels light, handles beautifully, belying it's 195KG wet weight. After looking at the reviews of many makes and models, The RE 350 Classic ticked all the boxes pertaining to, Price, Paintwork, Seat comfort on long hauls, ABS to both front and rear wheels, Petrol economy, as in 2.6 liters per 100 kilometers, or in the old money, as near as dammit to 100 MPG, (UK gallon= 4.5 liters), EFI, Handling, and superb attention to detail in keeping it's retro styling close to the original Royal Enfield Bullet. It may have a top speed of almost 120km/h, but then realistically, where it shines, is that this big single is quite tractable, pulling away strongly from a mere 20km/h in 3rd gear without the slightest hint of laboring. It's a bike built for cruising. Another interesting point of note, is that reviewers the World over were/are unanimous in their praise of this motorcycle and indeed other variants of the Royal Enfield stable...
My very first road bike was a 1954 BSA B31, 350 cc single cylinder. I think '54 was when BSA went away from the old plunger suspension and began to make bikes with a swinging arm suspension. It was easy to work on, easy to start and easy to ride.
What's probably been forgotten about most of those old British singles is how interchangeable internal parts were, not just from one model to another, but also from different makes. Pistons, rings, valves and valve springs were commonly the same between BSA, Ariel, AJS, Matchless etc. If, like me, you owned a B31 or a B33, you could fill the inside up with Gold Star components, add a big Amal GP carby and to all intents and purposes, you had a Gold Star without the good looks!
Good on you for introducing the kids early to the sound and feel. Seeing you giving rides on the tank brought back vivid memories. I was three and I still remember. I'm 69 now. Looking back at my motorcycle history, I realize it was a huge chunk of my life. Favorite bike? Whichever one I'm on at the time.
One thing you failed to mention with the older brit bikes, and older bikes in general. As people have worked on them over the years and replaced original parts with newer more reliable parts. They're often better now than when they came out of the factory.
As a former & future owner of a vintage British machine and former owner of a vintage British car, I say RIP Zener diodes!
I'd prefer that they rest in the Hell they came from.@@mattgoodmangoodmanlawnmowi2454
I didn’t watch the whole video, so this might already be mentioned, but imho the chance that there is invisible damage, is also significant. My bike is in the shop for the third time in a row (!)at this moment. Because searching for the root of the problem is hella hard sometimes. The ‘improved’ carburator needles set that the previous owner had done, not only throws a spanner in the works, but the original parts of the carburators also appear to be damaged by doing so in the past.
Ok,you convinced me.I'll keep my old T 120R that I've had for 40+years.I don't care if people look at me or not,it's just familiar and still fits,just like my Levi bell-bottoms.It matches my 69 truck.Now to find parts for my very early Rickman and no,I don't facebook.
I've had my 78 Bonneville 750 here in England for 29 years and love riding it, but it's too valuable and too good to use in the winter when they cover the roads with salt, so this year I turned to the dark side and added a 1980 Suzuki GS550. It was cheap to buy and mechanically simple and, most importantly, I'm now enjoying riding all year round without worrying about ruining the Triumph.
I love the old bikes and working on them is such a joy for me. Taking a beater a restoring it is a great feeling. Just got an 86’ virago 1100 that all original but has been sitting a long time. Can’t wait to finish it.
Another great thing about learning to work on bikes is you can pick up bikes for dirt cheap from people not mechanically savvy.
I have still my second motorcycle that I bought back in 1973. to this day. And has been the most reliable machine ever out of all that I have bought. and owned! It being a 1945 EL Harley. Always wakes right up every spring. Has carried me all over the lower 48. My first bike was a 1966 Honda 305 Scrambler, which I sold for $438, and bought the old Knucklehead Hawg, for $200
Excellent video. I've got a shop full of vintage bikes in various states of restoration. I've restored several starting with boxes of parts. There is nothing like a vintage bike. I had a 1950 Harley Hydra Glide when I was in high school. I had one of the new Triumphs but it just doesn't have the charm of the old ones. Luckily I have a few 😁
That's awesome! Id love to see your bikes. Did you share them on Instagram or somewhere? I'm a part of most of the vintage Triumph groups on Facebook too. Per your other comment, my bike is a 68 triumph t100c. I've got a video talking about it called "what is like to ride a vintage motorcycle"
@@bartmotorcycle I saw that video 👍. I have a couple of T100's. One is a pretty nice one and the other one, which I just finished putting together and rewiring, was pretty bad shape. There was water in the forks, transmission, engine and would have been in the gas tank but it rusted out with about a hundred holes in the bottom. I'm putting together a video I'll post to my TH-cam channel. I don't have any social media accounts, don't have the time, need or inclination for them, not that I'm anti-social.
I bought an 83' Nighthawk 650 10 years ago (first bike) and rode it a couple times before moving far away. I finally had the opportunity to move it here last year and started riding again. Man, it was fun, but I did notice there was some lack of power. Not knowing exactly what might be wrong and figuring everything could use a refresh after 40 years, I spent several hundred and 20 hours replacing piston rings, gaskets, and cleaning the heck out of the valves. A few mistakes and several swears later, the bike sounds incredible! I took it for a test ride and holy smokes does it have more giddy-up! I could've easily just bought something newer but this was so much more satisfying. And you're right -- old bikes hold their value. I could probably sell it now for what I paid for it. The only problem is there is no way I'd sell this bike; love it.
My first and current motorcycle is a 1976 Honda CB750A and it is awesome!! So many people compliment it everywhere I go. Outside of having to replace all of the old brittle rubber components with new stuff when I first purchased it, it has been absolutely bulletproof! Great video!!
I had a '67 Triumph TR6 back in the early 1970s. It was a great bike and I loved it. There were some cons, even back then.
It shook. I lost two license plates, the left rider's footpeg came loose and once a month or so you had to tighten about every fastener or something else would come loose out on the road. Yes, I had loctited the peg bolt.
The other problem was its gearing. It was a wet dream to ride on the two lanes and back roads. On the freeway, however, the engine was not happy spinning along at 70+ mph. England has slower roads.
If you're willing to take care of things and keep to the back roads, an old Triumph is as much fun as you can have with your pants on.
My '82 Goldwing Interstate is my daily driver,, While my '83 Goldwing Aspendcade is getting it's motor rebuilt.. I LOVE my classic Hondas !!!!
Couldn‘t have said it any better. That‘s actually why I just bought me a CB 750 Four K2 from 1974. Costs a small fortune, but it‘s cool like hell and I can really understand it. Besides it still performs.
I never expected to see a Triumph T120 becoming more valuable than my BMW R100s. But the Triumph is a nice looking bike. You seem to have bikes worked out.
I still own my 1981 Yamaha XV920RH, which I bought new 41 years ago. It is equipped with it’s original Hannigan Super sport fairing and has some improvements. She has been all over North America and still breaks 100 miles per hour. While it’s not as fast as my Honda Firestorm, she is comfortable and sounds great!
I have only owned 2 motorcycles. In 1969, when I was 21, I bought a 1965 Triumph Bonneville. Loved it for 5+ years but had to sell it to finance my education. (As a student in France, I owned a Velosolex - a 32cc front-wheel drive machine that I would not consider to qualify as a motorcycle). About 15 years ago, I bought my second motorcycle. I was about 60 when I bought a 1939 Royal Enfield Bullet. My old Triumph would top 120 miles per hour because of some minimal performance modifications; the Royal Enfield struggles when it gets over 60 miles per hour, but it has original paint, original upholstery, and matching numbers. It looks like it has been through a war (because it has). It is the queen of the show at local gatherings. I have never owned a motorcycle with an electric starter. Sometimes, I machine my own parts on my 1934 Southbend lathe. I'm no longer about going fast, but I miss my Bonneville. It was a dream to handle.
My two best friends had Nortons (we were the 'hooligan types' of the pre-Japanese era advertising slogan "You meet the nicest people on a Honda." Quite possibly the more boring people, too. Back then, we would hide behind billboards to embarrass Harley owners (we easily out-accelerated and out-handled them up to about 80 miles per hour). Brit bike chicks were easy to spot; they always had nice figures but bad complexions from being spattered with castol. I was lucky to survive during the 1960s and started writing my memoirs during Covid. The Triumph figures very prominently during my reckless youth. The only thing that compares with bikes is airplanes, but I returned to bikes and classic cars because they are cheaper.
My first motorcycle was a 1968 736 cc Royal Enfield Interceptor. I was only 15 when I got it. It never occurred to me that it was fast or anything like that. To me it was just freedom and now I’m almost 70 with 11 motorcycles in my garage: 2 small Japanese, 2 Harley’s, 3 Ducatis & 4 English, (one Velocette, 2 Commandos, and one Bonneville.) All but one is vintage. I still would love to get a ‘68 interceptor.
Thank you for a great post. I have just become the proud owner of a 1986 gs850gg Suzuki it was the closest to original spec I had seen and at a sensible price too. I love the lines, the sound and the simplicity of it and yes it does give you a sense of achievement when you work on these bikes doing basic maintenance and leave real engineering to those who really can put years of fun riding on your bike by giving you peace of mind when you throw your leg over it. Totally agree with your take on these older bikes, your bike looks and sounds magnificent. Tell your dad, if 350's are his thing, to keep an eye out for a Honda 350 four they look and sound amazing. Anyway, thanks again for a great post.👍👍👍
i myself have an old 1942 DKW RT series bike, and i love it!
My first experience on a motorcycle was when I was about 6 or 7 years old and I was visiting family in Cincinnati. My Dads cousin had a 650 Triumph Bonieville and he gave me a ride ! I had been bitten by the bike… my dad bought my brother and I mini bikes and go carts and eventually when I was around 13 a Honda cl100 scrambler! My brother had a cl175 he was 2 years older. My Dad rode a cb 450.. mine you this was in the mid 70s… through the years I’ve had many many motorcycles… but the favorite that I own now is a 71 cb175 and a 72 cb500 four… I think they are absolutely the best
I have a 64 panhead harley that I've had for 42 years got it for my 19th birthday and still ride it also got a 56 panhead about 4 years ago I love them, tank shift, foot clutch, kick start only, they both will go 100 mph plus reliably
Love those old Pans. I'd love to see them.
Memories of riding my Honda CB500T is exactly what’s keeping me from buying a vintage bike, the terrible handling, the subpar brakes, the incessant handlebar vibration, the constant fiddling with spark plugs, points, and carburetors; no thank you!! Not to mention the horrendous seat.
You're absolutely right. I've got my sights on an early 1970s Honda CB450 twin or CB550F. I just missed out on the former in a recent motorcycle auction here in Britain and can't wait for another chance in November to own one.
I do have a modern CB650 so it would be cool to own its grand dad.
Just came across your channel today definitely a new favorite,I ride a 1982 suzuki gs750e,and absolutely adore it,and it definitely turns heads,not as flashy as your triumph but definitely has it share of admirers
My first was a BSA Thunderbolt 650 single carb 1967 righty shifty and kick start lefty brakey rode it many years. Then let it go .Later got TT 500 1977 Yamaha had it for 38yrs rebuilt it three times this is not what rolled off the show room floor still weights 350lbs still competitive. Thumpers sound so good with a comp exhaust system !!
Great video, there is certainly something very cool about riding an old bike. I ended up selling a 2015 BMW R1200R because I prefer to ride my 1984 BMW R65, so much more character and plenty quick enough for everyday riding. I’ve owned the R65 for 22 years and will never sell it.
Just purchased 1974 BMW 60 / 6 excellent condition, low miles, very nice bike. My personal preference are the / 2 s owned seven or eight of them and that's my for sure my favorite all-time
I totally agree with you. In my garage there is a 1970 Bonneville and a 1976 Goldwing. I also have a modern Triumph but the old ones are such great rides. On the other hand, I have four Monarks 98 cc from 37 and 38. They are also fun to ride but only for like 20-30 kilometers. As always, choose your weapons!
I have a 1979 Yamaha DT 175 and it’s a total blast to ride. It looks great and people always trip out when seeing a 2 stroke driving on the road.
Going nearly 100 mph on my 1951 Triumph Thunderbird was more than fun, it was terrifying. I only did it once, late at night. It was clear that if I didn't hang on for dear life, the slipstream would snatch me clean off the machine. That said, my current 1973 Bonneville handles like a dream, makes good power and is very reliable. If only I knew a good mechanic. - Z
The most reliable bike I ever had is a 1941 Indian Chief, which was my wheels for 7 years. Most unreliable 57 cu in. Indian Scout stroker with twin Linkert carbs.
In 1965 I rode a new Bonnie and was blown away by the performance.
Current ride is '79 XLS with S&S motor and sidecar (arthritis got me.).
Yup, I love old bikes.
My old Triumph five hundred stuck in second gear a few miles from home. Got her home took off the right side cover, and there were a bunch of little metal plates in there. Took them out, filed off any burrs or the edges..??...just cleaned them up a little. Put it back together, and it worked fine. That was 45 yrs. ago.
Lower ends of vintage triumphs are basically bulletproof if not molested.
@@pauliebots My 500, and later my 650 bonnie,and earlier my 250 BSA....none of them ever gave me problems, and dammitt I wish I still had them all; they were the best.
My 650 Bonnie was the ultimate, even compared to my 500 Triumph, but the brakes sucked. I rode the old 900 and 1000 Kawasaki's my buddies had back in that day, and they were fast, but just big old straight line lead sleds. My 650 was light, torque full, and way ,way more nimble.Total perfect mix. Sold her 40 yrs. ago. I just got a 1983 Honda cx 650. She's got more horses and way better brakes, and shaft drive and she's not too complicated,I've got torque, and I'm not quite as light and nimble, but not too bad. It took me 40 yrs., but I went from a '68 all the way up to an '83 ! It's great being behind the times..I love old stuff....and it has nothing to do with being cool. Old stuff is just cooler.
I have BMWs from 68, 72, 75 and 76. Thay weigh from 425 to 465 lbs. The 75 R90 is plenty fast, and they all are very useful. The 68 600 and 72 750 are my main bikes.
And I can and do do all the work myself. No computers, no electronics. And they are a lot more comfortable and handle better than most people think.
And yes, they do look a lot better and turn heads.
i just got my first bike. 1982 honda xl500r been loving it, rips around town and in the dirt but hates the freeway. cheers
I agree. My dream bike would be a perfect condition 1984 Honda XL 350 my second would be a 1975 Honda XL 350. They were just built different back then. Some of the newer technology is great but the old air cooled bikes were incredibly easy to own, change the oil clean the air filter adjust the valves once in a while and swap your tires when they were out. You didn’t have all these crazy service cycles with so much to do and so many parts to break. Don’t get me wrong they’re very cool if people want them but for me something simple I can just get on and ride whenever I want that’s always going to work and it is easy for me to maintain on my own without having to do it every couple months is a huge advantage for what I want. There are definitely better bikes out there but there’s something to be said about simplicity and the old bikes were just built tough. The old Japanese bikes anyway, the old English vintage bikes were complete junk they broke down they lied they were just a mess and horrible engineering and too primitive. Honda did it right for a lot of years and they still make some great bikes but those 70s and 80s Hondas were just built different and they weren’t the highest performance but they were very good performance and incredibly reliable and tough.
There a new bikes I love, as much as I’ve always tried to hate BMW the newer 12 1250s are pretty amazing even the electronics and all the writing modes are amazing and I hate electronics but they did it right they left it in motorcycle left you full control on it and use electronics to kind of enhance that And they’re amazing but they’re also 20 grand. I can get an old Honda XL and fix it up nice for four grand and that has recently gone way up because they’re very popular now. And the cool thing is a lot of those old bikes have held on and they’re still making them, an XR 650 L is almost the exact same thing as an early 80s XL 600, do you have other bikes like a Yamaha TW 200 and it’s almost identical to the way they were in the 80s they added electric start in the helmet lock in change the colors but hardly changed anything else at all and the good part is as long as they keep making them people are going to keep buying new ones meaning there will be more used ones available and they keep coming for a long time. They didn’t ruin it by changing it. I KLR 650 is another example though it has the water cooling and it definitely a little more to the street side for a dual purpose and it’s a pig it’s turkey but not a ton of horsepower and it’s not super fast but they’re just awesome to own and they build them like a truck so they’re tough.
And people should get what they want if you really end of the tech and you’re willing to spend the money and put in all the extra service and repairs you’re going to encounter then that’s cool and you should go for it but there’s a lot to be said for old bikes and the nice thing is you get to see their track record. If I buy a 1983 Honda XL 350 I know exactly what I’m getting, I like the new 300 in the 450 but there’s so much new technology on there. The four 5030 having some problems and the upgrades are replacing the computer and you’re talking to her $3000 on top of a 10 or $11,000 bike, that’s a little ridiculous but that’s always the risk you take when you buy something new and I really like the 300 rally but it’s still not built the same, the old bikes were much tougher can I send some of the Honda excels with over 100,000 miles on them and I’ve personally seen several over 50 and 60,000 miles. I’m not sure that 20 years from now we’re going to see a bunch of CRF 300 running around with 100,000 miles on them, I’m not sure the electronics will hold out, I hope they do but when you get your hands on one you can definitely tell the difference and yeah it might be a little lighter but it feels a little cheap and plastic and flimsy. Another thing is Comfort, a lot of new bikes have tiny rockhard seats and they’re really pushing them to cutting edge race tape performance end unless you’re out there racing or pushing the edge of whatever they decide to do they’re just not very comfortable or practical. He’s old Bikes Kind of entered into the beginning of the modern technology in the 70s and stayed pretty comfortable through the 80s but a lot of the bikes by the late 80s started having really hard uncomfortable seats and riding positions and that’s cool for racing but most people aren’t racing and they’re just not all that comfortable. I can get on a Honda XL 600 and ride around for four or five hours and the vibration bugs you a little butt you’re gonna get that with any single cylinder bike but they have nice big cushy seats and white bars in great riding positions and they’re just really comfortable. The new ones have these rockhard little motocross seats on them and the street bikes are kind of the same. Some of them have more comfortable seats and luckily you have companies like seat concepts that make more comfortable versions of them but as old Hondas had nice big very comfortable seats which may not be perfect for racing but 99.9% of the riders out there aren’t racing them they’re just cruising around and these old bikes were very comfortable and especially in the dual purpose they had reasonable seat height, 75 XL 350 are you in the 500s weren’t jacked way up there with motocross suspensions and they were incredibly comfortable to ride and sit on an even the 80s models though they had higher seat heights still had nice comfortable seats. There’s definitely something to be said for simplicity an old CB or XL Honda, almost any other Japanese bikes from that era we’re just amazing super dependable and just kind of the pure essence of a motorcycle with good performance but they were very practical and comfortable and easy and tough, the new bikes are all built like Ferraris and Lamborghinis these were built like pick up trucks, they’re just way more practical for most people and if you get over the thing where you read all the magazines and have to have the latest and greatest and you’re trying to impress and show off to your friends I think a lot of people would be very happy on a decent running old bike like this and have just as much fun I’d be much more comfortable doing it spend a whole lot less money and they’re getting something dependable that’s built to last forever. The worst things you can do to these bikes or any bike has just put them in the garage and not ride them. An old CB 500 or XL 350 from the 70s, that’s almost as comfortable as your car. Lol
I ride a 35 year old B M W / K75 c I've owned it for about 15 years and it's not everyone's cup of tea , but it pulls like a train it's in good nick and everything works perfectly on it , you can service it for about £50 that's filters oil and a set of spark plugs , it does about fifty m p g , I paid at my last renewal fully comp insurance £ 70 , thirty pounds was administrative costs, it's a very comfortable ride nice note out of the engine etc , I know people with modern bikes that can cost £500 or more just for a service , I think older bikes are more fun you ride them and can fix or service them without the Labour costs of a newish bike , mine also would be a great project for a cafe racer something I've considered but haven't got the time , I need a smaller bike for convenience to flit round on so I'm keeping my eye open and selling my B M W . Great video , I do love the Triumph and old B Ms .
I’ve had a modern Bonneville (SE) and a vintage one (1979 T140EXB) and in many ways the vintage bike was better (although no, it didn’t brake as well). The vintage bike didn’t have the snappy roll on from idle that EFI bike had, but then it was actually much more predictable/progressive (and satisfying) at lower rpms. Then about 4000 rpm the vintage bike would take off like a rocket ship. The newer Bonnie did all things pretty well, but felt sterile. Even the older riding position (Western bars like the Fonzie bike) was much more engaging and comfortable. PS for those who don’t know, the 1979’s were 5 speeds, with disc brakes and RITA electronic ignition (which was excellent).
Nicely done ! In the mid 60's had a then 'older' Bonnie. Looked a lot like your's but had the "pea shooters" replaced with megaphones. Loud! great bike but endless carburetor issues . Easy to work on but a pain dealing with metrics, British manuals and getting parts. Went to a Honda in 69. 1970 bought a new CL 350 ($695). Test rode the BIG CB750 but didn't have the $1295. They were trouble free and a joy. Until seeing your video today I always thought it was just me waxing poetically that these older bikes were lighter and quicker with half the hp. I thought my 350 was as quick or quicker than the newer Honda 1100's. 350cc use to be a fairly good sized bike but today is a kiddie size. Wish I could have bought a Snort-n Norton though.
Lol. My first Street bike was a 1969 cl 350 when I was 16. At 19 I bought an old 68 Bonnie. Years later that is still my one and only.
I have several vintage 63-65 Honda’s. That’s all that I ride and I can tell you that maintaining them is easier than most anything these days. My dream vintage cycle is still the Vincent Rapide C (50’s era) with any luck that will happen. Lastly, I know what you mean about being fascinated by “modern” cycles, mine is the Ducati 916, wow I love that bike, but may never get one! Lol! Great work, I agree with everything you say !
Thanks for your comment! Yeah the 916 is 👌. I'm partial to the original F4, I think that might be my next big bike. Do you like those old Hondas?
@@bartmotorcycle I love, love the old Hondas! I’m trying to find even older one 58, 59 Dreams
@@bartmotorcycle are you a fan of BSA? Have you seen the very early Kawasaki’s W2, that were basically BSA lightnings…67ish I think. Kawasaki revived them and they are now called w650, w800. I’m sure you’ve seen them. Anyway I’m determined to find one of those and add it to my collection
@@garyb2392 you know I'm not a huge fan of the old bsa's just in terms of style. To me they always liked like a 'not as cool' triumph. Like I would rather have a Norton commando or a vellocette thruxton than a bsa. But yeah those newer Kawasaki retros are almost better looking than they modern bonneville. Heavy and underpowered still but very cool. Hopefully you find one!
@@bartmotorcycle I completely understand the sentiment because that’s how I felt when I first set eyes on the Kawasaki w2 a” cooler looking BSA”. My Hondas are 305, so top speed, comfortably, is 50mph. So I take it along the streets and some country roads. I’ve personally never taken them on a freeway, though I know people who have. At this point in my life retro style over speed is my preference. For me Royal Enfield’s classic 500, over w650 or Bonnie
I am just getting into motorbikes and I find myself gravitating towards old bikes. But I would not want an old bike to be my only and main way of transportation. I feel that I am getting more of a tinkering project than a vehicle with many of the bikes I find online. As you said, you’d be more of a mechanic than a rider. Don’t get me wrong, I am not one to shy away from getting my hands dirty. But if I have to be at work at 7am I don’t want to have to pray that my bike will fire up today. Or get up 2 hours earlier just in case I need to do some wrenching or catch the bus.
I have a very dear friend who has a…temperamental bike (a BSA if memory serves). It is a gorgeous thing. But it won’t start for a long time if it is too cold, too hot or too humid or if the moon is not in the right phase. Okay, the last one is obviously made up but you get the picture. That would not be for me at all. But then, this dude has the patience of a saint. I don’t 😅
Nice video mate, I used to have a Triumph Bonneville in the late 60's. I paid £400 pound's for it new, wish I still had it, they are worth a fortune now over here in the uk.
Nicely summarized. Metric bikes are much easier to work on than imperial. I've an old bonnie and while it's a beast to ride it's a PITA to work on. Small bore Honda singles or large 4 cylinders are my favourites. Bikes after 1970 mostly have brakes, reliability and power all sorted.
Wentworth forever! There will always be a unique British mechanical system! The ones that came with my old 61 Dom SS 600 were King Dick brand, I am not jiving you.
Tell your Grandma to stop buying you socks for Christmas every year and start buying you Zenner Diodes. Any one who has owned a vintage Triumph will know what I'm talking about. Lord Lucas was the inventor of darkness.
Quite impressed with the crate your bike was delivered in. Damage during transport and the expenseof shippping has always been a concern for me when considering out of state auctions. Would you care to share who was used, the cost and if you were satisfied with their service?
Motorcycle shippers. Pretty expensive but totally worth it if you've got a nice bike. You can get shipping for about half with quotes on Shiply but I'd go with motorcycle shippers
I like the stab at the Harley 883 as slow 😂 But I love mine to death. Yes they are slow, but they got the pull enough to give me a smile on my face.
Lol dude it's a cool bike. They pull like a tractor! My bike is slow too but it feels and sounds fast. Basically like a Harley
@@bartmotorcycle And besides, in my country, the speed limit is pegged at 60 mph, so the 883 is more than enough and wouldn't feel maxed out
Yeah that's plenty then!
Plenty fast 90% of the time. Mine would do 180kmh with a tailwind. All the girls I've taken for a ride love the Sportster.
Agreed.
Old bikes have a distinct charm that is unquantifiable.
I have a both a 1972 and a 2000 bmw and that 72 is pure joy.
I owned a Triumph Bonneville, a '58 or '59, whatever the first year of production was. Had a BSA 500 single, and later a couple Honda Scramblers, CL models. I think your dad's CL is a 305 not a 350. I seem to remember the 350 being a CB model. Maybe not. It's been a lot of years and I may be remembering wrong. The best thing about the older bikes is that they look like a motorcycle and not a refrigerator on wheels. Older is better.
I agree. Older motorcycles look like 'motorcycle' to me. And also they sound and feel like motorcycle. I like 1970, 80s models more than most modern bikes. Modern motorcycles have too much tech for my taste and they cost more than they should as a motorcycle imo.
Early 750 fours are great bikes, but as soon as you applied the brakes in corners they stood up, (caught me out a few times), bit heavy on the front end too. Z900's were the 70's dux nuts, good brakes and handling, all the Z series were quick bikes.
But for me, the 69' Bonny is gravy!
I'm insanely impressed how lucky I got with my bike. I'm 14, wanted a project car or bike, found a Yamaha XZ550 for $450 Canadian dollars, and it's the perfect balance between a sportbike and a naked bike, classic mechanical bike and modern convenience. Carbureted liquid cooled self canceling signals (I guess I'll never experience the turn signal staying on pain), and it was sorta a test mule in a way for new tech in the lineup. Anyway it's been the perfect combo of giving me hope and motivation of it running well and being fixable at home and also being incredibly complicated so I don't wanna try to figure out how to remove the fog light wires I ripped off from the ugly fog light.
Agree, had an XZ400 which was a Japanese domestic model with a 400cc v twin, and it was slow as f**k but it was so comfortable to ride and it was my first new bike so it has a special place in my heart.
Had an RG500 after that but sold it after 6 months because it was so quick and would have killed me.Sold it for equivalent of $3500 USD and kicking myself as one sold here (in New Zealand) for 27000 USD a few months ago!
Ive owned 7 zeds from z1 to z1R and people love them , the looks , sound and chrome
I just bought a 1981 bmw r65 for $2500, it’s such a fun motorcycle to ride. It handles amazing, it’s super comfortable, weights 450lbs roughly but it feels lighter, and the boxer engine sounds and feels amazing, sure it’s a little sluggish for 650cc’s but everything about the bike just feels right, the horn also sounds like road-runner and I can appreciate that. I don’t think I will ever own another motorcycle other than BMW (I’d love an r18 after I get more experience and some more muscle), though I might consider a triumph bonneville since that was my first option before I found the r65
Recently purchased a R 60 / 6- 1974 real nice bike but if you're in too old beamers. Do yourself a favor and buy a / 2
Man I love that sound. I learnt to ride on a BSA Bantam 125. In 1979 I bought a brand new Triumph Bonneville T140. Now the most powerful Triumph was a Triumph Trident T160. Even though the Bonny and Trident were both 750's the Trident would leave a Bonny in its wake. You mentioned Royal Enfield. Now Enfields were never in the same league as the Triumph's however, they would leave the modern Enfields no matter which on in the dust. Oh also in the 70's the T100 was the Triumph Tiger.
Something very satisfying about being able to service and even restore my 1972 CB 175. Love riding it too
Vintage bikes like Triumphs and BSAs etc were designed and built by men who had a passion for motorcycles and rode motorcycles. They were proud of their work and passed that pride on to the owner.
Modern motorcycles generally are more funtional and reliable but they just don't have the grin factor of old bike on a twisty country road, no matter how much faster they may be. When I park my old girl at the local coffee shop, I can be sure that I'll end up in a conversation with random passers by or fellow bikers which makes for more of a community. If you're looking for a little more than just high speed scratching around corners, try a vintage bike. You'll get to share information, rides, bike shows and just a lot more interaction with your fellow bike riders than you will with a modern blaster. They're just more fun!
Couldn't agree more!!
Those are quantum assumptions.. reliable Japanese bikes demolished the British industry.. on more than a few occasions people have admired the condition of my Interceptor. What year is it? It's a 2020.. no way! Yup.
@@sscbkr48 I'm assuming that you are referring to a Royal Enfield Interceptor. People admire it because it is styled to look like the great old British bikes like the original Royal Enfield Interceptor. Or is that another quantum assumption?
Rubbish all were spoils of war dumbly copied from cptured/stolen german designs and models.
You can also throw a vintage Bonneville around with a precision and ease that a modern one wont respond to. They're fantastic.
Enjoyed seeing your Pop at the party. Nice video and congrats. you managed to get through it without prefixing comments with " like ". It gets like irritating
Right on man! Love the video. I ride a 78 Suzuki GS750 (72 HP). I could easily afford to ride a new bike, but every time I compare the specs, I think why the heck would I give up all the performance and even reliability of my old bike for a new one? The new Kawasaki W800 has about 2/3 of the HP of my Suzuki! And you're right about so many Harley riders. I have several vintage Vespas and Lambrettas and often don't get waves from Harley guys and I think "Dude! You couldn't even START my scooter, let alone ride it!"
My ride as an undergrad was a 1956 Triumph Tiger 100 500cc twin with touring setup. It was a wonderful machine, though it took a bit of maintenance... somehow, I never had a mechanical regulator on bike or (later) car which didn't cook the battery. Much later, for eight years my wheels were a 1982 Honda GL500I SilverWing Interstate shaftie, which was for me the perfect machine, and I sold it very regretfully. Both were stunningly attractive bikes and their 500cc motors had plenty of power to overtake semis on the motorway or interstate. Both carried me safely through some wicked thunderstorms, and the Triumph in particular got me out of some tight spots by being so manouverable. As for sound, the difference is that the old Triumphs were 360 degree timing, whereas the Honda and the modern Triumphs have 270 degree firing. The old Triumph sound really stirs the soul! PS: 1983 Honda GL650 Silverwing Interstate!
Bart, the best bike I ever owned was a 1974 Laverda 750 SF2. The thing bellowed its way thru many great miles. I paid about 2500 dollars new, sold it 10 years later for a bit more.
Was that a bit like an Italian Norton?
My friend from work had a 1000 standard triple. 1974.
2400 miles the electric starter sprag clutch gave up.
He disassemble the whole bike and boxed it up.
While on a visit to Italy was able to find parts.
Since I worked on his Ducatis he asked if I would put the Laverda back together.
3 truck loads and 2 books.
Paint the frame.sort and clean,wax parts. Head, valves, brakes, fork's, wires. New clip on bars. Electronic ing, smaller coils. Clean and sync carbs. Big backfire when it started and shook the garage door on the rollers.
Waxed my truck, clean windows, new shirt and deliver the bike. Felt like I was in a parade.
Photo album of the build.
Picked up a 1980 CX500 non-runner a couple months ago real cheap and so so happy I’ve got her running. Rebuilt all myself and wow such satisfaction. Absolutely loving riding her now, so much power and feels amazing. Although I must say I miss the work in the garage, waiting for something else to go wrong almost eagerly ahaha (sure it’ll come soon)
My old '77 Guzzi LeMans has just so much character and soul. It sounds beautiful and will still pull 130 mph...I will never sell it.
I have a BMW R100S from 1977, it is fun to ride, it has character, quite fast and gets noticed.
I'm still riding my 1989 BMW R100GS I bought new. I've forgotten all the work I've done on it over the years. I'm 67 now and it is getting a bit hard for me to get on and off the thing. But I can't imagine life without it. It is like a member of the family now. No fuel injection, just two big fat Bing carbs that even I understand how to tune. I've changed starters 4 times (Valeo junk) and a couple of diode boards. Lots of other stuff over the years. I learned a lot from this bike. Only stranded me once in 32 years after getting drenched in a driving rain. Worked fine after drying out.
I've been amazed how helpful the vintage Triumph community is. Everyone I've talked to has given me help and advice on restoring my '61 T120R. They seem to want to spread the knowledge and keep the old bikes alive.
Love my 59 BSA 650 but the new retro's are great. I need a modern bike for the usability and reliability.
Hi Bart. I’m an old head who rode a rare & fast Norton 600. Now ISO a classic era British motorcycle & am close to making a deal with the owner of a Norton Atlas 750 1963. Looking for any and everything Re: vetting & maintenance of same. For all the reasons you gave plus not getting any younger so I am zeroing in on being on my own retro Brit bike. They were da bomb in the day and still are.
Great job Bart your videos are really good. I actually finish all your videos I always stop halfway through others I find your content much more appreciated anyway thank you and ride on.
Edward Turner's bikes are works of art.
Back in 1979 I bought a 1956 BMW R60 with a Steib S250 sidecar....I was 19 at the time. Gave $1500 for it. 43 years later this wonderful machine still holds a special place in my garage.....along with 4 other vintage BMW's
I've owned many myself. Fantastic bikes the / 2!!
I’ve had 18 bikes in my life and the one garnering the most attention is my 1994 “Malibu Barbie” KLR it’s easy to keep running ( just maintenance ) I’ve added to the wild paint scheme by painting things like foot peg mounting brackets the luggage rack etc…brightly contrasting colors and the ladies ( old and young)are commenting on it almost every time I stop! It’s big and goofy and I’ve driven it all over the great southwest and even into Mexico ( in the mid 90s) sadly that’s not safe anymore.I got it used and have had more fun on it than any other bike I’ve owned! It will go anywhere I’m willing ! Duel sport - Touring it’s a great life ! Ride On👍💪
The reason why older products are better than modern products is the motivation. They were made from passion and of course they had nothing to follow. But the real reason is they were more motivated to make a great product where today it's about chasing a demographic. People want bikes that are easy to ride and reliable. They really want them to look cool, which should not be hard to do, but reliability is key. I'm getting a 1971 Honda CL450, 50 years old and ride it as one of my main rides. 50 years old and it still works. Just Imagine.
Cool video. Nice Triumph. Bikes I've owned: 1974 Honda CB450, 1978 Suzuki GS1000, 1980 Kawasaki Z1000, 1989 Yamaha FJ1200, 2002 Kawasaki ZRX1200. My hands down favorite was the GS1000. Should never have sold it, but college was more important at the time.
You are literally my favourite motorcycle channel now
I’ve been working on an ‘81 Yamaha xs400s for the past year, I’m currently restoring the dual carbs so that I can actually get the engine to run. They’re Mikuni carbs and I will have to rebuild both of them, as the entire bike has been sitting out since it was wrecked a bit over 80k. If they don’t I might try a EFI conversion if I’m desperate for it by the end. Plan to keep it somewhat stock save for the lights, paint and air filters.
I don't miss the vibrations of my '72 BSA A65L. At high revs my hands were not in contact with the grips.
Now I ride a Moto Guzzi. They never developed much from "vintage", maybe with the exception of the latest model that is water cooled and has the latest tech.
I'd love to have that old B.S.A. Vibration and all.
I bought my first bike in 2012, an 82 CB650 Nighthawk, have had 5 bikes since but I can’t part ways with my Honda 650. After 6 years of sitting in a corner it should be rolling again this summer after a full engine and carb refresh. Can’t wait
can never go wrong with an old Honda. I've got a few, I love them. simple, reliable, and FAST.
I've had my 71 triumph Bonneville for 50 years now, but I still swoon when I see a Norton Commando..great video
Yep, boomer here and having ridden 60s triumphs, my current T100 is just flat out overweight! Of course the old 60s Bonnie’s with their vertical split crankcase leaked oil and the electrics were dodgy, but they were fast, lightweight and nimble machines compared to the current Bonneville. I would add though, the 2001 Hinkley Bonneville I was sadly compelled to sell was a happy medium. Air cooled and significantly lighter than the current crop, with a modern engine design, electrics, etc.
Yupp spot on. The modern classic Triumph are tuned for torque, they're big heavy torque machines, basically cruisers which is cool. But the original legendary triumphs were revvy lightweight machines
I have a 1966 Triumph T100 500cc motorcycle that is unbelievably small and light weight. It weights like a modern 350 machine and would be perfect for a small stature rider.
That’s a beautiful old Triumph you have there, your comments make a lot of sense as well, most of my bike are older ones, 1955 James Captain, 1991 900ss, 1977 CB750, 1976 GT250A, and so on, love working on and riding all of my bikes, ironically I tried a 1970 Bonneville and bought a modern 1200 Thruxton instead 😂, I’d still love to own your Trummy though, it’s a beaut 👍
Splayed port engines like your Triumph will never be made again, but they make for the most graceful exhaust system ever used on a motorcycle. Add the twin splayed carbs of a Bonneville with the chrome air filters poking out the sides and it gets just plain sexy. A real work of motorcycle art.
I love it, when the subtitles say "(Music)" whenever one of the old bikes can be heard... ^^
Dad have a 1942 harley davidson wlc and as a 16 year old i bought myself a soviet Dnepr. It had been standing outside since 2003, and im now on the road to restore it and make it as original as it can get
I like my Royal Enfield Continental 535 GT. The low revving engine is really nice. And you are not encouraged to thrash the engine. I've had it for five years and people really like it, especially now they don't make them any more !!! People like the sound my bike makes and they watch me go past. They are very rare where I live !!!
I have a late 30s BMW R75 sidecar and 40 500cc BSA WM20. Completely in love with both of them. The only time I take the modern HD bagger out is when the ride is over say 50 miles. Old hard tail bikes are hard on my old bones. I stupidly sold my 63 Triumph 500 Daytona, i got good money but I still kick myself for selling it to this day.
I'm in the prep stage on replacing my '83 Honda Magna's electrical into something less complex, and is able to use leds. The kid I got it from wrecked the wiring. Luck for me he didn't touch the engine wiring. I've come along way in the last 18 months.
I got a 1975 Honda CB550 before I bought my 97 Softail custom and I love them both for different reasons. My Honda needs some love and I can't wait to get riding both in the summer
You've got a fine T100! In Febuarry of 1973 I walked into a dealership and rode out on a brand new 1972 T100r - best dance partner I ever had