classic motorcycle forum

Motorcycle Discussions => British Bikes => Topic started by: jasper60 on January 19, 2006, 08:59:02 PM

Title: Triumph T140 or Norton commando
Post by: jasper60 on January 19, 2006, 08:59:02 PM

Hi folks
         After riding jap and German bikes for many years I have finally decided to buy either a Commando or a T140.

I just don't know which one to go for. All of the riding I do is two up, and although I understand a British bike from 70s era won't perform like a modern ( nor would i expect it to) I am worried about reliability.

Having heard the usual horror stories oil leaks, self destructing engines  and what have you.

So I suppose what I am asking is which one is best suited to two up riding, involving weekend trips 0f around three hundred miles throughout the year.

Any advice you could offer would be gratefully received

          Thanks

Title: Re: Triumph T140 or Norton commando
Post by: TBS on January 19, 2006, 09:13:10 PM

Early 80's Bonneville, fully sorted by the factory, comfortable, can easily fit panniers etc, unit construction engine, later ones had electric start, (however I would only use this option on a warm engine) spares half the price of Norton.  Only my opinion but I'm biased !!
The 750cc single carb models (TR7) are equally as good and don't have the possible problem of the carbs going out of sync, but these machines are harder to find.
Hugh

www.thebikeshed.net

Title: Re: Triumph T140 or Norton commando
Post by: jasper60 on January 19, 2006, 10:40:39 PM

Hi Hugh  
 
Thanks for the reply, any idea about prices for a decent example not talking show just a nice usable bike.

          many thanks

Title: Re: Triumph T140 or Norton commando
Post by: TBS on January 19, 2006, 11:29:28 PM

Something decent I would have thought to be £3500 upwards.

Title: Re: Triumph T140 or Norton commando
Post by: jasper60 on January 20, 2006, 04:32:54 PM

Thanks again Hugh

much appreciated