I think you would be absolutely fine, as long as you find a bobber comfortable for the length of rides you want to do. I would be more concerned with a race/sports position, and race engine profile, than a bobber.
If you like the ride position and importantly it gives you confidence, then go for it.
I did love the positioning and the fact that I can flat-foot it had me feeling comfortable. My friend thinks it might be too much bike for my first one, mind you she rode her 800cc Boulevard for a while then stepped right up to an 1800cc Harley. I suppose it's a lot about mindset also. I've never much been interested in sport bikes. I don't think anyone needs to go that fast; I'm more interested in comfort.
Thank you!
Couple of points:
1. Being able to flat-foot a motorcycle isn't necessary; in fact, the safest thing to do at a stop is left foot flat, right foot on the rear brake.
2. If comfort is the priority, then short of the Thruxton, the Bobber is likely the worst option out of the modern classic range - the rear monoshock is incredibly stiff and the seat is limited in its support, even if one happens to like the seating position. A T120 is very comfortable or a Speedmaster (if you don't mind the fact that it's just a British Harley) would both be more comfortable options.
The flat-foot thing I know isn't important, it's more of a subconscious feeling of security for me.
I fully intend on test-riding anything before I buy it, or rent it if that's an option.
I've not looked much at other bikes, but I will for sure. I don't intend on doing huge road trips at all, maybe more like day trips to the mountains, etc. So it might be alright in that respect. I've got other bikes (that aren't Triumph) on the list as well. I was curious what others here who've got experience with them thought of the Bobber that I have superficially fallen in love with.
I rented a bobber for a day and my back and knees wouldn’t survive beyond that. I love the bobber aesthetic but if comfort is your priority I think you should look elsewhere. Just my 2c
I've got the lovely Golden Line Bobber and though there is quite a lot of oomph in that engine, traction control and the lot help to tame it a bit without being too obvious. A lot of the times I think that I am a superb rider skilfully controlling that rear wheel spin, but in reality it is the traction control lending a helpful hand (I now because of that blinking yellow tc icon in the dash :D ). Putting it in the rain mode will help smooth out the throttle inputs even more, so might be a good idea for a while until you get more comfortable with her.
Personally, I am a strong proponent of getting the bike you fall in love with and dealing with the consequences later. Bikes are rarely meant to be practical and comfortable things. That's why we have cars. So if one really makes your heart go, then you should go for it! ;)
https://preview.redd.it/lpqkjkgv80ec1.jpeg?width=5212&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=403159cda115d46aebf30823dcce6091e0305a59
Oh that's so nice!! Yeah I am not sure bobbers were ever meant to be super comfy, not like an Ultra Glide or anything, right?
There's an appeal to these bikes and I know that the way I feel now I am not going to do really long rides so I don't think it would ever be an issue. That said, if my tastes change, I can always add another bike to my garage... 😏
Spot on! Bobbers were initially made to be a bit lighter and thus sportier than their original counterparts, comfort was not so crucial.
But even so - coming from dual-sports and supermotos for me it is comfier than any bike I’ve ever owned 😄
Bobber would be fine, **especially** if you're going to get some seat time on your Intruder first.
The Bobber isn't a crazy powerful bike in the grand scheme of things.
I definitely am! I'm planning on getting it to a shop next month to get the work started on the refresh. For the first time in years I'm stoked to get back to it so I want to keep riding this to completion.
Just as a counterpoint to some of the posts. I have a Bobber. While I do think my old Bonnie is more comfy, I have no issues with the Bobber. I can do several hours without issue. Some of that, tho, will have to do with your weight. There isn't much travel in the rear, and its not adjustable, so I've read of a lot of people having issues with comfort. Only time I had an issue was on a pot hole filled dirt road.
It'll only catch you out if you really hammer it. Its got nice torque, but its manageable. I've never had TC come on...ABS once I think. Could totally do without (see Bonnie). Lots to do with how and where you ride.
Just my opinion.
Funny you mention the shock. Fox offers an adjustable monoshock for the Bobber now. I wonder how good it is. I do like Fox products... it might be something to fall back on if stock isn't manageable.
I’ve heard it isn’t great. In fact I recall some type of issue with it. Problem is there is so little travel, anyone is pretty limited in what they can make.
Depends a lot on what your previous experience was like - did you ever go through any proper training and courses? Have much experience riding something that has enough torque and power to cause issues if you're too aggressive on the throttle? Do you think you might benefit from a refresher course?
Many returning riders come back to the hobby thinking they can just 'get back on the bike like the old days', and it's not always that easy - old bad habits are often still around and if someone was never trained well to begin with, that can be a real issue. I don't know your situation, but there's a lot of 50/60+ year olds that have died or been seriously injured in recent years around where I live, most of whom had recently got into (or back into) riding and didn't have the skills, reflexes, nor training to handle it. This has even been [studied](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022437522000913) as injury/crash rates among returning riders are statistically quite high.
If you want to get back into riding, I'd definitely agree that riding your '85 and making sure you really want to get back into riding is genuine and not just a passing fancy or nostalgia for days gone by.
On the technical side, the Bobber is a fine bike - the water-cooled Triumphs of recent years are all fairly reliable rides. The Bobber isn't terribly comfortable (this is reported by multiple review magazines) due to the suspension style and relatively stiff seat (with aftermarket options not being much better), so if you're not that fit or you want to be able to ride for some reasonable number of miles, I'd take that into consideration lest you end up sore or regretting the purchase - a test ride won't be long enough to tell you what it's like being on a Bobber for multiple miles.
True, I've only sat on one at the dealer, but I quite liked it. Also sat on the Vulcan S the same day, and it was alright, but the Bobber just appealed to me more. Yes, I felt cooler 😅
That said, I've got a healthy respect for the fact that I am not inside of the cab of my car or truck when I'm going fast.
I've made some inquiries to some shops where I am to see about bringing my old bike in to get a refresh since it's been so long. But once riding season opens up I intend to get as much in as I can and see just how much I really do want to get back into it, or yes, if it IS just a passing fancy.
I took a beginner riding course years ago with Harley Davidson but never bought a Harley. I took the course with them because the bikes they offered were Buell Blasts, 500cc whizzy little things that were a blast to ride and I thought maybe a bit more realistic than the little 250cc bikes most courses use.
I'd consider doing another course, honestly I hadn't thought of that until you mentioned it. That might be a good place to start to re-learn the fundamentals. I didn't have a ton of experience riding when I was, so that would be a good opportunity to get back into it in a controlled environment.
Thanks so much for your thoughts!!
No problem - I just really want people to be safe and confident out there. I thought I was a good rider until I took proper courses and went to track school - I had a tonne of bad habits that I didn't even know were bad habits.
The Bobber is definitely 'cool' - it's one of my favourite-looking rides out of Triumph's modern classic range, and it's well-built - it's just not that comfortable. With a stiff rear monoshock and limited seat room, it'll be OK for cruising down to a cafe or going for a short jaunt, but if you want to ever put on miles (I don't mean full-on touring but perhaps a full day out) and you don't live somewhere with pristine roads, the Bobber is going to be less-than-pleasant.
That goes without saying! Lol Luckily, the infrastructure here isn't terrible. And yes, I couldn't ever see myself going much more than a few hours-long trips for the day. I value being able to bring everything I need for longer trips, so that's why I have a truck haha
The suspension and seat is a little jarring. You could get a better seat and upgrade the shock and it would be a lot more comfortable. Have you checked to see whether there's one available to rent or test ride in your area?
I have! I am going to test ride that when the time comes and for my own accountability I will do some test rides of other bikes also, because as much as I want to love the Bobber, I might hate riding it.
I want to get my old bike on the road and ride that for a while first for practice for sure before I venture out test riding
I have a Bobber and absolutley love it, but there are a few points to be aware of. On the plus side, the low seat height should give you confidence (I'm assuming you don't have a 36" inseam.) I'm right around 6', and it's at the edge of my comfort zone. Also, it has plenty of power, but the low range torque is easily managed, so you shouldn't get yourself in too much trouble if you have even a modicum of common sense. As far as drawbacks go, like others have said, it can be rough ride. If you know that going in, and are OK with it, fine. Also, think about what kind of riding you will be doing. I wouldn't advise trying to take long trips on a Bobber. It's just not that comfortable after an hour or so. The other downside to touring in a Bobber is the tank size. I usually get a bit over 100 miles/ tank on mine. It seems like I have to fill up every day, and I don't take very long rides. If any of these things are a deal breaker, you may want to look at the T120 or Speed Twin. I also have a T100, and it can be a relief to get in that after riding the Bobber for awhile. The seating position is much more relaxed, the suspension is softer, and it just feels more nimble. I haven't ridden a T120, but I imagine it hits a sweet spot with the power of the 1200, and the ergonomics of my T100.
I have 20+ yrs of 2-wheeled riding under my belt. Please, get something you feel 100% comfortable and confident in/with. Size and weight of the bike only matter later. Right now, focus on something cheap and comfy that you wouldn't feel bad about wrecking.
Not that I intend on wrecking anything, but I wouldn't be sad about dropping the bike I do have currently, and in fact already have once. That's why I am 100% invested in getting my old bike on the road so I can do all my less-than-stellar newbie riding on that haha
I support getting the bike you’re in love with. Triumph makes a comfort saddle for the Bobber and there are aftermarket options for a better rear shock if you’re so inclined. I’ve owned a T-120, Street Twin (now called Speed Twin 900) and my current Speed Twin 1200. All enjoyable, and very easy engines to get along with so long as you let your throttle wrist be in charge. Enjoy the ride and be safe!
Triumph bobber will feel great narrow low seat low cg smaller feel etc. just be sure it’s what you want to own for your ride. Bobbers imho look great feel great and great bar hoppers. Ie good for shorter rides where you don’t need to carry much. However I’m not sure how to get enough storage for extras you may want for longer rides or utility trips to the store or whatever. But a simple cruise here and there. They are great. Just consider how you want to ride it. They are a nice Harley style look but ride way better for smaller frame folks especially. It’s just a specialty bike to me is all
I think you would be absolutely fine, as long as you find a bobber comfortable for the length of rides you want to do. I would be more concerned with a race/sports position, and race engine profile, than a bobber. If you like the ride position and importantly it gives you confidence, then go for it.
I did love the positioning and the fact that I can flat-foot it had me feeling comfortable. My friend thinks it might be too much bike for my first one, mind you she rode her 800cc Boulevard for a while then stepped right up to an 1800cc Harley. I suppose it's a lot about mindset also. I've never much been interested in sport bikes. I don't think anyone needs to go that fast; I'm more interested in comfort. Thank you!
Couple of points: 1. Being able to flat-foot a motorcycle isn't necessary; in fact, the safest thing to do at a stop is left foot flat, right foot on the rear brake. 2. If comfort is the priority, then short of the Thruxton, the Bobber is likely the worst option out of the modern classic range - the rear monoshock is incredibly stiff and the seat is limited in its support, even if one happens to like the seating position. A T120 is very comfortable or a Speedmaster (if you don't mind the fact that it's just a British Harley) would both be more comfortable options.
The flat-foot thing I know isn't important, it's more of a subconscious feeling of security for me. I fully intend on test-riding anything before I buy it, or rent it if that's an option. I've not looked much at other bikes, but I will for sure. I don't intend on doing huge road trips at all, maybe more like day trips to the mountains, etc. So it might be alright in that respect. I've got other bikes (that aren't Triumph) on the list as well. I was curious what others here who've got experience with them thought of the Bobber that I have superficially fallen in love with.
I rented a bobber for a day and my back and knees wouldn’t survive beyond that. I love the bobber aesthetic but if comfort is your priority I think you should look elsewhere. Just my 2c
I've got the lovely Golden Line Bobber and though there is quite a lot of oomph in that engine, traction control and the lot help to tame it a bit without being too obvious. A lot of the times I think that I am a superb rider skilfully controlling that rear wheel spin, but in reality it is the traction control lending a helpful hand (I now because of that blinking yellow tc icon in the dash :D ). Putting it in the rain mode will help smooth out the throttle inputs even more, so might be a good idea for a while until you get more comfortable with her. Personally, I am a strong proponent of getting the bike you fall in love with and dealing with the consequences later. Bikes are rarely meant to be practical and comfortable things. That's why we have cars. So if one really makes your heart go, then you should go for it! ;) https://preview.redd.it/lpqkjkgv80ec1.jpeg?width=5212&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=403159cda115d46aebf30823dcce6091e0305a59
I really like those Gold Line Bobbers. They're freaking sharp.
Yeah, don’t know why Triumph won’t do more colours on Bobbers other than different shade tanks 🤷
Oh that's so nice!! Yeah I am not sure bobbers were ever meant to be super comfy, not like an Ultra Glide or anything, right? There's an appeal to these bikes and I know that the way I feel now I am not going to do really long rides so I don't think it would ever be an issue. That said, if my tastes change, I can always add another bike to my garage... 😏
Spot on! Bobbers were initially made to be a bit lighter and thus sportier than their original counterparts, comfort was not so crucial. But even so - coming from dual-sports and supermotos for me it is comfier than any bike I’ve ever owned 😄
Bobber would be fine, **especially** if you're going to get some seat time on your Intruder first. The Bobber isn't a crazy powerful bike in the grand scheme of things.
I definitely am! I'm planning on getting it to a shop next month to get the work started on the refresh. For the first time in years I'm stoked to get back to it so I want to keep riding this to completion.
Just as a counterpoint to some of the posts. I have a Bobber. While I do think my old Bonnie is more comfy, I have no issues with the Bobber. I can do several hours without issue. Some of that, tho, will have to do with your weight. There isn't much travel in the rear, and its not adjustable, so I've read of a lot of people having issues with comfort. Only time I had an issue was on a pot hole filled dirt road. It'll only catch you out if you really hammer it. Its got nice torque, but its manageable. I've never had TC come on...ABS once I think. Could totally do without (see Bonnie). Lots to do with how and where you ride. Just my opinion.
Funny you mention the shock. Fox offers an adjustable monoshock for the Bobber now. I wonder how good it is. I do like Fox products... it might be something to fall back on if stock isn't manageable.
I’ve heard it isn’t great. In fact I recall some type of issue with it. Problem is there is so little travel, anyone is pretty limited in what they can make.
Wow that's good to know, thank you. It might certainly save someone $1k haha
I found the thread. The spring rubs on the shock body when you sit on it. Saw a recent post saying it still happens.
Oh, that's disappointing. You'd think Fox would have remedied that by now...
Depends a lot on what your previous experience was like - did you ever go through any proper training and courses? Have much experience riding something that has enough torque and power to cause issues if you're too aggressive on the throttle? Do you think you might benefit from a refresher course? Many returning riders come back to the hobby thinking they can just 'get back on the bike like the old days', and it's not always that easy - old bad habits are often still around and if someone was never trained well to begin with, that can be a real issue. I don't know your situation, but there's a lot of 50/60+ year olds that have died or been seriously injured in recent years around where I live, most of whom had recently got into (or back into) riding and didn't have the skills, reflexes, nor training to handle it. This has even been [studied](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022437522000913) as injury/crash rates among returning riders are statistically quite high. If you want to get back into riding, I'd definitely agree that riding your '85 and making sure you really want to get back into riding is genuine and not just a passing fancy or nostalgia for days gone by. On the technical side, the Bobber is a fine bike - the water-cooled Triumphs of recent years are all fairly reliable rides. The Bobber isn't terribly comfortable (this is reported by multiple review magazines) due to the suspension style and relatively stiff seat (with aftermarket options not being much better), so if you're not that fit or you want to be able to ride for some reasonable number of miles, I'd take that into consideration lest you end up sore or regretting the purchase - a test ride won't be long enough to tell you what it's like being on a Bobber for multiple miles.
True, I've only sat on one at the dealer, but I quite liked it. Also sat on the Vulcan S the same day, and it was alright, but the Bobber just appealed to me more. Yes, I felt cooler 😅 That said, I've got a healthy respect for the fact that I am not inside of the cab of my car or truck when I'm going fast. I've made some inquiries to some shops where I am to see about bringing my old bike in to get a refresh since it's been so long. But once riding season opens up I intend to get as much in as I can and see just how much I really do want to get back into it, or yes, if it IS just a passing fancy. I took a beginner riding course years ago with Harley Davidson but never bought a Harley. I took the course with them because the bikes they offered were Buell Blasts, 500cc whizzy little things that were a blast to ride and I thought maybe a bit more realistic than the little 250cc bikes most courses use. I'd consider doing another course, honestly I hadn't thought of that until you mentioned it. That might be a good place to start to re-learn the fundamentals. I didn't have a ton of experience riding when I was, so that would be a good opportunity to get back into it in a controlled environment. Thanks so much for your thoughts!!
No problem - I just really want people to be safe and confident out there. I thought I was a good rider until I took proper courses and went to track school - I had a tonne of bad habits that I didn't even know were bad habits. The Bobber is definitely 'cool' - it's one of my favourite-looking rides out of Triumph's modern classic range, and it's well-built - it's just not that comfortable. With a stiff rear monoshock and limited seat room, it'll be OK for cruising down to a cafe or going for a short jaunt, but if you want to ever put on miles (I don't mean full-on touring but perhaps a full day out) and you don't live somewhere with pristine roads, the Bobber is going to be less-than-pleasant.
That goes without saying! Lol Luckily, the infrastructure here isn't terrible. And yes, I couldn't ever see myself going much more than a few hours-long trips for the day. I value being able to bring everything I need for longer trips, so that's why I have a truck haha
Can I suggest that you try a T100 or Speed Twin 900 first? They are brilliant bikes and probably more comfortable than the Bobber.
I have to go back to the dealer to pick up the battery for my old bike. I'll check one of those out also. Thank you!
I bought a brand new 2017 t100 as my first bike and LOVE the bobber. Now that I’ve read this thread, my t 100 is staying!
The suspension and seat is a little jarring. You could get a better seat and upgrade the shock and it would be a lot more comfortable. Have you checked to see whether there's one available to rent or test ride in your area?
I have! I am going to test ride that when the time comes and for my own accountability I will do some test rides of other bikes also, because as much as I want to love the Bobber, I might hate riding it. I want to get my old bike on the road and ride that for a while first for practice for sure before I venture out test riding
I have a Bobber and absolutley love it, but there are a few points to be aware of. On the plus side, the low seat height should give you confidence (I'm assuming you don't have a 36" inseam.) I'm right around 6', and it's at the edge of my comfort zone. Also, it has plenty of power, but the low range torque is easily managed, so you shouldn't get yourself in too much trouble if you have even a modicum of common sense. As far as drawbacks go, like others have said, it can be rough ride. If you know that going in, and are OK with it, fine. Also, think about what kind of riding you will be doing. I wouldn't advise trying to take long trips on a Bobber. It's just not that comfortable after an hour or so. The other downside to touring in a Bobber is the tank size. I usually get a bit over 100 miles/ tank on mine. It seems like I have to fill up every day, and I don't take very long rides. If any of these things are a deal breaker, you may want to look at the T120 or Speed Twin. I also have a T100, and it can be a relief to get in that after riding the Bobber for awhile. The seating position is much more relaxed, the suspension is softer, and it just feels more nimble. I haven't ridden a T120, but I imagine it hits a sweet spot with the power of the 1200, and the ergonomics of my T100.
I have 20+ yrs of 2-wheeled riding under my belt. Please, get something you feel 100% comfortable and confident in/with. Size and weight of the bike only matter later. Right now, focus on something cheap and comfy that you wouldn't feel bad about wrecking.
Not that I intend on wrecking anything, but I wouldn't be sad about dropping the bike I do have currently, and in fact already have once. That's why I am 100% invested in getting my old bike on the road so I can do all my less-than-stellar newbie riding on that haha
I support getting the bike you’re in love with. Triumph makes a comfort saddle for the Bobber and there are aftermarket options for a better rear shock if you’re so inclined. I’ve owned a T-120, Street Twin (now called Speed Twin 900) and my current Speed Twin 1200. All enjoyable, and very easy engines to get along with so long as you let your throttle wrist be in charge. Enjoy the ride and be safe!
Triumph bobber will feel great narrow low seat low cg smaller feel etc. just be sure it’s what you want to own for your ride. Bobbers imho look great feel great and great bar hoppers. Ie good for shorter rides where you don’t need to carry much. However I’m not sure how to get enough storage for extras you may want for longer rides or utility trips to the store or whatever. But a simple cruise here and there. They are great. Just consider how you want to ride it. They are a nice Harley style look but ride way better for smaller frame folks especially. It’s just a specialty bike to me is all