Am actively looking for one of those or at least a Thunderbird or Adventurer in good shape. That 3-cylinder is an amazing engine. How do you like yours?
The engine is Awesome... I really love that thing. Nice an tame down low, scalded cat in the higher RPM range. It just pulls and pulls forever... there is no drop off just before red-line. Mine seems to run smoothest between 3500 and 4500 rpm (55 to 75 mph).
The only issue with the engine is having to remove the left side engine cover to replace the front sprocket. I wish they had made the sprocket cover separate so that you don't have to buy a new gasket every time you change it.
The factory mufflers are held on with criimp-in threaded inserts... they don't last long before vibrating loose. After-market pipes are almost a must.
The rest of the bike is well put together, and the "Sport" suspension is fully adjustable (big bonus). Some of the silver engine Thunderbirds are 5-speed, the later models and black engines were 6-speed.
As far as riding, it's a pure joy. I love tucking in on sweepers... it just handles so well. I've even managed to scrape the pegs a few times on accident (having too much fun, I guess).
Some people claim it's a bit top heavy... I've never noticed. Of course I'm used to a Valkyrie.
Bottom line... I LOVE it.
The Sport models are hard to find... but they do come up from time to time.
Check out TriumphRat.com...
http://www.triumphrat.net/forum.php LOTS of good info in the "Hinckley Classic Triples" section.
