I'm thinking seriously about a 2009 Triumph Sprint ST. Anyone have any thoughts on these bikes? I'm looking for something with bags, more for use as a daily commuter than a true long-distance bike. I need bags so I can get somewhere, stow my helmet and jacket, grab my briefcase, and go to a meeting. My big gripe with my current Ducati Monster is that there just isn't any storage-- I end up wearing a messenger bag and carrying my helmet everywhere. I've also looked at the BMW F800ST, which, while way down on power compared to the Triumph, is a pretty nice bike for this purpose. The Ducati Multistrada was another contender, but I think I like the Triumph and the BMW more.
I have ridden a Sprint and it would be a great daily rider or a long distance tourer. The factory bags are on the smaller side and I don't think you will be able to fit a helmet in the factory bags. You may able to install a GIVI top bag which could probably hold a helmet. Any of the bikes you mentioned would be a great daily rider. I am partial to Ducati and V twins, and prefer that engine to the Triumphs but they are all really good bikes. You cannot go wrong with any of your choices. Just do it and ride safe.
I've got an '03 Sprint ST and love it. It's the happy medium between a Harley,etc and a sport bike. I would definitely recommend the risers for the bars. Brings them up to just the right height. They're quick as hell and comfortable to boot. You definitely want to get the hard bags and the luggage rack (you can always buy an after market pizza box). They're very expensive to buy later. I know that my '03 side bags WILL NOT hold a helmet. The aftermarket top box I bought will though. I bought my top box thru JC Whitney for $89 and it's perfect for my rarely used needs (usually just my helmet). I mainly use my bike for the 30 minute ride to work and I've never had a single problem with the bike. Check out www.triumphrat.net for more info on Triumphs. Good luck!
Dealer doesn't open until today (closed Sunday and Monday), and I want to go for a test ride. Unfortunately, it's raining right now. We'll see...
Good luck with it. I rode in on mine today and smiled the whole way! 73 degrees and sunny in Chicago......not too often that Chicago can brag about March weather!
Closed the deal today. I left it with them to have heated grips and a top case put on, and because I won't be able to ride it for a week or so anyway (business and travel...) I took it on a short ride-- great motor! Really a nice feeling bike-- I think I'm going to enjoy it.
Congratulations and welcome to the Triumph family! Smart move on the heated grips. I've been trolling eBay looking for some Gerbings heated gloves and jacket for the cold rides in to work. What color did you pick?
It's blue. It was the only Sprint they had, but I would have chosen blue anyway. Non-ABS, for whatever that's worth.
Caspian Blue, very nice. Good for resale too, since it's the most wanted color. Post some pics when you deliver and ride safe!
I had it delivered the other day. No pics yet, but what a great bike! I got the top case, which doesn't help the looks but makes it practical for me. My briefcase fits easily in it and when I park my helmet can go in the top case, jacket in one of the panniers, and I'm off to a meeting. That Triumph motor is a work of art!
