A good buy?? Advice needed....

Hi Doc, I think I'm right in saying that the sprag clutch issue was predominantly on earlier models than the one you're interested in. On these bikes IT IS ESSENTIAL to have a 1st class condition battery, this will help to avoid any sprag problems.

When testing the bike, listen VERY CAREFULLY when turning the bike over, to start it. If it makes any odd noises, walk away.

Good luck with it,

Dave

 

I have a 93 Trident with 39000 on the clock. The sprag clutch was an issue on earlier models and still affects the others. Early ones have grey casing covers and have an access panel which means the whole lump doesn't have to come out to change it. Later models have black casings but no access panel - Triumph want £1200.00 to change it so be careful!.
Assuming it makes no weird noises on starting as the biglad says, then it should be fine - never try and start it with a weak battery - if in doubt charge it up first. Always start with clutch pulled in and headlights off just to help things along.
They are great bikes and are generally over-engineered and trouble free so if it's a good one - buy it!

 

'95 Trident 900, 50,000 miles (almost), sprag still okay (so far).

As Steve says (above)!

And also as the biglad says!

Buy it and treat it to a good quality battery (Motobatt and its Yuasa equivalent seem to be favourites).

Very underrated bikes which were built like brick sh1thouses to lay Meriden's faults to rest. Worked for me!!!

You WILL enjoy it!!

 

damn just when I thought I would be able to give some advise the other guys say all I had to say. I have a 96 Sprint, basically the same bike as a trident, and my sprag went about 3 yrs ago. Cost me an arm and a leg but I love the bike and to me it was worth it.
The battery advice is excellent. Motobatt is now fitted on mine, I found out recently that if a motobatt battery fails it gives no warning,ie slow starting, it just gives out, something to do with the technology inside them, all beyond me, so you shouldnt be able to overload the sprag. Have to say tho they do not like the cold as much as conventional batteries do,have seen that on many forums.
They are solid but a little top heavy and they will run for ever. They do sound a little agricultural at tickover but are quite smooth after and very powerful.