Contemplating an R3

[Rocket Scientist]

They may fall apart but the 2004/2005 models with the silver engine are the purdiest !

 

[Bobs05]

After a few "minor" electrical issues, I am loving my 2005 Standard. Had to replace ignition module and added Eastern Beaver bypass. Bought in Sept 2013 with 36K, now with almost 47K.

 

[BigAl1952]

They may fall apart but the 2004/2005 models with the silver engine are the purdiest !

I agree. Also whats up with the later models losing all the chrome and this flat black look. No more chrome valve cover and the bike looks like the B-1 bomber. If I wanted an airplane Id a bought one.

 

[warp9.9]

I agree. Also whats up with the later models losing all the chrome and this flat black look. No more chrome valve cover and the bike looks like the B-1 bomber. If I wanted an airplane Id a bought one.

That's not flat black Al, its primer black ready for a proper paint job

 

[Randy]

Welcome from WA.
From whense you hail?

From the church of the holly st johns

 

[Freecrowder]

From the church of the holly st johns

From western Oklahoma, Weatherford. About 65 miles straight west of Oklahoma City on I40. So I'm reading alot about the TPS needing replaced and the ignition bypass for the switch is that correct. Can both of those be replaced by the owner? What about the output shaft bearing is it common to go out in that year model and can it be replaced by owner?

 

[Randy]

Buy 2009 or newer and from sunny (cold as hell) Southern Wisconsin

 

[Rocket Scientist]

From western Oklahoma, Weatherford. About 65 miles straight west of Oklahoma City on I40. So I'm reading alot about the TPS needing replaced and the ignition bypass for the switch is that correct. Can both of those be replaced by the owner? What about the output shaft bearing is it common to go out in that year model and can it be replaced by owner?

The TPS and the headlight relay mod can be done by an owner with reasonable mechanical / electrical ability. As for the output bearing, see my thread entitled "The odyssey begins !".

 

[warp9.9]

From western Oklahoma, Weatherford. About 65 miles straight west of Oklahoma City on I40. So I'm reading alot about the TPS needing replaced and the ignition bypass for the switch is that correct. Can both of those be replaced by the owner? What about the output shaft bearing is it common to go out in that year model and can it be replaced by owner?

Yes depending on the owners ability. Some of use are not lucky and the closest Triumph dealer is 200 miles away so we overcome that problem by learning. At least that's what I did!!!!!
Others seem to be pretty much a natural at working on her, and some decide to learn just to save money!!

 

[TriumPhil]

Welcome to the site from New jersey, Freecrowder.

As the prior owner of two very nice and well-worked up VTXs (2002 C and R models) i can confidently tell you that there is no real comparison between the Honda, a good and reasonably reliable motorcycle, and any Rocket III, which is a mindbending, awe-inspiring heartbreaker, because once it owns you, she will spoil you re: looking at or considering other large bikes very, very badly!

The key is to find the right year and model to suit your requirements and then, if it's a pre-2009 model to do your homework to ensure whether or not it has been "corrected" for known, potential or inevitable mechanical issues.

Good luck and just bite the bullet should you want to prevent future regrets!