Why, What, Where and When

[forjox]

I just thought I’d start a thread about what I own, why, where and when I ride!
I’ve been riding since age 14, which makes for 53 years of joy and currently own a 2001 BMW R1200C Phoenix that I’ve owned since 2007 and a 2017 Triumph Bobber that I bought new. I love riding the country roads daily around SE Wisconsin any day the weather allows, which for me is anytime above 50°F or maybe lower near season end as I can’t bare putting the bikes in storage. I’ve taken many long distance rides over the years on the Beemer to various destinations for a week or two.
Please ride safe! Jim

 

[froggy|situation]

Jim, great to hear from someone with over five decades of riding experience. The Phoenix edition of the R1200C has a look that turns heads and a boxer engine that's known for its reliability on long hauls. I remember when BMW rolled those out with the Independent styling and they sure made an impression. Your decision to continue riding as long as the temp remains above 50 brings back memories of my own late-season rides, bundled up and chasing the last bit of autumn sun. The Bobber, although not built for traditional touring, has proven it can handle longer trips with a few adjustments. However, the fuel range and seat comfort require more frequent stops.

Do you alternate between the 2 bikes for long trips or does the Beemer always win out? Have you made any adjustments to the Bobber for improved comfort or additional storage? Keep the rubber side down.

 

[forjox]

If I were to take a longer trip, it would always be on the Beemer, but I haven't taken anything other than a daily ride for many years now. I do miss those jaunts.
I have a small side bag and a magnetic tank pouch for storage and I recently installed a progressive fork spring set and a seat suspension system designed, built and sold by a gent in Australia that has made the Bobber much more comfortable.

 

[froggy|situation]

Thanks for the detailed info on your Triumph Bobber mods. The progressive fork springs and a dedicated seat suspension combo must completely change the bike's handling and comfort over its stock form. I'm intrigued by the Australian seat suspension system you mentioned. Was it a well-known product in the Bobber community or something you had to do a lot of research to uncover? And does an upgrade like that make the motorcycle capable of comfortable all-day rides in your opinion? It's understandable that the Beemer's still the first choice for a big journey and I hope you get a chance to take 1 again soon!

 

[forjox]

I can't be a good comment on the handling aspect, as I'm a leisure rider and don't push the limits at all, but the comfort level was a game changer, making me ride the Bobber so much more often than before. I found the seat suspension in its early availability through a post the owner put on Triumphbobberforum.com. He is very well known in the Bobber community now!
You can find his company online at https://www.coccustoms.com.au/
I wouldn't use the Bobber for all day rides because of the lack of wind protection, storage and fuel capacity, but the new comfort level lets me ride for hours each time.