I lurked on this site last year while I was considering an S40, I ended up buying a 99 triumph legend 900 which I rode for the summer.  I grew to dislike this bike due to its weight and complexity and am in the process of getting it ready to sell.
I find myself drawn back to the S40 for its classic looks and mechanical simplicity, as well as the economical purchase price (plus the new dark blue is very nice!!)

Question: I am 6'2" and the only thing I don't like about the S40 is the low seat, But I think if I could put longer shocks on it it would raise up the seat height and decrease the effective rake angle, which should make the steering slightly quicker.
Has anyone of my height made these modifications, and if so what effect did they have on ridablity and feel of bike??

luckyeddy wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:03:


it sounds like a custom seat install, might be an excellent option too.

Here's a pic of mine with 12.5" suzuki intruder 800 shocks and a 2" front of seat lift.  Much more comfortable.  Watch for belt guard clearance.

Serowbot: that is cool!!!!  That is the sort of look I have in mind.

Was the handling affected at all by the change in the steering geometry?

I would point out that you'll need to raise the front end to level the engine when checking the oil level.

No worries about that.  It just might change the check level a bit.  Check it once level with the right amount of oil, then check it after the change.  From then on you know, mine looks a bit low.  FYI I also cut the  pe0cock's reserve tube to adjust for the tilt (one screen window gave me 2gal to reserve, up from 1.7gal).