Time for a switch

[1984Rider]

I've been contemplating replacing my 2013 TEx with either a Trophy or R1200RT, but prior to some test rides wanted to ask the real experts. I love the triple having owned several, but what's your guy's / gal's advice on everything around the engine? Specifically suspension, seats, electronics, wind/rain protection and the ability to add GPS as I like taking the occasional 800-1000 mile trip. Thanks for your insight and expertise. 

[Travelling2bob]

G'day,

Not an expert but a satisfied owner of 2.5 year old 28,000+Km TTSE. All you've cited get a very big tick especially 1000Km + days. The only comfort option I've added is an Air Hawk cushion. If it's not fitted with, it's fitted for.

[Coconut]

Hi 1984Rider,

Welcome to one of, if not THE best motorcycle Forums going !

... Specifically suspension, seats, electronics, wind/rain protection and the ability to add GPS

Suspension :
The SE has 9 suspension settings :

There are 3 Mode ( Damping ) setting options of :
COMFORT, NORMAL and SPORT,
and 3 Loading ( Pre-Load ) setting options for each Mode :
1 UP, 1 UP + LUGGAGE, and 2 UP.

The Mode ( Damping  ) options can be adjusted while the motorcycle is moving,
the Loading ( Pre-Load ) options are adjusted with the motorcycle stationary.

Seats
The US Trophy is delivered with the "Low" seat as standard.
There are many variants of Triumph Seat available - see here :
Effects of Different Seat Heights
and also more and more after market products coming onto the market -
just use the Search button and enter  "seats" for more details.

Electronics
There have been a few teething problems which have mostly been sorted out now by Triumph.
Notably these have included a fault within the XM Radio where the audio module was not shutting down properly
and draining the motorcycle battery overnight - a Software update has resolved this issue.
Also a few issues around the Tyre Pressure monitoring system failing or being inaccurate,
usually resolved by replacing the sensors under warranty.

Wind / Rain protection
It's "Very good" ! - Almost too good in fact - for some of the hot days / hot climates,
even with the electrically adjustable windshield all the way down,
it's difficult to get enough air flow to keep cool, and some Members
have invested in additional deflectors and cooling jackets etc.

Ability to add GPS
The Trophy SE has dedicated audio and power connections, and a Triumph Sat Nav bracket -
all designed for the Garmin Zumo 660 ( although other models can be fitted ).
They are a little laborious to fit, requiring removal of the Fairing and cockpit panels,
but not beyond someone with average mechanical skills, and there are some great "HOW TO" articles in here to assist :
HOW TO : Remove the Fairing ..., and
HOW TO : Fitting Triumph Sat Nav Mount & Zumo 660

If you have any other specific questions, try using the Search button,
and if you can't find what you need, just ask a question in a relevant area of the Forum 

Cheers 

[cropbiker]

Hi there 1984.... well coconut has summed things up very nicely.... (Convinced he actually works in Triumph's media department, if not he should do!)

Coming from a TEX you will feel very at home on the Trophy just with better weather protection and all day comfort. I have only compared it to the last version of the RT with air cooling, not yet ridden a water cooled RT but to behest my experience with the air cooled one and its vibrations have really put me off the boxer engine. I don't see how water cooling could have done much to reduce the horrible vibes I got from the demo bike.

The proof as they say is in the pudding.... book some test rides on both and try and get them back to back so you can do a real comparison.

[Coconut]

I do NOT work for, or have any commercial connection with Triumph !

[cropbiker]

Sorry Alan!!! Was only joking LOL

[Coconut]

I'm open to offers from Head Hunters ! 

[ColinM]

Coconut summed it up very well indeed. I love this bike, 12 months and 20,000km later I still love it. I just got back from a 4,000km over 8 days -  trip down to the u.s. south with my wife on the back. She said she was very comfortable on the stock seat and with about 450lbs of extra weight on the bike.

I forgot to mention this is in my ride report but everywhere I went people were oooooh and aaaaaah'ing asking if that was a triumph and all kinds of questions. I proudly said yes and I love it!

I also did a 1,000km trip yesterday in 32c weather and average of 125kmh. Loved it.  Not sure that I share the same comments about air flow. The only complaint I have in hot weather is down around the ankles where the engine heat seems to blow. The cooling fan has never come on.. maybe it's not working :)


I installed the zumo 660 into the hard wiring on the bike and works great. It is a bit of work installing though.

Colin