I purchased the 2008 Triumph Rocket lll in March of 2013. Obviously used but with only 4,500 miles. It is now August 2013 and I have 9,000 miles
So far: The rear drive oil bolt broke off in my hand. It is a hollow bolt with a magnet inside. It is such a poor design that is hard to believe it is even on the bike. After having half of the bolt fall into the rear drive I was fortunate to be able to fish it out with a flexible magnet. I replaced it with a magnetized hex bolt.
The ignition switch failed which turns out to be a common problem. I spoke to T and they acknowledged the issue and spoke of a bypass to reduce current flow through the switch. The dealer doesn't even acknowledge that there is a problem (Foothills Triumph-Lakewood Colorado). The truly unbelievable reality is that the faulty switch is still in use and they will sell it to us. We did a keyless entry bypass to solve the issue after a very long and expensive tow.
The starter is now failing and must be repaired.
On my way home today the shifter broke off from where it is bolted to the engine.
This bike only has 9,000 miles on it….In another thousand I guess I will need a head rebuild. This is the epitome of “hunk of Junk”.
When I first saw this bike I was wondering why there were not zillions of them on the road as it seemed to be a viable alternative with a more classic design to the Goldwing…..NOW I know why.
I hate these kinds of posts, and they're common for every marque. Whatever forum you're on, there's always a guy who has fewer than 10 posts whining about how terrible the bike is.
The ignition issue is especially irritating, because I've gone through the whining with two BMWs, and an FJR for the same complaint, dating back to 2006. If you want a recall in the US, people have to submit their complaint to USDOT, not to Triumph. If enough complaints about specific problems (not hearsay but actual specimens that failed), then USDOT will open an investigation, and these often lead to either a forced recall, or at least a volunteer "replacement program."
As for the Gold Wings, they're great for what they are, and Honda is is noted for reliability and a good dealer network, but even Gold Wings have problems. They went through an actual frame recall several years ago, when the bikes had to be brought in for frame reinforcement via welding.
The Rocket III Touring is a great bike, but it is not a Gold Wing. The Gold Wing is a great bike, but it is not a Rocket III. I wouldn't own a Gold Wing, but that's why there's more than one brand and model. Different strokes for different folks.