Hi all, Apologies if this question isn’t in quite the correct forum but I’m after general thoughts and experience. Having enjoyed Speed Triple 1050 ownership before moving on to a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX for increased practically and touring ability I’m now being drawn back to “my” style of bike, ie naked’s, preferably of the classic nature. I’ve always fancied owning a Speed Twin for its looks and engine, so I ordered a new bike a few months ago with the idea of stabling it next to the Kawasaki to give me a taste of both worlds. However, the Triumph has now arrived at the dealer and I’m not sure I now want two bikes; the world has gone a bit mad of late, with day to day costs spiralling and the thought of having two depreciating assets seems a little silly. So, good would the Speed Twin be for occasional touring, say 350 miles a day max for a week or so? Obviously it’s a naked, so might need a screen, and I’d need to sort luggage. Does anyone have experience of doing this type of thing on a ST and if so what bits did you add to help? The Kawasaki isn’t a perfect tourer by any stretch, but it’s do able, but it’s just my thing really. I normally ride with others on usual touring bikes such as the GS, Multistrada, Verseys etc. Any thoughts would be appreciated, even if only to say I’m barking mad
You can tour on anything! I prefer naked bikes over anything else. Especially for touring! The lack of screen makes for lovely clean air and no buffeting or rumbling noise which is a cause of fatigue. If you've got decent waterproof gear then protection from the elements isn't really an issue. The Speed Twin has a good rear seat for strapping a big roll bag on, thats the luggage sorted. If your carrying a pillion then a rack or panniers will do. I reckon it would make a good tourer and personally I wouldnt bother with a screen. I've done plenty of 300+ mile days touring in all weathers on naked sports bikes. I honestly don't see the need for adventure bikes for touring. Had a couple of Tiger 800's, could do more miles comfortably on Street Triples and Superdukes! Not to mention the fun factor when you get to the good roads I've not ridden a Speed Twin but I did have a Thruxton 1200 (fantastic bike and engine). Knowing Triumph, you might want to see how you get on with the standard seat. A more comfortable one might be required for big miles. Heated grips are a good idea too.
I did a couple of tours on my speed twin. Used a tank bag and back pack, without any problems. I’m not sure about 350 miles a day though, although a couple of hundred was no problem.
It guess depends on how you’re touring. If it’s reasonable average speeds and no rush then a naked would be fine. Fast, point-to-point runs would be more tiring. I’ve done both.
I'm with @andyc1 I prefer a bike without a screen, unless your going to be on the Autobahn sitting at high speeds you'll be fine, after 30 mins on the Autobahn flat out on my speed triple I had to slow down as my neck muscles couldn't take any more!
I’ve taken two trips on my Speed Twin and it’s been a very satisfying companion. I think it would be great on a week’s trip with 350 mile days. If you want you could fit Touratech’s waterproof throw overs (about $350), but one time I went out on mine with just a Kriega 25 liter backpack and a little tail pack to carry relatively heavy stuff like tools, and once with a backpack lashed on with Rok Straps (see next post). It was easy for days like you describe. A 600 mile day might be a big ask, tho.
Here’s a pic of the Speed Twin in touring mode. Note the Crampbuster as there is no cruise control option for this bike.
Thanks for all your replies. I guess you’ve confirmed many of the things I’ve been thinking. I’m just not sure I want to take the gamble of swapping the Ninja for the ST without experiencing ownership. As I’ve said having two bikes doesn’t seem right at the moment, but it might need to be for a while at least. I shall give it some more thought. Thanks again
I’ve just fitted some soft waterproof Khali panniers from Unit Garage in Italy. Very good quality, the support frame fits well around my Nitron dampers with the reservoirs and then don’t look bad without the bags. The bags lock in place and look well on the bike. Not yet loaded them up for a proper trip but have used them for a light load so far. I think because of the price, and the added EU vat, you’ve really got to want panniers, when a bag on the seat or your back might do.
Having two bikes doesn’t seem right? I don’t understand that sentence. The Speed Twin is a terrific motorcycle. I just spent three days hooning around California on my buddy’s 2005 Tuono Factory and… The Tuono is a charismatic hot rod and a pleasure to ride but the STwin is a better motorbike. Check out Bike magazine’s March 2020 issue where they compare the Street Triple, Speed Triple, and the Speed Twin.
Toured Europe 2up on a naked (gsx1400) for years. No problem apart from not fitting into any of my shirts due to developing a fat neck and a crushing Vulcan Death Grip handshake from holding on. Now old, lazy and soft I’m on a touring bike. More fun when you get somewhere twisty and hot on the Speed Twin I would imagine. 2 bikes plus is the sweetest. Always got a bike to go out on no matter what.
I've just taken some photos if anyone's interested in these Unit Garage panniers. They've had the canvass bags out for a while now which I didn't really like, then these waterproof ones came out which work for me.
Hi all, Having posted this thread some time ago I’ve finally bitten the bullet and bought a new 2023 black ST1200. I guess the answer to my touring question will become clear in the future….. Here she is….
Lovely. Have a look at SW-Motech for bags as they do a few for the Speed Twin and are MUCH cheaper than Unit Garage.
The Speed Twin can handle occasional touring with some additions like a screen and luggage. It's up to you to decide what makes sense for your riding style.
