Quote:
Originally posted by dmoolenaar
Steve, I appreciate your comments, and for bringing the triple to my attention! So many folks have recommended buying a used bike vs. new one stating horrible depreciation in case I made a mistake. Are you saying a triple performs better on resale than the average (or Japanese) bike does? I admit I would much rather have the new 03 or 04 bike, and truth be told I'm 50/50 on doing just that. This bike popped up over the weekend and I'll check it out on Monday. My thinking is this. I could offer something like $4200 and work it to $4500. Ride it for the summer, and if I really like the experience sell it for near what I paid and get a 05 Triple to keep long term. Heck compared to my Gpz 550 this 01 Triple will probably blow my mind as far as performance, handling, braking, etc...
Again this 01 might be a dog that's simply photogenic with a good salesman owner. I will see on Monday.
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I see the buy used over new arguement all the time, and often it is a good way to go. Here's the thing... the Speed Triple used to list for (I think) $10,999 before it was reduced to a bargain at $8,890. The APR adds to the savings, at least if you need to finance.
I think all bikes depreciate badly. But I'd still rather have a bike 3 model years newer for $3K more. Start putting values on the warranty and lack of upkeep onto the difference in value when you go to sell, and the new one isn't a luxury. Plus, if you have one significant problem, you'll be in your '01 for the price of a new one, and will be losing money, relatively speaking. It looks like '04s are only $500 more than '03s, worth it considering resale, plus they haven't been sitting as long.
I subscribe to all the magazines, and usually every year there's improvements. I'm certain there were some good improvements since '01. I think the '02 makes more power, and I think the '03 or '04 got the suspension upgraded. The earlier ones got knocked on suspension issues. Do some research on the web, or post some questions at
http://www.t595.net/messageboard/ for sure.
You won't find
anything to complain about power-wise. Those things are very, very strong.
I was re-visiting the BMW idea, as the Triumph may not be as good for carrying a passenger, or on long trips. The BMWs make great torque and are very user-friendly with a lot of good features.
I'd highly recommend riding all the candidates before buying. There's no substitute for how each will fit you and "talk" to you.
I'll post some info about gear later after I get some FOOD!