The #1 reason why the r3t does not sell well

[ksquared]

My take.

I've installed a tach on my R3T and I'm only turning about 3K at 80 MPH. My bike is DEAD SMOOTH at 80 - but I do get a little buzz between 85-95, which is gone by 100.

I have the TORs and the Triumph tune for them. No other mechanical mods.

Gas mileage is poorer than I expected and that's why I'd like a 6th gear - it would really help that.

If I wanted a fairing I'd install the Tsukayu with full instrumentation and sound - but I'm not interested.

My BreakAway works fine as a short term cruise control, but an auto style cruise control would be VERY nice.

I don't care for ABS on a bike - so I'm fine with my brakes, which stop the bike very well.

 

[GPMAZ]

From what I understand, in order to fit the bags in the desired configuration the 180 rear tire was a necessity. The H rated tire is only rated for 130 MPH. That, coupled with the slightly higher torque needed for two up, fully loaded, passing situations resulted in the lowering of the horsepower rating.

I doubt Triumph really considered our propensity for 'heavy underpowered touring bikes'. If they had, they could have just put the package on one of their twins. In case you hadn't noticed we also seem to purchase high powered sport bikes in fairly large numbers. We're not all fat cruiser riders, regardless of what you may see on TV.

 

[CanberraR3]

You're right, Harry. I should have used one of these:

 

[Elvis]

I read somewhere it was tuned for a fat mid-range better suited to prolonged touring at the one speed. I reckon it was because the US market was so used to heavy, underpowered, touring bikes that Triumph needed to differentiate it from the power cruiser style of the Standard/Classic/Roadster and make it more like the HDs it wanted to compete with. Either way it makes no sense to me either.

That is what got me interested in the bike, never having to shift down in the twisties and hills is nice. It is great to be cruising at 65-70 and simply twist the throttle to pass or even toy with most other cruisers, especially v-twins.

 

[GPMAZ]

You're right, Harry. I should have used one of these:

We need to start a movement for a greatly expanded smiley list.

Our choices are much too limited....

:bch:

 

[scowherd]

I think the reason the r3t does not sell well in the USA ... is plain and simple touring bike have the following items that what makes them touring.

1) Rated to pull a trailer.
2) top trunk
3) Full Faring with Built in Electronics
4) Cruise Control.
5) Comfortable and accommodating Pillion Seat.
6) large dealer network to support people that tour.

that why the R3t is truly not a touring bike imho they missed the market it is just another big bore cruiser in a sea of plenty

 

[Rocket Scientist]

When I first became interested in Rockets I looked at an R3T. When I found out they killed the horsepower I was no longer interested. Kinda like buying a Dodge Challenger, getting the six cylinder engine, and then having everyone say "Oh, I thought this was one of those fast ones". The touring also looks a little to Harley-esq for me. A lot of us left Harley looking for something totally different. Just my 1 cents worth. For all of you that love your touring's I say good on ya ! I'm glad Triumph was able to produce something that rings your bell !

 

[Molinoman]

Rocket Scientist...I feel your pain...it could have been a lot better...a whole lot better.

Dennis

 

[Elvis]

Apples and Oranges Rocket Scientist: How many manfacturers make touring machines out of their fastest bikes? I don't remember any V-65 baggers do you? Why not a V-rod Tourer?

 

[MrBig]

I think Rocket Scientist has a point. If you have the biggest engine, best torque/hp and then detune the bike to the point that it's not much different than any other in the same category then what made it special in the first place has been stripped. That combined with poor gas mileage and burning through tires faster than comparable bikes, well tourers want more. The Harley CVO's although overpriced still put out enough power to separate them from other similar bikes. Put back the fun in the tourer and Triumph might just take over the market but it has to be more than just pretty.