Rig’s 1999 Triumph Sprint ST

The Story of My 1999 Triumph Sprint ST
One of the best bikes I’ve ever owned, hands down. This was the first motorcycle I ever bought brand new—from Ideal Garage in Birmingham. For 7 years and 45,034 miles, this bike was my pride and joy.

Rig picking up his brand new Triumph Sprint ST - June 1999

16th June 1999
Early days, but let me tell you—this Sprint ST is pure magic. Honestly, I think it’s the best thing Triumph ever made. It’s got power, handling, and the whole package just clicks. As one of those American motorcycle magazines put it:
“The Triumph Sprint ST could only be better if it ran on water and shot Diet Cokes out the exhaust!”
In my first week of owning it, I racked up over 900 miles, got the 500-mile service done, and treated it to some panniers and a Triumph stainless steel “performance” exhaust. Because, you know, you’ve gotta spoil your new toy.

Panniers
The panniers are a must-have—fit the bike like they were born together. But a heads-up: get your dealer to fit them. It took my dealer 3 hours, and I’ve heard horror stories of DIYers spending 10 hours trying to figure them out! They’re well-designed, fit snug, and don’t look like an eyesore when removed. Plus, they’ll hold a full-face helmet on each side.

The downside? You have to remove the left pannier to get to the seat lock, the paint scratches if you even look at it funny, and they’re not 100% watertight. But hey, nothing’s perfect. Still, a nearly perfect add-on (if you’ve got the cash).

Performance Exhaust
Now, the “performance” exhaust is a cheeky little number. Technically, it’s not road legal, but you’d have to lie under the bike to read the “NOT FOR ROAD USE” stamp. It’s got a nice Triumph badge, so it passes for standard to the untrained eye. Did it add much power? Not really. But the sound? Oh, the sound. It’s gone from a polite hum to a fruity purr. Music to my ears!

27th September 1999
Four months and 4,000 miles in, and I’m still smitten. Honestly, the only problem I’ve had is finding enough time to ride it. The Sprint ST has been flawless—aside from putting fueling in it, it’s cost me nothing. It’s still averaging 48 MPG, with one freak trip giving me 59 MPG! The rear tyre is starting to square off, but it’s got a few thousand miles left in it. Life is good.

Rig's Triumph Sprint ST

23rd April 2000
I had to replace the rear tyre after picking up a massive nail, I replaced it with a Dunlop D204, and so far, the grip’s been solid. But honestly, I’m not one of those tyre fanatics. As long as they’re black, round, and cost a fortune, I’m good.

Also had a faulty fuel sender replaced under warranty during the 6,000-mile service. While at it, I swapped out the rear brake pads for EBC Green’s. They’re alright, but lack the feel of the original pads. When they wear out, I’m upgrading to EBC Double H pads—those bad boys are like adding turbo to your braking.

26th October 2000
Fifteen months and 11,000 miles in, and the honeymoon phase is long gone—but I’m still head over heels for this bike. It’s taken me all over the UK, and I’m still excited every time I throw my leg over it. It’s been bulletproof, with the only hiccup being the dodgy fuel sender that wasn’t very accurate. As someone once said, “This bike’s a keeper.” Couldn’t agree more.

I’ve tried a few different tyres—Bridgestone BT57’s, their new 020’s, Dunlop F204’s, and now Continental’s new ContiForce sport tyres. These Conti’s are solid performers—quick to warm up, but they’re a bit “skittish” over white lines in the rain. The best part? A full set costs around £130—about the same price as a single rear from Bridgestone or Dunlop. Bargain!

Rig's Triumph Sprint ST 955i at Elan Valley in 2002

10th August 2002
Well, it had to happen eventually. Something had to break. On a lovely sunny day, I was all set for a quick blast, fired up the bike, and then—ping! Throttle cable snaps. Bugger.
I suppose I should be grateful it happened in my garage and not on the road—or, God forbid, during my planned trip to France in 4 weeks. After 3 years of flawless ownership, this was the first issue. And at £21 for a new throttle cable, I can’t complain. Besides, the new cable feels lighter than ever!

17th August 2002
And wouldn’t you know it—two weeks later, I jinxed myself. Coming back from a long day in Mid-Wales, the fuel line decides to split. Double bugger! Thankfully, with some help from Bonzo and Bob (read: they did all the work), we cut the offending pipe, patched it up, and got me home. Crisis averted, for now.

18th June 2003
MOT time after 26,400 miles, and nearly a fail due to a slight crack in the exhaust near the end can. Stress crack, no doubt. Fortunately, Chris came to the rescue and welded it up for me. Stainless steel exhausts—great, until you need to weld them!

Rig's Triumph Sprint ST

25th February 2004
At 31,137 miles, I noticed the bike was running a bit hotter than usual. Turns out, the radiator had developed a small crack—a known issue on these 1999 models. Triumph didn’t recall them, so I had to pony up £370 for a new radiator. With Bonzo and Bob’s help, we swapped it out in a few hours, and the bike was back to normal.

4th October 2005
Where does the time go? I’ve clocked nearly 38,210 miles on the Sprint ST, and it’s still going strong. Still my favorite bike ever—hands down.

7th December 2005
After 41,100 miles, the rear brake disc finally wore past its service limit. Fair enough—I do use the rear brake more than the front. £120 later, and it’s sorted.

16th September 2006
Today’s a sad day. I’ve sold the best bike I’ve ever owned—my beloved Sprint ST. I feel like a traitor. But I trust Ian, the new owner, will love and cherish this bike as much as I did. As I watched it ride off into the sunset, the sound of that fruity exhaust fading away, I’ll admit—I had a tear in my eye.

Goodbye, my friend. Today is not a good day.

Last photo taken before being sold.