DON'T buy a Triumph Bobber - Until you watch this video!

Summary

In this detailed review of owning a Triumph Bobber, the narrator shares their personal experience with the bike, highlighting its unique design, comfort, and performance. They emphasize the bike's low and stable ride, ideal for beginners, its solid weight, and how it offers a fun, non-fussy riding experience. The review also covers modifications, from exhaust upgrades to suspension choices, discussing their impact on performance and sound. Overall, the owner describes the Bobber as a blend of art and power, making it a joy to own and ride, with no buyer's remorse after two years of use.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Triumph Bomber is a great choice for solo riders who don't need a passenger seat, as it's lighter on insurance and more enjoyable for personal use.
• 😀 The bike is heavy (240 kg), but its low stance and good foot contact make it stable and manageable for riders, especially beginners.
• 😀 It’s a bike that feels like a piece of art, with its clean, well-contained wiring and stunning aesthetics.
• 😀 The Triumph Bomber’s exhaust has an amazing sound, even with the stock pipes, and it's a joy to ride and listen to.
• 😀 The cost of ownership is relatively affordable, with a PCP plan available that allows the rider to pay small monthly installments with the option to buy or return it after a few years.
• 😀 Regular maintenance costs are moderate, with the first service being free and subsequent services ranging around £250-£300 annually.
• 😀 Long-distance riding is surprisingly comfortable despite the minimalistic seat design, and the bike is suitable for 4-hour rides without discomfort.
• 😀 The bike’s design is simple, with minimal distractions and an easy-to-read analog dial, giving it a classic, clean look.
• 😀 Modifications are highly possible, including decatting, new exhausts, air filters, and suspension upgrades, though some can be expensive.
• 😀 Braking and clutching may be challenging for some due to the lack of hydraulic systems, but it's part of the 'manly' experience of riding.
• 😀 After two years of ownership, the rider has no buyer's remorse and views the Triumph Bomber as a long-term companion, symbolizing coolness and enjoyment.

Q & A

Why is the Triumph Bobber a good choice for some buyers?

The Triumph Bobber is a good choice for buyers who may not need a back seat, such as solo riders, and those looking for a bike with a cool, unique design. It's also great for people who prefer a low-riding, stable bike that's easy to handle, even for beginners.

What is the main difference between the Bobber and the Speedmaster?

The main difference is that the Speedmaster has a full double seat, making it more suitable for passengers. However, it lacks the Bobber's distinctive floating seat, which is considered more stylish. The Speedmaster is also more comfortable and practical for carrying bags, but the Bobber has a cooler appearance.

How does the weight of the Triumph Bobber affect its performance?

The Triumph Bobber weighs around 240 kg, which makes it heavier than some other motorcycles. Despite its weight, the low center of gravity helps make the bike stable and easier to control. It may feel heavy when maneuvering at low speeds but doesn’t feel unmanageable due to its low seating position.

What are the insurance benefits of not including a pillion seat?

By not including a pillion seat, the rider can save on insurance costs. The rider also avoids the added responsibility and risks of carrying a passenger, especially in the event of an accident.

Is the Triumph Bobber suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Triumph Bobber is considered user-friendly for beginners. Its low seat height provides good foot contact with the ground, and its engine performance, while powerful, is manageable. It is not as intimidating as sport bikes, making it an ideal option for those upgrading from a 125cc bike.

How does the Triumph Bobber's riding position affect comfort on long rides?

The Bobber’s upright riding position is surprisingly comfortable, even for long rides. Despite its minimalist seat design, many riders find it comfortable, as it doesn't put pressure on the tailbone or spine, unlike some other bikes. However, it can be tiring due to wind resistance at higher speeds.

What is the ownership experience like for a Triumph Bobber?

The ownership experience of a Triumph Bobber is described as highly enjoyable. It's a bike that owners can admire as a piece of art, both when parked in the garage and when riding. The sound of the engine and the bike's overall aesthetic make it a joy to own. Maintenance costs are moderate, with yearly services being affordable, and cleaning the bike is a fun activity for many owners.

How has the rider modified their Triumph Bobber, and what impact did these modifications have?

The rider has made several modifications to their Bobber, including removing the catalytic converter (decating), installing a shorter exhaust, and making adjustments to improve performance. These modifications enhanced the bike's sound and performance without requiring an ECU upgrade, improving the bike’s overall ride experience.

What is the general price range of the Triumph Bobber and how does it compare to other brands?

The Triumph Bobber is priced around £13,000 when new, which might seem expensive at first. However, compared to other brands like Ducati, which starts at a similar price, the Bobber is considered relatively affordable for a bike of its quality, design, and performance.

What are some potential issues with the braking system on the Triumph Bobber?

The braking system, while equipped with Brembo double-disc brakes, is considered less responsive than expected, particularly in the rear. Due to the bike's heavy weight and the rider's size, braking performance can be a bit underwhelming, especially in comparison to sport bikes.