h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I am a 65 year old doctor, who is still in active practice.
I am fairly active and am five feet seven inches tall.
I have ridden motorcycles for years, but stopped because I thought I was too old and the family objected.
Now I have a Vespa ET 150 scooter and drive it around Houston Texas, on weekends. I have not much interest of getting on the freeways because of roadrage.

However I am gettin the "itch" again, and am looking at the Triumph Bonneville. Itlooks very nice. I cant consider the new Bonneville America, because the footpegs are too far forward for my comfort.

Would the Bonneville be a good bike for me and how often does that chain need tinkering????

I need Help-----Bill in Houston

hello Bill, I wonder if you've got a bike yet? If not, and you're hankering for a classic Brit, a Bonnie is a good choice. Height-wise should be ok, I'm 5'4" and can get my feet on the floor. (can't ride, but that's a minor point!) Another option would be a Norton Commando. They both need a certain amount of regular tinkering to keep them sweet, like any classic. If you are careful what you buy you shouldn't have many problems with them. However if you're not much of a mechanic, make sure there's someone nearby who knows their stuff just to be on the safe side. Bonnies are lovely bikes, surprisingly quick, good handling (I'm told) and with the right pipes sound the business. One thing I have learnt, avoid the very late T140 with the electric start (I think the T140E / Electro? Something like that) cos they were a pig for packing up and chewing important bits up. Stick with a kick start, they're pretty easy to kick over. Like any chain-drive, regular checks and maintenance are A Good Idea, but this applies to any bike, modern or classic. Get a Scottoiler if you can.


H