The 1968 Triumph 500 is basically the perfect motorcycle for the street
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- čas přidán 7. 07. 2022
- Is it possible that a 50 year old british motorcycle is just as good for the street as any modern motorcycle? Today I'm looking at my old, 1968 Triumph 500 and seeing if it stands up today as a usable motorcycle
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One thing you didn't talk about much is maintenance. It is important to keep the timing spot on and the carbs tuned, but that is a very easy DIY activity with this motor. Being able to keep this engine in perfect tune by yourself, is one of the most satisfying parts of owning one.
....and it makes a lot more sense to just fit electronic ignition......
@@caribman10 Where's the fun in that?
Single carb and lower state of tune than a Daytona. Not a fussy bike. Keep the nuts and bolts tight and ride.
@@caribman10 I used to have an AJS 250cc G14 and tuning the bike was great fun in getting the best out of a 40 year old engine. I used to tune a radio to a blank part of the airways and use this to tune the points as the piston rose to 1/8 before top dead centre the points should start to open and the condeser would then cause interference to the radio, which gave me the ability to adjust the points and then get the engine to get to be able to idle at a very low rpm. Also making adjustments to the monobloc carbouretters was another area of discovery, I just wish I had the internet then, but also the right to repair means nothing unless the item was made in any quantity and Triumph made millons and with lots of propriety parts[ lucas, wipac, british hub co. etc. So this means these bikes will be around for ever. And the Fonz had one so whats not to like!!!!
Carb, single. Timing, it doesn't move around a lot. Points and plugs was about it.
Back in the day I owned a '69 Bonneville, bone stock but for the mufflers. Incredible machine, started right up, never crapped out, went plenty fast, (did the ton), always sounded good, the more I rode it the better it ran. I think the word you are searching for here is "soul". These old Brit bikes had it in spades.
I had a 1967 Daytona. I remember it as the most beautiful ride and pleasant sounding machine I have ever owned. Pleasant memories. And yes, Bart comprehends the absolute beauty and joy of the Daytona 500.
Not sure why people talk about hard to start. I'm 66 and my 69 Bonneville fires first kick, starts second or third at most. It's the epitome of design and nothing comes close, apart from same era Triumphs.
I owned a 1977 Bonnie from 1991 to 2010 when I sold it because I just wasn’t getting to ride it enough in the 5 yrs before I sold it. That bike was amazing and never leaked oil. I serviced it every 1000 miles and tightened every thing to the specs in the workshop manual. Used it to go to and from work 40 miles 5 days a week until 2005. It started first time every kick. My local parts dealer used to say the same thing to other customers ( who always grumbled about their bikes ) , when I went I to the shop for gaskets “Triumph made a good bike, and he’s got it”
Great bikes. Enjoy and ride safe.
Haha....I think he was saying..."You got The good one..."
I have had my 650 Triumph for 40 years, this guy is absolutely on point here
You have got it I have been riding a t100ss since 1972 still riding now at age72 never ever sell it that is the golden rule. Happy days John
I sold my 1970 Triumph Trophy 500, which I had bought brand new, years ago. I regret it to this day.
It's subjective and relative of course, in 1968 someone that owned a Black Shadow probably thought his Triumph was for thrill seekers and race boys and not a proper bike, or something. But the point of it all is we love our bikes and love riding and it's a great community to be a part of. I've broken down all over the world on old bikes and always someone has stopped to help, and vice versa. And beers and yarns and catch up with me when you're in my country/state/town. Pretty special thing we have. And thanks heaps to Bart for putting up all these vids.
There's something comforting about a youngster talking about a 1968 Daytona that warms my heart. The only bike I ever really truly was in love with was my '58 Speed Twin. It had been heavily modified, given twin carbs, chromed rocker caps, ape hangers and flake gold paint job. I did unspeakable things to that engine (I won't go into details but let's just say it involved a crescent wrench, screwdriver and an incredible amount of gasket goo,) and it just took it. Years after I sold it I would dream that I still had it and would wake up, heart pounding.
My 2022 Speedmaster Goldline is gorgeous too. However, I am yet to take it on the road, with lower back pain that is refusing to hurry up and heal. I've comforted myself with starting it and taking it up and down the driveway. *sigh*
How the back does better soon. Some get some help with a backrest or even a seat with a ledge between the passenger.
I've ridden, raced (at the pro level), modeled and test ridden a high percentage of all the motorcycles produced over the past 55 years or so and my all-time favorite bike is my 1970 500 Triumph. MIne's the 'Daytona' with twin carbs and the larger, DLS front brake. I've owned it for about 40 years, ridden it on camping expeditions across the desert, carved canyons with it and commuted on it. Why my favorite? Hard to explain. I bought in non-running condition intending to flip it for a quick profit, but the first time I rode it I felt like Steve McQueen in the 'Great Escape', and you can't sell a bike that makes your feel like that! And I still get that same sensation every time I ride it. Aside from a set of clutch plates I've never had the engine apart, doesn't burn any oil, and starts first kick,
Compared with the 650s (I have a couple of those, too.) the 500 is much lighter and more maneuverable, making it a great town bike, and the engine is lightly stressed, so it's a happy, mellow engine that's easy to start. The 500s are also very affordable, because the 650's get all the glory ( not without reason). Their smaller size also makes them ideal for physically smaller, lighter riders.
Thanks for showcasing this highly underrated machine!
As long as you love it ,it works . I've owned 3 old Triumphs over the years, 2 500's and a a T140 750 which was my favorite of the 3. My Norton-Atlas 750 still lives -strong in my mind, as does my 75 Ducati 750. Cant afford to buy most of them these days, but still have an old yam TX650, an XV1000TR1 and a kawasaki W650 with the 360-crank..and a kick-start ! Great to see people of this generation enjoying classic-machines . Dave NZ
In 1969, after getting out of the navy, my best friend bought a '69 Triumph Trophy 500 while I bought a '69 Honda CL450 Scrambler. At the time I thought the Honda was a superior bike until I got tired of the handlebar vibration above 45 mph, after 6 months I moved on to a Norton Commando. My friend, on hard times, sold his T-500 within a year and the new owner promptly turned it into a total custom chopper, much to my horror. At the time, I didn't have much respect for the little bike, but now with the wisdom of 6 decades of motorcycling knowledge, I realize what a little gem he had, I'd take it over the Honda in a heartbeat.
Great video. Love the sound of that engine. I had a 1970 Daytona. Very similar to that bike. Daytona had dual carbs and mine had the dual leading shoes from later models. I rode that bike around Europe and Great Britain while stationed there and up and down the east coast of the US after returning home. After 50 years of riding and many motorcycles, that is still one of my two favorites. Oil leaks, I can show you how to fix them. Electrics, I can show you how to fix the rectifier. Those are some of the things you learn to do with an old British bike.
Important point regarding weight. At my age, 69, weight has become a factor again. Lightweight bikes are in my future for sure. Maybe I should restore an old Triumph.
Hi Jim, I'm the same age and have to agree about the weight of bikes. If you ever get the chance to buy a kawasaki w650 or even the later w800, I would recommend them . Good weight, great balance , knock out the baffles and they sound great , same crank-configuration as this old Triumph . Try the Tibetan 5 Rites...go slow..helps with everything ! Dave NZ
I've had my 73 500 since 1978 ,paid $800 for it and have loved having it for the last 45 years everything you said is bang on !! I love your passion ❤ BH
Interesting video. BTW in the UK the car is an MGB GT, a MG Midget is a smaller version of the basic 2 seater MGB.
Embarrassing
The green MG: that looks like an MGB GT rather than a Midget.
Yeah the coverable and coupe are both mgbs
You are correct! The MGB GT shown in the video is a completely different car from the MG Midget which is *much* smaller.
The full technology I like it better better than you crap today
I think you have comprehensively hit the nail right on the head - you understand the "Old Bike" thing perfectly . . . Its great to hear you enjoying your beautiful Meriden Twin so much . . . Many are aware of this groove and that's what makes your videos so popular perhaps . . .
Of course Triumphs of this era did not become so good by accident, although based on a 1930's design, many clever men were behind a continuous detail developement programme to keep it up to date with competetive performance and handling even during the early stages of the Japanese onslaught . . .
In the late 60's the factory could not build enough to satisfy demand, particularly from the U S. market . . .
There is one thing in your videos narrative that I would contend however and that is the comment regarding the gear change, these bikes had an excellent and precise change with very short and crisp movement . . . Yours may not have this, but that is a characteristic of your example rather than the machine in general . . .
Keep enjoying your Ace little bike . . .and making videos please
My 2020 W800 has the 360 degree crank and I love it. It is on the heavy side but it's weight is low. Would love to add a vintage Triumph to the garage some day though 😍
1968 Triumph is what I ride (my other bike is a Honda). So good to hear someone else appreciates this model
. Great videos, much enjoyed, thank you.
Love this ,I had a 73 Daytona T100R ,I’m hearing you loud and clear .I’ve owed 20 plus bikes and the Daytona was my all time favourite .I also had a 79 T140 750 Bonnie ,and I prefer the Daytona hands down wish I still had it.Figure this out I always wanted a 850 Mk 3 Norton Commando ,somehow ended up with triumphs .I ride a Victory Boardwalk now really happy with this ,but still have a love for my old triumph Daytona,hardly see any come up for sale now and going up in value.My mates all had triumphs ,BSA ,Nortons this all changed in 1984 with the arrival of the Harley Davidson 1340 Evo engine .Biker from down under NZ.
I don't understand why people need or think they need crazy horsepower for street use. I got the Trail 125, which is like 8 or 9 HP, and it is a perfect bike for commuting, a grocery getter, cruising to the coffee shop or sno cone stand...I've seen a lot of people on You tube using them for road trips, which has inspired me to get a key map of the county and look for routes to the countryside or the beach on back roads, since the Trail is too slow for a freeway, and part of the charm is slowing down to explore and enjoy the ride, not simply breezing by.
It's definitely far better to look at than the modern crop of machines.
You forgot the best thing: the kicker.... I find it almost impossible to appreciate a bike without a kicker...
I’ve got a 1968 500 Daytona and like you it’s the perfect motorcycle for me. I just love it ✊
This size and power of bike makes a lot of sense. With the amount of traffic on the roads and so many speed cameras and restrictions, there’s not much call for a 1000cc 150bhp, or even something as powerful as 70bhp. Love the old Triumph’s but I wanted to be able to open the garage and ride whenever I wanted, and not spend an hour trying to get it started. One of the reasons I went with the latest Kawasaki W800. It has all of that ‘old school’ charm, it has a renowned history of its own, and I get modern reliability as well. That 360 degree firing order is addictive, and I hope to look at it in 30 years time with the same sentiment you have for your Triumph.
I almost agree here - but I once rode a Daytona with the Bonneville two leading shoe brake, and it was a revelation. By the way: ditch those stupid "period" tires, please.
My older brother had a green Tiger 500. He asked me to help evacuate it up Airline Hwy from his apt. in N.O. to my parent's house in B.R., just as Hurricane Camille was about to make landfall in 1969. We called those handles "tiddy grips". ;)
I had 2 back in the 70s. I much preferred the 500 to the 650s. Especially my Daytona SS! Way more power!!!!!
The ergonomics of the Daytona are so much more comfortable than modern bikes. And the analog tach/speedo are still best imo.
Great upload sir,I bought a 1960 5ta triumph In 1969 for £60 I was a kid aged 16,just got my full UK licence,I felt like a dog with two di@ks...my best ever speed was 85mph give or take 10 as the needle swung up and down with the vibration.
I had a 500 cc Triumph motorcycle when I was growing up in the city streets of Chicago, back in the 1970s , Great bike for the city, I actually put a smaller sprocket gear on the back wheel to increase mph on the freeway it was slow to start but once you got it wound up I can do 65 with no problem ‼️🇬🇧♥️ great footage 🎥🎬🎞️👍‼️
I had a T100T Daytona, that I got as a box of bits, what a great little bike it was!
I have the Daytona, 1971 the year I was born and I just love it.
1969, 16 yrs old - Driving by the Triumph Dealer in Walnut Creek CA, with my mom who said, "let's look at those bikes." She and my dad dated on bikes while he was in law school after WW2. (Indian Scout, Norton single) We went inside and there was a shiny new Trophy 500. Oh, Joy of Joys! could this actually be happening? - No F.....g way. A year later I got a "68 Honda CL-350 Scrambler. A much wiser choice for a novice, and has led to many more bikes and 50+ years of riding. BTW my grandfather rode in WW! France, My dad did into his 80s, and my son and grandson do too.
You probably remember Ray's Honda on North Main St in Walnut Creek. I used to love to go in there and look at the new 305s. That place had an amazing motorcycle smell to it when you walked into the showroom.
The kick start procedure is an investment in the ride. If you push on the limits, the bike will let you know. Many vehicles are faster, more refined, less maintenance, but your 40+year old ride says more in appearances then any modern bike could.
Art through simplicity at its finest.
you got a good one w/the small clean front break and the eyebrow badges, Love it. have a '66 650 but always wanted a 500,yeah they're perfect agree 100%, Great video!
You never mentioned the tank badge.
My 200cc Tiger Cub was all tank badge : that was the USP.
What a marvellous design - the calligraphy.
And the way it sticks out, one can tuck one's knees behind
those tank badges on a cold day.
Had one of these(wish I still had it). Absolutely fantastic bike to ride. I've ridden everything from dirt to biggest fastest bikes, and it is always fun to ride this bike through the Twisties and mountains 😎👌👍
I have to agree Bart, I've had two in my life, an Australian ex-police training bike, a single carby version. It was sweet, smooth, beautiful to look at, fun and safe to ride. I used to tune the carb mixture with the bike on the centre stand by watching the front wheel shake up and down, truely , when it was right the wheel pulsed gently instead of shaking, amazing but it worked. It handled and that engine was sharp and thrilling.
The second one was also a state (Nsw) ex-police model , but with twin carbs, converted after its service in police, so a Daytona, almost,,it was faster but had been abused, it was loose and noisy but never let me down.
Ive been searching for that type and feel ever since, the nearest I've found is the new Kawasaki z650rs, heavier , but it has the right stuff that made the little Tigers such great bikes. Im thinking hard about ordering one.
I totally get what you're saying. I love old bikes. I don't think you even have to justify it objectively. You love riding it. You love looking at it. You love hearing it. 'Nuff said!
My 1972 Honda CB450 was very similar to the Triumph with a dual overhead cam motor and electric start (in addition to the kick starter). I still like what is now called "retro" and would never own a cycle that looks like a transformer.
I had mine in 1966. I loved the bike. I rode the freeway so changed the sprocket to get it higher geared. It did OK. Not a fire breather but OK.
Nothing looks as good as a older Meridan Triumph. I have owned 500’s, 650’s and 750’s. There is just something about them that overrides their foibles. My ‘70 500 Daytona I rode from coast to coast ( with -no- problems believe it it not) was my favorite.
Young people today think you need 100hp to ride on the highway or carry a passenger. You constantly hear about the high maintenance. You would think no one ever made it out of town without tearing the engine down. I'm glad I remember when the salesman would grab a wrench to solve a problem.
Ted Simon didn't have much trouble with his either!
This is another take on “ if I have to explain , you wouldn’t understand”. Some people get the vintage era machines, bikes , cars , trucks, tractors etc. others are all about new tech and wouldn’t think about vintage.
There’s nothing wrong with that , it just is. To some, myself included, the simple and mechanical nature of vintage machines holds a magic, as opposed to the modern, computer controlled stuff. Turning wrenches and getting greasy is part of being a part of the machines. Yeah, you would want to carry a few tools along on the triumph, but hey, even the early Honda’s came with tool kits on board. When did HD really explode? With the advent of the virtually trouble free EVO engine in 84. Yet MANY still ride the old pre EVO bikes for the reasons I described. The newest HD are all computer controlled , fuel injected …whatever.
Hell people still flock to old tractor and steam engine shows today. Vintage is its own reward to some of us.
Amen to that Megastick93 i'll cosign that!...couldn't have said it better....
My "95 Evo Electra Glide has a simple carbureted engine, really not much different from the earlier big twins with the exception of being more oil tight. It is a very hands on, rewarding engine to maintain. It when they went fuel injected and then to the twin cam, that it became less of the type we are discussing here. Love my bike.
@@bullitt79 i agree, i have three evo harleys and have been coast to coast on two of them, to daytona from everett, washington more than twice with no problems what so ever...alot of people don't realize older harleys were designed as a constant loss oil system...the blow by in the crankcase was vented into the primary chain case then dripped out onto the final drive chain so when i park my panhead in front of a bar and people would say hey your bike is leaking i'd say good, it's not out then lol...AMF years were leakers because of poor machining on the cases, i lap those cases on a sheet of glass with valve grinding compound till smooth and no more leaks...ride safe...
Having once owned an early 1960's BSA A7 500 I can appreciate how nice your bike is to ride. Stay safe fella.✌️🇬🇧
I see where you are coming from with this, I have a 66 5TA ( which looks almost identical to your bike ) and a fully restored 1960 trophy tr6 in my garage along with the two old triumphs I have some modern classics, T120, 900 street scrambler and Enfield Continental 650 and a few other bikes that fit in between. I have got to say that if I have got a job to do with a bike, go somewhere long distance with a purpose I would take the modern T120 and I would enjoy the ride, but if I want to go out and really enjoy myself, have an adventure and forget my worries it’s got to be either the 66 or 1960 triumph. Just turn on the fuel give the kickstart a prod with my foot and I am away.. no modern stuff to distract me, when I am riding through towns people on the pavement give me a nod and say nice bike mate.. it all adds to the experience. I know that these old bikes can’t match a modern new bike for reliably and speed, up untill last year I also had a bmw RnineT and bmw gs 1250, but they just didn’t give me the buzz that I required and I got fed up taking them back to the dealer every time a fault come up on the dash.. I must admit I think it is a case of horses for courses and use a bike that fits the purpose whether it’s getting somewhere fast and long distance or really enjoying the experience. Must just add in all the years and all of the bikes that I have ridden, my 500 triumph 5TA wins hands down for having the most comfortable seat and riding position.
I personally think the Honda CB750 is the perfect motorcycle for the street. But, I can't argue what you are saying! Keep up the great work!!
Nice video and good advice! I've been riding since 1972 and I've found most bikes made since maybe 1990 (to choose a date) to be fairly soulless. If a bike doesn't have that special quality, what's the point? Riding is an experience, cars are transportation.
Well, it does depend on the car. I drive a 1974 Lotus Elite and that thing makes me smile a lot and sometimes even laugh! Except when it's broke, then I hate it's guts.
Also ride a Norton Commando 850. Needs care. but I never have to hate it. Knock on wood!
Absolutely spot on.I love my 1968 Daytona.
I had a 1967 Daytona. Best ride I ever had. A truly beautiful machine. Very light, very agile.
Every Triumph back in the 60's & 70's always had cardboard under it. More stains on it than a dirty diaper. Past owner of a 68 Triumph 500 Daytona in the mid 70's. Loved it. Also had a Bonneville and a Trident. The Daytona was my favorite followed by the Trident which were rebuilt and resealed.
If you don't love them, you hate them. Enjoying my Bonnie these days.
Had a Seventies Daytona - never leaked at all.
Marking their spot!
I had a chance, in 1978, of buying a T100D. I even rode an hour to Brighton to see it in a shop. It was going for just over a 1000 pounds. It was a bit pricey for me but afterwards,to this day, I regretted that.
Such a sleek looking bike especially when they updated the cycle parts forThe T100D.
I feel bad for you because when I was in 6th grade a wicked beautiful girl in my class kind of Follow Me secretly around town to my fishing hole and stood on the bridge and watched and I would gaze up at her and think of things to say by just going up there. All the way in high school I had really good your beautiful girls sort of caliber with genuine dream interest in loving in a Timeless way that served me really good and I also had a Honda 350 CL. But you know, I always look back and think my life would have been a bizzilian times better if I had that first love who just begged me with her eyes to go to her standing on that bridge! I've had five different models of Triumphs. I own a Harley Davidson currently and I look on eBay for Triumphs and dream On.... You could guess about what/who.
@@ToddSloanIAAN yes, the past always seems to remind us of “lost” opportunities. Or in reality maybe not.
I had one of these, except 1966. When I bought it, it had lamp cord in the wiring. When I painted it and put new pipes on, it looked quite a lot like the one in this video. Torque was something else. If you weren't careful, it would go right out from under you.
A critical consideration is Commute v Recreation bike
I listed after a 60s and 70s Bonneville, but bought a Hinkley Bonneville in 2006’and proceeded to put 25000klm per year on it
The earlier triumphs are hands down more beautiful, lithe bikes. The engine and gearbox are beautifully lean creatures from the past, with the modern ones at least 25% or more larger, bulkier
It’s a trade off I guess. I’m thinking of keeping my Hinkley Bonneville for commuting, but getting an earlier 60s Bonneville because I agree 100% with everything your saying here
Brilliant video of a real favourite motorcycle. The passion for such, is fully understood......A fun,stylish and lightweight machine,with bags of soul. Lots of frustrating problems at times,but usually easily repaired. Mine has sat for a few years....complete, but needing tyres,shocks etc. Another 'must do' project waiting it's turn.
I think he meant to say no disc brakes. Back in '78 I bought a '67 Bonneville for $400.00. I saved it from getting chopped, I owned it for decades. It's the only motorcycle I have dreams about.
Ive just bought a 77 Yamaha Rd400 as a runaround bike. It puts out about forty horse but with very little work I could get it up to about 50. It weighs nothing and is easy to kick. Its all metal. I have other bikes but this is perfect as a shopping bike. Every ride puts a grin on my face. Modern bikes are like refrigerators. I cant get excited about a new fridge. On aesthetics I love spoke wheels and just put a set on a Guzzi Lemans. Looks great.
Brit bikes and sports cars were built for fun and looks. And by feel and eye, the reason a sailing ship looks better than a container ship. A Triumph, MGB, and Baja Bug go with 60's rock n roll and fun, fun, fun in the sun. Just don't think about them too much, just go. You really need a club to get the most out of them. They have secrets which they don't give up easily. Glad you found true luv.
I recently mashed together two decrepit Kawasaki Z440's. A 360 degree twin from the early eighties it weighs around 370lbs and develops 42 hp - it's a very cheap British lookalike and Japanese reliability was - by then - built in. It's the sweet spot.
My brother had a Bonnie in the early 80s. The tank was a proper 70s colour, think it was purple. He loved it and, years after selling it on, would talk about how easy it had been to maintain and how good to ride, etc. That bike made an impression.
500 parallel twins are ideal for smooth everyday riding. The English 650 and 750 twins had, for the time, astonishing performance, but suffered from vibration that numbed the rider's hands, feet and buttocks.
The 500cc parallel twin models from Triumph, BSA and Norton were fine machines.
Any of these examples are great rides today, If the rider doesn't think MotoGP riders are average.
I have to say my friend 68 500 trophy was the funnest around town bike i ever rode and it ran perfect
Bart.....you are a VERY fortunate fella. Yes indeed ,and I know exactly hoe you feel although I never owned a 500 cc riumph. I have owned a couple of Harley Davidson single cylinder bikes that shook like crazy and I thought what was Benelli thinking when they made them. But hey,for getting to work and just putting around town they were a unique joy. And then there was the 69 Ducati Desmo that handled like nothing I ever rode since and had torque like a MUCH larger bike . They were the girls bike in Japan at the time going for 8,000 US. Enjoy that sweet 500 and count yourself a lucky fella.
Well said. I got in my garage '72 Yamaha XS2, '74 Honda CB450, '79 BMW R80 and '94 Suzuki LS650 Savage and I love all these bikes to bits. They are a ton of work compared to new bikes (apart from the Savage) but they all have that classic 'thing' that appeals to me. All the modern bikes are just a lot of plastic and lack soul.
Had a 500 cc tiger hundred A great bike unit construction no problems with it at all loved it
You sold me… I’ll take it! 😎
I'm a Brit bike fan and have owned a few including a T90 which is the only one I miss but the way I see it is like before and after computers, so there's going to be a post computers equivalent somewhere, possibly a Honda CB400 Four, so you almost have both, I must admit to having a thing about mid weight DOHC 8 valve twins and 16 valve 4's too, the single cam 4 ans 8 valve varieties can be a bit crude in comparison to their decade later developments.
Pre computers the Triumph T100 proved itself not just on the Road but off road and on the Race track as well winning the 1966 Daytona 200 ridden by Buddy Elmore and the 1967 ridden by Gary Nixon destroying a few Honda CB450's while doing so plus then went on to also provide the basis for the A75 Rocket 3 and T150 Triple engines, literally one and half T100 engines and again won the 1971 Daytona 200 with Gary Nixon on a BSA Triple beating the Honda CR750 having lost to it the previous year. So they were fast for their time too if tuned 500 or 750. America had about 8 different models available inc the Trophy and Daytona which earnt their names the hard way, not just words written in a factory design studio.
So I'd say you're spot on, the mid capacity unit Triumphs look and feel as natural on the road as breathing, there's a life in them that can't be explained in words, unless you read about their history and Jupiters Travels maybe, you become one with them when riding and any worries are gone.
Great.In Norway the speedlimit is only 80 kmh with a few exeptions and people buy big Bmw's and Ktm with a lot of power....i like the old classics.
I've only recently bought a 78 Bonnie, and I fully understand your feelings. I've been on Harley's most of my life, owned a 64 Bonnie, back in the 70s and 80s, and just wanted to get back to enjoying life a bit slower. I've had my 78 for about two months and it's exactly what I was looking for, or close. I'm glad you're enjoying the same thing I did in my youth, and am back to, in my sixties. Thanks, very nice!
I've owned a 71 T100R for a bit over 30 years, imported back to England from California. The only year they fitted the 8" TLS front brake and for some, it may be over braked and may explain why Triumph went back to the 7". I've made the front tyre squeal from 70 mph after a small bird went through the front spokes. It will cruise nicely at 80 mph and does nothing to slow an old hooligan down. This bike encourages bad behaviour on city streets. A 19t gearbox sprocket tames it enough to almost keep the front wheel down and that front brake with a 13 stone rider, is a stopper. I find most modern front brakes are similar to a switch, not enough feel. Maintenance can be done on a wet evening, including fluid checks and/or changes. Gaskets are relatively cheap and can be bought individually. Light and nimble, especially through traffic.
I've heard of people complain of the same things you're having with the gear selection. They found fitting the later gear selector cam plate with a stiffening bridge, ironed out that wrinkle. I also use ATF in the gearbox. Front suspension, there are progressive springs and rather than engine oil, try different weights of fork oil to suit where and how you ride.
Hi, @750triton, what do you use in the primary?
That’s a sweet ride you have there.
I’ve had a number of great motorcycles over the years.
Been riding my ‘06 KLR650 single cylinder dual sport for the past 17 years, with virtually no issues.
It’s been a really great bike, such a blast to drive.
About to take delivery of a new Triumph Scrambler 1200XE.
When I test drove the demonstrator bike at the dealership I fell in love with it immediately.
Happy Riding!
Still have my 72 Bsa 650 twin that I bought as a 19year old in 76 alongside a 97 Vfr750f that is ridden for long distance.
It’s the way these vintage bikes zap us back, like a Time Machine we experience whilst we’re riding forward to our destination- uncanny feelings 😉
Nice video, gears, I had the 650 and 750 Bonnie's and the gears were slick, same with my BSA, my friends Triumphs also.
Another correction to the video. The brakes are not bad on these bikes. They are as good or better than most comparable disc brakes. I strongly suggest trying to source a front rim from a 500 Daytona model (as well as a twin carb head). The brake on that model has a ram air duct which helps immensely with the braking. The gearbox should not be loose or sloppy. You may want to look into that.
It’s the twin leading shoe for the Daytona that I improves the braking, the air duct doesn’t do much.
Hi Bart, on a recent vid you showed a glimpse of your dad on his '72 Honda cl350. I had the exact bike as my first road bike in the Spring of 1974. Always rode Japanese bikes but my heart, aesthetically, has always been with the British Twins. Was love at first sight for me when viewing the new RE INT 650. Bought one in March '20 and still in love with it. Your Triumph is a gem!
BART,I JUST SOLD MY 70 DAYTONA 500 FOR 17,500$ hard to part with it but i only paid 790$ for it new,beautiful machine
Is that usd?is it gold plated?
Perfect and looks great! The exhaust note reminds me of the old air-head BMWs I have owned.
If it makes you smile when you ride it then it's perfect. Your motorbike becomes your soul mate when you look forward to hitting the road.
Your right the most important aspect of a motorcycle is how it makes you feel, not cold performance data. Edward Turner said the 500 was the best all round bike they produced in his opinion. By the way that MG is not a Midget but the larger MGB GT, not that it makes any difference to the point about classic looks.
You got IT Right. GREAT video. Feeling the love of your Ride.
I think it's great, you loving this bike. There's a reason "retro's" and "modern classics" are HUGELY popular. I don't even like those words, really...it's a standard, and that kind of style has been around since 1938 and it never entirely disappeared. The looks of that Triumph never went away. It just waned in popularity for a while, almost hibernating, but that kind of style has come roaring back --- because, as you say, it is timeless. I mean look at a 2024 Triumph. They intentionally made the engine on it look exactly like that 50 year old bike!
I have the same exact bike and love it. Will look at your other videos.
That car is an MGB GT. The MG Midget was even smaller.
I own an MGB. I love it for all the same reasons you love your Triumph motorcycle. The Mazda MX5 beats the MGB in literally all objective measures, yet the style, simplicity, nostalgia, and sound of the MGB can never be beaten.
Great video, mid size twins are over looked and under appreciated.
Back in my early riding days I owned, Suz 500 Titan, Kaw KH 400 Triple, Suz GT 550 triple and a 68 Triumph 500 Daytona , Red and white.
It was so much better to spend the day on the 500 than the 77 Tri 750 I owned a few years later. The 750 vibrated badly ( the exhaust balancer tube would rattle loose after a few hours!) and leaked oil constantly, it was a chore to own it. The 500 would putter along all day un fazed.
The Amal carbs with the "tickler" will test your patience and make your gloves smell like gas but it also teaches a rider about basic carb operation..when you eventually flood it.
The drum brakes were a weak point as well as the dim lighting but the exhaust note is one of the all time best.
Light, easy to maneuver, easy to wrench on and kick start only made for a good experience.
I don't own one. I wish I did. To be honest I'm not even a motorcycle person. But there's something about 60s-70s British bikes that makes them really special.
Ole Steve McQueen and Evel agree with you totally! ..what a beautie that Tiger is, just meat and potatoes and a look that is to describe "a motorcycle" when talking about them..enjoy that bike and it will be worth more than you paid for it and still will go on climbing in value.... best regards ....D.
I've been riding for 53 yrs. Back then we called the Triumph 500 "The Thinking Man's Motorcycle."
Just recently sold a 68 and 70 T100S.
The 70 was restored. Great bikes!
I have the grandfather of this bike-a 1949 Triumph Trophy TR5T, it produces less but enough power, and at 295 pounds is much lighter even than this. In the 60 years I have been riding bikes I have had small bikes and big bikes, multiple Ducati’s, Triumphs, BSA’s, Moto Guzzi’s, MV’s, Gilera’s-the list could go on. I am a year older than my bike-and it suits me just fine.
Waiting for rebuilt engine in my '91 Zephyr. You do you, man. I love my carbureted 4 cylinder!
Someone talking sense! The 500cc Daytona was excellent. I have a tr5t -same engine- but less weight, great video!
M
been riding since 1976 & just about rode everything. now i just want one of those 500 triumphs or the 500 bsa both perfect for me right now.
🏴☠️
ps, all those "problems" with the bike, brakes, gearbox, electrics etc can be overcome with modern products without detracting from the original looks.
Yeah but why would u install electronic ig on a baby bonny points are a piece of piss to set up try atriple set on t160 thets what we call fun down under
If you're happy with it, then it's perfect! Mine was my 1200 Bandit that could tour, scratch, commute, and ride two up with ease. An almost complete opposite to your choice in some ways!
NB - as you ride both old Brit and Japanese bikes, do you ever get phased by the foot controls being reversed?
I was on a forum and stated how reliable a British bike was compared to a new bike,,and was roasted alive,, but when you look in the owners manual of most modern bikes they expect you to go to the dealer to even change the plugs,,on an old british bike you can just about do everything apart from change the bottomend bearings with the toolkit..And doing the work yourself if you are a decent fixing thngs is so satisfing ..The thing about owning a british bike is you cannot thrash the engine regularly without consequences, really the revs have tobe kept below 5000,or stuff happens in a bad way... great vids enjoyed and agree with everything you said (apart from the MG was not a midget it was a MG B )
The unique Trumpet sound stems from the fact that the header pipe lengths are an octave different.
The term ''Tickle'' needs to add a r to the term as in ''Trickle'' for that is the more logical function when the bowl overflows. The foot pegs are yet another off symmetry aspect.
-DU69160 2nd owner & current rider since 1973 when I paid a dollar a cc for it.
Spot on. I never had any warm feeling about modern motorcycles. I tried a Moto Guzzi V7 mk1 for a couple of years, but it failed to touch me. Got back to classic rides with a BSA B33 and recently a Triumph 3TA-WD again. Been touring with some boys from the local club, all aboard modern rides, and they were amazed, not to say thrilled by me and the BSA riding on par with the others despite aged 70 (the bike) 500cc 21bhp.
I rode a 60s Triumph T100 in the 60s, and it was a fantastic ride.
Nice bike, nice viideo! You might want to think about the gearbox. The only time my old 3TA ever missed a gear was when my foot slipped off the lever but it did seem to like a leisurely change.
Sounds better than most Harley’s ! Love your passion for the brand .
Excellent contents. Thanks for sharing.