Suggestions for new rider

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bikeguy joe · Thu Jan 19, 2006 2:09 am

Good luck.

Keep us posted as to your progress.

One of my first road bikes was a '71 BSA a-65....I still don't recommend an older Brit bike as a starter, but to each his own. Constant maintenance issues, (good way to learn though) bad brakes, (keeps you alert) vibrations galore (some will enjoy that one). Lots of attention from people too. (once again, some will enjoy this)

You will need a manual, and some whitworth wrenches fo' sho'!

LOOKY HERE-http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=whitworth+wrenches

bikeguy joe · Thu Jan 19, 2006 2:13 am

Sorry, I meant Whitworth SPANNERS....

http://www.jag-lovers.org/xk-lovers/lib ... ystem.html

sapaul · #13 Unread post by **sapaul** » Thu Jan 19, 2006 3:38 am

Put some nice chrome sissy bars on and you should do just fine, find some 70's type gear, you will look cool.

sucka.please · Sun Jan 22, 2006 7:32 pm

Well, the deal is done!! I just picked up my new '73 Triumph Tiger 650.

Thanks for all the advice, but I fell in love with that bike the moment I laid eyes on it.

The first ride demonstrated that the transmission shifts like a dream, and the bike runs like a top. It rides true up to ~35mph, but it'll be awhile before I check for a high-speed wobble.

The guy that redid this beauty really knows his stuff. If anyone needs Brit bike service in central Texas, drop me a line, and I'll get you in touch!

It's off to the parking lot tomorrow after work!!!

TechTMW · #15 Unread post by **TechTMW** » Sun Jan 22, 2006 7:47 pm

Good luck with your new ride!

Plese remember that your "new" bike is going to need constant maintenance. Pay attention to what the bike is telling you and don't be lazy about your maintenance.

bikeguy joe · Mon Jan 23, 2006 2:04 am

Get a manual and some Whitworth tools! You will come to know this bike intimately.

I will look for mine when I get home from work tonight, any pages you need, I could scan and send you. (maintenance intervals, clearances, oil types ect.) I also have some other books on this bike.

It will need less maintenance than my old BSA.

sucka.please · Wed Jan 25, 2006 3:22 am

I really appreciate the offer bikeguy!

Hopefully I won't require too much help.

How much do you think I should expect to pay for an actual manual?

btw, the guy who redid my bike had a '69 BSA Victor 441 for sale. It looked freaking sweet.

sapaul · #18 Unread post by **sapaul** » Wed Jan 25, 2006 3:31 am

Good luck with the Triumph, hope you find some RATS in your area to ride with. The bike does look sweet.

Dragonhawk · Wed Jan 25, 2006 6:42 am

sucka.please wrote: I can understand the hesitancy from you guys that suggest that a switched shifter is not for a beginner, but if you've never known the difference...

I agree completely. Having the brake and gear-shift on opposite sides would be a challenge to adapt to. But, if you're a new rider and aren't accustomed to it being on one side or the other, it won't make any difference to you.

Congrats on the bike. Enjoy.

#20 Unread post by **Kal** » Wed Jan 25, 2006 1:13 pm

You guys all drive on the wrong side of the road anyways!!!

I_want_that_BSA...