Training Wheels
I’m going to assume everyone saw this coming… I mean, it was a foregone conclusion, right? I’ve wanted a motorcycle for years, I purchased a helmet 2 years ago (because I got a killer deal and I knew that I’d ride someday), I wrote the M1 test in Ontario and I just got my full license here in California. So shouldn’t come as a big surprise to anyone, but I’ve gone and purchased a motorcycle.
The bike I purchased is a used ‘98 Triumph Speed Triple. It has 17K miles on it, and as far as I can tell (and the mechanic I had inspect it before purchase), it’s in impeccable condition. The reason for the purchase is pretty simple – it was cheaper than getting a second car. I have a pretty short commute to work (about 15 min or so), where I travel along the coast from Dana Point into Laguna Beach. What better way to enjoy that drive than on a motorcycle, right? Beyond that, it gets just shy of 50 miles to the gallon, so the fuel economy is a plus as well.
The Speed Triple is considered a “naked” bike – that is, the seating position is very upright (you’re not hunched over the tank while riding) and it doesn’t have any fairings (those plastic pieces that wrap around the front of most sports bikes). I personally don’t like the look of most sports bikes, nor am I a fan of most cruisers either – but I love the look of a naked bike. With this bike, I particularly love the single sided swing-arm on the rear tire, the rear intakes, and the bug-eye headlights.
The pervious owner had made a few modifications to it, and had he not done them himself, I would have soon after I took possession. As you can see from the photos, the exhaust, rear tire hugger and chain cover have all been replaced with carbon fiber alternatives. The mirrors have been changed, a tank protector was added, and all of the badging (except the 2 tank logos) have been removed.
The rear cowl is removable and I can put a rear seat on if Jess ever wants to ride on the back. She’s made a few comments about wanting to go, but we need to get her a helmet first. I personally don’t think she’ll like it, but maybe I’ll be wrong.
