Anything specific to look for when looking at used Sprint RS?

[sean79]

I may look at a used (2002) RS this week.  I've never ridden a Triumph, or any sporty-type bike.  I've never even listened to a three cylinder bike run - but I've heard they sound different.  Anything I should look for or listen for?  Any sounds a newbie might find concerning - that might actually be expected with this bike/transmission/engine?

The motorcycle has about 11,000 miles on the odometer.  The right side front body piece (the part that says "RS") is broken, and there are some "tip over" scratches on both side's plastics - and the muffler.  But, I think the price is decent, and I've read that these things run for miles and miles.

A bike like this would be a big departure from what I'm used to, but I've heard good things about these Triumphs.  Hoping to check it out within the next few days.  As always, any hints, advice, or suggestions will be appreciated.  --Sean

[garry]

I had a 2002 RS for three years. Put 43K+ trouble-free miles on it.

Triumph triples have a distinct engine sound. Kind of a whirring noise. Not the quietest engines either, but nothing to be worried about. They sound pretty nice with an aftermarket pipe when you're on the gas hard.

Ask if the quick-disconnect fuel connectors had the recall done. The originals were all-plastic and prone to cracking. The replacement is half-metal/half-plastic. Many people (including me) went with the all-metal ones from Team Triumph before the recall was even issued. I that was the only recall on that bike.

Suspension could use some help if you want to ride it like a sportbike. I had a Penske shock and HyperPro fork springs in mine. Probably should have spent the extra money and installed the Race Tech emulators in the forks too.

Front brakes can be upgraded with a new master cylinder from Team Triumph (as I recall). Made for more braking power and better feel.

The stock seat gets old after a long day on the bike. I liked the Corbin I bought.

For me, it was basically just gas, tires and oil changes. Fine all-around bike.

[pushr0d]

The plastic is almost impossible to replace; if you can find them, they are Stupid Money.

So, if you can't (or aren't interested in) repair the fairings, you need to consider that.

The bike is 10 years old.  So even if it has been 'mildly used' it will require a good bit of TLC to get it back to fighting trim.

Also, the 12K service interval is quite expensive.  Depending on what you are willing to do yourself, and where you live, the full service can cost you $600 or more.

Lastly, the tires are either old or used up, or both.  Roughly $300.

The '02 RS is a great bike.  The 955i is a bulletproof motor.

Post more info when you get it, so we can help with an estimated value.

[GerryPetrecca]

11K miles!!  holy shite that bike is not even broken in yet.  Is it for sale from a private seller or dealer?

+1 to what Garry and Push have stated.

My comment on the seat would be base on your weight.  I weigh in at 170 and so far I've have not had any issues with long 3+hr rides on the stock seat.  I also have the Triumph gel seat.  So far the stock suspension set up has been ok for me and the type of riding I do.

Splurge on a good set of tires, you won't regret it.  Ditto if the brake pads need to be replaced.

Where are you located?  What type of bike have you been riding?

If you haven't already done so you can try www.triumphrat.net for additional comments and information.

Keep us posted.

Regards,

Gerry

[sean79]

Thanks.  I'm in central PA - I'll have to drive a little to check it out.  In the past I've ridden cruiser-type bikes - some v-twin, but the one I put the most miles on was an in-line four from 1982.  I'm sure this one is a lot better in most every way.

Supposedly, everything works as it should.  New tires last year or so - he says they're still very good.  I'm not much over 175 - about 6 feet tall, and I've ridden bikes with some thin seats.  I guess the riding position concerns me more than seat comfort... but maybe riding position makes shifting around on an uncomfortable seat more difficult on a bike like this???

I currently don't have a bike (sold them last summer), but if this thing is reliable, I think the price is right.  I'm supposed to call the guy (not a dealer) this afternoon.

Appreciate the input.

[Cricket1]

Sean-

I've had an '03 Sprint ST since 2006 and think it is one of the best bikes out there that does everything well. The RS is very slightly different, half fairing, no hard luggage, slightly different instrument cluster, and slightly lower handle bars. Garry is right about the suspension, it is "ok" for easy to moderate riding if you weight 160 or so. Much more than that, and its weaknesses become apparent. I'm 180, and have the front almost maxed out on the preload, just two lines visible at the top. The rear I've got set to 6 clicks out from full preload, and the rear rebound dampening 1/4 turn out from full hard. With those settings it is just acceptable, still too much front end dive on braking, but for 80% of the riding I do, is fine.

You will find the seating position takes some getting used to. Remember to keep your back straight, and support your upper body with your core muscles. Do not lean on the bars, but have a very light touch.  Coming from a cruiser, this will feel strange for a time. Over 50mph the wind will also push you up enough to help too.

The stock seat is ok for short rides, for longer you can go with the Corbin- very hard but I can ride 400 mile back road days on it no trouble. Or Seargent, no experience with it. Or you can send the factory seat to the guy in Florida who for $100 will replace the foam. Stewart something, cannot remember his name. Made a big difference with mine, I can tolerate it for about 3 hrs now.

Also, alot of people change the front sprocket from the factory 19T to an 18T, makes a big difference around town. With the 19T, 1st gear is very tall, almost feels like second when starting off. The 18T makes it rev up faster, adds about 300rpm on the highway and cuts your gas mileage about 2mpg. I switched it years ago and won't go back to the 19T. Bike was designed for the 18T, but due to changing noise regs in Europe starting in 2000, Triumph just switched to the 19T to make it slightly quieter.

What color is the RS?

Have fun!

[sean79]

Thanks, Cricket1.  The bike is yellow - not my first (or second) color choice, but it's not a big enough issue to keep me from buying a motorcycle.  Is the sprocket change an easy/cheap one?  I guess I could research it, but since you brought it up...

Appreciate the help.  

[garry]

My RS was "Acidic Yellow" too. I sold it to a co-worker and still see it out in the parking lot during the summer. The only color options for 2002 were Acidic Yellow and Black with yellow being more common I think.

I dropped a tooth on the front sprocket and went up 2 (I think) on the rear for even more grunt. The bike accelerated MUCH better with that gearing change and still didn't spin too many revs cruising the highway at 70-ish. You can change the front sprocket in a half hour or less. The rear sprocket takes a little longer (more bolts) but still no biggie.

I thought the riding position was fine for long days. Sporty to be sure, but pretty sane IMO.

Got 45-50 MPG in sporty riding. 200 mile tank range to fuel light coming on. I still like the lines/looks of that bike.

Sold it to get a full-on sportbike (lighter, better suspension, better brakes, etc), but really enjoyed my time with it. I *will* own another Triumph triple.

[Yankee Dog]

expect some engine noise at idle. I used to describe mine as a diesel tractor sort of noise. did love that bike, but I sold it off and bought a Troply 1200.

If you have been riding cruisers you might find the seating position a bit agressive. The ST bars from the same time periord are a bit higher and will bolt right on. Gen-mar also has spacers available should you so desire. I just started doing pushup and got used to it.  

good luck

[sean79]

The ST bars from the same time period are a bit higher and will bolt right on. Gen-mar also has spacers available should you so desire.

Thanks.  How much higher are those ST bars?  Big difference?  Would I be correct in assuming the stock RS cables are long enough to accommodate the higher bars?

I might drive out to look at it tomorrow - might wait until Thursday.  Guess it will depend, to some degree, on the weather.  

[Yankee Dog]

Thanks.  How much higher are those ST bars?  Big difference?  Would I be correct in assuming the stock RS cables are long enough to accommodate the higher bars?
.....................................

they make a difference, a big difference  

The stock cables will fit, but some folks have to reroute them.  How much troube that is I dont know. My bike came already equiped that way.  

YD

[Cricket1]

they make a difference, a big difference 

The stock cables will fit, but some folks have to reroute them.  How much troube that is I dont know. My bike came already equiped that way. 

YD

I am unsure how much lower the RS bars are than the ST, probably about an inch, because I've heard of people putting the Gen Mars on the RS to get to the same height as the ST is stock. The ends of the RS bars might be "turned in" slightly more. I put the Gen Mar risers on the ST bars, brings them up slightly over 1", and back about 1/2" over the ST. Stock cables worked fine, but I did have to re-route them slightly.

I'd say to ride it stock for awhile before making any changes. No matter what the RS riding position is going to feel very different for awhile, so see how you do after getting used to supporting your upper body. Then, if it is still too low, start making changes.

[sean79]

I'd say to ride it stock for awhile before making any changes. No matter what the RS riding position is going to feel very different for awhile, so see how you do after getting used to supporting your upper body. Then, if it is still too low, start making changes.

That's probably real good advice.  

Thanks, again, to everyone for the replies.  --Sean

[sean79]

One more question.

The specs on that RS list the height at at just over 46 inches.  I think the rear view mirrors are the highest part on the bike.  Is the 46.1 inch measurement the height to the top of the mirrors?  To the top of the windscreen?  To something else?  

I'm asking because I may need to transport one (if I buy one) in a van... it might be a little tight or a lot tight - depends on what parts stick up to the 46.1 inch mark.  Thanks.  

[sean79]

It can be done.

A 2002 Triumph Sprint RS will fit in the back of a Ford Windstar.  Of course, you have to remove the rearview mirrors, use the van's side door, and squeeze and muscle the bike, but it fits (barely).  Still not sure what the best way is going to be to get it back out, but I'll figure that out soon.

As mentioned, the riding position will take some getting used to - very strange so far.  But the bike seems to run and ride pretty nice.   I appreciate everyone's suggestions/advice/input.  --Sean

[pushr0d]

So you are a New Owner!?

If so, congratulations!

Best way to unload the bike is to ride it out!  Unless you made the mistake of putting it in the van nose first...