This is an interesting and geographically diverse group. I’ve been following a few weeks as a visitor reading alot and decided to sign up in hopes of learning more about Rockets and making a few new friends with a common interest.
I recently found a deal on a pristine ‘08 Touring with 6k miles. I couldn’t walk away from it. I’m at the bottom of the learning curve on these bikes, fill me in guys.
Does anyone know where to get an owners manual or maintenance schedule?
I’ve read about problems with camchain blades or tensioner on the ‘08’s. Was there a redesign or recall? Is this something I need to correct before it tears up something major? Will the pistons hit open valves at TDC?
I’ve read the ‘08 was detuned or retuned for touring torque. I believe it, this thing pulls like a tractor. Would I see worthwhile improvement from retuning and letting it breathe a little? I’m not thinking I want 250hp, just optimized without sacrificing reliability, I can see at most maybe cams and a little head work, truth is I don’t know where I cross the line and sacrifice reliability. Help me out guys, I want a bike I can go coast to coast on without worrying about it.
Also, I see you guys swapping tunes in the resources section, I’m at a total loss on the whole Power Commander, Tuneboy, electronics deal, in simple terms what are they doing and what do I need?
What about the exhaust, the cat is going to go, is there a major difference between decatting and off road slip ons vs. a complete system that includes headers? Does anybody do a 3 into 1 or offer tuned pipes for a touring, or should I just stick with crossover pipe and exhaust on both sides?
There is a Triumph mechanic called Colvin Motorcycle or C.R.E. Performance Racing near me who has a Dyno and says he knows and can tune Rockets, but wasn’t sure where to find parts anymore, does anybody know of him good or bad?
Where do I source the parts I will need, who is recommended and who should I avoid?
Lots of questions I know, like I said I’ve read the forums for a few weeks and still am not clear on the questions above. I wouldn’t expect anybody to answer them all and I truly appreciate any information offered.
I look forward to getting to know you folks. I see a few Okies on the map around me, any of you guys looking for another Rocket to ride with my name is John, please drop me a line!
Thanks!