2021 Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster | Simply Done Right

[@davidmitchell7714]

Gotta say, I purchased this bike a couple of weeks ago, without even a test drive. Coming from a CB650R cafe racer style (well, that’s what the marketing dept. calls them), I was really rather nervous. Feet forward, crazy wrist breaking beach bars, a thumper of a twin… all very different. BUT, Oh my goodness, what an easy, gentle, surprisingly quick bike this is. I absolutely love the speed master and of course the marque. Currently living in Spain, with new biker buddies from NL, Belgium and Spain, most with cruiser bikes, I was tempted with an Indian Scout. So pleased I went for the Triumph and even more glad I went for the Speedmaster over both the bobber and T120. Great video, it makes such a difference when you (the reviewer / youtuber) loves the bike. The affection really shines through.

[@Fernando90054]

Every type of bike has its purpose. We can ride every bike like a maniac but that’s just not understanding the simple reasons of why and what for these things are made for 😊 That was, once more, a very complete video. What I understood: - Good quality bike, and reliable; - It’s made to be a cruiser, but some adaptations can be made to slightly change that nature; - So it is a versatile relaxed ride; - It is not a race bike and nor an adventure type of bike; - it’s a Beautiful classic looking bike, that resembles with merit the iconic style of the Triumph bikes of the 50’s and 60’s; - Incorporates modern technology and some modern comfort features, like DRL light, heated grips and cruise control; - A bike that with the proper owner care, can be kept for years and always prompt to be used, because due to its classic looks it will retain personal value, that on a long term basis, maybe your grand children could be able to appreciate. 😊

[@Roy_Camacho]

I agree with everything you said. Absolutely beautiful classic bike. It's a Bonneville! It is such a distinguished motorcycle. It is hard to come by a motorcycle with such effortless elegance. Again, it's a Bonneville. If motorcycles could wear bowties and tuxedos, the Bonnevilles would be. On this bike, it's almost as if you are a modern-day cowboy and this is your stallion. Also love that you filmed this with such beautiful scenery also all around you, instead of in a parking lot somewhere. That made the bike look even more beautiful in that setting.

[@monsieurlaroche9831]

Great review. Im loving my Speedmaster. It’s definitely a cruiser as someone who has come from years of HDs. I’m so impressed with it’s overall capabilities on a variety of roads especially with the two riding modes which I’ve never had on a bike before. The build quality is excellent and the stock engine sound is just right for all the euro regs. Always enjoy your reviews. Keep up the good work.

[@MrPerrogaton]

Don't you miss the transmition?

[@monsieurlaroche9831]

@@MrPerrogaton No. The engine is free flowing and I like the positive gear change, especially when finding neutral.

[@MrPerrogaton]

@@monsieurlaroche9831 I think I would hate cleaning the chain... And I love Triumphs but with the money in my hand not sure

[@monsieurlaroche9831]

@@MrPerrogaton After such a long time with belt drives this was a consideration. Cleaning is straight forward with brush and spray. I use a wax chain spray which doesn’t fling everywhere, it’s white so not really noticeable except on the chain. Even adjusting is straight forward. The bike is worth the trouble as it’s so much fun to ride.

[@paulroberson7113]

I completely agree. I also came from nearly 20 years riding Harleys to the Speedmaster. I particularly like the assisted clutch - much better than the agricultural one on my last Harley!

[@Brian-tb1zs]

I LOVE my Speedmaster, you will never regret purchasing one ! It does bring on a calming ride, but its always ready and its downright FAST ! I do wish the fuel tank was a little bigger. I had the foot controls moved back. Fit and finish is exceptional for the money 👍👍👍👍

[@bbgmarine]

I am looking VERY Seriously at this bike. I didn't know you could have it changed to mid controls. Thanks for the post and Scott, excellent review as always. You set the bar for the rest of them !

[@Brian-tb1zs]

@@bbgmarine sure thing, the foot controls can be moved to the same location that the Bobber has. You will grow to Really like the pull back beach bars.

[@Brian-tb1zs]

@HahrtDood the bars at first did tweak my wrists but that passed quickly, they are great for 70 mph and less, going faster the wind makes it more difficult to hang on, if you stay at 80 for any length of time. You can change the bars to T120 bars but they will need to also replace the clutch cable and break lines to a shorter set to prevent kinks. We actually have two Speedmasters, the wife rides the bike that has the beach bars, center controls, mine has T120 bars and center controls. Moving the foot controls was clean, the bracket that holds the forward controls is removable ! These bikes are plenty fast, disregard HP ratings of others. The extra weight on the bike keeps it very planted. My wife is 5’4” 115 pounds and feels very secure, motors around at low RPM, I am 5’9” 160 lbs and twist the throttle for very spirited riding at times 👍. Don’t swap the bars until you’ve given them a good chance. I truly enjoy those beach bars when I ride her bike. Good Luck !

[@matthewbruce8839]

Another great vid from NTP! Best channel around for an honest bike review. That's got to be my favorite Triumph, next to the Speed Twin. Spent this past weekend at Cyclewise Triumph in Vermont. Spent hours admiring the entire line-up. Models are like ice cream flavors...I like'em all!

[@JeffShouse-u4l]

Great review, one of the best I have seen. I’m getting one!

[@NothingToProve]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@bc67]

Man, that is gorgeous, from the paint scheme, seats, swing arm, and even the cutouts on the front discs. I'm not typically drawn to this style bike but along with all I mentioned, the handle bars send it over the edge for me, making it a bike that I would definitely love to own if I could move the controls back. I really like that handle bar style. It reminds me of what Harley put on the Roadster, which is the only Harley I'd buy. In terms of classifying it; I'd say it's a roadster/cruiser.

[@allans7281]

I love the key right in the belly of the bike. That bike reeks full testosterone

[@alexmorgan3435]

Thanks for reviewing the Speedmaster. It seemed to have passed you by, until now. I think you nailed why to own this bike. It's not the fastest or most flickable, lightest, etc but it makes you feel good, riding out cruising on a nice day perhaps on the weekend, the sound of the exhaust pipes. I am seriously not into cruisers, but something about this bike attracts me to it, maybe it is the looks, as it looks fantastic to me, the sound, the relaxed riding position with swept back beach bars, legs out front and it's NOT a HD, Indian or BMW but a Triumph. Wasn't aware of the Rebel and Guzzi so thanks for suggesting them as direct rivals although for me it is the Triumph with the Triumph badge. Also some people watching this review might be thinking Triumph Bobber to compare it with, similarities and differences. The only downsides to me of the Speedmaster are I wish it had slightly more power say around 100-105 bhp, nice classic twin clocks as are on the Speed Twin and Thruxton R, oh, and better Brembo brakes but apart from this it is still pretty good. It's a gorgeous looking bike imho. Triumph nailed it in the looks department. The tank colour scheme on this one you are riding looks classic. There seem to be few unhappy owners of these. Would I take it over the T120? Yes for sure. Over a Thruxton R or even Speed Twin not sure as they are quite different bikes giving quite different riding experiences. I have test ridden one myself about 6 weeks ago and liked it a lot and hoping to get a 2022 one for next year because of the upgrades in previous gen that you mentioned. I could get a 2021 bike but then it would sit on my garage until Spring next wear. Apparently existing owners say the comfort seat is a massive improvement over the std. Anyway nice review Scott. Thanks for testing the bike. Appreciated.

[@tomtom786]

Thanks Scott ,great review, my favourite bike !

[@morningstoke]

I just test ride one that I'm planning on buying now. Holy hell it is nice. Super comfy and surprisingly nimble too. Really excited about getting it

[@spetersonmusic]

That's a cruiser. And I like your Light-Heavyweight designation. FIts. Just go and cruise. Not a ripper, not frenetic. Just enjoy. I've demoed one (the older generation) and enjoyed it.

[@denisg4288]

Thank Scott. Brilliant review as always. If only you could get this 30 or 40 kgs lighter with a bigger tank! Just too heavy for us old guys. Not on the road but manoeuvring on a drive with an adverse decline!

[@denisg4288]

@HahrtDood good points. Yes, at 70.5cm it probably is doable. I guess my issue is more about my drive. Quite a decline and adverse. Perhaps if I move………………

[@emilysimmons7318]

I'm a 5'6" menopausal female and I can handle it. Only time you notice the weight is at a stop. Just gotta be cognizant of the road camber etc. I purchased this bike with more than a little trepidation due to the weight - but honestly it's so well balanced and the COG is low enough I laugh at myself now, having been intimidated. I took my time getting to know it and it's like an old friend now. Happy riding! 😊

[@fcukugimmeausername]

3:39 How did you get access to the 2120 Speedmaster?

[@NothingToProve]

The dealer had it, period, so I took it out 😁👍

[@gcSpec13]

I'd just like to mention that I appreciate your channel quite a bit...keep it up!

[@hawkwood6405]

Back in the 1980s, before they started building actual v twin American style cruisers, the Japanese made cruiser style versions of their UJM bikes. These included the Kawasaki LTD series, the Yamaha Specials and the Suzuki GS-L series. IMO the Speedmaster harkens back to that style of motorcycle. Very cool bike

[@sergiocollazo3191]

I really like your videos. Love the scenery and content.

[@redblack8414]

Just love that review. Is there a gear indicator on that bike?

[@RC.Time-Crawlers]

Liking the very non biased and in depth reviews .Great job👍

[@geneclarke2205]

In the US this was positioned as an alternative to the Harley Sportster and Indian Scout but didn't catch on I feel due the lack of Triumph dealers and marketing. My Triumph dealer is more interested in sell Tigers than Bonnies and they sell a lot of Tigers.

[@paullovesey4863]

Took a Diavel out recently on demo - would love to see your review of that machine. Thanks for this one Scott

[@allans7281]

The Speedmaster has a 2 inch longer wheelbase than the T120 do you think that makes a difference??

[@NothingToProve]

Yes, everything is a tad bit slower on this, this is why I think it's more of a cruiser than a roadster but a lot faster than a cruiser. Now when I say cruisers, I'm talking Harley/Indian cruisers. The T120 is lighter and more nimble and more "sporty". I would actually buy the 2021 T120 but not the previous 2 versions, I mean they were alright, I've ridden all 3 versions of them but none of them struck me as "good" until 2021. This is the same too, they finally nailed it, it took Triumph 4 years but they did it right. The Speed Twin is almost a naked bike level performance, I mention this because all 3 bikes have the same engine, just tuned a little different for each bike. Sorry for the long reply, sometimes my brain rambles on and on... Scott

[@allans7281]

@@NothingToProve thx for the replyI! I purchased the 2022 Bonneville T 100 knowing the upgrades- I call it the “Rolex” of classics. Bonneville gets two thumbs up Bam Bam lol I met a girl from Germany here in CA that rides and we’re riding bikes to Point Mugu Naval air station for the blue angels /Air Force Thunderbirds air show! Tom Cruise style😉 I sent her some of your videos -she said she misses the alps. Enjoy the ride !! Cheers

[@pcarragher6025]

Great content and professional as usual

[@Rapunzel879]

Excellent video, Scott!

[@simongilbert2704]

nice bike ,,, like the handlebar shape [ bend ] ..

[@Ijourneyผมเจอนี่]

Wow! Nice bike and beautiful country.

[@jgbuff04]

I wish my 2014 Speedmaster had that engine, or the 2021speesmaster had a larger tank. Would love to take that bike for spin, great review.

[@paulyflyer8154]

I've just ordered one, but I wish the road surfaces in the UK were as good as those. It's like bomb alley here and wondering if I should stick with my GS!

[@NothingToProve]

Oh, sorry but...hmm...there is a huge difference in ride between the GS and this. Huge. But and this is a big BUT, the Dynamic ESA suspension on the GS is one of the best (imho) out there today & one of the major reasons I bought my RT last year. So to compare any other bikes suspension to a GS/RT/K1600/RS/R just isn't fair. Plus this is a "cruiser" or at the very least "cruiser style" bike, so suspension is not a main focus. With all that said, if I were to play with the idea of buying a cruiser, then this would be a bike I'd consider. take care, Scott

[@paulyflyer8154]

@NothingToProve Thanks Scott. To be honest initially at least it'll be just for a few hours at a time with my wife on the back just going for day trips. I don't think I could persuade her to go on a tour anyway! She wanted me to buy a HD Sportster which looks beautiful but I preferred the ride of the Bonnie as it seemed to suit me better. Keep the great videos coming!

[@drbanana1930]

Great review. I had my heart set on a Speedmaster, I think it’s the best looking bike Triumph currently sell - however I had one on loan when my T100 was in for a service and the riding position absolutely ruined my back, a real pity for me.

[@alexmorgan3435]

This would be my only fear. On poor road surfaces it could difficult to live with. So potentially only a cruiser for smooth roads in good condition. I suppose you could lower the tyre pressures a bit or back off the preload on the rear shock if that is an option?

[@drbanana1930]

@@alexmorgan3435 I was on smooth roads, admittedly it was the first time I’d ridden a bike with feet forward controls but taking everything through my coccyx was agony. Not sure letting the tyres down is particularly safe

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@drbanana1930 Not saying letting the tyres down, just reducing the pressure a bit to possibly give a more compliant ride on poorer surfaces. Once back on smooth road then raise pressure back to what it should be. Just a thought.

[@sscbkr48]

@@drbanana1930 Different strokes.. I'd be in traction after 5 mins. I saw a woman riding a HD, her feet and arms stretched fwd.. how in hell can that be comfortable! Being young it probably never occured to her, like bouncing along with ape hangers on a hardtail. 😍

[@Donnabatical-0O]

All I have to say is... I can't wait to ride that 2120 Speedmaster listed on the chart @3:46 . Future epic! 😋

[@YangCalgary]

If I ever go back to cruizn this is the one.

[@kevinsmith2349]

Sticking with my T120. It has great suspension and I prefer the standard riding style...- although I think the speedmaster might win a few beauty points over the T120.

[@howardsway782]

Very nice & fair review. I'm pretty much there with you Bro. I had the 900cc SE - Air cooled, great torque but way down on power & the suspension sucks but then only 6,000 dollars. Triumph really know how to pile on the money. Don't forget there is a desisgn fault with the gearbox selector on watercooled models, should be urgently redisigned and retro fitted but sadly not so. Hailing from Southern UK.

[@lawdayl]

@@howardsway782 you've obviously been listening to the unsubstantiated garbage here on KZbin world from a certain reviewer re the gearbox. Had my scrambler xc 3 yrs and gearbox is still as smooth as ever.

[@davidaubuchon7309]

Always appreciate your reviews. Well done and thanks!

[@pjbaba1]

Very Nice/ black & White Gas tank very sharp

[@mindspinn311]

3:00 the T120 has twin dials, like the T100 and Speed Twin. This single dial is the same as the Street Twin.

[@robgerety]

I thought the T120 had classic dual clocks.

[@NothingToProve]

This isn't the T120. This is the Speedmaster, the cruiser version of the T120 👍😊

[@rodneybrown4951]

The tank and saddle bags are too small for the Australian load-distant touring. The front headlight you can throw to the s House. Not worth a bumper on outback open roads. I have whitewall on my black and white and that sets the bike off into another dimension. Regards Dirt

[@ripmax333]

So it seems you like the speed Twin and this one but did have a chance to try the Street Scrambler 900cc? it could be the best as an all-rounder even on a bumpy road as shown in this video.

[@marksarvari1450]

Great review once again Scott , really like your new comparison chart 2 👍🏻👍🏻

[@NothingToProve]

Thanks! 👍

[@sly412]

Nice review. I hope that you also going to review the new street triple 1200 RR and what it is like compared to RS

[@jeffmaxwell8821]

It’s the best retro looking modern retro. i’d like to get it with a slightly higher seat and black rims. I would get mid controls then.

[@jasonforgey1935]

Can that engine be tuned up to higher power like the speed twin

[@Explorerda]

Great review!

[@G3A3]

2120 speedmaster, you got a Delorean in the back yard 😁

[@gb23a]

You can go cross country on that bad boy

[@JelloThatsMellow]

17:26 I didn't know you rode a bike from the future!

[@Theophilus1968]

Thanks for the honest review. For the money would you go Moto Guzzi v9 or Triumph Speed Twin? Thanks.

[@NothingToProve]

Hmm...tough question. Guzzi :)

[@Theophilus1968]

@@NothingToProve I was hoping you’d say that.

[@stevegledhill8418]

I loved my 3 year old Speedmaster sadly it spent more time waiting for parts than on the road. Make sure you live in an area that has good chain management. Not the case in North America

[@markb3180]

Triumph's classic range seem to me to cater for most riding styles and just ooze quality.

[@stephenchapman8344]

Nice machine .👍

[@owenfarmer4197]

Are you comparing oranges and lemons here.. look amazing but so few vids and reviews.. I want a bike under 15k UK that I can take a on a six week trip around the Mediterranean with my squeeze. Did the GS thing years ago and now want a super laid back tourer cruiser.. can this bike do that?

[@orangecrush1976]

I would love to see you review a Moto Guzzi Eldorado 1400.

[@tejpalsinghahluwalia9938]

Great reviews. Keep them going.

[@matthewkrivec]

very nice review👍

[@NothingToProve]

Thank you 👍

[@guitarkeef]

Speedmaster R U L E Z :-)) I love mine! it's the coolest bike I've ever had. My verve won't stop…

[@lifeisgoodno1]

hi Scott Thanks for the relaxing review as always What is your favorite motorcycle in general?

[@MrPerrogaton]

Which biker would you recommend this over the T120? Thanks so much

[@HS99876]

Thank you, can you pls seat on the bike when parked and engine is off to show the ergonomics!!! I think that is missing from all your reviews, I like to see how is the seating position, if you lean forward or not, your arms position when holding handlebar. The ergonomics of bike is something most reviewers are missing! Thanks

[@fernandomagalhaes2957]

It fits me like a glove too, but...The price , the wieght, the risk to scrape the pegs, and mostly the difficulty to lube the chain every 300/500km without some sort of elevating equipement, puts it out of the game. The T120 had a central stand; in the euro 5 version it is a sold as an acessoire, I think. And what about fuel tank capacityes? Not a very problematic issue but ... in some remote locations...At this moment I would prefer the Moto Guzzi V7/ V9 or a Kawazaky W 800 for the same use and the same kind of riding sensations. Royal Enfield is not playing yet exactly in this cruisers championship regarding finishing aspects and displacement.

[@janmartin8207]

What about the Bobber ?

[@NothingToProve]

I love the bobber, it's the same as this just a more uncomfortable riding position 😢

[@peterford9369]

I take it that road was a bit ruffer than u expected?? Ive had a cruiser, and the rest classics with upright riding positions, no sport bikes. Did have a VMAX for about 10 years. Looks cruiser ish, but rides more upright, i think the crusier on bumpy roads, is a chore, because u cant take the bounce off ur back by standing somewhat. Maybe that's why u sounded like you were riding a buckboard. Nice looking bike though. I have a t100, so not dumping on triumph. I do hanker for a 1200 once in a while but all in all, at 68, speeds not a prerequisite any more. Thanks for the looksee. Ride safe.

[@NothingToProve]

Well, I usually DO go down that road with a lot of different bikes, just never show it in a video unless I want to show how good or bad the suspension is and this was actually not as bad as some of the "cruiser" I've taken down that road. So this was somewhere in between a cruiser and a standard, better than a cruiser but worse than a standard suspension. This is why it still got 2 thumbs up! Ride safe, Scott

[@toofastnobrakes]

Any chance we will get your review of the 2022+ ftr 1200 with the updates?

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, I tried to but Indian is not delivering on promised dates. But then again, this year all OEMs are having logistics problems, even car OEMs. 😒 Triumph, BMW, Honda, KTM, the list goes on and on.

[@toofastnobrakes]

@@NothingToProve well dang, hopefully if will happen eventually 🤷‍♂️ thanks for the reply! 👍

[@christopherherreen2090]

Always Great reviews and comments and Good to see you having Fun 👍 What Country are you in ? Great roads and towns 👋 🇦🇺

[@NothingToProve]

Thank you! I'm currently living in Germany. take care, Scott

[@rexbrown2988]

Can a centre stand be fitted to the Speedmaster ?

[@NothingToProve]

Yes, that is an option. :)

[@jamesmegill]

Hey Scott. Cheers from Florida!! How would this bike feel on rough roads compared to the new Guzzi V7? Or the V9? I'm still gonna buy the Guzzi. Just wondering? Thanks, Jim

[@dianehansen704]

Love my v9

[@alexanders1365]

I currently own a VStrom and a Street Scrambler but somehow the VStrom is my Cruiser and the Scrambler is my Sportsbike. Should it not be the other war round? Perhaps i should get a Speedmaster and a KTM?! I thought about the Speedmaster before i got the Scrambler but i never tried it. I was not sure if it is a „real“ cruiser…

[@dimitarpavlov]

a cruiser with a 12 liter tank just can't be

[@kh9242]

6:05 What an fcking amazing shot i love that POV

[@jackchristodoulou197]

I love my T120 but if the Speedmaster was all blacked out I would be tempted to trade

[@PeterW961]

Hey Scott! How tall are you?

[@NothingToProve]

5'10", 32" inseam. :)

[@michals1108]

only minus for me is passenger seat as I ride with daughter and wife, on my list its a cruiser, rear suspension is cruiser like

[@alithejumbo]

The bare-bone model is for €17.450,00 in The Netherlands. Not sure TBH.

[@billcaveny9495]

It’s a mono-shock Scott…🙈

[@tombryan1]

Mine is set up for burning up back roads, it can smoke most other models now

[@Is..4110]

It's a cruiser if you want it to be, after all, it's your bike...

[@darktimbercustomknives6248]

Why no Harley reviews

[@NothingToProve]

They don't like me, I'm not big enough yet. That is not sarcasm. ride safe, Scott

[@darktimbercustomknives6248]

@@NothingToProve sorry to hear that love throes bikes and am enjoying your reviews. Hope that changes for u in the future

[@oscarbalsa2362]

The new speedmaster is wonderful, the problem that it has a very small pond with a maximum autonomy of 240 km, that is a point against it.

[@denisg4288]

Scott You neatly avoided answering the question. You can only have one. This or the T120. Over to you and why.

[@chirag4]

ToP 5 BiKeS To LooK aT : 1. R 1250 RT 2. R nine T 3. Scrambler 1100 4. Z00RS 5. V9 Roamer / Bobber

[@leonserra4960]

Love the video, hate that grey junk on the screen

[@sumitwadhwa6071]

Mark Ruffalo👍

[@keltecdan]

I think the speedmaster is more akin to the Harley sportster 48.

[@mjh5437]

Why does it still have to be Euro 5 Compliant now that Britain has quit the EU?

[@michaelfrancis-vb7tp]

You might have a new career in voice-over riding on rough roads for Disney lol

[@NothingToProve]

🤣🤣🤣

[@internetcruiser]

Great review, but thats a strange name for a cruiser oriented bike…

[@gustavo7333]

Kawasaki vulcan S 650 - 228 kg

[@NothingToProve]

a 650 cc bike should be lighter than a 1200cc bike 😁

[@sachan9081]

It isn't a cruiser but is just made for cruising huh? Yeah, that's a cruiser mate

[@NothingToProve]

Well, sit on one and see for yourself, that was the point of me not saying one way or the other. It is more upright than the Harley/Indians so if you are used to cruisers and get on this you might say different :) ride safe, Scott

[@vintagerealityvr]

I wanna be your friend

[@hazcat640]

Damn good looking bike. Just rip out all the nanny electronics and Euro 5 crap and it would be great.

[@MrJones-ge5sl]

Not a cruiser. Cruiser-esque... lol

[@AndreaCandido-w9r]

nOW as iT? was t old drove Gods Son on one Triumph Bike in To heaven

[@thomasmangan2613]

paint scheme is hideous compared to the classic bikes

[@johnfreeman4292]

I rather my Triumph thunderbird it a real cruiser these are to small for larger people. And I not taking about fat Im talking about tall. Bring back the thunderbird or I be of to Indian ON MY NEXT BIKE. I bet not one thunderbird owner buys the speed master, Triumph are going to also loose a part of their customers base.

[@florislok]

Looks like all bikes are getting smaller. I test rode a BMW Urban GS. Way too small for me. My old airhead fits me much better. My wife got a 2003 Legend TT. Indeed much bigger than the Bonnevilles. Think it has something to do with the worldwide market. Asia has become interesting.

[@barryblack5562]

I loved your review style very funny and informative. 👍🇦🇺🦘🦘🦘🦘