Do you think that a Triumph Thunderbird 900 is suitable for touring the Swiss Alps?

June 12, 2009

Also what luggage is best to use for this bike (no pillion passenger space needed). A cissy bar and rack is already fitted.
What's a T-Bag?
I guess it is a tank bag.
Are throw over panniers easily fitted to the TBird or would it be easier to use the Sissy bar

Absolutely, aside from being a bit top heavy, the Tbird is a very versatile and comfortable bike, travel light, a set of throwover panniers and a bag strapped to to rack and you're set. If your camping, tent and doss roll can go on pillion seat.

{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }

mg June 12, 2009 at 9:39 pm

yes. t-bag or duffel bag
References :

oshkoshbysquash June 12, 2009 at 9:49 pm

is it reliable and do you feel comfortable you dont want to get all that way and be nervous or uncomfortable and as far as luggage i like just wearing a backpack especialy if your not use to the bike because luggage on a bike may make it handle a little different good luck sounds fun
References :

Low_Jac June 12, 2009 at 10:36 pm

I say any bike you choose over 750cc is fine. There are several bags that I like best.

One is sold at Harley Dealers, which fits over the back rest, which holds more than any other bag.

The bag I use is called the Barrel Bag, which also works as back support for the solo rider or can be placed behind the second rider.

Here are some links to check out.
References :
http://www.cycleluggage.com/kuryakyn_80001.html
http://www.jpcycles.com/productgroup.aspx?GID=80169461-A2D1-46A2-8454-BC36053B3C20&search=bag&store=Metric&page=2

http://www.bikersfriend.com/pages/saddlebag.htm

grenmatta June 12, 2009 at 10:54 pm

Yes, no problem. I would go for throw-over soft luggage – relatively cheap and easy to fit and remove. You might want to put on a top box for stuff you want to leave safely on the bike while you have a drink / snooze / gawp at the scenery…..
References :

Tim D June 12, 2009 at 11:25 pm

You probably know about Swiss traffic regulations, so you won't be speeding and get a vignette. Recently Triumph owners have been told to keep a close eye on oil levels but apart from that the bike will probably benefit from a Scottoiler or regular chain lubing, fresh tyres (you don't want to run out of grip on a hairpin halfway up a mountain).

Try a Ventura rack and luggage, works with pillions or without positions your luggage over the pillion so it doesn't affect the weight distribution too much – handy with tight corners.

http://www.ventura-bike.com/fitments.aspx?manu=Triumph
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philipscown June 13, 2009 at 12:14 am

I toured the French Alps two-up on a Laverda 1200 – slightly more power, and definitely more of a handful (v.tall). I used soft luggage from an Army Surplus store which worked fine. We did about 3,000 miles in a fortnight, carrying all our camping gear.

A chain oiler is probably a good idea. You need to decide if you're going to take oil with you, or pay over the odds for it over there when you need to top up.
References :

Anthon Moonstone June 13, 2009 at 12:55 am

Absolutely, aside from being a bit top heavy, the Tbird is a very versatile and comfortable bike, travel light, a set of throwover panniers and a bag strapped to to rack and you're set. If your camping, tent and doss roll can go on pillion seat.
References :
Tbird owner for 5 1/2 years

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