The Bike Harley Execs Don't Want You To Know About - Triumph Thunderbird 1700 + 0-100mph

[@dc7290]

Many who own them note they are keepers, myself included. Excellent balanced and torquey, A few cheap mods will give you a bit more power and torque. $20 cable and free software will allow you to access the early models ECU to upload new maps, check fault codes etc. Some had noisy belts and these were mostly fixed by backing of the recommended belt tension and check alignment, cheap and easy fix. Can ride in full touring mode with bags, shields etc or stripped down to single seat, show how versatile this bike can be. Very underestimated IMO and will outperform in horsepower, torque, cornering, braking many bikes in same category. Understand some out there are loyal to a brand and that’s ok, hope you get a chance to try this bike and you may see and feel the quality and understand why these took out the Bike of the Year.

[@deanfielding5881]

Agree with you bought a thunderbird storm 2 years ago love the bike can’t believe how well balanced it is for big cruiser Triumph need to start production again 🏍👍🇬🇧

[@bobbygibson4940]

Lovely, lovely bike. The perfect motorcycle that I am proud to own. 2013 1600 c.c. Triumph Thunderbird

[@johnselby5850]

I have the Thunderbird Storm, a 2014 1700 model. Had for 6 months now best bike I've had, my partner and I take regular rides, we both love it.

[@markcurtis9852]

I have the 1600 and love it, we don’t have many straight roads in Wales and the bike love’s the twisties. They handle really well.

[@arsenvokrug4198]

I rode my Thunderbird 500miles home on the day I bought it. Felt like I’d been in an armchair all the way. Never selling it. (I love my Harley, too!)

[@TotalAnomy]

500 miles in a day on a bike you know is crazy enough. On your first ride though, Jesus

[@fracisajito13]

P

[@davidchapman93]

Everywhere I go on my '12 Bird it always draws a crowd because its so rare and unique. Even the Harley guys love it!

[@robclarke7602]

I'm a Harley Guy and YES, the T-Bird is awesome.

[@zoltanio9315]

Beautiful presentation! I also have a TB and I will never part with it. That's right!

[@kilpel2]

Hey son, triumph had a thunderbird back in the 60's, I owned one 👍😂

[@davidmacgregor5193]

Triumph built their 6T Thunderbird from 1949 until 1966, in 1981 the workers Co-operative relaunched a short stroke version of their T140 Bonneville as the TR65 Thunderbird, the Meriden factory closed it's gates for the last time in August 1983.

[@davidcantwell2489]

Thunderbird 6T is the bike Marlon Brando rode in the movie The Wild Ones and beat all the Indians and Harleys in the race he won, had the trophy tied to the top of his headlight.

[@joelrawlston2688]

I had a 59 Thunderbird

[@dukecraig2402]

@@davidcantwell2489 I like the 1950 Matchless G9 that's in the movie that one of Brando's gang rides. Triumph actually wrote a letter to the movie company objecting about the use of their motorcycle in a movie where a "ruffian" is seen riding it, little did they know it would actually boost sales in the US.

[@dukecraig2402]

@@joelrawlston2688 Nice, when did you have it?

[@AK-iz6xl]

I just picked one of these up cheap as chips on marketplace, and what a machine! I’ve owned multiple triumphs and totally missed the Thunderbird, glad I finally came across this beast

[@hokaheyrider059]

I'm a H-D guy for longer than I care to admit. The local Triumph dealer just put up a 2014 T-Bird LT ABS on their website and I'm going to look at it in a few hours. After watching your and a few others reviews of the bike, I'm going to take my EVO Springer title with me and may very well ride home on the Trumpet. I had not seen any of your stuff up until a few days ago and am enjoying your channel very much. I moved from the Prescott area a little over 3 years and miss riding in the remote desert flat lands that you shoot your vids in.

[@jamesbronson3347]

Did you buy the LT?

[@zimtuff]

These were big sellers in Australia. It was the 4th biggest seller one year

[@poit444]

Love it! I have my third T-Bird and IMO best 2014 with 1700, BC airbox removal, power commander, and Hogslayers…marble red and black…she flies. My Storm was great too.

[@georgeerhard1949]

I've the '14 Storm version. LOVE the bike. It's fairly comfortable over long distances, it pulls hard, it leans decently well, and it always turns heads.

[@1400IntruderVS]

The 1700 has 97hp and 115lbft torque I have a Storm with a Hog Slayer exhaust and a tune and it makes over 100hp @ the crank. 92hp / 108 tq @ the wheel. 0-60 is around 4 seconds. Will get to 130 mph surprisingly stable.

[@NobilityandLoyalty]

I have the 2014 Thunderbird LY with the Remus Stainless Exhaust. It comes with removable plugs. It produced 120 lb-ft of torque and 97 horsepower at t It does 65 mph in first gear, leaving 5 more gears . I too got mine up to 130 mph with no problem. It really snaps the head back with such a flat torque curve, in every gear. It's like a power cruiser that's comfortable. The price of the bike was $10,000 cheaper than the similar bikes in its class AND outperformed even the customs offered by other manufacturers, which were twice the price. Best seat 💺 ever designed for a cruiser touring bike from a factory. The large hand painted 6 gallon plus fuel ⛽️ tank it icing on the cake. Glad you're enjoying your similar bike.

[@michaelwise7230]

I own a '95 Thunderbird 900 and a 2013 Thunderbird 1600 red Haze. Love both bikes!

[@ramoniglesiasniubo6783]

Yo también tengo la versión Red Hace, gran moto, pero la versión " Hace" es 1700, no 1600. Es una gran moto, para mí sólo tiene dos problemas, el peso y las curvas cerradas,

[@richardblom9211]

My dad has a '12 tbird and he says it is the best bike he has ever ridden by far.

[@4stroke1218]

Great ride, am doing valve clearance check on my 2014 at 14,500 miles. Too bad they discontinued it.

[@jamessouthworth1699]

When I was growing up the parallel-twin was the most common engine you would find in a motorcycle. They are actually a very good engine design. I used to daily commute on a few different Parallel twins for over a decade.

[@jeromebreeding3302]

Putting counter-balancers in those parallel twins was the smartest thing Triumph did. Such a large displacement twin would'nt have been possible otherwise.

[@scott5006]

The rz350/banshee engine continues to prove the efficacy of the parallel twin. Imagine an 1800cc parallel twin 2 stroke... I feel like that would really hurt some feelings.

[@jeromebreeding3302]

@@scott5006 Don't understand why two stroke motorcycles no longer exist on the street(except for mopeds), yet two stroke outboards are everywhere.

[@WalkerB2730]

I purchased the Thunderbird Storm 2015 new, and it remains my fav cycle. Amazing cruiser. I have several friends with Harley's, and whilst the Fat Boy is a great bike, has little on the Storm

[@helenloughton2418]

Owned harley and triumphs .I sold my Harleys will stick with triumph so much better

[@joshluttrell2084]

Great channel man. The variety of bikes you cover is really nice. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@TattooedHoodlum]

I own a 2013 TBird Storm. Best bike I've ever owned.

[@gabbyhayes1568]

I love these Thunderbird 1700's. Too bad Triumph discontinued this really nice bike. A nice cruiser at an affordable price.

[@TattooedHoodlum]

They were killed because they couldn't meet Euro 5 emission requirements. I've heard rumors they'll be back in 2022-2023, but who knows.

[@globalteamwork4light]

well if the tbird cant meet the emission standard no other bike can. it has a very advanced motor and 18km/l. it cant be that...

[@TattooedHoodlum]

@@globalteamwork4light so Triumph lied about it?

[@globalteamwork4light]

yes. how come bmw, ducati, moto guzzi can then? what about the other triuph modrls? the rockett? are they so much better thsn the advanced tbird? of course not...

[@TattooedHoodlum]

@@globalteamwork4light Sorry about your learning disability. Hopefully you'll be able to overcome your handicap.

[@seigliere1]

I have had a 1600 for 10 years now. Great bike. Thinking of exchanging for a Rocket 3 GT but can’t face letting the Tbird go so may have to add the Rocket to my garage!

[@josephsaia5527]

How far away is your Triumph dealer? Mine is now about 300 miles one way!

[@seigliere1]

Actually I am in Europe so it’s never too far.

[@rogercollins7948]

I got the rocket gt it's awesome take a test ride guarantee you will love it

[@seigliere1]

@@rogercollins7948 Hi Roger, I have decided to put a deposit down for the GT AND keep my Tbird! It’s almost worth what I paid for it 10 years ago and I love it too much to sell it.

[@globalteamwork4light]

add is the best choice. the rocket is a powerfull bumblebie, but the bird has the pulse of your heart...

[@valkrys68]

My son rides a 2017 model. He loves it.

[@TY-js9lk]

I'm a Triump guy. I had an interesting one in the 80's which was so fun to drive: TT500. If it would stick to a wall I could go straight up! It was geared for dual purpose. Only thing is you had to learn it's starting procedure quirks.

[@roughRaf]

Got my 1700 for 3 years right now. Most reliable bike i ever had. Im never gonna sell it! Now im just waiting until triumph release next gen which is gona happen soon or sooner

[@darylnorval8634]

My '14 Thunderbird LT, was one of the best bikes I ever owned. Had to sell it, and it's only the 2nd bike I have sold that I regret. The low end power, and the unique looks, always set you apart. Think your '10 is comfortable, try a '14 on, they built in lumbar seat was just amazingly comfortable with all that smooth power.

[@NobilityandLoyalty]

I have the same year LT. I put on the aftermarket Remus stainless exhaust. 65 mph in first gear and it has 6 speeds for those not in the know. Sorry you had to sell your bike Daryl. Hopefully you'll be able to obtain another soon. You're absolutely correct about having the best seat and comfort in class. The exhaust pushes the engine output to 102.5 Horsepower and 125 of-ft of torque with cats in place with exhaust plug removed. It's not excessively loud but is authoritative. Much more than Triumph aftermarket exhausts. Here's the dyno run. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKbFmp1phNGZfdk

[@crimsoncoolidge1674]

I am privileged where I work to be allowed to test ride a lot of bikes for them. I love this bike every time one comes through, awesome to see triumph have a strong fanbase in America too.

[@gd6349]

Good to see you Bro John 👍 Great video , and I think those are good looking bikes , but I just can't get into the sound of a parallel twin , I much prefer the sound of the Vtwins . I have NEVER come across one while I've been out riding , so I'm thinking they're Pretty Rare!!! Really glad to have you dropping videos again 🤗👍 Hope you , Jackie and the kids are all doing great!!!🙏

[@aljosaskrabelj8412]

What sound? This parallel twin sounds like V twin.

[@gd6349]

@@aljosaskrabelj8412 No it doesn't sound like a single pin crank Vtwin , not even close , or even the Vtwins that aren't single pin cranks . The parallel twin has a sound all it's own , even when honda and Kawi were making some , they sounded way different than any other bike .

[@aljosaskrabelj8412]

@@gd6349 Dont know about single pin V twin (dont even know what this is).. but..not all parallel twins sound the same. It is all about firing order. Long story short... I hear 2 riders traveling past my house every day. One rides m109r and other Triumph storm (both open pipes) and they sound very similar.

[@globalteamwork4light]

the tbird actually sounds a bit nicer - in my ears. a little more sofisticated in a charming way.

[@hotham88]

I purchased a one owner 2011 Thunderbird storm this year and it is a beast i never had heard of them either until the one i purchased.

[@CJ-ws5sd]

I bought a Yamaha Raider in 08’ the first year it came out. This Triumph is the only bike that gave me pause about my purchase. I kept the Raider btw.

[@michaelwatts9559]

I thoroughly enjoy my 08 Raider also. Were it not for the ticking sound in Thunderbirds then I would have bought it. Would still enjoy one though.

[@globalteamwork4light]

no ticking sound in my '14😉

[@davidelizabeth4933]

If we were in the market for a cruiser, this one would be at the top of our list for sure. Because of this viddy, prices will now go up! Thanks, Jon!! 😁👍 ❤❤❤ -D, E, and J

[@JonsMotoGarage]

💯🇺🇸Happy 4th!

[@mikekeltner4291]

Look on cycle trader you can find these for 5 grand.

[@globalteamwork4light]

buy them while you can...

[@larrysriderview6068]

That’s a bike that is the style of motorcycle that just does it for me, as I currently ride a Harley Low Rider and this comes close to that as far as I can tell a cruiser with plenty of power 😃

[@Anoyus]

Love my 13 Thunderbird storm. Triumph seem so easy to ride. And its very comfy :)

[@jadeddragon4254]

I get compliments ALL the time on my thunderbird storm. It is a damn blast to ride. And I'm in the heart of Harley country. Sets you apart !

[@brandonwiz]

So I'm getting a thunderbird storm on Saturday. Like you I found it by mistake. I was looking for a decently priced indian and found the storm. I'm super excited and the videos I keep seeing on the bike is keeping everything positive.

[@davemoyer505]

Just bought a ‘13 T-bird Storm in January. She’s incredible!!! Rides like a boat, handles like a Triumph. Lots of power. Very heavy with my accessories- 850 lbs. There ain’t a Harley out there as smooth, and few that are as quick- stock. I can’t believe Triumph stopped production of the Bird. Was told it had something to do with e.p.a. standards……of course😝 My only complaint- Triumph needs more dealers and support! Been complaining about that for 40 years!!!! Harley has that covered in spades. Other than that, ROCK ON TRIUMPH!!!👍🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@slumgullianpass]

I had a 2010, put 50,000 miles touring. Yes touring. Rated it best over all motorcycleIve owned out of 43 bikes. BMW’s, Harleys,Ducati’s, Suzuki, Honda, could not touch it. Fabulous.

[@jamescunningham4180]

Right now I have a Honda fury I bought it in 19 for $8,900 out the door brand new and it's like 76 lb of torque. Chopper style water cooled shaft drive fuel injected. Beautiful powerful cruiser with Van signs pipes $450. One of the best bikes I ever rode and I've had 23. 😎

[@williamrose2506]

I've answered my question. I bought a 2015 Night Storm and love the pull. rock solid cruiser. I only have one issue with it, and that is that it has an unusual rough spot right at 3k rpm. Either side of that it's smooth. I have the TORS exhaust and after doing a valve adjustment and TB sync, I've decided that it's a harmonic convergence of the TORS exhaust. Other than that, it's a beast and since I like bikes no one else has, it's a great addition to my fleet. Also, I had the dealer download the latest map for this exhaust.

[@ababbit7461]

I had a 2014 Thunderbird 1600 ABS. I also have a 2003 HD Road King CVO with the 103. I kept the RK over the Thunderbird. I liked the T-bird, but it lacked something that my RK gave me... Don't get me wrong, that Triumph T-bird was a great bike, it just lacked something. It handled better than my RK, it accelerated better than the RK (but they were close). It cruised better than the RK... I think it was the Parallel twin vibration that I did not like as compared to the RK. Would I own another Thunderbird? Yes, I would especially like the 1700 over the 1600 that I had... You just can't have enough power. I put floorboards, Viking bags, passenger back rest, gel seat, windshield and a rack on back. Welcome back John, I for one, missed your videos....

[@JonsMotoGarage]

🤙💯🙏

[@murrayhiggins3061]

Missed your vids while you were busy, keep up the excellent reviews!

[@michaelalquist7497]

I owned a 2002 Bonneville America 790cc air cooled! Was a wonderful machine. Even at 800 cc it was straight fast and torque was always available. I miss that bike

[@davemoyer505]

Hey Michael- me too! Loved that America- should never have sold it!!! But it saved my house if you know what I mean? Fast forward to Jan. this year and I found a 2013 T-bird Storm. Man, what a ride!!!!! My America on steroids. Similar feel, looks beautiful, so much power, and perfect for two up riding. Triumph ROCKS!!!! By the way, I have a ‘72 650 Bonny I’m restoring to original. She’s all there and beautiful too!👍🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@antisystemicparadise1202]

Triumph rules in general. Tiger 🐅 955i owner and still works like its brand new after 17 years

[@thunderbirdracer3603]

My '14 LT put down 84.8 hp to the wheel, ran 12.73@102 at Wild Horse on first real pass of 3. Many Many at The STRIP pb 12.985@101. 1/4 finalist '19 Annual Motorcycle Challenge at Bandimere in Denver, best 13.42@98. NO Tach! 16 states ridden including New Bern (OBX) to Denver NOT FOR SALE

[@needparalegal]

They are pretty rare. I have never seen one on the street.

[@jayjenkins4721]

I have a 2014 Tbird Commander 1700 and it's my favorite bike by far. Mine's rated at 92hp, 103ci, and 111 Ft lbs at stock. My 0-60 is about 4 seconds. Shame they stopped making them, and I believe it was something about the emissions or something with the EPA since mine's "officially" rated as a 1699. Still, she gets up and goes and is pretty comfortable while doing it.

[@StanTumu]

I have a 2015 lt and what a torque monster ,and boy did they get the seat right, best I have ever experienced in 30years of ridding very underrated,stan tumu in oz

[@dohcsmr1175]

MPO is the Thunderbird is the best looking road bike on the planet. I bought one and it was the most compliant, best handling and just the sweetest bike in my 40 years of riding. Unfortunately after a year of ownership it literally feel apart underneath me. It was heartbreaking. I then purchased a HD Breakout. It does not handle anywhere near as well as the TBird, the motor is not as strong, comfort is about the same. The Breakout just does not break. It does not leave me sit, engine is smooth and linear although not as strong as the TBird. And almost as good looking as the TBird. I hope Triumph has worked out the reliability issues cause if they have I would buy another TBird tomorrow. Gorgeous bike.

[@t1201971]

I got a 2017 Storm with a Black Widow x-pipe cat delete, stainless Zard slip-ons, and YSS shocks.

[@bjlwijnen]

I have a 2016 Nightstorm. The rarest of rare. Only downside is the lack of aftermarket accessoiries.

[@garybrown4854]

From the UK , I have a Triumph Thunderbird LT 1700 2014 , had it from new , I have had Harleys and these are far better out of the box , The LT if you can get one is the one to have , it has a better frame and is far more comfortable than the model you have , same engine though , It's similar to a road king , but better .

[@michaelhall4312]

I got a commander 1700 mine's got LT bars rear pillion seat & mag wheels tubeless no punctures easy just plug add air off you go LT spokes tubes puncture wheel off new tube anyway each to their own stay safe cheers

[@danielglassman2044]

Had a 1999 Thunderbird. Triple. Nice ride, nice sound. Handlebar grip angle was too drawn in and made my wrists numb after an hour of riding. They then renamed the Bonnie America to Thunderbird. I still enjoy my 2002 Bonnie America. The biggest problem for Triumph owners, in my opinion, is lack of service facilities. I have bikes in three different locations (NY, FL, and TN) and in every case the nearest Triumph shop is at least an hour away. They make a great bike but finding a dealer and getting service is always a problem. That’s the biggest limitation to growing their brand in the US market. Have to say, though, every time I’m out riding, every time, someone remarks about what a beautiful bike it is or has to talk about the Triumph they had back in the ‘60s. Great conversation starter.

[@NobilityandLoyalty]

The Thunderbird LT WILL DO 65 mph in first ⚙️ gear. It will also best 125 mph easily with the aftermarket Remus Stainless exhaust it really allows the engine to breathe and the difference in torque and horsepower is amazing even with the cats in place.

[@globalteamwork4light]

yes, something is fishy here. i had a similar experience thursday last week. went to try a honda valkyrie at a big dealer here in denmark. found it lacking in lowend torque - would you believe? and missed the vtwin heartbeat of my long gone yamaha xv1000 tr1. so i asked if i could try out a handful of his many many big cruisers, so that i didnt go empty handed at the end of the day. during the next hours i tried several big bikes. from harley 1500 and something, over suzuki intruder 1800 to triumph rockett 2300. then i saw a curious and very beautiful tbird hidden away in the back of plenty big vtwins, barely noticeable. i asked if i could try that one too. good that i did😳 the tbird was soo nice! i couldnt forget it... the other cruisers simply faded compared to it. so what the hell is going on? this evening i have just mailed triumph for an explanation as of why they have discontinued the best power cruiser i have ever ridden. something is definitely fishy...

[@ragimundvonwallat8961]

thats your best launch up yo now! and as a drag guy, god know i criticise every single ones you ever done lol

[@dennisoian4736]

I rode the 1600. It was very spirited. Most HDs had trouble keeping up.

[@lordbentley730]

Paralell-twin is amazing. Traded my 1200cc Triumph. To a Harley. Triumph fast as hell. Harley faster then I thought. More alaive.

[@jamescunningham4180]

Actually the old rocket 3 that I bought in 2004 was 2,300 cc's the new one the last couple years is 2500 cc's I've had three triumphs. Great bikes. 🤯😎

[@mikkimason4716]

I have just purchased a tbird 1600 and i love it

[@MOUSEBOWEN]

Super awesome motorcycle super awesome video Amigo. Nos vemos en tu próximo video

[@joedangelo5640]

Except, Triumph discontinued the Thunderbird. So, Harley kinda killed it.

[@Anoyus]

While i have a triumph, thats a darn good argument! lol

[@georgeerhard1949]

They discontinued it because the 1600/1700 motor wouldn't meet Euro emissions specs for 2025. Doesn't mean it won't be brought back with a re-engineered motor. (psst. Triumph? Can we have a triple, please?)

[@cmcdonough55]

I had Triumph Speedmaster 865cc, but ended up buying a Sport Glide 1746cc because Triumph discontinued the Thunderbird range.

[@bscraig7308]

@@georgeerhard1949 They did, from 1993 to 2003. It was a 900.

[@georgeerhard1949]

@@bscraig7308 Yah I'd love it if they fitted the Tiger 1200 in.

[@jayleav]

I was on the fence with buying the Thunderbird back when they came out with the 1600. It really got close when they released the 1700 Thunderbird storm but I was a Harley snob and ultimate when with a Dyna. Now that they’re extremely hard to find I really want one.

[@pbofan]

I owned a 2012 TBird 1600 for four years (‘12 to ‘16). Great bike, but even with its Cruiser of the Year award in 2012 (?) and consistently positive reviews, it just never caught fire in the marketplace since its launch in ‘09/‘10, which was a shame. Discontinued in 2017.

[@georgeerhard1949]

Euro emissions standards are a bear....

[@upsidedowndog1256]

Triumph makes really nice bikes. The 1st Thunderbird made by the "New Triumph" was a triple, 900cc I believe. My dad has one. He looks down his nose at my Japanese bikes, all of which will eat his Thunderbird like a snack before breakfast without blinking. I would love to instruct you how to do a proper launch. Wouldn't take much, you are talented at riding.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

One of these days I'll watch a how to launch video. No doubt with some practice and instruction I could dial them in. 🤦‍♂️

[@upsidedowndog1256]

@@JonsMotoGarage The only person you need to watch is Ricky Gadson. Put the bike in 2nd gear, rev it to max torque, feather the clutch to almost engaged. Release clutch and apply full throttle next. They all fly.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

@@upsidedowndog1256 🤘🙏

[@zimtuff]

It was a 650cc in the early 60s

[@upsidedowndog1256]

@@zimtuff In the 70s it was 750cc. And then they died off because Honda 750 4 and The Z1 Kawasaki 900cc 4.

[@georgeperkins4171]

I had the 1600. Beautiful bike but didnt blow me away for the size. Got a rocket 3 touring which did. One day i suddenly decided to sell it, ( as i tend to do) and got a t100 (2013). Light and nimble with good looks.

[@rizzorides2490]

I've been a Thunderbird fan for about 5 years myself.

[@michiganborn8303]

Harley Davidson is like "Why is everybody always picking on me?"

[@Dave-sw2dm]

Because they are #1. LOL! They sell more bikes per year in the US than all the rest combined.

[@garyt123]

Because they manufacture a 70 year old, virtually unchanged, design with low performance at prices which make even the latest advanced technology sports bikes blush. Harley Davidson is NOT number 1. On sales value, Honda is the world's #1, with 22.6% of global sales followed by Yamaha with 10.4%. Harley is #5 with a massive (NOT) 4.4%, behind Indian brands Hero and Bajaj (Hero being the brand that is being primed to actually buy-out HD right now). On volume of units sold Honda sold 21 million bikes in 2020, while Harley, globally, sold a MASSIVE 103 thousand. So basically they sell expensive, outdated, sh1t. The lower their sales figures dive, the higher they shamefully price their product. To exacerbate this most Harley's will now be manufactured in Thailand and India in a last-ditch effort to avoid bankruptcy. Specifically in the USA Harley indeed is #1, with 30% of the market. From there to say that they sell more than all other brands combined would be true only if the elementary school you attended taught you that 30 is larger than 70. For the rest of us, who went on to high school and then university, that isn't the case, 30 is always smaller than 70. ....just sayin'...

[@dukecraig2402]

@@garyt123 So basically you're just a gas bag, so what's your point? Your thinking that they're "virtually unchanged" shows how little you know about them, if you worked on motorcycles for a living as I do you'd know how absurd that statement is and how much it shows that you're just another "know-it-all about Harley's" that's never owned or even ridden one.

[@garyt123]

@@dukecraig2402 Yep. I never owned a 2002 1200 Sportster, never put 22,000 miles on it and never watched its poor quality bling rust away slowly in the Northern English winters. So yeah, no idea at all what I'm talking about. Virtually unchanged for 70 years? Yes, and this is even marketed by HD as part of the "charm" of Harley ownership. Yeah, so entering into the 21st Centrury they relaunched OHC with pushrods and 2 (yes!!! 2!!!) valves per cylinder, wow! And an amazing 5 speed gearbox!!! (5 speed! OMG!!!). 1920's tech!!! (70 year old tech is me being generous) and priced at the same level as a flagship European or Japanese (True) Grand Tourer. And I don't need to tell anyone about excessive vibration, weight or zero ground clearance...do I? Sorry that you get all emotional, but as you know everything I say is completely true. You don't like the truth? Not my problem. You are somehow (weirdly) emotionally attached to a brand? Again, not my problem mate. Right now Royal Enfield manufacture better bikes with better engines, with more power per litre, higher quality, better reliability and at a third of the price. Triumph... infinitely better product...light years from Harley Davidson. Harley depends on emotional sales to survive, this is why their international sales are shrinking at an alarming rate. You can only sell high priced poor quality junk to an emotional customer for so long, eventually they "wake up and smell the coffee". The fact that you open your response by trying (with zero effect) to insult me basically proves that I am right. Maybe you should come back with the technological prowess of Harley Davidson machines and thereby debate, effectively, what I am claiming. Demonstrate the "absurdity" of my initial post, if you can. If not, then STFU!

[@garyt123]

@@dukecraig2402 Watch this excellent Harley Mavison revue: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpbYiYaee66ar8U Count the likes, and weep. I rest my case.

[@erico6247]

I like the fact that is water cooled engine I bet it rides nice and cooled! I'm riding on a Harley 2008 Softail Deluxe that is a V twin air cooled engine and I'm somehow thinking of how to cool that engine just a bit by installing cooling fans!

[@thomasheer825]

This is a stone stock Thunderbird 1700, with minor upgrades you can drag some tremendous power out of it. Now if you install equal to a Stage 1 upgrade on the Thunderbird, pipes and fuel delivery upgrades you will gain a tremendous power gain. Plus if you upgrade the powerplant you still are stone stock reliable whereas the more power you drag out of the HD you also rapidly degrade the lifespan. Just sold of a 67 TR-6, single carb basically, and it would due to weight and better set-up would smoke a Sportster 1200 at a screaming 650cc.

[@motoknivesandgunsbyjt]

I own this bike. It’s the Commander version which has dual headlights and a few different details. I decked it out as a bagger so it’s my LD cruiser. I’ll never sell it.

[@robchisholm2697]

Have a 2010thunderbird on a black dog ride with about 120 bikes last stop on the way home last 25miles past a harley soft tail he gave chase and and around 170kph, he gave up the ghost. It tops out at about 185kph but hard to hold on with no wind protection long cruisers it will eat up the highway all day quite comfortable on 120-130,kph get about 300ks full tank

[@stevepoole7739]

IVE GOT A 2014 STORM AND ITS THE BEST BIKE IVE EVER OWNED. COMFY, FAST, HANDLES OK FOR A CRUISER, BUT THE NOISE!!!!!!!!!

[@erico6247]

Nice bike! I love all motorcycles I think their all unique in their own way!

[@colbyjoe2]

Do you ever see the "Phoenix Lights" by your drag strip? I used to live south of Casa Grande and would see the glowing lights almost ever night looking towards Maricopa.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

I've never seen em myself. 💯🤙

[@natejacobs6022]

Maricopa you seeing the jail Lol

[@paintup46]

You’ll really see them out south of buckeye/rainbow valley. Between Gila bend and Maricopa area. They are flares from border patrol to light up the desert when they’re tracking migrant/smuggling groups. Vekol Valley is a MAJOR trafficking area! Arlington, out by Gillespie damn bridge you’ll see a lot of interesting things at night…

[@colbyjoe2]

@@paintup46 i've been told they are flares for helicopter training. There is a military facility kinda hidden on the western slope of picacho peak. Either way, i can see why people mistake them for aircraft/ufo. Surprised more people don't talk about them.

[@Firestorm637]

Love the Thunderbird. The Rocket 3 is the best tourer at a bargain price. That 1250 custom possible replacement for sportster might decrease more expensive super heavy tourers. I hope the 1250 uses the engine as a stressed part of the frame to keep weight down. 15o horsepower just had bags and a windshield. No stage 4 needed. Those huge windshields on tourers with 1990’s boom boxes are so 90’s especially with comm units and smartphone music, nav, and phone.

[@1satisfiedmind]

Well, the Thunderbird is a great bike, designed by the same guy who designed Honda's VTX. ..and I can see it...but tomorrow Harley will reveal the new 1250 Sportster S (supposedly 150 hp), and we'll see what a potential shake up that will be.

[@brucesantacory1390]

i loved the Thunderbird Storm, Sadly they don't make any of the Thunderbirds anymore

[@scottwilke3966]

I had Bonnivell special 1979 750 great ride free ranging Montana great machine !!!

[@RvVb-ic9tx]

Great vid but why did you sell it if it was so good? Nvm, saw your other vid.

[@ToobSteak69]

Nice knowledge dump dude most people think only the Thunderbird Storm had the 1700. Standard on storm option on all the 1600’s

[@alm4132]

Just picked up a '15 Storm w/only 1595 miles on it. Only cruiser I'd ever own, Great M/C!!

[@jeffmellow]

Isn't anything with an actual engine a Harley killer?

[@ibranger6439]

Harsh! Point of fact: 2 outta every 3 Harleys are still out there on the road: the other one made it home 😉

[@dbc105]

I fell to understand the hatred of Harley especially given the number of Americans employed by them. Only Trumputians want American job creators to collapse.

[@jeffmellow]

@@dbc105 You are trying to drag politics into someone's taste in motorcycles? Hahaha

[@jamesbottger5894]

@@dbc105 Spoken like a true left wing Kool-Aid drinker...

[@darkiee69]

@@dbc105 Maybe because they still use an engine, and styling, from the 50's?

[@PierredeCur]

Your dream bike is always your last bike(s), a Victroy Vision and a KTM Duke 690 for me right now. :-)

[@jackbarlocks3441]

Triumph were building bikes with belt drive the year before Harley Davidson built their first model, if not mistaken.....

[@richardcampbell9951]

I bought my BIRD, new 11 years ago and still love it .All my mates ride Harley's and give me hard time,jokingly, but I can give them a good run for their money. I just bought a 1980 shovel to shut em up...OZ biker

[@haoudzenijakkaa]

85 000 km on my T-bird Commander. Can't imagine another bike!

[@jasonnowakowski393]

I just read a clip on the triumph thunderbird 1600cc 2010 tyre change after 7k I've gone through 3 tyres and I'm ony 2nd service are you riding them or looking at them

[@Hipporider]

Cough, cough, erm... It's a 2.5 L Rocket 3 now. 🇦🇺🚀

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Word! 💯👌

[@TY-js9lk]

Rocket too heavy for in town bopping around

[@globalteamwork4light]

rocket is nice but the tbird is much nicer. just drove the 2 last thursday, for comparison, before buy. bought the tbird.

[@58astroboy]

Hey man love your commentary on this bike. How tall are you for the leg stretch as I’m only 5’4.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

I'm 5'8"...not sure on inseam tho.

[@Paul20661]

Nice bike ❤️ 🖤 Also happy 4th of July 🎉🎇🇺🇲

[@bobwampler3387]

I rode the 2010 1600cc version and loved it. Sad that they discontinued it, as I had high hopes for its success. I’m considering trying to find one or a Goldwing F6B. What would you recommend?

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Goldwing f6b is one of my favorite bikes for the riding experience. However, I've heard mixed reviews for longevity/maintenance. Some owners have reported difficulty finding shops that will service them.

[@bobwampler3387]

@@JonsMotoGarage Thanks for your response!!!

[@wayneheart7676]

This is a really cool bike IMHO. It is also a very serious machine ! It is not a Harley. Nor a Honda . Honestly it kinda reminds me of another serious no bull bike , a Suzuki S83 ( 1,400 INTRUDER) . I like Harley for riding around my kneck of the woods on .. I am looking to get one of these Thunderbirds for traveling/ touring . Water cool is great . 👍 it doesn't overheat and blow when opened up . Got some tall gears in it.. I think it is comparable to a Goldwing in the ( MAKING TIME ) category. It's nice to take it easy and stop to smell the roses at times .. Other times one needs to ride across Montana in a few hours. This bike is the type that makes time .

[@williamrose2506]

My T120 is very smooth. Almost no vibes. How about the Tbird Storm vibes? Same? More?

[@prasar27]

No cruiser is more comfortable, no motorcycle is this vibration free. Its extremely reliable with Triumph's super smooth Parallel Twin 👍 If you don't have one, buy one. If you have one, don't sell!!!A Treasure in all respects.

[@jameskwak3198]

i own a 1700 lt the touring version of that bike and its perfect in everyway except it has the dreaded clatter sounds like piston slap since i bought it only 4000 miles now but apparently will run forever with the noise although its pretty annoying...love youre vids keep it going please.

[@joereed7326]

Mighty take ,az always,J.M.G☘🔥

[@franciscogonzalez4690]

What road is that!? I’ve been looking for a nice strip in the valley

[@alainbrisebois8334]

My2011 Storm has 98 hp and 115 flbs of torque. It pulls like crazy.

[@bootz0409]

Why has nobody made the connection yet.... "kshhhhhh... Thunderbirds.... are GO!" 😂

[@robclarke7602]

Test rode one about 3 years ago and really really liked it. Your description is spot on in every respect. Smooth, comfortable, responsive ...... My one concern was resale value and servicing - I'd have been a hostage to the Triumph Dealer. Any shop will work on an HD.

[@georgeerhard1949]

They're not that hard to work on, even tho they're FI and water-cooled. If you can wrench on a Harley, you can handle a T-Bird (well OK, different sized wrenches needed!)

[@jimmorrison306]

Wonder how this thing would do in one of those motorcycle skills competitions with all the cones like the cops do. What’s the clutch and lean angle like?