[Ringo Steele]

Hi folks! 1st time posting, though I have been around for a few months.
I am trying to get some first hand info or comparisons of the V 950 vs. the Triumph America. Obviously, a V-twin vs. a parallel twin, but other than that? Any info appreciated.

Thanks,
Ben

 

[linerdave]

Choice

I don't know anything about the Triumph except people that have Triumphs seem to like them. I do have a buddy that owns a V Star 950. Moved up from a 650. He is very happy with it. He did not brag much about his old bike but he does now. Several things have been refined in the new model Yamaha's. Balance, smoothness, and handling. Only way you will know is ride them both. Not sure you can do that but you might ask. Most people you ask will tell you what they have is the best.

It is likely you will be happy either way. The important thing is to ride. Might be the question is do you want a V Twin. I like cruising on a V Twin, not everyone does.

Dave

 

[Buckeye Star]

Hi folks! 1st time posting, though I have been around for a few months.
I am trying to get some first hand info or comparisons of the V 950 vs. the Triumph America. Obviously, a V-twin vs. a parallel twin, but other than that? Any info appreciated.

Thanks,
Ben

Ben,

The easiest way to compare is to check out the bike specs on each web site. They do a nice job of posting all the info. I ended up buying an 09 Star 950, but looked at quite a few bikes in that range including the Triumph America and Speedmaster. Though I feel Triumph has a great product, I did not choose them because of their higher price, fewer cc's and chain final drive. They finally added fuel injection to the 09 line so that was a good thing...
I'm really enjoying my Star 950. Comfortable ride, plenty of power, decent price for what you get and I'm a big fan of the quiet, clean easy to maintain belt final drive. The important thing is you take a test drive on the bike you're interested in and make sure you're comfortable and the fit is right and go from there.

Happy & Safe Riding!
Pete

 

[stevea]

I echo the advice that the best way to compare bikes is to ride each. Somtimes that is not possible, but it certainly is the best method to evaluate which bike is best for you.

If you want see the specs on motorcycles, check out www.totalmotorcycle.com. They have a section for each year's motorcycles, and you can see and print out the specs for any make(s) and model(s) that you want.

I had given some thought to buying a Triumph America this past Summer. Great looking bike, solid reliability, and an overall good motorcycle. The big negative, in my opinion, was the chain drive. I did not want to get involved in periodic and potentially messy chain maintenance, and it was the primary reason that I did not buy it. I ended up with a 2008 V Star 1100 Midnight Custom and couldn't be happier. Some riders, however, prefer chain-driven bikes, but I do not think you will find them on this website.

Good luck with your research and whatever bike you end up with.

 

[Sugar Bear]

I think for the money, it's really hard to beat Yamaha, been around forever, and has a quality product, dealers everywhere. For sure it's lacking in some places, but, for the money. I had lots of chain drives over the last many years,done with that. Shaft, to me, I love. My friends say belt is great, that's ok, not me, old school, can't get into the belt drive thing, pick what you feel good with and what you want,that's what it is all about. Ride safe.

 

[Kiroo]

I have tried out various models of triumph,my opinion is they are a good looking (if you like the look),a smooth ride,but very middle-top heavy,not like the old triumphs where the wieght was perfectly balanced.
Two very different styles of bikes & riding postions & purchase price,like the rest of the guy's try before you buy.
Good luck hope you get a good ride