A mate is looking at a tidy but relatively cheap Thunderbird 1700. I was wondering who amongst us has experience of one? So any info on how it rides? Weird habits or faults ( I heard some had electrical gremlins) are the better than the 1600… etc
Any info gratefully received and will be passed on
I’ve had my Thunderbird Nightstorm for about 7 years now and love it. They handle really well and are comfortable getting a wriggle on or chilling out. I’ve never had any real issues with it. I’ve had to replace the battery, deal with a bit of belt squeal but that’s it.
It is a big twin so needs a battery in good condition to turn it over.
Belt squeal is caused by the belt running up the right of the rear pulley and can be easily sorted by just adjusting the rear wheel slightly as per this video.
When you wash it water can sit behind the rubber mat under the speedo on the tank so just loosen the fastener at the bottom and allow it to drain.
Parts like a lot of older Triumphs can be difficult to source but do turn up on occasions so just keep your eye out on all the usual sites if there’s something you want to change or replace.
Going up to a 200/55 R17 on the rear will increase the pool of tyres available. I didn’t so much like the Metzeler 888 Marathons which were the oem tyres and atm run Avon Cobra Chromes which work really well.
I felt the suspension was a little wallowy, nothing bad just a bit so I have replaced the rear shocks with YSS ones and put emulators in the front forks, not necessary but good for me.
I have also decatted it and put short TOR exhausts on, it does pop and bang a bit but I like it.
I would definitely recommend one to anyone looking for that style of bike, it’s a proper looker.
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Cheers for the great intel HV! And yeah, looks good! Will pass on
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I had the LT version and can’t really add anything to HV’s response, other than it is a great bike and I could ride it all day as it was so comfortable.
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Cheers Wessa