Considering Buying Older Low Mileage Bike.

Discussion in 'Triumph General Discussion' started by Dan Zulu, Nov 19, 2024 at 4:20 PM.

  1. Dan Zulu

    Dan Zulu New Member

    Oct 16, 2024
    5
    3
    Washington
    Hello,

    I am shopping for my first bike. The winter market appears to have an ample supply of older (10-15 year old) Triumphs with reasonably low mileage (less than 20,000 miles). None of them have rust or obvious problems shown in the photos. They run the gamut from Bonnevilles to Tigers and Thunderbirds.

    In other threads I did see advice about checking chrome spokes carefully.

    I know that mechanical devices do not improve with age like wine. I'm willing to replace fluids and rubber parts. I am curious what others' experience has been with any more serious complications or repair needs buying an older bike.
    Thanks.
     
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  2. johne

    johne Standing on the shoulders of dwarves.

    Jan 16, 2020
    1,810
    943
    Where the Wolds meet the sea
    I bought my 2012 900 Thruxton (865cc) about 5 years ago, so it was 7 years old at the time. Apart from changing the oil and filter it was no trouble at all, during my ownership.
     
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  3. Samsgrandad

    Samsgrandad Senior Member

    Dec 15, 2019
    586
    243
    Somerset
    It's all about condition, condition, condition!
    You can have a 2 year old bike that has been trashed or a 20 year old bike that has been pampered all it's life.
    Chrome spokes and rims can deteriorate quickly if neglected but they can also last a long time if looked after. Check them carefully before purchasing.

    I would look for a bike that has been well looked after and has a full service history the older bike will not have as many 'rider aids' as the more modern bike but on the other hand without the computerised trickery such as electronic suspension, different rider modes etc. it is easier to maintain.

    I know it's more difficult in the States where distances are much larger but there really is no alternative to go and stand in front of a secondhand bike and give it a careful inspection before buying

    Best of Luck!!
     
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  4. Tigcraft

    Tigcraft Unheard of Member

    Mar 29, 2014
    2,619
    800
    Holmfirth West Yorkshire
    Old bike every time with me. It’s the best way of bonding as when the weather gets bad you still can spend time with minting it up and checking things
     
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  5. Markus

    Markus Crème de la Crème
    Subscriber

    Oct 28, 2020
    3,509
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    When you have some skills as a mechanic you will love it!;)
    Otherwise you should be able to afford a mechanic if needed. :p
     
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  6. Dan Zulu

    Dan Zulu New Member

    Oct 16, 2024
    5
    3
    Washington
    :)
    Decades ago I was an Army helicopter mechanic. Between the perishable nature of skills, my heavy work time, and all of my orthopedic surgeries I avoid major mechanical tasks now. Bleeding brakes on my bicycles is about the extent of my interest now.

    I would enjoy smaller tasks, less than an hour and not involving heavy torque. Using a Chilton manual is like Lego instructions for adults.
     
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