Sprint RS (1999 - 2005) review

was at the launch of the Sprint RS in southern Spain in 1999. Some muppet in the office thought it would be a good idea to ride back from there to the Midlands, in late December.

thanks to decent winter kit and the Sprint RS's solid attributes, I got back in one piece and none the worse for my ordeal. The days in the saddle gave me plenty of time to suss out the Sprint RS. Here was a solid, capable machine which shared most of its bits with the more expensive Sprint S - the ally beam-frame was the same and so was the motor. The RS worked well over more than 1000 miles of good, bad and plain ugly weather and was comfortable for many hours at a time. The motor was plenty peppy enough and the suspension pretty good, even with a firm shock and slightly soft forks. Turn-in was quicker than the ST too, thanks to modified, 'sportier' steering geometry.

Despite its virtues the RS never shone like the more popular ST. Instead, the RS's image was that of the solid family man. But, unassuming as it may be, the RS can spring a few surprises and it's almost as capable as its bigger brother ST - and let's not forget that the ST routinely gave Honda's VFR a run for its money.

All that niggled was the lack of 'sock-you-in-the-face' looks and any creature comforts. Half a fairing on a bike costing more than seven grand? Where's the grab-handle? The centrestand? These were extras from the accessories catalogue, meaning the price could really add up if you wanted something properly equipped.

Read more: http://www.visordown.com/road-tests-used/used-review-triumph-sprint-rs/4322.html#ixzz0xdENnxMC