Rocket 3 Roadster: 15K Miles Maintenance and Problems 

I just saw your video and just had to comment. I have owned 3 triumph rockets over the last 4 years. I have had to replace 7 of those valve cover gaskets. It is a design flaw of the gasket and the OEM gasket that Triumph uses is the cause. What happens is the bike tends to run hot, especially if you commute or put a good amount of mileage. The fix is to not use the OEM gasket but an after market type. I am waiting to see if it holds. I have opened a case with Triumph America and they refuse to get back to me cause I am trying to get them to recognize the flaw which they don't want to admit to. That gasket will leak again, average is between every 5000 to 7000 miles between gasket changes. Now I ride hard and put about 40,000 miles a year on my rocket so I ride the shit out of it but that gasket will leak again I just wanted to tell you. Also you can get a cool looking cage, screen cover for your headlights to protect those lights. replacement headlights will run about 120 each. I just put LED headlights for that cost. I know everything about Rockets so if you have any questions just let me know. I still absolutely love the bike cause I just can't walk away from that torque. And tires, as you know only 3 choices in that size and depending how hard you are on the gas, they will last about 5000 miles each. Just some advice, use the back tire from a Suzuki m109... it is a bridgestone and it is a 240/55 r16. Only runs about 135.00 so you can save some money. those metzelers and Avon tires are nice but expensive. You will sit 1/2 inch higher with that tire but the ride is better IMO. If money is no option, Avon has better grip than the Metz but the Metz tires just ride smoother and last a little bit longer. I also know a guy that does a home made aftermarket single exhaust that bypasses the catalytic converter and everything which you can install yourself for about 400 dollars. It will give you about 20 more horse power and open the engine up. Anyway sorry for rambling....... Happy trails and safe riding to you....

Man, look at the guy. I'm surprised he hasn't ripped the handlebars off the triple tree.

Good information. Thank you for putting this video out there. I'll be getting my first rocket any day now.

Finally a review on this bike with useful information. Thanks for a great interview!

The guy said he was not a mechanic so cut him some slack. You know what he meant...

Good video, I'm thinking about grabbing one of these and it's good to see someone go through some of the issues these things can have

Thanks for the video man. Useful info. Hoping to get a new R3 in a few months. Be safe

Great video, been looking at a rocket now for a while. The one I was looking at was a 2008 but since your vid definitely gonna do more research into the issue you were talking about for that year

the biggest problem with those rubber valve cover gaskets is that they are very susceptible to over torquing. If the valve cover bolts are too tight the gasket will spring out of position after repeated hot and cold cycles.

I have an 08 rocket 3. Just getting ready to replace that gasket. I have about 16k and it's the first repair that's been done. Love mine and gonna replace plugs while I'm changing the gasket. Glad to see another Rocket owner!!! Enjoy and be safe!!

Thank you very much for all the essential informations about the bike and maintenance :-) Greetings from Switzerland

Picked up my new Rocket GT last week and put 400 miles on it. The only fly in the ointment is that the list of devices that are compatible with the $900 bluetooth module is extremely limited. The only two Android phones are the S8 and S9, both of which have been discontinued by Samsung. My headset, the Sena SRL Neotec 11, is also not compatible. The dealer, Mosites in North Versailles, PA has refunded me both the price of the bluetooth component and the labor involved in installing it. Excellent Customer Service at Mosites. Triumph After Sales in Atlanta was very supportive and coordinated with the dealer. In addition, they are going to escalate the problem with Triumph UK. Be careful if you need the bluetooth! Otherwise, its the best bike that I have ever ridden!

Your dealer is taking you for a ride. That's the valve cover gasket, it costs about $70 for the gasket and is a half banana job. And it doesn't affect the compression.Your tyres are either under inflated or you are leaving rubber at the lights. I get at least 10k from the rear and nearly 15+ from the front.I use the Bridgestone Exedra Max, a much better tyre than the METZ rubbish. Mine has 50000 miles on it and has had less maintenance. they go fine with 10k oil changes. If someone tells you the Valk is faster , make sure you put a carton of beer on it.

My dad has the first year Rocket, he has had 2 major issues with it over 14 years. One was a electrical issue, and it took around 3 dealer trips to figure it out, the most recent like last week is the drive shaft. earlier models had no indication that the mechanics should be greasing the drive shaft. the manuals and even the certified Triumph mechanics had no indication of this being needed. Anyone with earlier models should inquire into it for their bike.

Thanks ZM very informative

Just came across your vids, great job. Also have the 2011 R3 Roadster. Same issue with the rocker cover gasket. It kinked in that corner and started leaking. It happened just as the warranty was coming to an end so it was covered. Eats up tires and brake pads too but that's just part of the grin factor. Other than the gasket I've had no other major issues. The fluids are changed regularly and at just over 55K miles she's still running like a champ. She's a keeper, won't be selling or trading her in.

Dude, you got a rockin bod man. When I was a lot younger, I pumped weights like crazy but never looked the way you do. Great video too and without all the cussing. Thanks for an upright tell on this bike.

Such a great looking bike, unique. It reminds me of one of those early naked goldwings that I wish I had- a monster! Sounds like a lot of problems, but you said that you ride it hard! Thanx bro!

Great video and update!

When ur so jacked that the bike looks like a bicycle....

Thanks for such an honest review.

Thank you for your honesty.

Great info an thank YOU !!!!!

Great insight brother.

Thanks for the honest review my good man

I have a 2008 Rocket. The shifting forks and dogs for 2nd gear wore out. In doing some research I found that this was common on earlier Rockets. I replaced the entire transmission with a new 2015 transmission: this was the latest version of upgrades that Triumph did before making some changes to the crankcase, so far the bike has been shifting perfectly. I swapped out the original headlights to Halogens which gave more lumens, then went to LED lights for more lumens over the halogens and reduced electrical load. I use Avon Cobras Chrome instead of Metzlers, the bike handles better as a result. Going to upgrade the suspension with better shocks. I like the new rocket, going to wait a bit for triumph to work out any bugs that might crop up in the new rocket.

Thank you for the honest review! I still want the bike but everyone will tell you the great things, nobody will tell you issues. I want to go in a buy one with my eyes wide open knowing the good, great and what to watch out for.

A little over 200 bucks for a head gasket replaced is a good deal.I wish I lived near your mechanic.

like the description of some of the issues you had with the bike, really helpful for buyers even though I don't want one myself. Prefer the thunderbird as I am not as big as you and the rocket would have looked silly on me.

Dear Mr. Monster, I learned to pour babbitt before you were born. I've built many race and street engines. Since you kept your Triumph, I'll give you an old school trick. Due to extreme vacuum and pressure inside of the engine, gasket failure happens. Modified breather or venting can help, and the use of "super glue" products (cover side only) can keep things to a seep instead of a failure. At least it's only one location. 50 years riding...stay safe.

Hi,I own a 2007 rocket for around 5 years here in the UK without too many problem..Tyres and brakes are always going to need replacing it's a big bike. The gasket you are talking about is the rocker cover gasket and there have been a few issues with these leaking, if you were charged 6 hours to replace the gasket you were robbed.....Enjoyed your video and comments..Ride safe.

I really like this bike, I have decided to get one. I am a couple years away from that at this point. I am glad you pointed out the issues you experienced. I ride a BMW R1200 GSA and absolutely Love it. The Engineering is rock solid. I want both, one for on/ off road trips. Then the ROCKET can be my commuter and road eater. I want to test drive one, but then I know I would be jonsing like a Junkie looking for a fix until I got it. So I have to just keep watching RU-vids until I can pull the trigger.

I own a 2011 Rocket 3 Tour original owner and I have done all services through the dealer at respected intervals,. Never had any problems apart from 20K valve check service had to wait over 6 weeks for that rubber gasket that was back ordered from UK. I called Hinckley in the UK where they are made to check about the 10K miles oil change and was told it only needs the oil changed every 10K when using the recommended full synthetic. Mine goes through rear tires and pads big time also...

I have a Valkyrie and I've been recently looking at these. I ride my Valkytie pretty brutal and it seems to do fine, no maintenance issues. I'm afraid if I get this thing I will be broke as a joke. Regardless, I will be sure to look into these problems when I go check one out sooner or later. Thanks!

That's the cam cover gasket not the head gasket dude. also btw the manual says to use a liquid sealant at 4 points on the gasket when going on

Wow, you have defo had more issues than me, maybe just a bit unlucky. I had the 2011 model too and put 26000 miles on that before chopping it in for a 2013 model which now has 18000 miles on it. Apart from tyres. brake pads and servicing I only had stuck throttle butterflies on the 2011 model. No other mechanical issues at all. I have only ever fitted Metzler Marathon tyres which are the factory recomended here in the U.K. I get about 5-6 thousand from a rear which I think is pretty good as I dont hang about when riding it. Your Rocker cover gasket going three times is something I've never heard of before, hopefully its just down to poor fitting or quality of parts used and nothing more sinister. Keep posting.

luv ur stuff monster...

New (proud) owner of my own R3. Love your videos. I'm assuming you, at some point in time, adjusted the static sag. Could you share your thoughts on this? On your end-goals and/or the process of setting the suspension? Thanks in advance & keep the vids coming.

Have 2006, going on 50k miles.... Had less problems. Can have problems and lemons yes, but I expect riding style and wrenching have made the difference.

your voice is the one i used to use to get served for alcohol at 14

Just bought a 2013 thanks for the 89 octane tip I live in Raleigh where did you get your service?

You're a pretty cool guy. I appreciate the video. I just got me an 06 V-rod, but I had been considering similar year Rocket 3's and V-max's. I figure I'll just get me a new Rocket 3 down the road instead of getting an older one, for the reasons you stated. Mainly because I don't expect Harley to ever make anything as cool as the V-rod again. Or a V-max, but that's a decision for future me haha! Have a new sub man. This bike basically embodies "muscle bike".

I've had my 2014 R3R (white stripe) for 2 years 16k miles on it and its paid off!! woohoo!! what dave is saying here is spot on I had the same issue with the cam cover gasket motor gets plenty hot and gasket can easily get crimped not a costly fix however. Agree with the tires basically i've come to realization that you will have to get a new 240 rear tire every year and front 1.5 year; brakes will last a little longer than tires depending on your riding conditions. All in all this bike is tremendous- there is nothing really out there than can compare eats Harleys for breakfast

I've had my silver motor (the ones that are supposed to have all kinds of problems) rocket since new in 2005 (with a total of around 90k on the clock) and I haven't had the issues you seem to have. Your tire/brake issues are probably caused by riding style rather than faulty design. I've only replaced my clutch twice: first time was just friction discs and springs, the second time was for a full after market setup at around the 60-65k mark.

+ZIEGLER MONSTER I am planning to get the 2018 Model of this. It's out. Do you think they would have fixed most of the problems you had by now??

Thank you for your report. Would appreciate your thoughts , when available, on the new Rocket III TFC Concept. I sold mine (2010) and looking to buy the new design?

Real nice bike bro. You don't see Rocket 3's here in Fresno Ca, we don't have a proper Triumph dealer. If we did I think I would take a serious look at one in the future. We do have 3 local Harley Davidson Dealers so there is plenty of support and Mechanics in the area to work on HD. I went with a Harley for that reason. But I really like the look of your bike. It fits you, for a dude with muscles you picked an appropriate muscle bike. Anyway be safe take care.

I have the touring of the same year. Have gone through 2 rear tires (punctures; thank you tire warranty) and 1 front. Should check my break pads; as I have a bit over 12k on it.

The now.. top rated oil for these bikes is motul 5100 semi synthetic 10w50. I am using it in my 2017 roadster and it has improved the gear shifting a whole lot...much smoother than with mobile 1.

34,000 miles on my 2012 Rocket, and all I've had to do is tires and brake pads.

I have been through many tires and clutches in my younger days of aggressive riding. Might look into a different brand of tire. If you spend a little more you get better mileage. Don't just use factory replacement tire because most of the time they are on the cheaper side to cut cost. Everyone calls the valve cover gasket a head gasket for some reason but i blown head gasket is a bit of a bigger deal.

I'm looking at a 2006 with 28k on it. All Stock I was traded at the local Harley dealer for a trike. $5k out the door. What's your thoughts on me purchasing it?

yeah so i have had my R3R for over 3 years now; put over 25k miles on my 3rd valve cover gasket- so far so good not leaking after the 20k service it really depends on how tight they torque them down...its a small/known issue the engine gets very hot and over time the gasket can get crimped- i also believe the oil may have something to do with this i ran motul 300v racing oil and it quickly crimped now on the 7100 which is a great oil recommend vs the advised castrol. This is a great bike for treks 200-250 miles in one day not really a distance bike but great bar hopper and great bike in the twistys

hey bro do you have kind of a heavy throttle wrist on this bike or is this what I can expect just cruising highway?

Buy a better 3rd party gasket! Have it installed in the cam cover split ( NOT a head gasket it is the cam cover ) by a mechanic who understands how to torque bolts in sequence. Or just do it yourself. If it was mine I would also make sure both sealing surfaces are trued and flat. Was the engine ever overheated? Anyway there are lots of reasons engines warp. But if it is only the cam cover don't worry about it. But while the cam cover is Of I would retorque the head bolts in sequence just for drill too. Something like this alone would not be looked at as a reason to trade down to a less passion inspiring bike. 3s, 6s and 12s are magic engines.Others will not get it.

My triumph rocket is 2005 and runs perfectly no repairs other than standard servicing there are no inherent electrical problems with earlier models. In fact there aren't any significant changes from the earlier models. All you need is a service technician who follows the manufacturers recommend proceedures. Happy motoring fellow bikers

To get through tyres and brakes so fast, not to mention the clutch, means you really ride hard. Why replace the coolant so often? Gasket problems like that would put me off. I wonder whether riding the bike really hard would cause that. It shouldn't do, though. Do you still have the bike, ZM?

i have a 2017 just over 11000 miles no problems so far same. breaks but will need tires soon i love this bike glad i finally got one

good review. I have the same problem on my Guzzi with the valve cover gasket. I found after replacing it now 4 times it's the vibration of the engine is making the bulta get lose after 1000km or so. I have the tool with me so I can check every now and then before the gasket get pushed.

very informative video and discussion below in the comments.

I've done 16,000 on my 16 reg. On 2nd set tyres with plenty meat still on. Breaks not yet changed and no head gasket problems touch wood. You admit you ride hard so perhaps that's your fault. After having mine a while I just want to put it out there that what as happened with yours may not be common. Man I've come to love this machine. My gripes is my seats a bit low and I'm 5ft 9 inch high. Oh I'm now on Avon Cobra,s. Handles really well. My concern is how far can I go down when it's scratching the road.

Have you considered buying a Suzuki M109R 1800cc boss edition?

24,000 miles on a Rocket X. Other than brakes and tires no problems at all. He is talking about a 2011 with 15,000. The only issue I have had with the bike is the headlights were weak,replaced them with a set of real daymakers and took care of that.

Thanks, under your experience will reconsider Triumph and go for other more reliable bike.

You don't drive it bro, you ride it.

This video answered, like, aaallll of my questions about older rocket 3's thanks a bunch! Are you still in ownership of the Roadster in 2020?

I ride a 98 Valkyrie around Raleigh right now, but I've been liking what I've seen from Rocket 3s. If the Valk ever dies on me (big if, 150k miles and hardly any problems since I got it) that's probably what I'll get.

I was thinking of buying one of these. I will really check around now. Has anyone else had this many problems?

It sounds like excessive crank case pressure. Maybe a blocked, crimped, plugged vent line or something. I had a mustang with a 302 that would blow valve cover gaskets constantly. Turned out to be bad rings causing blow-by pressurizing the crank case more than my breathers would let the pressure escape. I put in better breathers and the gasket issue went away....still had bad rings though. Hope the ring thing isn't your issue but you never know with second hand stuff.

Could you bench press that bike?? lol . Good video I was looking to get one of those but I think I'm going to pass on that one.

I don't know which is hotter you or the bike.....both just blow me away

I've been riding a VTX1800 for many years. I would love to try a rocket 3.

Yessir here from tiktok!

The thing that comes loose, apply the red-colored locktite mebbe?

I had same year, around 9k same thing with the cam gasket. Dealer replaced free. The bike is awesome but heavy, I put 22k on mine and traded up for a light weight xdiavel s

I have a 2012 roadglide with 120r in it...and thinking of a rocket3 coz I'm big guy like yaself.but I love the power of the 120r.and love the way it handles.its very nimble for guy my size...only thing I'm not to keen on in going to a bike that dosnt have screen as have back problems.and I love havn saddle bags.not many rocket3s in nz with bags or screens..and new rocket3 here in nz...is 50k kiwi...so outa price range for this kiwi

It could be worse,it could be a Ducati.

Mr Ziegler put a carpenter racing pipe on it and ur neighbours will love it

baby arms!!

Nice bike. 1:40 you said you do the oil every 3,000. Is that crank case or those delts? They're not looking too loyal, more like oyl!

Wow I have 2008 I bought new in 2009. The classic model and on my second set of tire ever. Change with full synthetic and amsoil after dealer warranty. One set of brakes and I ride it hard. Have 20k miles on it and the only thing I had to do was the backlash and bear check because I did wheel to big and came down hard as a tourist came out on road with out stopping. So your comment on the old one having to many issues. Id say your wrong the only thing I'd complain about is all the chrome and I went through batteries. I'd get 1 to 2 years only until I went Lipo I'm on 3-4 years on it.

Dave" ya gotta love her! "Be Safe"

that's not the head gasket, Its the cam cover gasket, It would make no difference to the performance

Surely that's the rocker cover gasket

LED headlights, 4.75 $65 on eBay are just as good as $650

Hello Lego man !

its a muscle bike i Had a nightrod special and some cbr's any performance bike or car is a lot of maintenance

Brit bikes are shit You put up with them because you like the way they look. Electric, lights, leaks. It is what it is.

hey man I have a corbin 2 seat like yours, its more of a golden color but urs, pay shipping if you want it. I don't have the rocket anymore and i'm moving. I love that bike. I guess what I mean is i'll end up throwing it away, I don't want anything for it, so if you want it its yours

Metal gasket, is the best.

Lucky bike, I'd need to be ridden hard too. what a face and body, You are Tom of Finland material.

Honest report! How much does that bike weigh?

Wow how many problems do you need before you call it a crap bike. I bought my 2011 Victory Cross Country with 3,000 miles on it and all I’ve ever done is replace the tires and the battery. Now she’s rocking over 30,000.

Being a rocker cover im far less concerned. If it was a head gasket, Then i be worried. Still a pain though. Thanx for info.

Was gonna buy one of these to many issues with some of them

Quite a few issues there... However you seem to take it in your stride. I've had a 2008 classic for six months.... I don't think I'll take it quite as well as you if I have the same number of issues ;)

You thought about a newer model at all?

O have 2005 rocket 3 and I put over 20,000 miles and 0 problems I don't know what you talking about and I run fast so bad look to you the bike is a great

Just got a 2018 R3. Only 300 miles on it so far. Hopefully i dont run into any of this.

You ride motorcycles You don't drive motorcycles