02-20-2014, 12:06 AM
Because of better quality lubricants and computer driven manufacturing techniques, today's cars and motorcycles are far superior in quality and longevity. I remember when a car that reached 100,000 miles without engine problems was considered unusual. Today, in my own experience, my cars and trucks can easily go over 200,000 miles or more with normal routine maintenance. On the V-strom forum there are bikes that have gone in excess of 100,000 miles with zero engine problems. One member of the Triumph Tiger forum has gone well in excess of this figure and I know of one Gold Wing rider with over 250,000 miles.
Not that there aren't problems with these products at times. Many early Triumph Tigers had Pistons that self destructed. This problem usually showed early and was handled under warranty. Point is the problem was not built into the design but was the result of some bad pistons that slipped through the system.
There are exceptions I'm sure, such as the poorly engineered drive shaft system in BMW's a few years back that BMW refused to recognize. On the whole, I think today's motor products out perform and out last those of years ago.
Not that there aren't problems with these products at times. Many early Triumph Tigers had Pistons that self destructed. This problem usually showed early and was handled under warranty. Point is the problem was not built into the design but was the result of some bad pistons that slipped through the system.
There are exceptions I'm sure, such as the poorly engineered drive shaft system in BMW's a few years back that BMW refused to recognize. On the whole, I think today's motor products out perform and out last those of years ago.