Triumph Sprint ST 1050 Problems

The Triumph Sprint ST 1050 is often lauded for its versatility, combining the sporty feel of a supersport with the comfort of a tourer. Many riders praise its power, handling, and the distinctive triple engine. However, like all motorcycles, it’s not immune to issues. Here, we’ll delve into some of the common problems faced by Sprint ST 1050 owners and offer solutions to address them.

Mileage vs. Age

When deciding between an older bike with low mileage and a newer one with higher mileage, many factors come into play. The condition is paramount. Look for minimal corrosion, a new chain, fresh tires, recent valve clearances, and a recent suspension service. If you’re concerned about resale value, a bike’s mileage can significantly impact its worth. Some users have found older models with less than 20k miles to maintain better value.

Electrical and Charging Issues

A recurrent problem is with the Sprint ST 1050’s charging system. The bike is known to consume the sprag clutch if the electrical system isn’t in optimal condition. It’s vital to ensure the motorcycle starts fine and charges the battery efficiently. The official replacement parts from Triumph can be on the pricier side.

Solution:

• Monitor the battery and ensure it’s fresh.
• Check for the proper charging of the battery.
• Consider changing leads between the battery, solenoid, starter, and earth for improved starting.

ABS and Suspension

The ABS in early models wasn’t the most reliable, but by the time the later models rolled out, Triumph had resolved most of these concerns. Suspension issues are another common grievance. Some riders find the standard suspension to be marginal, leading them to feel as though the bike runs wide in corners.

Solution:

• If you own an early model, stay informed about the condition of the ABS system.
• Consider having the forks serviced or upgrading to aftermarket suspension.

Battery Concerns

The hefty engine size means it requires a significant amount of power to turn over, leading to some battery issues, especially during colder months.

Solution:

• Opt for a reliable battery brand like Motobatt.
• Consider using a battery maintainer like Optimate when the bike isn’t in use.

Brake Performance

The Sprint ST 1050’s brakes, particularly the front ones, are considered by many to be the bike’s weakest link. They are described as adequate but not exceptional.

Solution:

• Periodically inspect the brakes for wear and consider upgrading to better quality brakes if you find the stock ones lacking.

Other Notable Mentions

• Headlights: Owners suggest avoiding models with projector lenses due to their inefficiency. Later models with reflector headlight units combined with Osram Nightbreakers offer better nighttime visibility.
• Storage: The stock panniers are often criticized for being too wide yet having limited storage capacity. Some owners have switched to aftermarket options like Givi racks for better utility.
• Seat Comfort: While some find the Triumph Gel seat less comfortable than the stock one, others have had their seats modified with gel pads for added comfort.
• Maintenance: The air filters seem to get dirty rather quickly, necessitating regular changes. Also, while removing the tank can be tricky, it becomes manageable once familiar with the process.

Conclusion

The Triumph Sprint ST 1050 is a robust machine, celebrated for its performance and adaptability. Like all motorcycles, it has its quirks and issues. Armed with the right knowledge and by addressing problems proactively, owners can enjoy many miles of riding pleasure. Whether you’re touring Europe or commuting daily, with proper care, the Sprint ST 1050 can be an outstanding companion.