I've sold the really enjoyable TDM to have one last fling with a sports bike. I only do summer miles now (commuting 30 miles a day on lovely, well surfaced b roads) and don't do any pillion riding so can afford to have one last sports bike.

I had this one for 4 years and averaged ~4k miles a year - it had done ~24k miles when I sold it. It was in standard trim apart from a full stainless Predator exhaust. It came with the original pipes, but I had to fashion a new interface between front and back sections where they rot first. It makes a rather nicer sound with the aftermarket pipes, and starts much easier after standing. From reading forum contributions, TDMs all take some effort to start if they have been idle even for a short period. Mine was no different and required a fully charged battery to get it going even after a week. I kept it indoors over the winter, and found it would easily start every few weeks with the predator on. I put it down to the enormous standard collector box (often referred to as the chicken!). 

I also fitted a Scottoiler which did a good job of oiling everything, including the chain! I fitted the reservoir behind the battery so could be checked and refilled without taking anything off. It did get a bit mucky but not too bad. The bike only has a side stand so I bought a paddock stand - a must for easing servicing tasks. It had an oil change every year no matter what the mileage. 

They are a great ride, just as described in all the reviews. Very comfortable for long distance at speed, and nimble enough for some fun round the bends; a great all rounder. Only down sides are that they are quite softly suspended - particularly at the front. Many owners uprate the springs and oil to firm it up.

I sold it to have a last blast on a sports bike before age takes its toll! I was asking too much of this one round the lovely B roads that are my route to work. So bring on my new baby!!

05/03/2007