Let me start by saying I freaking LOVE my motorcycle. From power, to handling, to aggressive styling, this bike has everything Ive wanted.
Behold, my 2013 Triumph Scrambler. Here is how she looked fresh from the dealer:
Ive made a few mods in the short time Ive had her, all of which are cosmetic and meant to bring out an even more aggressive, almost mean look to the bike. Here she is after the mods:
And here is a list of everything Ive done so far:
- Removed the stock mirrors for a left side bar mirror (this could prove problematic on a 20 day adventure ride but at this stage I have gotten used to not having both mirrors)
- Changed out stock front break reservoir for black anodized reservoir
- Added chrome headlamp grill
- Added Dart Scrambler tinted fly screen (hoping the bit of wind reduction to the chest will be of benefit on long rides)
- Wrapped the header and pipes in dark exhaust wrap and coated with black silicone exhaust wrap spray
- Removed Triumph tank badge emblems
- Replaced original fender assembly with the fender eliminator kit and catseye tail light made by British Customs (rad aftermarket stuff to be found there)
- Replaced original turn signals with smoked out black retro turn signals (also from British Customs) British Customs
The bike itself was purchased new from Empire Powersports in Spokane Valley, WA in April of 2013. I just about died waiting the 3 weeks for them to get a model with the satin black finish for me and it does not dissapoint. The two tone coloring of the chrome and black really make this thing look angry which I love.
Ive put approx 2300 miles on the Hinkely Twin 886cc engine thus far. You can read more about the engine and its history and Triumph motorcycles here, and here.
My bike is not neccessarily set up for long rides and luggage. Triumph and other manufacturers certainly make plenty of add ons – luggage racks, side bags, etc, – though really a few less options are available for the Scrambler model due to the high pipes on the right side, and all of which are quite spendy. In addition, my removal of the stock fender assembly limits some luggage options, as does the fact that I am incredibly picky on styling of any and all add-ons. Instead Ill be using a rather generic leather bag meant for mounting on a sissy bar bought from a friend who used it on a Honda Shadow. It mounts well enough onto the passenger part of the seat and allows for attaching a sleeping mat and my tent. Beyond that, my only other piece of luggage per say is a leather front fork bag with just enough space for a tool kit and a few essentials.
All of this makes for some limited space in terms of gear. Read more about what Im taking with me here.
Lastly, with the knobby tires and raised suspension, the Triumph Scrambler has some off road capability as well, and Im hoping to put that ability to the test on this adventure. I think the Redwood forests of California or the deserts of Moab Utah ought to work out nicely.
Stay tuned to see how it all works out!
#triumph #motorcycle #travel #scrambler #adventure #caferacer
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