After crashing my r9t in 2020 I bought the ktm 790 adv. I never ever had ktm on the radar, but the performance of this beast was extraordinary. But still missing my bmw I was looking around for something else and made a test ride with an 2016 Thruxton 1200. Riding the Thruxton was so cool, the engine was mind blowing. But finally I decided to not buy it as I am to old for this bike (after a 20 minute ride I couldn't feel my bones anymore). But in the meantime I own a red Speed Twin 1200 which is perfect for my 65 years (the ktm of course is also still in the garage and getting prepared for a Trip this summer in the french/spanisch pyrenees. cheerio from switzerland
Love my 2019 Speed Twin. Does everything I want it to do and makes a wonderful noise. Added new rear fox adjustable shocks, seat and Hitchcox exhaust for a little more (still legal) noise. Same colour scheme as you but I love it. Cool, old style with some oomph, enough for me. Enjoy.
Hi, I own a Speed twin 2022 and love it. It keeps me out of trouble, lots of low down grunt without lots of top end. Leave the suspension and ride the bike to its limits otherwise you may as well have just kept the KTM.
hahahaha thats going to be impossible for me to do ref suspension . Either way the Triumph is a, for me anyway, a better real world usable machine. Means the GS can have a bit of a break too.😂
I bought a 2021 Speed twin 1200 (the first of the revised model) as my first bike, i love it and it's more than quick enough for road use, i just loved the looks and sound of the thing!
As regards suspension I suggest you get familar with the current setup first, next ensure the tyres have the correct pressure and notch up the rear suspension by 4. The changes are remarkable without having to find £3000 for some KTek upgrades😢
What the hell are you talking about? You don’t need to spend anywhere near 3 grand to improve the suspension. And K-Tech are far from the only company who make suspension for this bike. There’s Maxton, Nitron, YSS, Andreani, Fox, Ohlins, and Bitubo. Plus, TEC make suspension parts that don’t break the bank.
I love my 2021 Speed Twin. Bar risers both up and back a bit made my ride more comfortable. Small screen took away a bit of chest buffeting. I haven’t done anything with the suspension. I just ride it. Had the throttle plastic chip fitted which made the pick up smoother. It’s a great addition to my Tiger 900GT Pro Mine is all black gloss with blacked out engine nuts and bolts and the injection covers etc It looks great
I guess I am just one of those riders that has to tinker in his man cave . the bike has 5000 miles on it and am just looking at a new set of tyres for it. steering seems heavy at very slow speeds? the throttle response is super smooth as it has had an ecu flash via hilltop and the thing flies. legs get bit warm, a bike with lots of character .
Mine is a 2021 revised model. Bar risers made a big difference, comfort wise. I am a pensioner, so I do not ride like I used to, so the suspenders are fine. Mine has a Vance and Hines exhaust system, which sounds great! Could do with a bigger tank, but you could say the same for most bikes. It is a lovely bit of kit. Enjoy it!
Interesting. After owning a KTM 390 Duke for 3 years, I tested the 890 Duke and it was mind-blowingly fast after the 390. I wanted one. Then I plan to buy a speed twin, but it didn't handle as well as the KTMs of course but was a lovely bike. That was over 2 years ago and a few months ago I ended up buying 790 Duke, also a 2020 model. They are amazing bikes, butts, I'm definitely going to get a retro bike at some point. Maybe the speed twin or the Kawasaki 900?
I did exactly same thing last year, I sold my beloved 1200gs and downsized to the ktm890, big mistake ! after a few months I realised I was going to end up killing myself or no licence so traded it in for my new 1250gs Black beauty (Triple Black) no regrets at all. Even in my 70's it was hard not to push the KTM . After reading heaps, longevity of the ktm was also a worry.
Can’t believe I found this video. I have done exactly the same thing as you. You even have the same backpack!!! I traded my 21 plate KTM 890R for a new 73 plate triumph speed twin on Wednesday. I had my KTM for two years from new and when I traded it it had 2089 miles on it. I love the new speed twin amazing bike. This is too much of a coincidence 😳😳😳
Flip, my KTM had about the same mileage and was a 2021 model too. The day after I sold it the valve cover seal failed and the dreaded oil leak started for the new owner!!!! I had just got it serviced too. Fortunately the dealer agreed as a goodwill gesture to fix it free of charge. To be honest I was concerned about it breaking down or the engine letting go at some point as it was out of warranty. I also wanted a change and decided, at 57, that as I had the BMW 1250GS, I wanted a cool looking machine 😂that I could potter around on. Step forward the ST. I have just fitted a set up throttle spacers last night which takes up the throttle slack. Seems a lot of folks do this quick mod. Enjoy.
@@gsd32i I just have to laugh it’s too much of a coincidence I’m 57 as well jan 6th 67. Ha ha. I have a 22 plate triumph rocket and a Honda CB 500 f that I use for work. Love my new speed twin it’s just what I was looking for. 🌴😎 take care mate thanks for replying I’m up in Newcastle.
@@chrisrobinson79 58 December 29th..Capricorn. Just popping out for a damp ride out on the 1250GS, hasn't been used for a month due to the honeymoon period with the ST,organised by our local BMW dealer, Mansells, here in Jersey , who are the triumph dealer too.(yes Red 1 ,NM, is the boss😂)
I own a 2018 Triumph T120. I bought it second hand. I rode it with the aftermarket Progressive rear shocks, for full on 2 years. It handled like dream and was tracking utterly perfect in the twisties. Fool that I am I decided to shell out some big bucks for some Ohlins to see if I could improve upon the handling. I’ve had them for a year now and after trying to dial them in with my mechanic I feel like I wasted my money! It just does not handle as well as it did with the Progressives. I highly recommend the 412 series shocks, very reasonably priced for an excellent quality product. I’m still not sure to this day why I decided to get the Ohlins! Perhaps it was an impulse buy. It’s hard to improve upon perfect! I hope you find this helpful. Cheers from across the pond
@@gsd32i Well I know my insights were largely anecdotal and hardly scientific. But I will say this...The Progressives were a vastly better improvement over the stock (OEM) rear shocks. You may want to start there and see how you like them..Best of luck!
Great bikes, I have both. As far as you adjusting the suspension, if the KTM was too fast for you, you would be wasting your money on changing the suspension for you unless you ride track or are 250 lbs. You should of just left your KTM in Urban mode and enjoyed it with CRUISE CONTROL.
Great video mate, and hello from down under 🇦🇺. You said it yourself that it's for burbling around and not trying to be a motoGP rider and for that it's perfect. I have a 23' ST1200 and am almost finished all my upgrades, ( there have been many...lol), in terms of suspension if you didn't want to splash the cash on sweedish gold suspension you can get 85-90% of the performance out of a pair of YSS piggy back shocks on the rear and nitron cartridges up front. You said there was no throttle play, but the best bang for buck upgrade on the ST are throttle spacers, yours may already have them in ( if you can feel any slop, or play in the throttle with the bike off in the garage before engagement of the throttle they aren't in there yet). If you are compelled to go further a high flow filter and a decat with a professional tune will have the RPM spinning up quicker than a vegan in a steak house restaurant. Enjoy the most refined retro ride around mate 😀👍
Many thanks for your input . It’s funny to see people looking at the Triumph as I ride past . It’s no 890R but with a bit of well thought out purchasing it will be a pretty good bike to blast around on. The YSS do seem popular . The attraction to the Swedish beauty may prove irresistible BUT I will have to do some overtime at work to pull the pin on these .
I got a Honda 400Sf and a Yamaha 1200 FJ 86. Was seeing more the FJ is an antique bike and not suited for my occasional long rides. Fell inlove with the Speed twin and got one now for a month. The upgrades done so far, 100% need the screen/wind fairing and not the small one, a proper tall one as most of the time I am at 140 km/h on open road. Also added grip puppies for a bit more grip comfort, rear splash guard and full set of tank pads. Also a small length to the side stand, just to make it easier to find. The future upgrades, seat upgrade to add some more comfort, looking to add sump guard, front fender extender as the spray of the front wheel hammers the radiator but it's quite a difficult upgrade to find, might need to do a DIY, a side pannier similar to SW-Motechs clip-on-off, a headlight screen guard and (Big maybe but wont hurt) a rear suspension upgrade and then a front one. If needed, might do the booster plug and de-cat upgrades aswell. I mostly drive long trips with the bike, so most of the upgrades are aimed at improving the bike for that. then why not get a bike suited for long trips? because the speed twin is a brilliant dual bike. It's a fusion of my two bikes and it's overall such an amazing machine. It's def a keeper bike.
I have the same bike, I recommend getting the Bitubo suspension upgrade offered by Obsession Engineering in Lincoln. He has a UA-cam video on the fitting, it's made a big difference to ride quality, especially at the rear.
Hi, thanks . I have seen that video and am just deciding , with the help of the wife😂 , as to what mods(she will allow me) to do to the bike.👍 New tyres M9RR's , new TEC brake/clutch lever's, Thruxton top yolk nut and Arton face dials ordered for now and videos to follow. Bikes great but shame they scrimped on the suspension, even the 2021 model should have better suspension, certainly the rear IMHO. Benefit in the winter is the warmth from the engine😂 ride safe.
Congrats man! I'm from Brazil, I had one of these too, but in black. This bike it's not fun, it's AMAZING, hahahahahahahahaha. But the seat, for long rides, could be a little bit more confortable. Anyway, like u said, it is a great toy! Hahahahahah
@@gsd32i hiya, it's just one of them bikes to enjoy messing about on looking cool on it at your local bike meeting, cafe,pub,ect I've felt mine standard because I feel this bike is excellent how it is for me 👍
@@gsd32i hiya, you will still use the gs because that's one amazing touring bike. The triumph speed twin 1200 is no tourer but you have a great 2nd bike there for your local blast to a pub launch or a cafe run👍
Hi, Congratulations on the Triumph. I’m really liking the Retro looking Bikes that are coming out. I love the Triumphs, but I would love to get the Kawasaki Z1 900. When I was young, I rode around on a Z1 that was a 1978 Model I think. I Loved that Bike and kept it for Years. I would like to have another Inline 4 Cylinder Bike again and Love the looks of the new 900. I would put a 4 into one Header on it like I had on the 78 Model. Thanks for the Video. I hope you really enjoy the Triumph. By the way, I also own a R1200GS and will probably keep it the rest of my life.👍👍
Had a few Kawasaki’s in my youth… 1984 got the new GPZ600R in Black . Then sold that as not fast enough and got a new GPZ900R in 1985, very fast back then . That suffered from the infamous carb freezing problems before they sorted it out but by then I had sold it . The Kawasaki z900 retro does look very nice but I didn’t need(wife wouldn’t let me!!) a new bike . Triumph with a few tweets should be super fun and “cool “
Buy a bike for how it makes you feel. Having had two GSs in succession I switched to an R9T for a change and love it. I’ve done more trips, more distance on it and find myself popping out for a ride more often. I did upgrade the suspension though so maybe worth it on the speed twin too. Also I think you need a tail tidy to finish it off
Trouble with getting a new bike, albeit used, is the internet..... and how easy it is to add things to various "baskets" ,which is exactly what I've started to do. 😂 Suspension is definitely on the list, just gotta work out at what price point I will be aiming for. If I can get some extra flying in at work, ie more money 😂 then I think I will go Nitron and do front and back.The motor has had a Hilltop ecu flash from the dealer and really does pull like a train. The new engine is supposed to be better than my '19 one, but TBH the '19 motor does not need anymore doing to it now ,the flash has made it that good. Enjoy the R9T, I wanted one of those but a bit above my budget for a 2nd bike(wife and all that!!!!)
Congrats ! I've been looking at these bikes and would definately consider a 2020. some have really low mileage. From what videos i've seen, the suspension is the most effective upgrade to do. I need to test a T120 and these to see which might be better for me, but i'd take either for sure. What does a ECu flash do ?
I had to stay within a budget when I decided to change my Kim 890r duke as the wife would have made my life a misery 😂 duke is a great bike but for me it was a little bit too focussed. only had the speed twin for a week and not ridden it much due to work and weather , but man it looks so cool. ok not got the sexy front brakes but I can live with that. looking at suspension next so will have to work a few more extra days overtime to pay for it. enjoy 👍
@gsd32i I have fitted them to other bikes and I have only done the front springs to date. I have the order form on my laptop just waiting for the funds. They are actually quite affordable
They are a mid range shocks. If you want top range buy olins or Wilbur's.. and lower end of the market is yss. If you have the money get the gold olins . The ikons are cheaper on price not on quality, and no gold paint lol. Mate it's up to you in the end. Good luck to you. And happy safe riding.
Can’t quite understand why you’d think we think you’ve gone mad. Speed Twin is stunning bike. For me, that and the Kawasaki are about the two best looking bikes on the market. A mate has one and loves it. Enjoy!
You would be surprised at some of the comments on these platforms😂new tyres next...then a few suspension tweaks once I've done a bit of overtime !!!!!!
Great little bike. Love to own one. I just couldn’t get on with the riding position, I might of not been in a good place, on test day. Maybe need another try.🤷🏼♂️
If you try one again, ask the dealer to adjust the handle bars etc, thats the first thing I did on mine when I got it home, oh and adjusted the gearshift as it was too high for my riding boots, all just adds to the user experience.😂
@@gsd32i more to do with the whole body position. Found it very narrow and too upright. Coming from a speed triple 1050 RS, doesn’t help! Apart from that I love the bike.
Mine is same as yours 2020 grey model it has Tec progressive springs and Tec rear shocks. X-pipe, throttle spacers and booster plug. Dart fly screen, tail tidy, rad guard, sump guard. I find it handles extremely well. I got video of it on here.
I changed the rear shocks on mine. It was that or sell the bike. The standard shocks are so appalling the bike nearly had me off on a bend with a pot hole that both my Fazer1000 and BMW R1200s can handle without throwing me at the kerb. I put fully adj YSS on for £600. Night and day difference and wouldn’t have been able to do my Pyrenees trip without them. I made a video on the swap.
@@gsd32i I put Pirelli Angel 2 on the rear of mine (still has the original on the front) I loved the Angel2’s on my Griso but for some reason they tramline on the triumph. (The internet seems to think it’s the two slots around the middle of the tyre. Depends I. The bike I suppose. If you’re going ‘sport tourer’ tyres I’d recommend the earlier ‘Angel’ if you stick with Pirelli.
@@gsd32i I should mention that my Fazer has full spec Maxton and the BMW has full spec ohlins so to compare with the standard triumph suspension is a little unfair but I’d still have expected something better from a premium brand.
Hi . In temperatures above 20 degrees you can feel the heat from that big 1200 engine , even when riding 50mph + . Did surprise me somewhat but just got use to it now 🤪
Good choice on the Speed Twin. Lovely looking bike. I can see exactly what you mean about the KTM Duke 890 R. I should imagine living in the Channel Islands there aren't that many roads, if any, where you could really use it to it's full potential. Lovely bike though, Just not the one for you. The Speed Twin is great bike more suited as you say to bimbling along small twisty lanes. You are less likely to lose your license on it or your life. One chapter closes, another opens. For your Speed Twin suspension you could consider Maxton or Hagon suspension kits. Not quite as eye wateringly expensive as Ohlins. Plus they can supply units set up for your weight and riding style. I don't think Ohlins do that. I have Ohlins on my Speed Triple RS and I have had to wait just over 2 months for a softer spring to arrive as the OE one supplied is far too firm basically for fat b*****s. I need to get the spring changed over and then suspension set up by suspension specialists BG Motorsport near Silverstone. They used to actually be at the circuit but have since moved. Also Techbikeparts do various performance parts for the Triumph 1200 engine bikes. A stainless steel de cat X pipe £110.00 and also a performance camshaft which apparently makes the engine breath so much more easily but this is £360, but quite straight forward to fit or get fitted. www.tecbikeparts.com/products/models/triumph-water-cooled-2016-models-on/speed-twin-1200/performance-parts-speed-twin-1200/ Apparently Triumph also set the rev limiter on their 1200cc engines quite low. TTS Performance can remove it meaning it can rev say another 1000. There are no ill effects but again letting the engine really sing. They have done some great tuning for the Thornton Hundred Triumph bikes principally Bobbers but also the Speed Twin. The 1200cc is very customisable Yours sounds lovely with the V&H pipes. Like you with your KTM Duke 890R I might well chop my Speed Triple RS in for say a more relaxed Speed Twin or indeed Speedmaster as lit has become a bit of a garage queen and I am so precious of it, not riding in wet conditions and definitely not in winter. My go to bike is my VFR800 6th gen which I ride the most. It's more than quick enough where as my Speed Triple RS is a lot faster so riding it you have resist the temptation to twist the throttle too far ............. which can be hard, but it does have cruise control so I just set that a few mph above the limit to allow for calibration error and enjoy the day, but it's a bit of a waste tbh. So a more relaxed bike like your Speed Twin makes such good sense, although it is not a slow bike either. Enjoy yours. Check out RocketMan's YT channel if you haven't already as he has made suspension and other mods to his. ua-cam.com/video/S1BKYm6rLk8/v-deo.html There's also TMF who also has one as you probably know. Shall look forward to updates on your Speed Twin as you get to know it and customise it to how you want it. ATB.
Thanks . I found RM already and sent him a message and he really likes the gold stuff ! But more cost effective items are available that do near as good a job . Yup TMF is one of my main go to channels for entertainment . Had all the 750VFR’s starting with the original one back in 86/87? Then all the variations until they went to the 800. Am more than happy with hopefully now being able to keep my licence as the KTM was a pocket rocket with the handling to match . Locally wouldn’t be much that would catch it . 👍
great choice. the speed twin is such a great all rounder. reminds of what of would of been like when you had one bike to do EVERYTHING. chuck some decent suspension on it, and you'd be surprised how well it can actually handle. love mine.
Managed to find thruxton r ohlins off eBay reasonably priced although had springs powdered coated black .. requires 3 mm spacer washer at top mounting to avoid any possible contact with frame but this is quite common on various shocks..Marzocchi up front which aren't bad but may install k tech internals at some point.. ECU flash good shout👍
Bike runs really well, nice and clean from tick over (I guess thanks to the ecu flash)all the way through the rev range, more than enough power for me. Got some metzeler m9rrs waiting to be fitted this week and then I will see about suspension. Brakes did make that"dry"sound when coming to a stop, although I have removed the pads and put copper grease on the pads etc which seems to have quietened them, may fit some new pads.
Get the TEC progressive fork spring kit with preload adjusters for £139.99 There’s a channel called Del Boys Garage, he shows you how to fit them. It’s an easy job with no special tools required. Just take the fork caps off, pull out the spacers and springs, then put the new springs and spacers in and fit the new preload adjusting fork caps. It’s that easy. Then either Nitron or Maxton shocks for the rear. Both of those are English companies and their support is second to none.
Hi. Appreciate the comments and info. I think I will be putting the Nitron shocks on the rear and then see about the front...my heart is saying get the Nitron front fork kit...but my wallet isn't . 👍
@@gsd32iYeah that’s the best way, Nitron will build the cartridges for your weight/intended use. Same with the shocks. Luckily it’s the sort of mod you only need to do once. So it only hurts your wallet for a little while 😂
@@gsd32iI meant to share this video with you. Dave is a TT racer, North West 200 racer, Olivers Mount and so on. I think the owner of the bike paid about £1100, supplied and fitted. ua-cam.com/video/Spa3PzEpwS4/v-deo.htmlfeature=shared
After crashing my r9t in 2020 I bought the ktm 790 adv. I never ever had ktm on the radar, but the performance of this beast was extraordinary. But still missing my bmw I was looking around for something else and made a test ride with an 2016 Thruxton 1200. Riding the Thruxton was so cool, the engine was mind blowing. But finally I decided to not buy it as I am to old for this bike (after a 20 minute ride I couldn't feel my bones anymore). But in the meantime I own a red Speed Twin 1200 which is perfect for my 65 years (the ktm of course is also still in the garage and getting prepared for a Trip this summer in the french/spanisch pyrenees. cheerio from switzerland
Love my 2019 Speed Twin. Does everything I want it to do and makes a wonderful noise. Added new rear fox adjustable shocks, seat and Hitchcox exhaust for a little more (still legal) noise. Same colour scheme as you but I love it. Cool, old style with some oomph, enough for me. Enjoy.
Hi, I own a Speed twin 2022 and love it. It keeps me out of trouble, lots of low down grunt without lots of top end. Leave the suspension and ride the bike to its limits otherwise you may as well have just kept the KTM.
hahahaha thats going to be impossible for me to do ref suspension . Either way the Triumph is a, for me anyway, a better real world usable machine. Means the GS can have a bit of a break too.😂
Get Hagon shocks
Great video looking forward to more videos on the speed twin 🇬🇧👍
Coming soon!😂
Sometimes I wonder like do you really need a 120HP bike for everyday use? I feel like this speed twin would just be a lot more fun. Congrats!
Totally agree
I bought a 2021 Speed twin 1200 (the first of the revised model) as my first bike, i love it and it's more than quick enough for road use, i just loved the looks and sound of the thing!
Great to hear!
Happy New Bike Day....now looking forward to the upcoming "Fettling" videos... always enjoy your videos and thanks for sharing
More to come!😂
As regards suspension I suggest you get familar with the current setup first, next ensure the tyres have the correct pressure and notch up the rear suspension by 4. The changes are remarkable without having to find £3000 for some KTek upgrades😢
thanks 😂👍
Good advice. If it was me, I'd do what you said, ride it for few years until it's due for new tyres, then put a set of Metzelers on it.
What the hell are you talking about? You don’t need to spend anywhere near 3 grand to improve the suspension. And K-Tech are far from the only company who make suspension for this bike. There’s Maxton, Nitron, YSS, Andreani, Fox, Ohlins, and Bitubo. Plus, TEC make suspension parts that don’t break the bank.
I love my 2021 Speed Twin. Bar risers both up and back a bit made my ride more comfortable. Small screen took away a bit of chest buffeting. I haven’t done anything with the suspension. I just ride it. Had the throttle plastic chip fitted which made the pick up smoother. It’s a great addition to my Tiger 900GT Pro Mine is all black gloss with blacked out engine nuts and bolts and the injection covers etc
It looks great
I guess I am just one of those riders that has to tinker in his man cave . the bike has 5000 miles on it and am just looking at a new set of tyres for it. steering seems heavy at very slow speeds? the throttle response is super smooth as it has had an ecu flash via hilltop and the thing flies. legs get bit warm, a bike with lots of character .
Mine is a 2021 revised model. Bar risers made a big difference, comfort wise. I am a pensioner, so I do not ride like I used to, so the suspenders are fine. Mine has a Vance and Hines exhaust system, which sounds great! Could do with a bigger tank, but you could say the same for most bikes. It is a lovely bit of kit. Enjoy it!
Bigger tank=bigger bladder 😂
Interesting. After owning a KTM 390 Duke for 3 years, I tested the 890 Duke and it was mind-blowingly fast after the 390. I wanted one. Then I plan to buy a speed twin, but it didn't handle as well as the KTMs of course but was a lovely bike. That was over 2 years ago and a few months ago I ended up buying 790 Duke, also a 2020 model. They are amazing bikes, butts, I'm definitely going to get a retro bike at some point. Maybe the speed twin or the Kawasaki 900?
Choices choices 😂 always nice to have . The Kawasaki does look very nice and cool too 👍
I did exactly same thing last year, I sold my beloved 1200gs and downsized to the ktm890, big mistake ! after a few months I realised I was going to end up killing myself or no licence so traded it in for my new 1250gs Black beauty (Triple Black) no regrets at all. Even in my 70's it was hard not to push the KTM . After reading heaps, longevity of the ktm was also a worry.
Lots of track days is what is needed , preferably living close to one !
Also look at Wilbers 630TS road for rear shocks. Have them sprung for your weight, no pillion, and your style of riding.
Thanks I will have a look 👍
Great bike.
Have you watched 44Teeth 2019 launch review? Nothing wrong with the handling, stopping and performance of that bike in stock trim.
Nice bike enjoy , looks like work of art !
Thanks, goes well with my Triple Black GS😂
Good video and I think these things can get you into trouble too they get up there quick 👍
Absolutely🙈
Can’t believe I found this video. I have done exactly the same thing as you. You even have the same backpack!!! I traded my 21 plate KTM 890R for a new 73 plate triumph speed twin on Wednesday. I had my KTM for two years from new and when I traded it it had 2089 miles on it. I love the new speed twin amazing bike. This is too much of a coincidence 😳😳😳
Flip, my KTM had about the same mileage and was a 2021 model too. The day after I sold it the valve cover seal failed and the dreaded oil leak started for the new owner!!!! I had just got it serviced too. Fortunately the dealer agreed as a goodwill gesture to fix it free of charge. To be honest I was concerned about it breaking down or the engine letting go at some point as it was out of warranty. I also wanted a change and decided, at 57, that as I had the BMW 1250GS, I wanted a cool looking machine 😂that I could potter around on. Step forward the ST. I have just fitted a set up throttle spacers last night which takes up the throttle slack. Seems a lot of folks do this quick mod. Enjoy.
@@gsd32i I just have to laugh it’s too much of a coincidence I’m 57 as well jan 6th 67. Ha ha. I have a 22 plate triumph rocket and a Honda CB 500 f that I use for work. Love my new speed twin it’s just what I was looking for. 🌴😎 take care mate thanks for replying I’m up in Newcastle.
@@chrisrobinson79 58 December 29th..Capricorn. Just popping out for a damp ride out on the 1250GS, hasn't been used for a month due to the honeymoon period with the ST,organised by our local BMW dealer, Mansells, here in Jersey , who are the triumph dealer too.(yes Red 1 ,NM, is the boss😂)
Fabulous bike I hope you enjoy 👍
Just need to get a set of goggles and an open face helmet next 😂 oh and a white scarf !
I own a 2018 Triumph T120. I bought it second hand. I rode it with the aftermarket Progressive rear shocks, for full on 2 years. It handled like dream and was tracking utterly perfect in the twisties. Fool that I am I decided to shell out some big bucks for some Ohlins to see if I could improve upon the handling. I’ve had them for a year now and after trying to dial them in with my mechanic I feel like I wasted my money! It just does not handle as well as it did with the Progressives. I highly recommend the 412 series shocks, very reasonably priced for an excellent quality product. I’m still not sure to this day why I decided to get the Ohlins! Perhaps it was an impulse buy. It’s hard to improve upon perfect! I hope you find this helpful.
Cheers from across the pond
Hope you get it dialled in ....soon.👍
@@gsd32i
Well I know my insights were largely anecdotal and hardly scientific. But I will say this...The Progressives were a vastly better improvement over the stock (OEM) rear shocks. You may want to start there and see how you like them..Best of luck!
@@danield831 thanks , new tyres going on this week so I’ll see where we are at and then see if I still have the urge to fiddle 😂
@@gsd32i
Great bikes, I have both. As far as you adjusting the suspension, if the KTM was too fast for you, you would be wasting your money on changing the suspension for you unless you ride track or are 250 lbs. You should of just left your KTM in Urban mode and enjoyed it with CRUISE CONTROL.
KTM wasn't too fast, I just kept riding it too fast😁
I really loved speed twin 1200 looks. although out of budget for me but Looking forward to Spedd 400.
Great video mate, and hello from down under 🇦🇺.
You said it yourself that it's for burbling around and not trying to be a motoGP rider and for that it's perfect. I have a 23' ST1200 and am almost finished all my upgrades, ( there have been many...lol), in terms of suspension if you didn't want to splash the cash on sweedish gold suspension you can get 85-90% of the performance out of a pair of YSS piggy back shocks on the rear and nitron cartridges up front.
You said there was no throttle play, but the best bang for buck upgrade on the ST are throttle spacers, yours may already have them in ( if you can feel any slop, or play in the throttle with the bike off in the garage before engagement of the throttle they aren't in there yet).
If you are compelled to go further a high flow filter and a decat with a professional tune will have the RPM spinning up quicker than a vegan in a steak house restaurant.
Enjoy the most refined retro ride around mate 😀👍
Many thanks for your input . It’s funny to see people looking at the Triumph as I ride past . It’s no 890R but with a bit of well thought out purchasing it will be a pretty good bike to blast around on. The YSS do seem popular . The attraction to the Swedish beauty may prove irresistible BUT I will have to do some overtime at work to pull the pin on these .
I got a Honda 400Sf and a Yamaha 1200 FJ 86. Was seeing more the FJ is an antique bike and not suited for my occasional long rides. Fell inlove with the Speed twin and got one now for a month.
The upgrades done so far, 100% need the screen/wind fairing and not the small one, a proper tall one as most of the time I am at 140 km/h on open road. Also added grip puppies for a bit more grip comfort, rear splash guard and full set of tank pads. Also a small length to the side stand, just to make it easier to find.
The future upgrades,
seat upgrade to add some more comfort,
looking to add sump guard,
front fender extender as the spray of the front wheel hammers the radiator but it's quite a difficult upgrade to find, might need to do a DIY,
a side pannier similar to SW-Motechs clip-on-off,
a headlight screen guard
and (Big maybe but wont hurt) a rear suspension upgrade and then a front one.
If needed, might do the booster plug and de-cat upgrades aswell.
I mostly drive long trips with the bike, so most of the upgrades are aimed at improving the bike for that. then why not get a bike suited for long trips? because the speed twin is a brilliant dual bike. It's a fusion of my two bikes and it's overall such an amazing machine. It's def a keeper bike.
Thanks for that. I did wish my seat was a bit more comfy, seem to get pushed into the tank which is where the seat is very narrow and not supportive.
Congratulations, great bike, really enjoy mine. Only downside is you will need an asbestos right leg on warm days.
yes I have noticed already that it gets a bit warm and the fan comes on, an excuse to go a bit faster!
I have the same bike, I recommend getting the Bitubo suspension upgrade offered by Obsession Engineering in Lincoln. He has a UA-cam video on the fitting, it's made a big difference to ride quality, especially at the rear.
Hi, thanks . I have seen that video and am just deciding , with the help of the wife😂 , as to what mods(she will allow me) to do to the bike.👍 New tyres M9RR's , new TEC brake/clutch lever's, Thruxton top yolk nut and Arton face dials ordered for now and videos to follow. Bikes great but shame they scrimped on the suspension, even the 2021 model should have better suspension, certainly the rear IMHO. Benefit in the winter is the warmth from the engine😂 ride safe.
That Triumph is one of my options as a next bike. It's so comfortable and stylish 🔥👏. (Now riding a Honda Vfr 800)
Thanks 👍
Great bikes and beautiful scenery? Can I ask you where that was filmed? Love those twisty roads on the coast. Is it cornwall? Cheers.
No, the Island of Jersey. Lovely here at the time of me replying, just been watching the Red Arrows RAF display team from my garden 👍
Congrats man! I'm from Brazil, I had one of these too, but in black. This bike it's not fun, it's AMAZING, hahahahahahahahaha. But the seat, for long rides, could be a little bit more confortable. Anyway, like u said, it is a great toy! Hahahahahah
Thanks, appreciate the comment......yes the BMW GS for longer rides 😂
Hiya I've got one to love it to bits it does everything I want a bike to do for me now I'm 50 looks cool and goes well too she's a keeper 👍👍👍
My wife hates it but like you I thinking looks very cool . Trying really hard to not look at things online to buy for it !!!! 🙈
@@gsd32i hiya, it's just one of them bikes to enjoy messing about on looking cool on it at your local bike meeting, cafe,pub,ect I've felt mine standard because I feel this bike is excellent how it is for me 👍
@@MrJlk1973 it’ll be interesting to see how often I use the BMW GS now 😂😂😂😂😂
@@gsd32i hiya, you will still use the gs because that's one amazing touring bike. The triumph speed twin 1200 is no tourer but you have a great 2nd bike there for your local blast to a pub launch or a cafe run👍
that KTM was never a doodle round Jersey type bike..I've got one and I live in the open expanses of the Dorset downs, and it's perfect
At least I never got caught for speeding ....because I never did. Very jealous of the open expanses`🤪
Andreanni front cartridges and Nitron or Fox at the rear.
Hi, Congratulations on the Triumph. I’m really liking the Retro looking Bikes that are coming out. I love the Triumphs, but I would love to get the Kawasaki Z1 900. When I was young, I rode around on a Z1 that was a 1978 Model I think. I Loved that Bike and kept it for Years. I would like to have another Inline 4 Cylinder Bike again and Love the looks of the new 900. I would put a 4 into one Header on it like I had on the 78 Model. Thanks for the Video. I hope you really enjoy the Triumph. By the way, I also own a R1200GS and will probably keep it the rest of my life.👍👍
Had a few Kawasaki’s in my youth… 1984 got the new GPZ600R in Black . Then sold that as not fast enough and got a new GPZ900R in 1985, very fast back then . That suffered from the infamous carb freezing problems before they sorted it out but by then I had sold it . The Kawasaki z900 retro does look very nice but I didn’t need(wife wouldn’t let me!!) a new bike . Triumph with a few tweets should be super fun and “cool “
Just traded in my 890r in for a BMW s1000r sport. Sounds nice. Good choice.
Thats a rather quick machine...enjoy 👍
Great bike, it’s the retro I’d buy and it sounds great👍
yup it does👍
@@gsd32i A friend has the Scrambler with same engine, loves it👍
I’ve got Triumph Fox shocks on my Street Twin.They are really good.
Thanks, will have a look🙈
Buy a bike for how it makes you feel. Having had two GSs in succession I switched to an R9T for a change and love it. I’ve done more trips, more distance on it and find myself popping out for a ride more often. I did upgrade the suspension though so maybe worth it on the speed twin too. Also I think you need a tail tidy to finish it off
Trouble with getting a new bike, albeit used, is the internet..... and how easy it is to add things to various "baskets" ,which is exactly what I've started to do. 😂 Suspension is definitely on the list, just gotta work out at what price point I will be aiming for. If I can get some extra flying in at work, ie more money 😂 then I think I will go Nitron and do front and back.The motor has had a Hilltop ecu flash from the dealer and really does pull like a train. The new engine is supposed to be better than my '19 one, but TBH the '19 motor does not need anymore doing to it now ,the flash has made it that good. Enjoy the R9T, I wanted one of those but a bit above my budget for a 2nd bike(wife and all that!!!!)
@@gsd32i Haha, and I'd have a GS as a second bike if I could afford it
@@marcusrichardson3472 😂
Congrats ! I've been looking at these bikes and would definately consider a 2020. some have really low mileage. From what videos i've seen,
the suspension is the most effective upgrade to do.
I need to test a T120 and these to see which might be better for me, but i'd take either for sure.
What does a ECu flash do ?
ECU alters the engine mapping throttle response etc
@@gsd32i ok, was there an update available or is it a maintence thing ?
Lovely looking bike Paul. I have considered a stable mate for my GSA however my wife doesn't understand me 🤪
I feel your pain 😭
Great choice, just traded my 2021 T120 for a 2023 Speed Twin for the extra power and better brakes.
I had to stay within a budget when I decided to change my Kim 890r duke as the wife would have made my life a misery 😂 duke is a great bike but for me it was a little bit too focussed. only had the speed twin for a week and not ridden it much due to work and weather , but man it looks so cool. ok not got the sexy front brakes but I can live with that. looking at suspension next so will have to work a few more extra days overtime to pay for it. enjoy 👍
if you are going to do the suspension take a look at IKON progressive front spring. 7610 rear shocks with adjustable rebound and dampner
Thanks , will do. Do you have them fitted?
@gsd32i I have fitted them to other bikes and I have only done the front springs to date. I have the order form on my laptop just waiting for the funds. They are actually quite affordable
They are a mid range shocks. If you want top range buy olins or Wilbur's.. and lower end of the market is yss. If you have the money get the gold olins . The ikons are cheaper on price not on quality, and no gold paint lol. Mate it's up to you in the end. Good luck to you. And happy safe riding.
Good bike!😍😍😍😍
Thanks ✌️
Can’t quite understand why you’d think we think you’ve gone mad.
Speed Twin is stunning bike. For me, that and the Kawasaki are about the two best looking bikes on the market. A mate has one and loves it.
Enjoy!
You would be surprised at some of the comments on these platforms😂new tyres next...then a few suspension tweaks once I've done a bit of overtime !!!!!!
also, regarding suspension. i'd go for nitron front and rear!
Thanks 👍
Great little bike. Love to own one. I just couldn’t get on with the riding position, I might of not been in a good place, on test day. Maybe need another try.🤷🏼♂️
If you try one again, ask the dealer to adjust the handle bars etc, thats the first thing I did on mine when I got it home, oh and adjusted the gearshift as it was too high for my riding boots, all just adds to the user experience.😂
@@gsd32i more to do with the whole body position. Found it very narrow and too upright. Coming from a speed triple 1050 RS, doesn’t help! Apart from that I love the bike.
Mine is same as yours 2020 grey model it has Tec progressive springs and Tec rear shocks. X-pipe, throttle spacers and booster plug. Dart fly screen, tail tidy, rad guard, sump guard. I find it handles extremely well. I got video of it on here.
Thanks I will have a look. Anything you wouldn’t recommend ? 🤔
@@gsd32i Smoking 🤣
@@dave_corney ok I’ll stick to just drinking 😂
I changed the rear shocks on mine. It was that or sell the bike. The standard shocks are so appalling the bike nearly had me off on a bend with a pot hole that both my Fazer1000 and BMW R1200s can handle without throwing me at the kerb. I put fully adj YSS on for £600. Night and day difference and wouldn’t have been able to do my Pyrenees trip without them. I made a video on the swap.
thanks for that. yup looking at suspension and new tyres as the rosso’s with 5000 miles on them . will check out video 👍
@@gsd32i I put Pirelli Angel 2 on the rear of mine (still has the original on the front) I loved the Angel2’s on my Griso but for some reason they tramline on the triumph. (The internet seems to think it’s the two slots around the middle of the tyre. Depends I. The bike I suppose. If you’re going ‘sport tourer’ tyres I’d recommend the earlier ‘Angel’ if you stick with Pirelli.
@@gsd32i I should mention that my Fazer has full spec Maxton and the BMW has full spec ohlins so to compare with the standard triumph suspension is a little unfair but I’d still have expected something better from a premium brand.
This bike has much more torque low down,just what im interested in.
In spades....😂
How hot does the engine running?
Hi . In temperatures above 20 degrees you can feel the heat from that big 1200 engine , even when riding 50mph + . Did surprise me somewhat but just got use to it now 🤪
Sport mode on those little twisty roads?
Rude not to🤪
That dash on the triumph looks like the 1950s
yup 🤪
Good choice on the Speed Twin. Lovely looking bike. I can see exactly what you mean about the KTM Duke 890 R. I should imagine living in the Channel Islands there aren't that many roads, if any, where you could really use it to it's full potential. Lovely bike though, Just not the one for you. The Speed Twin is great bike more suited as you say to bimbling along small twisty lanes. You are less likely to lose your license on it or your life. One chapter closes, another opens.
For your Speed Twin suspension you could consider Maxton or Hagon suspension kits. Not quite as eye wateringly expensive as Ohlins. Plus they can supply units set up for your weight and riding style. I don't think Ohlins do that. I have Ohlins on my Speed Triple RS and I have had to wait just over 2 months for a softer spring to arrive as the OE one supplied is far too firm basically for fat b*****s. I need to get the spring changed over and then suspension set up by suspension specialists BG Motorsport near Silverstone. They used to actually be at the circuit but have since moved.
Also Techbikeparts do various performance parts for the Triumph 1200 engine bikes. A stainless steel de cat X pipe £110.00 and also a performance camshaft which apparently makes the engine breath so much more easily but this is £360, but quite straight forward to fit or get fitted.
www.tecbikeparts.com/products/models/triumph-water-cooled-2016-models-on/speed-twin-1200/performance-parts-speed-twin-1200/
Apparently Triumph also set the rev limiter on their 1200cc engines quite low. TTS Performance can remove it meaning it can rev say another 1000. There are no ill effects but again letting the engine really sing. They have done some great tuning for the Thornton Hundred Triumph bikes principally Bobbers but also the Speed Twin. The 1200cc is very customisable
Yours sounds lovely with the V&H pipes.
Like you with your KTM Duke 890R I might well chop my Speed Triple RS in for say a more relaxed Speed Twin or indeed Speedmaster as lit has become a bit of a garage queen and I am so precious of it, not riding in wet conditions and definitely not in winter. My go to bike is my VFR800 6th gen which I ride the most. It's more than quick enough where as my Speed Triple RS is a lot faster so riding it you have resist the temptation to twist the throttle too far ............. which can be hard, but it does have cruise control so I just set that a few mph above the limit to allow for calibration error and enjoy the day, but it's a bit of a waste tbh. So a more relaxed bike like your Speed Twin makes such good sense, although it is not a slow bike either.
Enjoy yours. Check out RocketMan's YT channel if you haven't already as he has made suspension and other mods to his.
ua-cam.com/video/S1BKYm6rLk8/v-deo.html
There's also TMF who also has one as you probably know.
Shall look forward to updates on your Speed Twin as you get to know it and customise it to how you want it.
ATB.
Thanks . I found RM already and sent him a message and he really likes the gold stuff ! But more cost effective items are available that do near as good a job . Yup TMF is one of my main go to channels for entertainment . Had all the 750VFR’s starting with the original one back in 86/87? Then all the variations until they went to the 800. Am more than happy with hopefully now being able to keep my licence as the KTM was a pocket rocket with the handling to match . Locally wouldn’t be much that would catch it . 👍
I want credit for the fiddler moniker :)
You noticed 😂😂😂👍
great choice. the speed twin is such a great all rounder. reminds of what of would of been like when you had one bike to do EVERYTHING. chuck some decent suspension on it, and you'd be surprised how well it can actually handle. love mine.
Thanks👍
How is Triumph Speed Twin 900 Bike? Im planning to buy it.
Hi, I only rode the 900 for a short time, but it was a nice, fun bike to ride with plenty of go in it.
@@gsd32i thanks
YSS suspension & an X-pipe
YSS seem popular …
@@gsd32i and quite a bit cheaper than Ohlins 👍
Stesse mie 2 moto e anch'io avevo ceduto un ktm (790) per la speed twin 2020😅
👍
idem
Managed to find thruxton r ohlins off eBay reasonably priced although had springs powdered coated black .. requires 3 mm spacer washer at top mounting to avoid any possible contact with frame but this is quite common on various shocks..Marzocchi up front which aren't bad but may install k tech internals at some point.. ECU flash good shout👍
Bike runs really well, nice and clean from tick over (I guess thanks to the ecu flash)all the way through the rev range, more than enough power for me. Got some metzeler m9rrs waiting to be fitted this week and then I will see about suspension. Brakes did make that"dry"sound when coming to a stop, although I have removed the pads and put copper grease on the pads etc which seems to have quietened them, may fit some new pads.
Get the TEC progressive fork spring kit with preload adjusters for £139.99
There’s a channel called Del Boys Garage, he shows you how to fit them. It’s an easy job with no special tools required. Just take the fork caps off, pull out the spacers and springs, then put the new springs and spacers in and fit the new preload adjusting fork caps. It’s that easy.
Then either Nitron or Maxton shocks for the rear. Both of those are English companies and their support is second to none.
Hi. Appreciate the comments and info. I think I will be putting the Nitron shocks on the rear and then see about the front...my heart is saying get the Nitron front fork kit...but my wallet isn't . 👍
@@gsd32iYeah that’s the best way, Nitron will build the cartridges for your weight/intended use. Same with the shocks. Luckily it’s the sort of mod you only need to do once. So it only hurts your wallet for a little while 😂
@@gsd32iI meant to share this video with you. Dave is a TT racer, North West 200 racer, Olivers Mount and so on. I think the owner of the bike paid about £1100, supplied and fitted.
ua-cam.com/video/Spa3PzEpwS4/v-deo.htmlfeature=shared
@@flamintasty More concerned about being hurt by the wife!😂
@@gsd32i😂