Sportster vs Triumph America
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Joined: May 2012
Posts: 59
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From: Ohio
Sportster vs Triumph America
Might be buying a bike for my wife this Spring (first bike) and narrowing the list down to a few choices. Does anyone here have direct experience from riding a Triumph America compared to a 2004+ Sportster Custom (883 or 1200)?
Riding will mainly be two lane at 50 - 60, but want a bike that will be capable of comfortably cruising at 70 - 75 all day on the slab, about 500 miles. I'll most likely be on my RKC, so similar fuel range and reasonable comfort are important to keep things on the same level. Low seat height and forward controls are a must.
The decision will come down to what she likes best, but if anyone here has owned and/or personally ridden both the comparison would be appreciated.
Riding will mainly be two lane at 50 - 60, but want a bike that will be capable of comfortably cruising at 70 - 75 all day on the slab, about 500 miles. I'll most likely be on my RKC, so similar fuel range and reasonable comfort are important to keep things on the same level. Low seat height and forward controls are a must.
The decision will come down to what she likes best, but if anyone here has owned and/or personally ridden both the comparison would be appreciated.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 655
Likes: 1
From: Wisconsin
I had a Bonneville America for two years. Let me tell you, it is not a good choice for highway cruising. I felt it was waaaay underpowered. I would at least get a Sportster 1200. I test rode a 2013 1200 custom with a little highway time and I felt it was pretty good. Lots of vibration at 70 mph though. If you are riding your RKC, and your wife is riding a Bonneville America, be prepared to go very slow.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 1,045
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From: Aberdeen, North Carolina
I had a Bonneville America for two years. Let me tell you, it is not a good choice for highway cruising. I felt it was waaaay underpowered. I would at least get a Sportster 1200. I test rode a 2013 1200 custom with a little highway time and I felt it was pretty good. Lots of vibration at 70 mph though. If you are riding your RKC, and your wife is riding a Bonneville America, be prepared to go very slow.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 655
Likes: 1
From: Wisconsin
I am probably just spoiled with my Street Glide. It is a superb machine at highway speeds. Not as much fun around town or in the twisties. I have been thinking about that 1200 Custom ever since I rode it a few months ago. I want one.
Last edited by 2>4; Dec 15, 2012 at 01:25 PM.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 5,477
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From: New Braunfels, Texas
before you make up her mind...check into anything in the dyna line. If your buying used and she is on the smaller side look for a dyna low. It will manuver like a sportster but be much more comfortable on the freeway
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Road Master
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 1,045
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From: Aberdeen, North Carolina
I understand. My '12 is a lot of fun. I couldn't be happier with it.
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From: USA
Good advice. Look for a used 5-speed 88" TC