I purchased the 2008 Triumph Rocket lll in March of 2013. Obviously used but with only 4,500 miles. It is now August 2013 and I have 9,000 miles
So far: The rear drive oil bolt broke off in my hand. It is a hollow bolt with a magnet inside. It is such a poor design that is hard to believe it is even on the bike. After having half of the bolt fall into the rear drive I was fortunate to be able to fish it out with a flexible magnet. I replaced it with a magnetized hex bolt.
The ignition switch failed which turns out to be a common problem. I spoke to T and they acknowledged the issue and spoke of a bypass to reduce current flow through the switch. The dealer doesn't even acknowledge that there is a problem (Foothills Triumph-Lakewood Colorado). The truly unbelievable reality is that the faulty switch is still in use and they will sell it to us. We did a keyless entry bypass to solve the issue after a very long and expensive tow.
The starter is now failing and must be repaired.
On my way home today the shifter broke off from where it is bolted to the engine.
This bike only has 9,000 miles on it….In another thousand I guess I will need a head rebuild. This is the epitome of “hunk of Junk”.
When I first saw this bike I was wondering why there were not zillions of them on the road as it seemed to be a viable alternative with a more classic design to the Goldwing…..NOW I know why.