Hi Just joined the forum so this is me... Been riding since the '60's - rode a Triumph T100A to school when I was in the sixth form - a big hit with the girls as I recall! Have had a couple of dozen bikes since, including a first generation Honda CB750, a Suzuki Cobra 500, 750 Norton Commando, five or six Harleys, etc. When I was into Harleys I rode Route 66 twice, both times with my brother who is also a keen biker, and on the last occasion with TV's Henry Cole. That was a blast!!! Also did an Alpine trip a year or so back. I've come full circle now and am back with Triumph. Bought a 1200 Scrambler XC which was a truly awesome bike but sadly too tall in the saddle for a short arse like me. So, on a whim, I am now the owner of a T120 Bud Ekins 'special edition.' I was a bit impetuous as I liked the colour (doh!) and didn't take the time to weigh up the pros and cons. I have to say I love the bike for it's dynamic qualities and quality finish and what follows is not really a whinge, more in the way of observations. As a former designer I have to take issue with the styling. I think Triumph missed a few tricks. Why oh why didn't they use a retro paint scheme with 'proper' heritage metal tank badges, instead of the bland design they came up with and a cheap-ass decal for the much lauded 'heritage' logo. (I don't recall seeing any pictures of Bud Ekins riding anything that looked remotely like this! Strange way to interpret a tribute bike.) Anyway I paid my money and made my choice, as they say. (Oh and the so-called 'Certificate of Authenticity' which comes with the bike I had to chase up endlessly through the dealer and when I got it found it to be not worth the paper it's printed on. Doesn't even include the bike's VIN number so is worthless.) I intend putting right what I consider to be the styling defects. I've bought a spare tank (so I can retain the original one) which I'll paint in a retro style and I've got hold of some vintage metal badges to complete the look. (I'll keep to the original colours though.) I'm looking forward to the painting as I am an experienced classic car restorer and painter, currently restoring a 1950 Dodge Business Coupe (massive money pit!!!) Looking forward to chatting! Sorry if this was a bit long for an intro and as I said I do love the Bonnie and think it's likely to be a keeper for my retirement, which I recently started.
Welcome to the forum, shineysideup! Beautiful bike--even in light of your "observations". Looking forward to more photos and info on how you like the bike.