Worth the money?

I am a long time Triumph rider and was ready to order or buy a 961 from either Gold Coast or have one shipped from South Bay. But the more I read this forum the more concerned I am about quality, reliability, Asian parts, etc. The question is, would you buy your bike again knowing what you know now ?

Speaking for myself, you by one of these bikes because it's calling your name and you can't say no! Most serious bike enthusiasts have their own reasons for what appeals to them and what doesn't - for instance I wouldn't have a Japanese bike in spite of their superior mechanical developments. The 961 called my name when it was first introduced, and I put a deposit on it without much analytical thought - it was more about emotion to me. There are risks with a new company that is hand building a new bike designed from the ground up, so make your decision with your eyes open. The bike seems mechanically sound in spite of a few minor issues, but to be honest, I go in my garage and choose it because of the way I feel when riding it! I'm happy with my buying decision.......so far!

Id buy it again tomorrow. I have a garage full of bikes and have owned god knows how many over the years, but theres nothing like my 961. Love it to bits.

I’m a long time Brit bike enthusiast too. I’ve owned many bikes, British, Italian, and mostly Japanese. All had their particular allure to me. The fascinating aspect of the 961 is that It’s not like everything else out there. You can look at the thing, and say to yourself, that’s what the old 850 Command could have evolved into. The family resemblance is there. All of the components are well made also. I have had some issues with my bike, and the experience can be frustrating at times, but once you’re back in the saddle and running down the road again it’s all worth it.
I would definitely buy it again, but I would probably buy a Sport or SF model with handle bars. While the riding position on my CR is reasonably comfortable, bars would be far better for longer distance riding.

I would do it again, absolutely. I was very pleased with my bikes (nirvana for my tastes), then took delivery of my 961 Café Racer a year ago. It is still my favorite bike to ride by a fair margin. I'm up to 5,000 miles now.

Big Triumph fan too. Had a modified modern T-100 earlier (Thruxton like) -- nice bike, but no comparison to the 961.

As time goes on, I think more owners had a few niggles than not. Lord knows I've had mine. Had to blow off most of a season waiting for the parts to arrive and inferior customer service. Purchasing a bike from their first delivery to the US was risky, and yes, I knew that diving in. My fears came true. That being said, I'd do it again. It fill every single niche I've wanted in a bike and more. Was going for a Thruxton, this cost double, and is worth it.

With most of us we've owned many bikes for many years and the 961 just cast a spell on us. If your not dreaming about it then I say get the one you are dreaming about. The 961 is a true exotic and that has many plusses and a few negatives!

A Ferrari driver can't run down to Napa and buy parts, but he is driving a FERRARI.......

An object is worth whatever you are willing to pay for it . . . . . nothing more . . . nothing less !!!!

There is nothing more to debate !!!

Thanks for the replies. After reading several threads and talking to RPM Cycle who said they had problems with every bike they sold. I think I'm going to wait awhile to order. I don't like waiting at age 60. But I also am not going to like hauling a bike 5 hrs. to the nearest dealer for repairs. It's still one of the best looking bikes and I wish everyone the best. Tommy2

Tommy2 said:

Thanks for the replies. After reading several threads and talking to RPM Cycle who said they had problems with every bike they sold. I think I'm going to wait awhile to order. I don't like waiting at age 60. But I also am not going to like hauling a bike 5 hrs. to the nearest dealer for repairs. It's still one of the best looking bikes and I wish everyone the best. Tommy2

Click to expand...

Tommy, Triumph are launching an 1100cc version of the Bonneville next year, including a high end Ohlins equipped cafe racer. A google search of "2016 Bonneville" will wet your appetite. It won't as exclusive as a new Commando, and it won't be a Norton either. But if Triumph perform according to trend, it will be well built, very reliable, backed up by a huge dealer network globally and at 1100cc it will be quite an exciting and characterful ride. The new range will also most likely be quite a bit cheaper than Mr Garners selection.
Just a thought sir...

Get the bike!. The few silly issues I have covered in my manuals and if you address them before riding too many miles you will be fine. I rode my bike from Niagara Falls to North Carolina for the Rally last week. Super reliable and super fun to ride. A fantastic machine. One ride and you will be hooked!!! The bikes are super easy to work on and if you are mechanically skilled you can work on it at home. My dad has a few essential 961 specific tools for sale and a good set of metric wrenches is all you need. NO REGRETS!!!!!