Triumph Speedmaster 1200: 3 Year Ownership Review

[@cillersbadass7590]

People like yourself make the Motorcycle community so lovely. thanks for sharing. Awesome bike!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

What a lovely comment! Thank you… and thank you for watching!

[@mikefeil3568]

As a prospective Speedmaster buyer, I most appreciate long term reviews. I believe yours has told me most everything I needed to know. New reviews are fine, but until you've lived with it for a spell & the new has worn off, do we really get to figure out how well it's gonna fit into our motorcycle life. I believe Speedy will fit into mine just fine.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

That’s excellent news! I still have mine! Thank you. You’re right that the longer term reviews do help. The good thing about these bikes is that you can change bits to suit you, like mid foot controls from the bobber if you find the forward controls too forward, and the straight handlebars if you find you want more arm space… Thank you for watching and for your comment!

[@keithrogers2107]

Lovely bike ,i traded my speedmaster in, for a Gold line Bobber in June , it was 3 years old and 19000 trouble free miles , toured Spain for three weeks in May perfect, I miss the comfort of the Speedmaster but love the colour of the Bobber, look foreword to your next vidio ,makes me smile !!!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Keith!! Get a Speedmaster in the bobber colour then! 😂 Thanks for watching! Glad you’re having fun!

[@paulcalvert2099]

Hi Is the seat a bobber seat?

[@stretchman490]

Love what you've done with Merlin. Absolutely you. Been a bit since I stopped by your channel, having gotten rid of my Thunderbird back in 2016, I believe. I do miss that bike. I currently have a 2020 HD Street Bob, and had a bit of a crash in 2021, which ended up costing over 10,000 to fix, luckily, insurance covered it (the other guy's) and not too many broken bones, so good there. The Speedmaster did well replacing the Tbird, and the new engine has proven itself many times over. Not excessive, and gets splendid mileage. Plus, the stability of the single shock setup on the rear, for both the new Triumphs, and also, the Harley, has been excellent. No more wobbles in the corners, and, better ride comfort. Stay aware out there, and greetings from not so sunny today South Florida. Ride good.

[@cb750k1974]

Most comfortable, best fit, motorcycle I have ever ridden.

[@epicdude931]

Just bought a triumph America 865 cc it’s my first bike I love it to death !!!! As an American I’ll take a triumph over a Harley or Indian any day of the week and that’s saying something

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Fantastic stuff! I’ve done an America review somoewhere too!

[@Twin_solo_az]

Absolutely beautiful. This is the archetype of "motorcycle" in my psyche and I get a visceral reaction to seeing and hearing it. Love what you've done to it. Ride on...

[@jf9686]

I like the color scheme of your bike I just made a 6 hour trip on my all black 2022 model and surprisingly I not very tired for a 59 year old

[@ernieme101]

wow , can't believe it's been three years ! i started watching your channel when you were reviewing/riding the Thruxton and was surprised you switched to the Speedmaster , but obviously it's worked out very well for you . congratz on your 3 year anniversary ! : )

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much Ernest! It suits me very well... For it's shortcomings, like going faster round bends, I might get something else join it, but for now, I'm very happy... Thanks for watching!

[@loki_kore8358]

You and RedAng Revival really made me feel good about getting a 2019 Speedmaster a few weeks ago. Got the Goldline with only 1k miles on it! Thanks for the update!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

You’re very welcome!! Any issues feel free to ask!

[@morningstoke]

The Gold Line is such a gorgeous bike. Stoked to be joining the Speedmaster family with ya guys

[@baz9438]

What a perfect start to my week throughly enjoyed seeing Merlin shine on his third birthday. Excellent review as ever Captain 👏

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you Baz! Have a good week!

[@andrewdavis6917]

So glad youre still making content. Last review i saw i loved it. Youre enthusiasm and humor are infectious Sir. Cheering you from Texas. Oh, I subbed 😊

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much Andrew!

[@joewilliams5396]

I've still got mine & love it. I bought mine after watching your review.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Really good to know Joe! Happy that I helped and you still love it!!

[@ridingdreamer]

That's a beautiful looking SM. One bike in my list for a relaxed tourer.

[@Marcelo-m6f]

The handlebar gave her a whole different personality...looks badass af!

[@kevinpick194]

Simply smashing video. Simply smashing mods and upgrades. Simply smashing bike. Have a smashing time with him forever.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! I’ll try to smash it! 😂

[@Richz2]

A perfect all rounder of a bike. Looks, performance, brand. No wonder those 3 years have flown by… #Merlin

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Richard, it really has hit the spot...

[@Robshotipod]

I am a stateside individual from NY. I never heard of this model and thought bc of my short stature (165 cm) I wouldn’t be able to have many options outside of a Vulcan s or anther cruiser. However I always loved my friends bonneville, but it was a little uncomfortable on height. Ever since putting this on a Google search of bike suited for short of riders I can’t stop thinking about how classic it looks, get very tasteful. I’m not a huge fan of the old chromed out looks of a lot of Harley Davidson‘s do you think in your opinion this would be some thing I could ride comfortably, I can’t wait to check one out as an aside I really enjoyed your commentary and it became very clear how much you enjoyed this by the way you spoke about it. Thanks again for the video. Have a great day.

[@hazwanridzuan2214]

Hi Sir, Im 167 of height and i think you would love this bike. Last week i went and sat on one, and its freaking comfortable, and i flat footed. The bike feels light as well due to its low structure so i think you would be able to ride this with confidence. Just sharing my experience here, and im hoping to get one soon once stock arrives (i'm from Malaysia).

[@ariesworld7]

I am about the same height and it was very comfortable to me when I test rode it. The exhaust sound is so good. If you’re okay with the retro look, you will enjoy it

[@steveluth3139]

A 3 year review :o marvelous idea sir. Awesome vid again as usual.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Now where did I get that idea from?! Thanks for watching! Tally Bally Ho!

[@steveluth3139]

@@CaptainRambunctious always enjoy watching. Over here the landscape is as flat as it gets. So seeing the English countryside is marvelous. I am jealous at the views you have over there. Although we do have silky smooth roads over here in the Netherlands. Keep up the good work I enjoy the videos a lot!

[@devincloud84]

Greetings from 🇺🇸 I've been watching you from the beginning when I had my Honda Valkyrie. Love Triumph and your channel

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much! Thanks for watching! Hope you are well… Tally Bally Ho!

[@louisjones2653]

Always a good day when there is a new video from the Captain!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

I do my best Louis!

[@pablod6872]

I'm just at the four-year mark for my Speedmaster. I love all the little custom touches you've added. I haven't added anything except a tinted Dart windscreen to deflect some of the wind and bugs.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Fair enough Pablo! I tried the Dart screen but it just directed all the air at my shoulders hence why I prefer a naked bike as the air is undirected…. Sounds like it’s time for you to do some changes! 😂

[@dalewintle9969]

Cracking vid Cap , some great accessories you've added stunning looking machine 👌

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Dale!! And thanks for watching!

[@alexxbobber71]

Friday had the 1 year service for my Speedy❤ Thanks for your videos! 🎉

[@CaptainRambunctious]

You're most welcome... Such a good bike... Hasn't had one issue in 10000 miles! We shall see how it does for the next 10000 miles!

[@MrJpb2000]

Great Motorcycle Captain…it’s never a bad thing when you finally find a keeper! 👊😎👍

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Definitely! And now I have a garage I’m not limited to 1 bike! Huzzah!

[@MrLou8888]

Thanks Captain. Always good to see your videos. Love Merlin

[@CaptainRambunctious]

You’re welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@CornishMotorcycleDiaries]

Welcome back Capn' I've missed that infectious laugh and the tomfoolery. Good to hear you are satisfied with Merlin. Hope to catch up with you one day!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

That would be great! Definitely one day... Hope to post more often but alas we're getting into bad weather territory again! We shall see!! thanks for watching!

[@STARCROSSEDMOTO]

Beauty of a bike. If I had to pick, the Speedmaster gets my vote over the Bobber.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

I have to agree! 😂😎

[@zachariaszut]

Now, there's a proper steed, fit for a king. Beautiful and sleek. Cheers.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! I tend to agree! :-) Thanks for watching!

[@jamesdspaderf2883]

I used to frequent Northants road. Now in New York and about to move to New Hampshire (USA). Going to pull the trigger and buy the Triumph B Speedmaster. Amazed to see all the mods, must have cost as much as the bike!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Ha! Not as much as you’d think? Apart from exhaust, probably £1200?

[@cousinjack2841]

Well I must admit to being rather chuffed at stumbling across your broadcast and I have to say, thoroughly enjoyed the presentation. Returning to Blighty soon after few decades abroad flying the flag and had rather considered a Royal Enfield Super Meteor as the final addition to a long line of motorcycles. Having considered your programme and having done a little research, I think that perhaps a Speedmaster might be just the ticket; not too much of a difference in the weight department which is important to those of us who have attained a certain age; it's the damnable hip don't y'know. What a beauty Merlin is. Many thanks and subscribed. Toodle Pip old boy.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks very much! Praise indeed! I always hope that my videos help as well as entertain and so when someone buys a bike or doesn’t buy a bike because of my ramblings, I’m happy either way! I’m not trying to sell bikes, just help to inform as unbiased as possible! Thanks for watching and for the excellent comment! Good luck in your search and enjoy the test rides!!!

[@tonyjames2430]

Nice looking Bike. Not decided yet what cruiser I'm going for, and never considered a Triumph until now. You are the first person I've seen open it up a bit. Most other reviews don't go over 50mph, and don't show the power. I was beginning to think it didn't have any ;-) So thanks for that. aesthetically I think it looks better than the Royal Enfield 650, so I put it above that one for now. I'm old enough to remember the likes of Norton and BSA by the way, so the Triumph looks like the Bikes I remember from back then. Very Stylish 🙂

[@davidadkins2563]

You read your mind, was going to ask how long the tires last and then boom,, you said it haha. I like the side stickers I see you removed the top one.. also like the Merlin on the side

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Yes, my rear tyres last about 7-8000 miles and the front about 12000 miles. I don’t think I needed to replace the front at 11500 miles but I did anyway as I was getting a new rear for the Scotland tour.

[@charlieswearingen500]

I will go buy a Speedmaster just for the looks. That is absolute eye candy. It was nice to see the Union Jack and Stars & stripes side by side. Can you or someone tell us a bit about the memorial?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! And thank you for watching!

[@Michaeldaran7]

Terrific bike oozing character. I have just purchased a 2021 model with the black and white livery. Ageing Motone customs brassware is becoming quite a passtime! Love your content. Great escapism!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! And thanks for watching! Yes, I think if I add any more brSss it will be too much…

[@RichardWilliams-kf5vw]

Noooo. You need the motone brass Union Jack brake reservoir cap, a là #RedAng Revival, plus maybe brass Jesus nut and fork top nuts

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@RichardWilliams-kf5vw I think that will be too much brass. Trying to keep the handlebar black… also, the brass top nuts are fine on black but the silver triple tree is fine for me…

[@steveroberson1488]

Merlin looks awesome ,,I've been thinking of getting a bobber but I think I like the speed master better after this review,,Happy trails mate .

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Steve! Yup, very pleased with it!

[@FreedomRider1982]

Beautiful bike ! Love the bike ! Just found your channel, I'm happy to support you and other fellow motovloggers. Best of luck with your efforts, I look forward to seeing more from you. Take care and ride safe out there 💯💯👍👍

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much! Thanks for watching! More to come as always… plenty on my channel to catch up on!

[@johnnikiforakis872]

Glad to see you are still enjoying yours, I got a tiger 900 rally pro to go with it 😉 I agree, the bike's only "shortcoming" is the low ground clearance, especially with the forward controls, but that is part of its DNA, take it or leave it kind of thing. For me, living here in Greece, where hitting the countryside means a 99% possibility of also hitting a dirt road, getting a dirt capable bike (that is still great on the road) was kind of a no-brainer. Also the wind protection is nice for long highway stints... Added bonus: I can now afford to get the speedy out only on perfectly dry (and preferably not too cold) days. That has cut down tremendously on washing and detailing time! (getting the bike under its cover in my semi open shed with it not being spotless was out of the question) Cheers!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Ha ha! you've got the best pf both worlds there! The Speedmaster for relaxed cruising and looking good, and the Tiger for everything else!! Thanks for watching!

[@squirrel-eatingjon2514]

Gorgeous. The 1200 Bonneville engine is amazing. The black & white paintjobs as on the tank of your Speedmaster (and the tanks of some years of T-100's i've seen) is one of the most striking and aesthetic in the motorcycle world. I've got the standard bobber. They also had great paint first coupla years (the morello red and the bi-coloured ones) but lately they've been a "meh" proposition in the paint department. (It's amazing how many blokes like boring paintjobs, matte this and that, i think it must be bad genes.) I really like that tank decal, was looking at the same ones the other day, i believe they had metallic or reflective. Most fitting.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@squirrel-eatingjon2514 thank you!! I love it too! I still have it. Definitely a keeper… Thanks for watching and for an excellent comment! Have a great weekend.

[@NoName-c4y7h]

I like the added touches.❤

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@NoName-c4y7h thank you!

[@stonecold2653]

Hi Captain,love your content and your beautiful bike.Question...with your experience of different bikes ,which do you prefer for long distance comfort . A T120 bonniville or your speedmaster. Many Thanks

[@freedomsound4469]

First time viewer and I must say the overall look is amazing. Inspiring. I can pick up a pre-owned speedmaster for $3500 US where I live and it seems like a great value for a daily rider. Love the gold striping. Great post.

[@freedomsound4469]

So my question is this: in Texas we reach temperatures of around 102 Farenheit. Are there mods to keep a Speedmaster at operating temp?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! Glad you liked it! This is the newer liquid cooled 1200 engine but the older 900 air cooled engine is still excellent and easy to customise… Thanks for your comment and for watching!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@freedomsound4469 I was riding my Speedmaster in those temps this summer… got up to 104F on one day! Not an issue, just don’t get stuck in traffic or the air cooled engines on the older models just cut out occasionally. On the newer 1200s they are liquid cooled with a fan so no issues with heat at all…

[@no8162]

Gorgeous

[@scottyg9167]

Great fun watching, as always! Funny enough, I was just into my dealership yesterday for some heated grips and wind deflectors. Marvelous improvement to my Tiger 850 Sport! Unfortunately, the trip also got me drooling once again after a Speedmaster! That bike fits “me” to a Tee. Your 3rd year anniversary video really helped clarify some stuff for me. But hey! Talk to me about that tent! Anyway, cheers and Merry Christmas from San Francisco Bay!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Merry Christmas sir!! Let me know what you need to know?! I might do a vlog on it…

[@CNDUK-q8r]

I also grew up in a semi-rural English paradise - rather a large village but the countryside around it was wonderful.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

You're very lucky then. I know that I am!!

[@TheKawicol]

hi...had my speedmaster just a year, kept the beach bars, but thinking of going flat...cant decide.....still finding cruising riding style a bit odd...lol..thanks for your vids.....

[@CaptainRambunctious]

You’re welcome… for me the flat bars make the bike perfect. Pull me forwards a bit so the bumps don’t go right up my back… gives me more room and easier to turn tightly at slower speeds….

[@nabout]

Best custom job I have ever seen on a Speedmaster. I want one, but I debate on the Bobber because of the more modern queues, even though the rear of it seems "incomplete" if you know what I mean. This is great! If you know about a windscreen that will go with the looks of the Speemaster, at the level of yours, please let me know!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! It’s an amalgamation of lots of different bits really… I do have a dart screen for it but I don’t like the looks… I may try it again sometime…

[@nabout]

@@CaptainRambunctious I hear you. The Dart comes close! If I come across a good one I'll share here. Enjoy!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@nabout thank you! Please do!

[@conniedean2192]

Beautiful bike ! I have a Black Speedmaster . Would have preferred your colour scheme, my favorite ,but no longer available. Your bike is awesomely done. I personally would not have added all those touches, but I will try to get the Carb union jack additions , and perhaps more. And maybe name my bike Aragorn ! So I have my Speedmaster, a Chrome RE Classic 500 and a 1975 Norton Commando. Life is Good ! Still room for another bike, perhaps my wife won't notice !!

[@Robalansson]

Wow! the bike looks good, I love the radiator guard

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Rob! A very rare spark of inspiration! Thanks for watching!

[@clivegoss5734]

Brilliant video, thanks, I really like your stuff, you make me laugh which is a good thing especially in today’s climate. There’s nothing wrong with a great eccentric English man, keep up the good work captain and stay safe 👍

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much Clive! That’s heartening to hear! Have a fantastic riding season!

[@paulclarke1233]

Hi captain rambuncus, another great vid and good to see what you have done to Merlin and what you are planning to do

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Paul... I know that it's only a motorbike, but it really does take up most of my thinking time! :-) Thanks for watching and Tally Bally Ho!

[@davidadkins2563]

Wow you have a ton of accessories..looking a lot better than stock..I’m looking to buy a 2022 with 1500 miles for $10000 US dollars,,or 8200 pounds

[@CaptainRambunctious]

That’s not a bad price at all. I’ve now had it for 4 years and ridden 17000 miles with no issues at all… it’s a great bike… good luck!

[@alecball68]

That is a very nice looking bike always been a triumph guy good video thanks

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much Alec. And thanks for watching!

[@manuelsanita3021]

Sorry, can you give me link of the levers? ‘Cause I have the same bike, and I would to change it at my speedmaster. Tnk u so much

[@allanalbert3064]

Hey that is a good looking bike. I'm looking and am torn between the speed master and the bobber. Your walk around may have made up my mind. Thanks

[@southwestrandoms8453]

Beautiful bike and great video. I'm doing my full A license later this year after just riding a 125 Vespa around lol (love it). Planning to do a big road trip across America next year and have had the speedmaster recommended for such a trip. Any thoughts? Thanks

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you very much! Yes. It should be absolutely fine for that sort of trip… to see how well it tours, check out my latest vids around the North Coast 500 in Scotland. I’m fully loaded in that and also the wales trips too… should give a good indication of how it works… Cornwall was fun camping as well… Good fuel consumption, fill every 130 miles or so. Very comfortable too… lots of leg room. Good luck!!

[@ralphmezey9171]

That, sir, is an incredibly beautiful motorcycle !!!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you. I love it!

[@lauriebloggs8391]

Only 3 years?? Sounds and looks lovely.......Decatting and KN filtering my T120 was one of the first and most worthwhile mods 🙂

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Excellent stuff... I decatted my Thruxton R so looking forward to doing this to the Sppedmaster with the Bobber engine tune. Should have even more low down torque!!

[@tomvoss2131]

Greetings from Canada speaking of the old America Triumph, is the Speedmaster worth it, being someone who rode bikes when he was younger and now trying to get back, you can get an older America for way less will I still get the same driving experience from the America. You had one would you go back you go back if the funds weren’t there

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@tomvoss2131 they are a very different riding experience. This is lighter, much better handling and almost double the performance. It is worth it if you can afford it but don’t bankrupt yourself. After all, it’s only a motorbike… you’d end up not enjoying it if you’re worrying about how much it cost!

[@Trevor_Austin]

I enjoyed this, thank you. I can fully understand why you have this particular bike. They are the same reasons that I have a Bonneville 1200. The two upgrades you are considering, heated grips and decat are already on my bike. The former was standard. The latter though was a very pleasant upgrade. I have the Tec Bike parts X-Pipe and it has made a noticeable improvement to low level torque and improved the quality of the engine’s sound. Quite what your engine would sound like in conjunction with your “slash” pipes I’m not sure but I’m guessing a it would be a bit naughty. Keep up the good work.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks for the info Trevor. I've already bought the TEC cross pipe as it was the cheapest but also look a great bit of kit and I've had TEC parts before anyway, so know it's all good. Thanks for watching! Tally Bally Ho!

[@roberthambly9926]

Oh, wow Merlin is looking awesome!!!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Robert! I'm trying not to go down the brass rabbit hole too far... Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! Tally Bally Ho!

[@jeremypetch7006]

Looks awesome, pretty blinged out but tastfully done. One little thing about oil sight glasses. Ive found that if youre in the habit of checking yr oil when its cold, I just stand the bike up. The miniscus sticks to the glass long enuff to check once you've returned the bike to its sidestand. Happy motoring from nz.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

That's a great idea... I thought you were only meant to check when the oil was warm but after a few minutes of standing still so that the oil can collect properly? Otherwise, checking it when it is cold is certainly a great option!! Thanks Jeremy... I could have got a lot more brass bling but conscious not to go too far down that rabbit hole.. Thanks for watching!

[@davidmacgregor5193]

The longest motorcycle ownership I have had was a 1980 Benelli 900 Sei which I owned for 38 years.

[@MaxMeridius0920]

Looks great man!!

[@knifesharpeningnorway]

Damn thats gorgeus mate 😁

[@villainuday5365]

Hey! Which handlebars have you installed in the Speedmaster? How was your experience with the original ones? And how has the ground clearance treated you so far? I am especially considering the broken roads and undulations like in a village farm and road setting. And the suburbs. Your Merlin looks brilliant, you have really modified and steered Merlin as per your taste!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@villainuday5365 thank you very much for the kind words… The bars are the Bobber Black flat bars and you’ll needs the shorter wiring kit. It’s pulls me slightly forwards and gives me more room as when I tested the original Speedmaster the bars were too close to me. I’m 6’1 and felt a bit like a T Rex. So I got the bobber bars at point of sale for my own Speedmaster. Ground clearance is fine. I keep up with the chaps well enough on back roads and country lanes. I do occasionally scrap the pegs / hero blobs but that’s what they’re for… if there’s a bump mid corner it sits down a bit but very stable and again, fine… I had the stock rear shock at its hardest setting and found that after about 10000 miles (I’ve now done 20000!) it was quite soft so I’ve now got an Ohlins rear shock. It’s a lot harder but much better in damping and preload… even on its softest setting it’s a little harder than the stock shock on its hardest setting. This helps with bumps in corners as well of course. It was about £550. Great fun in cities and suburbs, and with my bar end mirrors I know exactly how wide I am for filtering too… but that’s a personal taste sort of thing. Hope I’ve helped and good luck! I have a review of the Speedmaster where I first rode it, but also many trips with the chaps that you can watch to see how the bike handles… Tally Bally Ho!

[@midlifecruiser]

Best looking speedy!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Frank!

[@jaybd9329]

I had a new 2016 Road King for 3yrs, wonderful bike, just a bit too heavy. How would the Speedmaster do at 80mph on the interstate for comfort and engine revving? The RK really shined in that dept.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

It sings along happily at 80mph but you’d probably want a screen for it

[@michaeljag7854]

Damn good looking bike 🦦☕👍🏻

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you!

[@MartinBerkerey]

I found excessive wind resistance when I test drove the speed master around 70 on the highway - what do think about adding a windshield?

[@396032]

Great video, love this bike, I'm actually considering getting one as my first bike. Have you swapped out the beach bars for bobber bars?

[@mendesoto]

Nice transformation on the Merlin. Absolutely stunning. Life's good, heh?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Absolutely!!

[@Banditmanuk]

Merlin still looks fantastic. 3 years is impressive with a bike but I've just celebrated 6 years wed to an ugly but very fast MT10. You've done some nice custom touches to the bike. A few weeks ago a Lancaster bomber flew low over our house, the sound of it's four #Merlin engines was epic.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

The MT10 is still a very good bike!! Thanks for the compliments... Yes, the Merlin engine is definitely my favourite. Smooth, loud, reverberant, throaty... If I could get anywhere near that sound with my Merlin, wow... :-) I fear that I need a V12 for that though... Thanks for watching! Tally Bally Ho!

[@mijoizagas3747]

Well done sir.

[@jjnewman65]

Sweet mate. A beautiful example. I would consider taking those chrome look tank badges off as they don’t match the gold cream tank.

[@paulharris3149]

Looks great to me

[@rogerboucher1913]

I think you can get replacement in aged brass.

[@jjnewman65]

@@rogerboucher1913 Roger that 🫡

[@blearyview2254]

Just come across your channel and enjoyed the vid. It a lovely looking bike and certainly has a very distinctive look that is very appealing although I am not sure I could live with the feet forward position. But you never know till you try it.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Absolutely! You never know!! You do get used to it very quickly... Certainly, my legs are more comfortable than being compressed. Thank you very much for watching and welcome! I'm a bit much for some, but hopefully you'll stay! Enjoy!

[@blearyview2254]

@@CaptainRambunctious haha, you certainly come across as someone who loves life 😀 I subbed so you better entertain me haha 🤣🤣🤣 You have a large catalogue so will keep me going for a long time 👍

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@blearyview2254 thank you! Plenty there to get you bored of me! 😂

[@rogerboucher1913]

Depends on how tall you are. I’m 5’ 8’’ and I swapped to the mid ones. Now I’m perfectly comfortable on it. And it also gives the option to stand up on it “off road” (like Steve McQueen in the great escape) haha

[@TracyLoop]

Great looking Bike.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you!

[@elivill]

Captain, I have a Vulcan 900c. My bike has a beautiful 4.2 gallon gas tank. I love the speedmaster, so do you think it should have a bigger tank, wish all cruisers would have at least 14 liter. Less stops more fun. What do you think Captain?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

I’m not too sure. The tank looks nice and is narrow so Didsbury push my knees out. I’ve been getting 150 miles range recently so that’s fine. Also equates to about 2 hours of riding which is more than enough for tine for a stop…. I’m happy with it but I understand if people want a bigger tank. Maybe in places where petrol stations are hard to find?

[@MichaelWinstanley-rq9hq]

What a cool bike👍

[@mistersid]

Beautiful motorcycle!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you!

[@BobberRider]

Sweet, glad you enjoy your Speedy. I've got a 2017 Bobber which I've "upgraded" a bit (ahem) and it'll never leave me, I love it to bits. I've seen loads of complaints about the original shock, but mine's fine. You've just got to let them bed in for a couple of thousand miles. Is yours on the original? In honour of one of my favourite childhood authors (Capt. W.E. Johns) mine's called "Big Les".

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Very nice!!! Yes, I’m in the original shock and no issues at all… does everything I ask of it. Doesn’t even crash into holes… ultimately, if I see a big pothole coming I ride out of my seat…

[@RedfordBaron]

He looks splendid Sir 😍

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! And thanks to you too as you've added to it so generously!

[@RedfordBaron]

@@CaptainRambunctious Thank you Your welcome

[@ericespiritu8006]

What kind of handlebar do you have on that bike, I realy like the way it looks. Nice bike!

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you. It’s the bobber black straight handlebar. Gives me more room than the standard beach bars…

[@ericespiritu8006]

Did u have to change the cable cables

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@ericespiritu8006 yes, got the shorter cable pack…. Sold the beach bars and cables on eBay really easily

[@MayoungPunte]

what is a top speed for this beauty?

[@rogerinwales]

Great looking bike, will sound even better with a de-cat.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Absolutely! 😈

[@simonchilli2088]

Great video. I also watch RedAngRevival who has a Speedmaster and has done the Distinguished Gentleman's Bike Ride. I'm hoping to get a bike early summer and between you as owner's I think it'll be the Speedmaster.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Fantastic to hear! Thanks for watching!

[@gerrywood5325]

Since you have a lot of gold and brass trim on your lovely bike you should get a gold or brass drive chain.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

We are definitely on the right lines… I was looking at a gold DID chain… can’t find a gold sprocket though.

[@JustinaHerne]

Lovely customised touches to yr bike Sir!! May I please enquire where you sourced the gold Union Jack knee decal from? Looks a treat, all the best Justina

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thank you! You’re most welcome… I bought them from eBay, from an American seller but can’t find them at the moment so they must have withdrawn for now but just search for gold tank decals…

[@larespuertorico]

Beautiful bike

[@georgepipinis542]

Hello sir from Greece !! Congrats for your video as always . May ask you what kind of bars have you purchased ?? I’m 6.2 and I think they will more comfy for me. Thank you in advance.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Good evening! As the bobber black and Speedmaster are pretty much the same, they are the bobber black straight handlebars with shorter cables… you’ll need these too. Good luck and happy riding!

[@georgepipinis542]

Thank you so much ! Keep riding safe!

[@guywolff]

Being shorter and enjoying the possibility of "posting" on bigger bumps I would go for the mid controls .Easier on the lower back for me .Other wise I agree yours is an almost perfect bike ..It might be fun to find a spring loaded seat at a slightly higher stance again to help with the rougher riding ala 1927 Indian 101 :) .I know you will enjoy the heated grips. I ride through the New England winters on a Street Scambler 900 and they are very helpful ...

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Guy. I've had heated grips before and they really do help... Just something that I keep forgetting to buy as I ride it only a little in the winter... My knees are too compressed on mid controls, I found the bobber ok, but not too comfortable for longer rides... The posting is reduced due to the straighter bars as they pull me forwards a bit and so as I'm leaning forwards, the bumps don't go up my back... Great post, thank you and thank you for watching! TBH!

[@nickbergquist6222]

I like the idea of forward controls but yes, those bumps at 24:18, they're all over UK roads where something has been buried under the surface perpendicular to the line of travel. Some are real dangerous (yes you little monster, on the A20 heading into London just inside the M25) and will throw you off at speed. The answer being of course to stand on the pegs just before... but this is a real limitation of forward controls is it not?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@nickbergquist6222 Ah, I can still raise myself out of my seat. I have been known to stand on the pegs too! Just for showing off purposes of course... The pegs are on a nice solid girder so no issues there! ;-)

[@mrabrasive51]

"I was proceedin in a northerly di rection me lord!.long john baldry!😊

[@sdpicturecard6858]

Nice review, Capt. Rambunctious. The Speedmaster is one of two bikes on my very short list of bikes I would buy to replace my Vulcan S if I were to actually do so. My biggest gripe with the KVS is the jerky throttle. So, my big question about the Speedmaster is, “How smooth is the throttle at low speeds/low rpms? Is it in any way jerky?”

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Good question.... It is a 'little' jerky. However, my fuel booster plug (plug and play) which solves an idle 'hunting' gets rid of that. Also, you can put it in 'rain' mode when in town and completely neuters the throttle... Not much fun though!! It is only a 1200 so the inertia would be less thank your KVS I suppose? Being a parallel engine, there aren't many vibes either... A few at 4000 rpm as you accelerate through... Thanks for the good question! These are th things I forget to talk about when I've been riding the same bike so long as I forget to notice or just don't notice anymore.... Tally Bally Ho!

[@anthonydunn7043]

Hey Captain, I bought the same year, same model on my Birthday in 2019. I agree its a keeper..sensational bikes. .. I added whitewalls..How do i show you a pic of mine?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Lovely... If you are on Facebook, message me on there, Charlie De Havilland, or instagram at cpt.rambunctious, or twitter, cptrambunctious... Or even on my facebook page same name... I'd be very interested in seeing it... I toyed with the idea of white walls, but wanted to remain as black as poss apart from that lovely Phantom Black / Crystal White tank... Thanks for watching!

[@steveprevett]

Lovely job. Can I ask where you sourced the gold tank side decals? Thanks Steve

[@CaptainRambunctious]

I just found them on eBay. Came from the US. Can’t find them currently but maybe not selling them at the moment?

[@tonywilliamson4512]

Like what you've done to the bike especially the union jack tank pads n rad guard.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Tony... I'm still trying to keep it understated but not just another black bike... The gold bits really help but I'm wary of going too far with them... There's a lovely solid brass brake reservoir cap but that would look out of place the all black bars... Self restraint is definitely in order! HA! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.... Tally Bally Ho!

[@RichardWilliams-kf5vw]

I meant to ask when I posted before, where did you get the Union Jack tank decals?

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@RichardWilliams-kf5vw just from eBay! Nowhere special… I’ll have a Google but not sure I can find them at the mlemnt

[@RichardWilliams-kf5vw]

No problem, I’ll search them out myself. I’m torn between a T120 and a Speedmaster, but the more I see of Merlin, the more I’m drawn to a Speedmaster.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@RichardWilliams-kf5vw it really is down to looks and leg position…

[@Nicolae8607]

I like the bars you have on this bike,can you pls tell me if are the bars from the bobber ? Thank you

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@Nicolae8607 they are the bobber black bars. You needs to get the shorter cables for them but that’s easily done.

[@Nicolae8607]

@@CaptainRambunctious thank you..the bike looks very cool with the bobber bars.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

@@Nicolae8607 thank you! I love it and it also makes the riding position better for me.

[@frankmalone8389]

Nicely done cap'n

[@CaptainRambunctious]

Thanks Frank!

[@JeffMain-rf6gy]

Hi - which handlebars do you have on Merlin? I've test drove a speedster with the standard 'beach bars' and I don't like the feel of them.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

The bobber black flat bars. You need the bobber wiring kit to shorten the wires… perfect in my opinion…

[@martyshmanka]

Hello from Toronto! I have a 2022 Street Twin and was wondering if you knew where to source the tank stickers (8:10) for my bike? Thanks and ride safe and cool, man.

[@CaptainRambunctious]

I just found them on eBay… searched for gold Union Jack tank decals? I’ll try and find the selller