Tuesday, July 30, 2013

2009 Honda CMX 250 Rebel: Pre Owned Inventory

2009 Honda CMX 250 Rebel
Whether you’re new to motorcycles or simply like the idea of affordable around town transportation, the Honda CMX 250 Rebel is capable of 80mpg and can be ridden by anyone.
This CMX 250 has under 2k miles and looks new. The chrome and paint throughout has a glorious shine with no pitting or rust. It fires right up at the push of a button and runs smooth and steady. The overall riding position and seat make a for a very comfortable ride and the cruiser style suspension soaks up the bumps. A low seat height of 26.6” allows for anyone, no matter the height, to maintain a high level of confidence while handling this bike. It is often hard to find bikes in this class that do not show any evidence of low sides or spills. This one is fortunate enough to not present any indications of ever being dropped. You will not be disappointed with this Rebel.


2011 Kawasaki Versys: Pre Owned Inventory

2011 Kawasaki Versys
“A friendly do it all package”

Sometimes you get on a bike and you find yourself saying, “this is just an overall really nice bike to ride.” The Versys is a very adaptable bike that is easy to live with and willing to do most anything you ask of it.
This example is a well setup 2011 with under 2200 miles. It includes saddle bags and even has a wrap-around crash bar up front. The striking red paint is a more uncommon color that sets itself apart from other Versys. Overall it is in really nice shape throughout and has zero evidence of it ever being laid down. The plastics, engine and rims are all in clean condition and match what you would expect out of the low mileage that it has. The parallel twin has plenty of punch and presents zero starting or fueling issues. What’s fantastic about the Versys is that it truly is a “do it all” design that any motorcyclist can appreciate as it eliminates the need to have multiple bikes for different uses. It has the capabilities of light off road travel, adventure, sport touring or commuting. An upright riding position allows for all-day comfort in the saddle and the windshield is a nice feature to get the wind out of your face while on the freeway.
We currently have two other Versys to choose from and compare.




2011 Triumph Speed Triple: Pre Owned Inventory

2011 Triumph Speed Triple
“The Ultimate Hooligan Machine”
When this particular bike came up for me to review, I had to double check that it was not actually one of our new demo bikes. It is that clean!
For one who demands the ultimate in performance and excitement, the Speed Triple offers the most exciting riding experience on the street that you could ask for in an extremely well engineered design. Bar none. It is obvious this bike has been pampered; in fact, it does not indicate to have ever been ridden in the rain. The exhaust retains a showroom shine without any signs of water or road grime melt, handgrips appear unworn and there are absolutely no scratches throughout. Cosmetically, it is as good as it can get. It starts right up with zero issues and runs perfectly without any fueling hesitations of the sort. Due to the low miles, it truly feels like a new bike all-around. There is absolutely zero pulsation from either of the Brembo brakes, and while we’re on the subject, will absolutely plant your face into the ground if you so desire. The suspension is fully adjustable so that you can adapt it your specific weight and particular riding style. It comes with a BatteryTender lead all ready installed so that your battery is always charged and ready to go.
If you have never ridden a Speed Triple, it is one of the most thrilling experiences that you can possibly have on a motorcycle and because of it, is a very rewarding experience. The beauty around the Speed Triple is that Triumph has designed and perfected it over the years to a platform that leaves nothing to be desired. It is as good as it gets.

Come take a test ride that you will never forget.  




Saturday, July 27, 2013

August 24-25 Vintage Motorcycle Festival: LeMay America's Car Museum

August 2013 Vintage Motorcycle Festival


Coming up in August is the second annual Vintage Motorcycle Festival held at the LeMay America’s Car Museum. This exciting event includes a judged show including festivities and displays as well as an 80 mile ride the following day. Triumph of Seattle will be hosting a display so be sure to stop by and say hi!

Last year the show brought more than 200 motorcycles and 2,000 spectators from nationwide and we anticipate this year will be even bigger.

When:
Saturday August 24 (show) 8:00AM-5:00PM
Sunday August 25 (ride) 8:00AM

Where: 
LeMay- America’s Car Museum
2702 East D Street
Tacoma, WA 98421

Main Show Event Details- August 24


Schedule:
8 AM–10 AM: Late Registration begins; exhibitors bring in motorcycles.
(Bikes will not be accepted after 10 AM.)_
10 AM–Noon: Judging
11 AM: Trials Riders performance
11:45 AM: Seattle Cossacks performance
Noon–1:30 PM: Judges tabulate results, lunch
12:30 PM: Trials Riders performance
1:15 PM: Seattle Cossacks performance
2 PM: Trials Riders performance
3–4 PM: Awards presentation

Ticket Pricing:
ACM Member - $8.00                                                
General Admission - $19.75                         
Military - $16.75                                                        
Senior (65+) - $16.75                         
Student - $16.75
Children 6 and under - FREE

Classes Judged:
-Best of Show Trophy

-President’s Cup

-Best in Class Winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd)


Antique American Pre War-- Antique European Pre War -- Classic American-Post War --Vintage Japanese -- Classic European-Post War -- Vintage British -- Vintage Norton -- Vintage Triumph -- Vintage German -- Vintage BMW -- Vintage Italian

For information on entering a bike into the show:
Show Chairman Burt Richmond at burt@fitzrich.com

Sunday August 25 Ride Details
The ride includes an 80 mile, 3 hour loop around the Mt. Rainier Valley foothills, then back to the Museum for a BBG lunch that includes a $15.00 fee. All scooters and motorcycles are welcome!

Schedule:
Meet at the Main Plaza at the LeMay Museum
8 AM: Scenic Ride Registration, coffee & doughnuts provided
8:45 AM: Rider’s Safety & Route Meeting 70 mile loop returning to LeMay
9-10 AM: Riders depart LeMay Plaza in groups of five for scenic ride
1:30 PM: Riders return for barbecue lunch on lower Haub Family Showfield

For more information about this event, please visit: http://vintagemotorcyclefestival.com/


2010 Kawasaki Versys: Pre Owned Inventory

An Excellent All-Rounder


A very well kept example of a low mileage Versys.  You will not find any major scratches or dents as it is in very nice condition all throughout. The engine performs excellent with zero issues and has a lot of usable torque right in the bottom end which accompanies this bike’s intent seemingly well. It is an enjoyable and fun bike to ride that would be perfect as an all-rounder, or, commuter.  It also lends itself well to beginner riders because of an easy to manage power delivery and ergonomics position, yet, can still be very much appreciated as skills progress thanks to its overall versatility. Long service intervals keep costs down as well as high mpg ratings. You will not be disappointed. Our dealership also currently has two other pre owned Versys to choose from.




Thursday, July 25, 2013

2009 BMW G650 GS: Pre Owned Inventory

A Luxery Dual Sport!

This 2009 BMW G650GS is in excellent shape and is a wonderful alternative that raises the bar a step above other dual sports such as the Kawasaki KLR650 and Honda XR650L. Options including a 12v power socket, heated grips, center stand, front and rear Brembo brakes and locking storage are a few of the key features that separate this bike to the top of its class. It is evident that it has not seen much, if any, offroad use at all in fact. The skid plate miraculously does not have any dents or scratches in it including the paint and side panels which are cosmetically in great shape as well. For one who is planning on taking it offroad, it is already equipped with a nice trellis front end protection crash bar that wraps around the front.. The power delivery is smooth and very linear all throughout the powerband while also providing usable torque for climbing steeper hills offroad. This 650 GS is very easy to manage and ride thanks for a low seat height and wide handlebar. The Metzeler Tourance tires are in excellent shape and have plently of life left to go. This is a terrific bike to step up to for one who wants more adventure capabilities and options versus a standard dual sport.  



2011 BMW F650 GS: Pre Owned Inventory

Like New, Literally!

You will not find a cleaner and lower mileage (less than 400 miles!) F650GS on the market. This GS is like new throughout and has that famous new bike feeling all around. Weighing in at only 377lbs dry, the F650GS provides as a wonderful alternative to the larger 800 and 1200 GS models while still retaining the same adventured focused capabilities. The rider will appreciate the more conservative size and weight when navigating tight trails thanks to its increased agility. The low seat height gives confidence and ease of use for a broad range of riders. The windscreen offers ample wind protection against buffeting, even at higher speeds. Options such as a 12V plug conveniently located directly in front of the rider is excellent for anything from heated gear to a GPS unit and the 4.2 gallon tank allows for long distances between fill ups. The heated grips warm up nearly instantly and will be a favorite for those chilly days. This bike offers a lot in terms of storage and baggage capacity including the sides, rear rack and wide area cowling cover. Here is a rare opportunity to grab a bike that is in like "new shape" at a fraction of the cost.


2008 BMW R1200 GS Adventure: Pre-Owned Inventory

2008 R1200 GS Adventure

This R1200 GS is in immaculate condition throughout and is ready to take on anything that you have in mind. It presents remarkably well due to its clean and unmolested condition and has led an easy life on the street which is unusual to find in a GS. There is no evidence that this bike has ever been down. The engine is very strong and performs as it should. Riding a 1200 GS leaves nothing to be desired, it is a flagship model that many bikes in its class are judged by and simply by riding it alone gives you that feeling.  Do not let the size fool you, once under way the GS transforms into a nimble bike that actually has a sense of sportiness to it. Because of its shear versatility, it would be just as at home being the ultimate commuter as it would the weekend warrior. Overall, this GS shows very little wear throughout and is in exceptional condition.         

2013 Triumph Explorer Adventure: A Sport Tourer In Disguise?

2013 Triumph Explorer Adventure
What you don’t always expect out of a full size adventure bike is superb on road performance and that is because they were designed to be used for multiple functions. Large front wheels can cause slow steering and tall seat heights often make for a top heavy feeling around town.
One look at the Adventure Explorer and you would never guess that it has an uncanny ability to be an excellent all-day sport tourer. After about ten minutes in the saddle while going down the freeway I kept thinking to myself, this is nearly as comfortable and stable as the Trophy that I just rode last week! I could not get over the fact of how well mannered and comfortable it was in comparison. Let me explain.
First, even though the windscreen is not adjustable, the design and particular position does an amazing job at blocking the wind and keeping it out of your face where all the bugs and wind buffeting normally collect. Next, the 588lbs works as your friend in this case to keep the bike steady at high speeds, just as the Trophy is. You sit up nice and high with a commanding view of the road with an especially wide handlebar that provides excellent leverage. The seat does not offer much support for your lower back, but it is all day comfortable in that department. Cruise control is a rare option to be found anywhere near a bike that is intended for offroad riding. The Explorer is fortunate it enough to be equipped with the feature giving another option for more comfort during long distance riding.
The inline triple works well for the multiple functions the Explorer is designed for. It has the low end grunt for climbing steep hills offroad at slow speeds but the mid and top end ranges are there for highway acceleration. The engine is silky smooth and is hard to detect once you’re on the interstate. In comparison to the BMW R1200 GS, the overall engine characteristic of the triple is sportier making it a joy to rev out and exploit simply because it was designed for it. As fantastic as the Bimmer engine is, it is simply a more utilitarian platform and doesn’t have the same sense of urgency to want to be ridden in that regard. The shaft drive is a nice feature for a bike like this as it eliminates frequent chain maintenance and keeps the moving parts concealed, away from potential obsticals that could be damaged offroad. The gearing is tall which keeps the rpm’s at reasonable levels at cruising speed, yet, I found still had the torque for slow speeds.
Having a lot of experience with dirt oriented bikes over my life, the Explorer to me is a very appealing option over a true sport touring bike. It has the suspension, ground clearance and capabilities to handle nearly anything in its way but also lends itself to being very comfortable for highway performance at the same time. Luggage storage and overall rider mobility space is endless making for a wide range of options whether that be from Triumph or the aftermarket. A conveniently located 12v power outlet is located directly in front of the riders view for an optional GPS unit or heated gear as well. Come in and take a test ride of the Explorer and Trophy models back-to-back to compare their highway capabilities.   
      

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

2010-2012 Triumph Tiger 1050 Review

2010 Triumph Tiger 1050

The Tiger 1050 is what you get when you combine a Speed Triple into a touring based chassis. The best of both worlds.
This particular 2010 Tiger 1050 featured is in showroom new condition and has less than 300 miles on the clock. It runs, looks and rides just as you would expect it to.
The beauty about the Tiger 1050 is that it is basically a Speed Triple that has been morphed into an adventure touring bike. It has the handling & power of the Speed Triple but the chassis, function and capabilities of a touring bike. It is a truly an amazing riding experience to have that level of performance in a touring bike platform and is unmatched. Because of it, the Tiger is at home being ridden sensibly for adventure riding as it is carving twisties. And that I might add, is one of its specialties.
Fully adjustable suspension increases its capabilities even more. Whether you plan to use it for adventure riding and want to soften the suspension, or, firm it up for sport touring, it is fully capable for the desired task. Due to a 32.8” seat height, you sit up nice and high with a clear open view over the top of most automobiles. The windscreen does an adequate job at blocking wind but is not adjustable. A relatively steep steering rake combined with 17” wheels make it very agile and feel similar to, well, a tall Street Triple thanks to a conservative weight of only 443lbs. Because of its inspiration, I found myself wanting to ride it more like a sport bike than a touring bike. The brakes have steel braided lines on both ends that are connected to Nissin calipers, both of which provide excellent performance and get it stopped on a dime. I liked how the foot pegs were positioned a bit further back to go along with the performance oriented handling. The seat offers lots of room for you and a passenger and I did not notice any discomfort.
The 1050 triple makes power everywhere you ask it to. Open the throttle while chugging along in a high gear up a mountain pass or downshift into a low gear; you’re going to get the same level of performance no matter the scenario. There are no rider modes to hinder your direct control with the throttle. Due to the increased height and taller suspension over the standard Speed III, I did notice a very slight bit of headshake around 70mph.  
Triumph included not only a fuel gauge, but also a countdown of the miles that have been ridden after the fuel light has lit. With an MPG rating of around 42.5, it leaves you with around 200 miles of range from the 5.2 gallon tank.
Our dealership currently has two of these left, both new. A 2010 and red 2012 SE.
Experience the feeling of an adventure touring bike that has a Street Triple hidden within it.


2013 Triumph Speedmaster Review

2013 Triumph Speedmaster
"More than what you expect"
One look at the Triumph Speedmaster and you might think that it’s a miniature toned down version of the Rocket III but after riding one, it is clear that it was built for greater overall usability. One of the Speedmaster’s eminent abilities is lending itself to a wide range of rider demographics. Experienced riders who appreciate the eye catching stripped down styling to novice riders who can build confidence from a low seat height and forward controls makes itself demandable to riders from all different backgrounds.
Contrary to its bad to the bone styling, the Speedmaster is a pleasure to ride, very comfortable ergonomically and actually somewhat sporty. The 19” front wheel allows for a secure, surefooted, feeling in all situations without ever giving the rider a sense of nervousness. The seat has a nice molded shape that supports the lower portion of your back which I appreciated for longer stints down the highway. Albeit any wind protection for the rider, the bike itself remains compliant and more stable than expected at highway speeds and during wind blasts.
While motoring along, the Speedmaster continually gave me the impression that it was more than capable of a multi-state road trip and all that would be needed would be a pair of accessory panniers. It is already setup with a 5.1 gallon fuel tank offering a wide range in between fuel stops and the 5th cog is high enough to make the engine not scream at 70mph.
The suspension was a bit firmer than I had anticipated and did not offer a slushy ride that is felt on many cruisers. Because of this, it can be pushed into corners harder without a feeling of being underdamped. My only real gripe about the riding position is the long reach from the seat to the handlebar which may cause some awkwardness for shorter riders. I found the brakes  to work fine and the overall 550lb wet weight was easy to manage.
It is amazing what a jewel Triumph’s parallel twin 865cc power plant really is. In combination with a remarkably smooth shifting 5 speed, the two work in harmony with each other with a sense of diligence. The entire experience is almost electric as you do not detect any sound from the drivetrain other than the surrounding environment once you get going underway. It is very relaxing but if one wanted more sound to better match its appearance impressions, I have no doubt it could turn itself into a bit of hooligan. Although it does not have the shear grunt that a v –twin does down low, the parallel design offers a flatter torque curve making its power delivery more usable all throughout rev range. Power is more than adequate and there when you need it, but not over the top.
It is a wonderful thing when bikes like the Speedmaster are more than what they were intended to be. It separates itself enough from the America model to appeal to a broader rider network. Sometimes motorcycles will be designed to be so focused around looking one way or the other that their true intentions were forgotten. This is not so with the Speedmaster.




Thursday, July 18, 2013

2001 Ducati ST4 Ride Test- (Pre Owned Inventory)

2001 Ducati ST4


For the individual who appreciates both Italian machinery and sport touring, this is the bike for you. With just over 7k miles, this ST4 is in beautiful condition and the way that you would expect a Ducati to be. The paint has a very lustrous shine throughout and there are zero dents in the tank. The frame, rims and engine are all in very clean condition as well. Mechanically, this bike is sound. It fires right up immediately with zero hiccups and runs strong all the way through. Unlike many Ducatis that commonly have some surging in the lower rpm’s, this one runs remarkably clean down low and isn’t a problem to manage at slower speeds. Take a test ride and find out! J It is also outfitted with a few tasteful accessories such as an aftermarket exhaust system which is a must on any Ducati. A high quality Corbin seat is also included which will be appreciated for long rides and the ProGrip tank pad has been doing its job helping to prevent zipper scratches. If you are unfamiliar with the ST4, it is based off the 916 sport bike and has been one of Ducati’s more recognized models over the years. Because of the heritage, the ST4 combines performance with touring capabilities making it a favorite among riders who favor a racing edge. Once you take this bike for a test ride, you quickly realize what it and riding a Ducati is all about.
Phone: (425) 774-3538



2013 Triumph Trophy SE Review

2013 Triumph Trophy SE

The feeling of the clutch alone tells a great deal about the Trophy’s character; comfort, ease and reassurement.
Despite a dry weight of 662lbs, the Trophy immediately looses half once you are under way, even when maneuvering at single digit speeds. It makes it a delight to handle in all types of situations no matter the physics of the particular rider. There is such a sense of class that can be felt all throughout and this is truly what the Trophy is all about. Whether it’s the way it gracefully pulls away from a stop without any sort of lurch from the drivetrain as if it were already in motion to the exceptionally smooth throttle transitions that somehow make it feel automatic, it is made for the individual who has no compromises.


Power plant:
The heart of the Trophy is the famous Triumph inline triple that is world be known. The beauty here is that it puts out the same power everywhere at all rpm’s which in combination with a sport tourer, works hand in hand. This means that no matter the gear, it’s going to pull away effortlessly in the HOV lane past that semi without requiring you to downshift.
Features:


The SE does not disappoint in options and accessories when it comes to modern technology and innovation. Some of the highlight features are the three adjustable riding modes, electronically load adjusting suspension, adjustable on-the-fly windscreen, cruise and traction control.
Triumph Electronic Suspension “TES”
The SE offers three different suspension settings; normal, comfort and sport. The normal setting I found was a good balance that combined the other two into one making it the preferable choice for most types of riding. Switching into sport yielded a noticeable decrease in fork dive under braking and there was no mistaking the firmer rear suspension. This setting works well for when you want to kick things up a notch and put the touring side of things into to sport. There was not quite as big of a difference between the normal and comfort settings that I could detect. The suspension did feel a bit more plush but was hard to notice the change when switched back to the normal setting versus sport.
Both “one up” and “two up” options + luggage are offered as loading options for the suspension. Unlike the previously mentioned three suspension settings that can be adjusted on the fly, the bike must be stationary to make these changes in this parameter. I did not get the opportunity to carry a passenger but it was interesting to feel the bike raise the suspension for the “two up” setting and lower itself for the “one up” setting. In the case there are going to be multiple riders, they each may create their own user profiles to store their personal settings and configurations.
Adjustable Windscreen

The adjustable windscreen is a convenient feature for the times when you need additional coverage at higher speeds, but still want the airflow around town. The screen itself actually has a quite a wide range of adjustment in itself. I found that I always put it in the fully extended position for highway riding for the least amount of buffeting but had it in the lowest setting for everything else.
Cruise Control
Triumph has setup the cruise control system to allow you to increase and decrease speeds of 1mph increments at a time which is handy so that you are not always having to make corrections with the throttle itself. The heated handgrips and seat both warmed up quickly and are a must for the cold days.  
Other key features include iPhone & iPod compatibility, Bluetooth hook-up, automatic volume adjustment based off speed, USB port, 12V power socket, adjustable traction control and linked ABS brakes.
Whether it be the headlight brightness, display info arrangement, or particular suspension setting the Trophy can be configured and adjusted for many different aspects and preferences to suit.
On the highway:
It comes as no surprise that the Trophy simply eats up the miles without you even noticing how far you’ve actually gone or how fast you’re actually traveling. I kept thinking to myself how much it felt like I was sitting at home in a comfortable arm chair, only while going down the road. 70mph feels like 50 because of how unstressed and relaxed it is at those speeds that you may even find yourself setting the cruise simply around the fact so that the speed doesn’t get carried away without you even noticing!


There is enough storage in the bags that it allows for one to easily travel cross-country without having to carry extra unnecessary hardware in order to do so. Triumph has also implored a design feature into the bags themselves that allow them to move a given amount. This is to help stabilize the bike and make the additional weight less noticeable when making side-to-side transitions.
Overall, the Trophy presents a shear sense of class in the way that it feels and is equipped. For one who enjoys doing sport touring, the Trophy live up to it's name offering every bit and more.