Triumph Rocket III Owners...Tell me

[TommyV]

This is a bike I need to buy! Right now, I'm torn between buying a left over 07 Standard and Classic, or an 08 Touring. Thoughts?

[GPM]

I have an '08 R3 Touring. They're very different bikes.

If you're looking for a power cruiser, get the Standard/Classic. If you want a tourer, consider the Touring model. It has standard windshield and hard bags. It also has a 180 rear tire vs the 240 on the other models. The 180 handles better (for an 800 lb bike). The Touring model has been de-tuned as well. While it is rated a bit higher in torque, peak horsepower is down around 30 to 108.

Accessories are starting to become available for the Touring model, including exhaust choices and computer tuning that potentially may work to restore some of the lost power.

I have around 6000 miles on the bike so far and am quite happy with it. It is big, comfortable, and has stump pulling torque. Shifting is optional.

[tri650]

I spent a few long days on the R3 Touring as I was helping my dealer in Chicago when he had the demo truck for 3 days. I am not a cruiser guy and was not happy with the thought of spending a lot of time in the saddle of the R3 Touring.

Wow, after a few days on this bike I was converted. Comfortable, easy to ride, easy to handle and enough power to go anywhere at anytime. I rode the original Rocket a few years ago and was not that impressed -it just did not fit me right. Never gave it a second thought. I have seriously considered trading in my Tiger on a R3 Touring - my wife likes the passenger seat a lot better. I could see riding this thing across country - and back. Throw on that Corbin fairing and you got a great looking bike.

GPM - I know what you mean by stump pulling power. What color combo did you get?

[GPM]

Blue/Blue

[TommyV]

I'm all over the map as I like things about both bikes. Love the hardbags, detachable windshield, and cheaper to replace 180 tire, but I'm also a hotrodder, and think a sissy bar, and bags would make a good around town cruiser that could handle a yearly roadtrip with ease. And of course the dual headlights would look great parked next to Speedy! Either way, it'll be a great choice!

[LOFTYBOB]

All the information, both good and bad can be found at this site mate;

http://www.r3owners.com/portal.php

I have owned two Rocket 111's, an 05 & 07 models. Both were standard bikes before I started to play with them.
Ended up with a 260+ RWHP NOS powered Grey one,


And the 07 Black one which had engine, clutch, computer and exhaust work done for near on 200RWHP,

Both copped a fair thrashing and I never had a problem with either one, but there are some problems with some bikes. I'd go the 07 standard model and dress it up to suite your tastes.
Good luck with your decision.
Regards Bob.