my opinion
I just bought a used 2008 Rocket III Classic out of Dallas, TX on June 13th this year. Although I do currently own a 2007 Bonneville T100 that I purchased new, this Rocket III is more difficult to ride. By that let me explain. Once you get the Rocket out on the interstate or major highway, it's pretty easy, darn near rides itself, one just has to be alert as if riding a Bonneville or smaller bike. However, riding in heavy city traffic or even lighter traffic in the city, a newbie Rocket III rider will have his hands full. By this, I mean the Bonneville I can "manhandle" and manuver where I want it to go. I can't always do this with the much bigger Rocket III. I sort of have to plan my "moves" with it and make sure to not lean alot while I corner it while going slower speeds, such as turning from one street to another. Also, the Bonneville is much easier to dismount and actually push around in my driveway or garage, where the Rocket III is more difficult to "push around" while dismounted. For two up riding, that is carrying a passenger on an interstate, the R3 does this with ease and provides a smoother ride than the Bonneville with so much less effort. The R3 is a real powerhouse and so far on any major highway or interstate, I have never yet met the car or bike that my R3 can't easily handle, however I'm sure they're out there as in some of the very powerful Jap ****** rockets.
If I planned on only riding shorter distances from home, such as a 200 mile radius, I'd never get a Rockett III, I'd only have the Bonneville T100. But with this R3, I plan on taking long trips such as a 1000 miles plus away from home. I hope this helps in your decision. I am 5' 9" tall and if YOU are no taller than this, you will need a considerable amount of practice before you feel totally comfortable - the R3 is defintely a harder bike to manuver at slow speeds while making turns in cities, making U turns, parking in a parking lot, etc. than a lighter bike such as the Bonneville. And when you come to a stop, make sure you don't have any small gravel under your shoes that could casue your foot to slip. The R3 is one heavy ***** and if it starts to fall with you, it is ONE ***** to try and manhandle to keep upright. I have found out all it takes is practice and patience and using your head and being very careful until you get "the feel" for your Rocket III. I have owned mine a month now and am really getting used to it and am loving it. I will say this - for me anyway, If i were to own JUST ONE bike, i'd still probably only own the Bonneville T100, but for owning two bikes, I am very glad I have purchased this Rocket III Classic that i have. Both bikes get lots of attention, no matter where i go. What can I say, I am HOOKED on Triumphs!!! Ride that Rocket and enjoy that smile on your face.