After deciding to call it a day at the age of 75 and sell my Speed Triple 1050 RS, I went to the docs to assess what is causing my joint pain. Mentioned that I am a biker having to give up riding after all these years and to my amazement my new lady doctor almost insisted that I carry on as that would be better for my wellbeing. She suggested that all I need to do is get a smaller more manageable bike. Well you should always heed advice from your doctor so now considering a Speed 400 ! Just scared that I will really miss my RS and have withdrawal symptoms.
Sounds like excellent advice to me, can't ignore what your doctor prescribes! Maybe something a bit bigger than a 400 though, I quite like those Husqvarna Vitpilen 700's, probably lighter than the Speed 400.
Motorcycling is great for your mental health...... well...... except when you crash like I recently did! I didn't need any repair and the bike is going for repair on Friday, hopefully it won't take too long!!
That's exactly what happened to me,,sold my speed triple r,bought a new cb650r, knew as soon as I rode away from the dealership i had made a mistake. During lockdown there was no test rides.lasted 5months and was back on a speedy. This time I tried before I parted with the cash,Gt pro,comfortable bike and enough oomph to stop me getting bored.,your a long time deid,,,,
I have managed to get to 76 and have held a motorcycle licence for 60 years!! Where did all those years go!!! Having had a variety of bikes of all sizes and power I have just bought a Speed 400. I had the first service carried out yesterday and must say I am very impressed with the bike. Before you make any decisions go and have a test ride on one you may be pleasantly surprised,
Had a sit on one today at Norfolk Triumph and it fits my 6ft frame very well and should be comfortable. Finish is very good for such a low priced bike. I still need to sell my Speed Triple, hopefully early in the new year, before I commit to a new bike. Dealer said that new stock would not be available until next year anyway.
@TRIPLE X: My father in law (75) sold his nearly brand new Tiger 900 last year due to nearly identical "issues" as you described. Last week he bought a Honda Forza 350 and is really happy with it. He changed to a scooter, because of the easier handling, he said. All the best for your hopefully short time of waiting for your new bike!
Thanks Markus. Winter is looming and I don't ride in the winter so next spring for a new bike is fine by me.
This review of the Triumph Speed 400 might be helpful, and the reviewer, at over 6 feet tall, found the riding position very comfortable. He also shows how easy it is to handle a lighter bike!
I'm willing to bet it's less about the weight/displacement of the bike and more to do with riding position. Maybe something more supportive and less sporty, like the Speedmaster?
Not so much about the weight at the moment although I think it soon will be and my next bike will probably be my last so needs to be future proof. The problem is I am struggling to get my leg over so need a bike with a lower narrower seat. Once I am on my Speed Triple I still find it comfortable and can handle it no problem.
Well you've got to make sure that you can get your leg over with ease. . Please forgive my humour, but I couldn't resist it. Hope you don't mind.
@TRIPLE X you probably will at first. I sold the 660 and had the four. Took a couple of days to accept it didn't want to wheelie on me. But i love the sedate smooth riding it gives me now. But i may chase down a 790 Bonnie later.
660 Trident is perfect downsize from an RS and even supports flipper clutch if you had one. Best wishes on your test rides and choice
We don't stop riding because we get old. We get old because we stop riding. I'm 64 and still enjoy my bonneville T120, but if it becomes a burden I will step down to a smaller bike, maybe a scooter.
I am a physician and agree 100% with wood tick greg. Human beings are not designed to sit around and vegetate. Our bodies and our minds need to be exercised on a regular basis. Inactivity leads to depression, which leads to more inactivity, which leads to more depression. Sometimes, you need to bend over, kick yourself in the **** and get moving! My catch phrase is " it's not what you ride that matters. It's that you ride that matters! "
You may have tried this already, but it helps me "throw a leg over" when I have the tail bag on. With the bike on the side stand, I first step up on the left foot peg with my left leg. Then I throw my right leg over. Like the OP, I'm comfortable on the bike, but sometimes have trouble mounting.
