Triumph Sprint ST ABS reviews

Well, after exactly five months in the saddle, I can say without a doubt this is one of the best motorcycles I've ever owned. Power delivery is there, always on tap, and is liquid smooth. There are no flat-spots anywhere in the torque curve; the GT just pulls and pulls and pulls. The too far to the levers problem was fixed with a set of Triumph Genuine Accessory levers...though at $180, they were an expensive fix. Handling is superb, the thing feels like it's on rails. This is also the first bike I've ever ridden with hard luggage where you don't feel the weight of the bags while cornering. There are still some gripes, however. The transmission is somewhat notchy when downshifting, and finding neutral at a stop can be difficult. Also, get the touch-up paint kit for $20, because you're going to need it at some point. Rocks or other road debris tend to scratch the finish pretty decently. For highway droning of more than an hour or so, the bike tends to wear on you. A set of Gen-Mar risers and the Triumph gel-seat would probably rectify this issue, however. Lastly, after shutting the bike off, about 30 seconds later it makes a noise like it's getting a fax...or it's trying to dial out to the internet. Apparently it's normal, but if you've never heard it before, it can make you scratch your head. Overall, I am pleased with this motorcycle and glad I purchased it. The looks, features, power and character of this machine are second to none. Add in the price, and you've got yourself a winner. Show less

I got the chance to do a 50-mile demo ride. The Triumph Sprint GT is a true Grand Tourer in British/European style with emphasis on sport. Think of it as Triumph's version of an Aston Martin coupe. There is luxury; meaning quality and refined running gear but no gadgets and gizmos. The Sprint GT is evolved from the Sprint ST. The GT is unique. The infamous Triumph 1050cc triple is retuned for more power (128 bhp. & 80 ft. lbs. torque @6,300 rpm. The bike is heavy at 590 lbs. wet. With a 5.3 gallon tank, the real world range is about 180 miles. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I think it looks great with the main debate being the new exhaust. Ergos appear all day comfortable but again you are on a sport-oriented bike. Your're not on a Goldwing or an Electra Glide. I was very comfortable on my short ride. The bike has silky smooth power delivery and retains chain drive instead of going with a shaft drive. Acceleration is a strong point. Despite the weight it is very nimble and flickable in corners. ABS brakes are standard and they are powerful. I enjoyed my short ride a lot and will consider the GT when it's time to replace my trusty old Daytona 1200. If you're looking for something unique & high quality yet still sporting, capable of short or long haul touring, the Sprint GT may be for you. It's in a league of it's own and different enough from BMW, Kawi Concours, Yamaha FJR, Honda ST or the VFR, etc. Others may offer more of this or that but the Triumph Sprint GT seems good at filling many roles and is a very competitive machine. I'll take mine in Pacific Blue. Show less

I bought this bike as a supplement to my BMW R12RT touring bike. The Tiger has only one weak spot -- a seriously under-sprung front suspension. Even at my weight of 170 lbs, the springs were about 50% too light. I installed RaceTech springs and a Gold Valve fork rebuild kit, and it transformed the handling of the bike. The stock rear suspension is good for my weight. The engine and transmission are as good as you can get for this type of bike. The front brakes are a little grabby though, so be cautious if you don't have ABS - I will replace with Carbone Lorraine pads at my next brake fluid change. The saddle is a little better than average, but could be improved. I use this bike in warm weather and when teaching various MC classes. This bike is easily the equal of the BMW R12GS I had a few years ago -- and at a much better price. Show less

My 9th bike in 40 years; first Triumph. My last 4 bikes have been BMW (R12RT, R12GS, K12RS & K75S) and the Tiger is a fine blend of the strengths of these beemers. The only major improvement needed in the Tiger is a rebuild of the front suspension (50% under-sprung by static sag measurement at my weight of 170 lb I installed proper weighted fork springs and gold valve haudraulics; front suspension is now the equal of any sport bike. Stock rear susp is properly sprung for my solo riding, but shock damping adjustments should be reworked. I use my Tiger as a demo bike in teaching Total Control classes, so suspension is pushed a little. More casual riders might not notice suspension issues. The engine is very flexible and a hoot to rev. A bit jerky rolling on at low rpm. Shifting is considerably better than BMW, but not saddle. Gets lots of compliments esp amongst riders, many who have not seen a Tiger in person. No regrets buying this bike. Show less

Great bike. I would describe it as a comfortable sport bike. I was on a sport touring trip in north Georgia with friends when I bought it. I was riding an ST1300 prior. Handles great, very smooth, and OOOOOh that triple. The ergos actually fit me better than the Honda and I was not as tired after riding a 650 mile day. With-in the first 3 days I had put over 1500 miles on it. This bike is fun and will handle the long haul as well the trip to the local coffee shop. I am trying to think of a negative but I cannot at this time. I would like a gear indicator and a temperature gauge. Flawless. Triumph has got it correct. Not the big over done sport touring bikes from Japan but all you need to tour and the right weight to sport. Thanks Triumph. Show less

As the title says, this my favorite bike out of all I've owned (too many to count). The rider position is extremely comfortable. The height promotes excellent visibility. The performance is second to none in its class. The average rider will never push this bike to its capabilities. I could go on, but suffice it to say this is the best bike is a true do all machine and it does it all VERY well. Show less

The Sprint is s superb bike in a class of it's own. I changed the seat, but otherwise left it stock. It handles two riders without sacrificing control with just minor preload adjustments. The chasis is very stable, acceleration more than adequate for demanding road duty, brakes are solid and strong, and it flys around a racetrack to most onlooker's amazement. It is the lightest, and I believe most fuel efficient of the sport touring class bikes. Quality of build is excellent. The only thing that could be improved is the range the low beams cover. They do not project out far enough. High beam is excellent. The Dunlop Roadsmart tire is a perfect match for this bike and far better than the Bridgestone 020. The Roadsmart handles better, wears evenly, wears long, holds on the race track, and is sure-footed in rain. The Sprint is a bike that doesn't just ride well and look good, it excels in every area critical to good motorcycling experience. Show less

This bike is awesome. I previously had a Harley Electra Glide which is a great touring/cruising bike but the seat position caused me some low back pain. I bought a Triumph Trophy and before long I traded and bought the new Tiger ABS, I almost bought a Sprint but I made the right choice!!! The upright riding position is great. The seat is very comfortable even after all day in the saddle. The power band is amazing through all six gears. Cornering is awesome and the bike is so nimble and just the right weight. I get about 51 mpg and I ride a little on the non-conservative side. I might add a Givi windshield and a tailbag. The side bags came with the bike as part of Triumph's promo. The bike has been lowered 2 inches as well. It is my favorite bike to date. Show less

The Good: Powerful engine (+/-120 BHP) provides great gas mileage for single rider, and ample power for double-ups. Max power at +/-9250 RPM (120BHP), max torque at +/-7000 RPM means wide power band at any gear and riding speed. Single sided swing arm and eccentric chain adjustment makes DIY servicing and cleaning easy/simple. Easy to remove seat, fairing sections, gas tank, nose cone, makes access to engine relatively simple. Centre Stand and side leg = two thumbs up! Small glove/document compartment in RH fairing cover Balanced stance on the road allows driver to almost drive hands free. Standard equipment; two colour matched Pannier bags, and mounting brackets. Centre mounted (under seat) muffler give the bike a clean look. The fairing provides good protection to rider in wet weather The required improvements: Thin heat shield foam on R/H & L/H fairing as well as fuel tank can make warm weather riding very uncomfortable. Short windscreen works well for low speed urban rides. At continuous Highway driving speed, sitting position (for taller riders) and head wind creates higher resistance and worsen fuel consumption. Under seat muffler doesn't have enough insulation to protect underside of seat and passenger's bottom. Provide 2nd storage compartment in LH fairing cover (like RH side). Rear wheel Hugger will reduce water and road grime splash on engine and electrical components. Gas tank holds 20L (5.2 US Gal) means having to plan refuelling stops more often. Another gallon would be great! Gear Indicator Digital speedometer instead of the analog (mechanical) unit Dimmer switch for gauges White face for mechanical gauges (speedometer & tachometer) In general: The '06 Sprint ST 1050 is great riding bike that can be ridden across town, or across the country. Comes with basic touring hard bags (2) and can be easily fitted with a third. This is a great crossover bike, for riders who wish to upgrade from a single purpose motorcycle. Show less

Rode from Massachusetts to Alabama mostly backroads and some interstate. The bike performed excellent. The only problem was the bad check valve in the gas tank sucked in the side of the tank because it wouldn't let air in. The dealer repaired it and replaced the tank. Show less