Checking in from North Somerset I currently ride an MT-09. My wife is now riding pillion and the Yamaha isn't the most comfy two-up! Took a T120 out at the weekend and we both loved it. Will be looking to change in the Spring next year. Question: Undecided between the classic and the black - anything I should be aware of regarding finishes etc between them? Are there any concerns / reason to be hesitant over the bike / Triumph / dealers etc? Looking to fit the Vance & Hines exhausts - any comments Is the comfort seat worth it (noticeable difference)? Thoughts on panniers? All info gratefully received before I commit! Thanks Andy
Welcome Andy. No question the T120 is a better bike than the 09 for two up. If the classic style is what you yearn for then go for it, black or chrome whichever the missus prefers. The Tiger 800 is great two up too, lighter and more agile, and you can fit proper touring panniers, unlike the T120. V&H always a good option and I would consider upgrading the shocks. @John T on here and missus ride two up on their T120. He can give you the low down.
Welcome to the forum! I can't give any advice on the choices you are making, but I have one comparison for you on the seat. I had a 2012 America which has a completely different seat and position. I bought the factory gel seat about 6 months after getting the bike. It wasn't any more comfortable (for me) than the original seat. I wound up buying an Air Hawk cushion and got some improvement. Of course, they aren't that great looking on the bike and you always have to worry about someone 'borrowing' them. Search the site for past discussions about seats and I'm sure you will find some good information.
Hi Andy. My advice, do not buy the Genuine Triumph Learher/waxed panniers. They look great but are not waterproof. They sell you rain covers that collect pools of water inside them, about as good as a chocolate Tea Pot
Thanks - I had seen the (poor) reviews on YouTube and will probably go for 3rd party panniers. Are you running a T120?
Thanks! I guess it makes sense to leave the seat until we've dome a few rides. We're not looking to tour on the T120, just be comfortable for a couple of hours on a Sunday morning!
Thanks! Not looking to tour on the T120, just be a comfortable place for a couple of hours. Appreciate the comment about the Tiger - the Yamaha Tracer 900GT is also a lot of bike for the money and a natural progression . . . but the Bonneville!
Welcome aboard Andy, I'm sure you'll find the answers to your questions here, helpful bunch, I run a Speed triple which does have a factory gel seat making it probably the most comfortable bike I've owned, get to the dealers and take a few models out for a test ride maybe....happy hunting.
Welcome from Sunny Calif. I have the Triumph waxed cotton panniers made for the Street Twin and like the look. They also work well. Bags for the T120 will look similar.