Speed Twin Modding

I have a deposit down on a Speed Twin which is due next week. So, as we are prone to do, my head has turned to how to empty more cash from my pocket on things I obviously can't live without on my new steed.

My initial thoughts are:

• Radiator guard - it does look vulnerable so I'm considering the R & G guard in black. It looks on paper a discreet addition. If anyone has any experience of them it would be good to hear about.

• Tank protection - I have used Invisible Patterns film on my last few bikes but there doesn't appear to be a specific kit for them. They have one for the Bonnie but I'm not sure how similar the tank shape is. The Triumph tank pad looks discreet but is it too small to prevent much rubbing of the tank?

• Screen - I have to face reality and accept I will need a screen for my comfort. Tempted by the Dart classic but not sure if it will give me enough protection (I ride throughout the year) I know they have the Marlin but I'm not bought into it's looks so much. Again, and I know it's personal, any experiences shared are welcome.

• Tail tidy. Surely the number plate hanger provides no protection! I anticipate a rooster tail and wet back so I may as well smarten up the back end. TEC seems popular, how about the quality and fit?

• Rack - I'm undecided on this. I have a Ventura luggage set kicking about so may try and pick up some 'L' brackets for the Twin. It's all buried at the back of the shed somewhere so I'll need to go hunting and hope it hasn't rotted away

I realise all these are quite practical but hey, needs must. I can then get onto the proper bling!

 

I’m not sure if this is the right forum or if it should be in the twin power section, one for the mods?

Anyway, the important stuff. I picked up my Speed Twin last Friday with a few off the shelf accessories already added. Headlight bezel, heated grips, black intake covers, power socket and black levers. Oddly the brake reservoir was not available. Hopefully this will come back into stock at a later date. But, all this means nothing without pictures. So here it is.

I also had a Powebronze fender extender added and within 50 miles I was glad I had. How much road muck would have been thrown up without it I don’t know but it looks like £20 well spent already. When I got home and took a look at the back end I think it also needs a hugger. It may not do much for the looks but would certainly reduce cleaning time. I’m not sure anyone makes one though unless someone knows different?

Initial impressions are good, it feels light and eager to rev up. What has also surprised me is the fuel consumption. I know I’m running in but it was around 69 mpg! The first tank I ran down to 8 miles left (covering 167 miles) and only managed to get in 10.3 litres. However, I think I could have got more in as the indicator only showed as having 7 bars once it loaded up and I think it should go up to 8?

I’ve also been surprised at how calm the airflow has been having come form a bike with a small fairing. Much better than I anticipated. I have a Dart flyscreen ready to go but whilst the sun is out it shall remain in the box.

The one annoyance is the play in the twist grip, yes you can ride around it but it doesn’t feel great. I’m booked in for my first service next week so will review this once I’m allowed to open the bike up a bit more, it may not be so noticeable then.

All in all I’m really enjoying the bike and looking forward to getting some more miles in so I can get to enjoy the engine in all its glory. And as the sun is out I shall go out and tick off a few more running in miles whilst I can