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The “Dude! Are they kidding?!” response all of us had when we first greeted the color-matched saddlebags fitted to the 2005 Triumph Sprint was nearly universal.
If you missed all the hubbub, the trouble was that the bags had been designed to be too lightweight and were therefore structurally incapable of holding their shape, even when empty. The shells deformed so badly that there was no chance of the bags being watertight. It's worth re-reading the November, 2005, “Speedwagons” sport-touring comparison for the unmitigated blasting we gave them! I was cracking up, but surely Triumph was not.
Which is probably one of the reasons the company acted so fast and completely redid the bags, while also offering to replace previously purchased units with the improved versions at no cost.
They did a great job. It is nice luggage, easy to use, seals up tight and holds its shape. Well done. The floating dumbbell thing mounted to the bike under the tailsection that allows the bags to shift slightly side-to-side on their main attachment points remains, as Triumph says it has found this makes the bike more stable while cornering with a load.
Between the bags is the same likeable motorcycle we have enjoyed riding since it was redesigned, restyled and fitted with the upgraded 1050cc Triple. This engine sets the bike apart from the competition, offers great power, smooth running, nice sounds and easy 40-mpg fuel economy. The solid powerplant combines with the crisp-turning, stable-handling chassis, comfortable riding position and relatively light weight to make this one of the more approachable sport-tourers on the market today. It is wieldy enough to make an excellent day-to-day utility ride or weekend sportbike, while being comfortable on truly long hauls, too.
Our 2006 testbike had the added benefit of optional ABS. The non-linked (front and rear systems are totally separate) brakes work great, with nice feel and good power. Lever travel is slightly excessive, but this, along with several other items, is going to be improved for '07. So, redesigned brake calipers (similar to the Daytona 675's) should improve front-brake lever feel, while a new ECU will make engine management more accurate for better throttle response, fuel mileage and startup. And perhaps our biggest complaint of all—engine heat cooking our legs when riding in hot weather—is said also to have been addressed.
As it is, our '06 model proved to be a truly enjoyable all-around motorcycle capable of many different roles, offering speed, comfort, utility and economy in a $11,900 package, or $10,900 if you forego ABS. Sweetest part of the deal is that on any '05-06 model, the improved saddlebags are included in the MSRP.
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