Sorry I’ve not been around for a few days, thanks for all the replies. I’ve been to nearest Triumph dealers. They only had two new Rocket 3 in the showroom, a GT and R both were the all black edition. They didn’t have any at all in the nice silver/red/black color scheme which I prefer.
There wasn’t any demo bikes (seems to be the norm these days) so the best I could do was to sit on the GT in the showroom. Just by sitting on it I could tell the bike is way better than I thought it would be. I found it extremely comfortable riding position and couldn’t believe how light it was compared to the heavy bikes I’ve become used to. Way lighter than a Goldwing. I wouldn’t say it was flickable, but very well balanced and low C of G. It felt really good.
I mentioned my concerns about the missing rear mudguard to the sales guy. He said there is no solution at the moment, this is the biggest issue with the bike but most Rocket owners don’t go out in the wet otherwise they end up with a filthy back and helmet and soaking wet puddle on the seat. He personally thought Triumph may possibly bring out an update/fix at some time, possibly even an option for better luggage, big windshield and a main stand. I hadn’t even noticed no main stand. I was surprised at his honesty though.
I asked if there was any under seat storage space to stow small waterproofs or tire repair kit, he said none at all but showed me the pannier bags, rear rack, tank bag, tail bag etc. These would all greatly improve storage but he said in all honesty he wouldn’t like to sell me this bike for touring. He said a Tiger 1200 would make a better tourer or all rounder, but they had none in. They’re too tall for me anyway.
I left without a demo ride and even more confused. The Rocket 3 feels great and looks fantastic but it’s very compromised. It seems it would make a great 2nd bike rather than a do-it-all everyday bike. Unfortunately I can only afford one and it must do everything (except off-road), everyday in all weathers. The Rocket 3 really tugs at the heart strings though. I could live with the poor mpg and small tank. I’ve even been trying to think of ways to fabricate a rear mudguard