2022 Triumph Bonneville Bobber | Better Than The Speedmaster?

[@jhvghjgjkhlihli]

i have the 2018 bobber black. 6 yrs going and still puts a smile on my face

[@andrewbalfour9373]

I only got into biking a few years ago and bought the Bobber before I'd passed my test.. It didn't dissapoint and I absolutely love it.. However I then bought a Speedmaster as a second bike and I couldn't get over how comfortable it was.. Move on six months and I only have the Bobber now.. I couldn't part with it , both great bikes but for me the Bobber just edges it in my opinion. Great video..

[@redangrevival]

Hi, many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the video 👍 Great to have both at the same time!! Fair enough, they are both great bikes but each have their own benefits. At least you got to try both out and stay with your favourite. Hope you continue to enjoy your Bobber.

[@andrewbalfour9373]

@@redangrevival Hi , you are very welcome. If circumstances had been different I'd have kept the Speedmaster and enjoyed the two of them.. However I think I will in a few years get another one .. Thanks Andrew

[@Brian-tb1zs]

I had my Speedmaster forward controls moved to center controls, easily done by my dealer. kept the beach bars, absolutely loved it ! The steering leverage the larger beach bars give really makes it responsive. I prefer Speedmaster looks slightly over the bobber.

[@redangrevival]

I have considered moving my pegs to mid, however think am going to stick with forward for the moment. 👍 Both stunning bikes, I think the Speedmaster has that more classic/British look to it. Whereas the Bobber is more America/cooler design!

[@paulkinsella612]

I originally had my heart set on the bobber. I took one for a test ride, but sadly, we just didn't get on. Nothing wrong with the bike as such, there just wasn't that spark. Took the speedy out straight afterwards and within 5 minutes I was deciding which kidney to sell to fund it! So here we are three and a half years and 20000 miles later, me and my speedmaster are still very, very happy together. I love the looks of the bobber still, but as a bike for all seasons and all reasons, the Speedy wins for me.

[@redangrevival]

👍 I can completely understand that! I think the Bobber will be the bike that most people test ride first. But end up getting the Speedmaster because of it's charm and comfort. Great to hear you are loving your Speedmaster so much and have put some mega miles on it 🤟 All the best and enjoy your ride

[@Alexander-of7ny]

Agree with everything you say about the differences. My 2020 Speedmaster is just so much more comfortable with the beach bars and forward controls. The Bobber is a good looking bike without doubt but my spine says Speedy please. Great review as always, stay safe.

[@redangrevival]

👍 Absolutely, theSpeedmaster is just so much more comfortable. The Bobber great for shorter rides, but to put some miles on the bike the Speedmaster wins every time! Cheers

[@Speedmaster1200-d8u]

both stunning bikes and for me I'm sticking with my 2022 Speedy goldline called it "Chuckle". I had the choice back in march and it was tough, but Chuckle was the just a bit more practical. I would own both if I was able. But these bikes ride and ride really really well. All owners would be proud of them. Triumph nailed these bike and the Boneville range. I am a very proud Triumph owner just like my Dad. brothers and son. 5 in total in our family.

[@redangrevival]

👍 Great name for your Speedmaster, love that! Good to hear how much you are loving your bike and so proud of it as well. All the best and enjoy the ride

[@jamesdspaderf2883]

Love the Angus treatment of this comparison. Other channels came to a similar conclusion. Bobber looks stunning, Speedmaster is more practical

[@redangrevival]

Haha cheers! Glad you enjoyed it 👍 Definitely sticking with Speedy! Love the Bobber and its looks but the Speedmaster has it all IMO

[@buddyholleypoint9032]

Have the Bobber, love it. Its not comfortable, but it looks so cool

[@redangrevival]

👌 Worth being uncomfortable for a bit to look so cool! Stunning bike

[@jmlupoludowicy1239]

The Bobber looks soooo much better to my eyes but for actual riding the Speedmaster is the way to go I guess. The Bobber is more of a second bike. Cheers Angus!

[@redangrevival]

👍 Fair enough, looks are so subjective. I do agree the Bobber is a very special looking bike, so cool! With the amount I use the Speedmaster it is a no brainer for me! Speedmaster all the way 👍

[@LionTheHeart]

If I was to own the Speedmaster and Bobber, it would depend on my mood on the day.. Speedmaster.. laid back cruiser and taking your time enjoying bike riding. Bobber would be out the door growling and tearing up the roads attitude. It's all fun and that's what it's all about! Nice informative video Cheers Angus

[@redangrevival]

100% I agree! They are both amazing bikes and it really just depends on your tastes and how you are feeling 👍 For what I use the bike for, the Speedmaster is ideal. Love the Bobber as well though. Thanks

[@LionTheHeart]

@@redangrevival Keep up the great videos! Just got back from Corfu.. scooters absolutely everywhere, only noticed three bikes and they were Harleys... they like their bikes very loud out there! Stay safe Cheers Angus

[@redangrevival]

@@LionTheHeart Thanks so much. Nice hope you had a great time. Haha yes I can imagine scooters are a way of life out there 👌 I find some really loud Harley just tad much sometimes 😂 Great fun though Cheers

[@neilwilliams9844]

Hi great channel,I swapped my forward controls to mid controls,and it transformed the rideability of the bike completely,handles far better ,more in control of the bike,more confidence in the bike,much better bike imo. Ps ima shorty at 5,6.

[@redangrevival]

Hi Neil many thanks I appreciate it. Yes I have heard that a few times now, sounds like I might need to give it a go! I can imagine it handles much better! However I do like the more traditional cruiser style forward pegs 🤔 Will have to think on it! Cheers

[@johnhill8529]

Best looker is the Speed Master, and my knackered back says the Speed Master is the one to spend all day on. I’d struggle to spend £12500 on a bike for just a bit of lane blasting. Speed Master wins in all directions for me.

[@redangrevival]

👍 loving hearing everyones opinions on this! With the riding I do the Speedmaster is a no brainer for me. She is definitely not going anywhere soon! Cheers

[@vicfdez7830]

Totally agree! Speedmaster is great, I just don’t like those handlebars.

[@paulbrook2459]

Great review 👍 I think the bobber suits you better ! It handles very well and now with duel front disc the breaks that work 😂

[@redangrevival]

Thanks Paul, glad you enjoyed it 👍 Interesting! The Bobber suits me better. It is such a cool looking bike, I just need the comfort and practicality from the Speedmaster. The brakes are great now

[@marktafft7025]

I have a 2018 Speedmaster. I have gradually adjusted it to have the best of both worlds. The flat bar and mid foot controls from the Bobber are options on the Speedmaster. Sportiness tick. Practicality tick. Result - The Speedbobber. Why Triumph doesn’t sell it that way mystifies me.

[@redangrevival]

Haha the Speedbobber, nice 👍 I personally prefer the beach bar handle bars, more of a classic laid back riding style. That what makes it a great bike though, so versatile

[@arjuckes]

I reckon that's a whole point in front for the Bobber with that in town advantage for sure, nice review..;-)

[@redangrevival]

Yes, however the Speedmaster is not bad in town! Cheers

[@willbee8381]

I regularly put 165 to 245 miles or 265 to 394 kilometers on my 2023 bobber , your butt gets used to the seat after a bunch of trips. I enjoy the exhaust sound and no windscreen adds to feeling free

[@redangrevival]

Proper rider 💪

[@roberthambly9926]

Great review. But I love my 2022 Speed Master and will never let it go! My point of view is that the Speed Master is a better all-around motorcycle.

[@redangrevival]

Thanks Robert I appreciate it and glad you liked the review 👍 Absolutely agree, the Bobber is great looking and very cool! However the Speedmaster is so much more practical and useable! Will definitely be sticking with my Speedy! Cheers

[@michaelpina1858]

I agree, Speedmaster, best of both looks and utility in my eyes!

[@redangrevival]

👍 Speedy is not going anywhere yet!!

[@fauveride]

This review is definitely what I've looking for!

[@redangrevival]

👍 Thanks really glad you enjoyed the review

[@danield831]

Great comparison and review. Love to see you do a comparison with the T120 with either or both models!! Cheers!

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it. If I can get my hands on them at the same time I will try my best to do the comparison 👍

[@deanchild9848]

What a great review they both are excellent bikes but yes I would go with Speedmaster as well..

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks Dean, glad you enjoyed it 👍 Absolutely both brilliant in their own rights! However I will definitely be sticking with my Speedmaster 😉 Just love the comfort of it and the classic style

[@keithstewart1979]

Another excellent video per usual. Apparently we are on the same page one again lol. Think that the bobber would make an excellent 2nd/3rd bike to be tricked out and used in town or to take to bike shows. I'll stick to my speedmaster for long trips in the saddle.

[@redangrevival]

👍 Thanks Keith really glad you enjoyed it. 100% agree, the Bobber looks fantastic and is very cool. However for a bike that I am going to use often then the Speedmaster takes the win every time! Cheers

[@kadiripradeepreddy682]

Nope bobber is best for me in country lanes and town rides.Awesome looking bike indeed.Great review.

[@redangrevival]

👍 Fair enough, it is a stunning bike and we all have our different preferences. Enjoy your ride

[@NapoleonDynamyte]

Bobber all the way!

[@moody9931]

With the exception of a pillion seat. Can you not get all those extras on a bobber too? Also, didn't know it was only a 12 litre tank on the Speed master. To be fair, they are both lovely looking bikes.

[@redangrevival]

Pretty much yes! However it would be a lot cheaper to just buy the Speedmaster. Yup the tank size can be problematic on longer rides

[@alexmorgan3435]

Interesting comparison of the two bikes. Strange that Triumph have put a better engine map on the Boober making it faster and presumably given it a different geometry or suspension settings making it quicker to turn and feeling more nimble than the Speedmaster? However I much prefer the looks of the Speedmaster. It's seems a far more practical bike. You could put flat bars on your Speedmaster for the more stretched forward riding position if you wanted. Maybe the transfer of your weight forward would make it quicker to turn? Not sure. Might be quite expensive to do and a bit of a faff. You should ride the new 22 Speedmaster which I did yesterday. It rode beautifully. Got the foot controls properly adjusted this time by the dealer (different one who were really helpful compared to the one last year) and wow what transformation! Far easier to ride and no more foot ache from struggling to change gear or brake.The Speedmaster felt perfect, except for the discomfort of the Triumph 'comfort' seat. The edge of the lumbar support was digging into my coccyx causing me a little discomfort and the angle of seat sloping back slightly causing me to slouch back meaning lower back ache after a bit. But everything else was perfect. The weather was perfect as well. Just need to over come the seat issue. Don't really want to have to pay a fortune getting another saddle suited to me. Got a favour for you Angus. Would you be able to look at your bike and see if you think it is possible to raise the back of the seat slightly say about 1-1 1/2 inch? The front mount is hinged so could just loosen this. Maybe fabricating some mounts for the rear is a possibility to raise the rear? Maybe fit some small black side infill panels to fill any gaps. Could this be a possibility do you think? I did try to look at this with the bike I rode yesterday, but only had a little time and need to look again, but the dealer is 90 miles away from me. Unfortunately there are no Speedmasters nearer at the moment. The Speedmaster with twin clocks for separate speed and revs would look even better, like Triumph have done with their Speed Twin and Thruxton models. Thanks for your comparison review. Interesting. ATB.

[@redangrevival]

Hi Alex, Glad you enjoyed the 2022 model Speedmaster. I know you can get some great Corbin seats, for the Speedmaster but they are expensive!! To be honest i think it would be quite tricky to lift the rear of the seat up. I can send you some pictures if you like? Would need an email though. Thanks

[@SeriouslyMikey]

For me, it's always the Speedmaster in terms of looks. I like the Bobber but personally, I think that a Bobber should be something that's custom built. Can't go wrong with either, though. And I think the Speedmaster's design peaked in 2015.

[@redangrevival]

Yes I agree I do prefer the Speedmaster, just a bit more classic and authentic

[@stephendove5306]

Personally I would have the Bobber with mini apes - highway screen and some nice bags , just looks less busy than the Speedmaster.

[@redangrevival]

Yup thats a strong look 👍

[@Mid-Knife-Crisis69]

Love those Bails 😂😂

[@Disposalist]

I have heard that the suspension is stiffer/different on the Bobber and that the mapping is different also, so what you've observed makes sense. Maybe it isn't just *your* Speedmaster that would benefit from a 'Bobber' remap?... Hmm... As for your conclusion, I think you're spot on. The Speedmaster is slightly more comfortable and relaxed. The Bobber is slightly more aggressive and sporty.

[@redangrevival]

Yes I think the suspension is definitely stiffer damped than on the Speedmaster, and the mapping definitely different! I think you are right, when I jumped back on Speedy she felt just right. Slightly lower rpm power delivery and lazier ride 👌 Bobber has more top end grunt! I will be sticking with the Speedmaster 😁

[@williamforbes4750]

Adjustable preload on the Speedmaster monoshock (obviously needed for pillion). No adjustment on the Bobber. Fine for riders around 80Kg but bottoms out a lot for heavier riders. Bobber definitely needs a better rear shock; putting a Wilbers 640 on mine transformed the bike. Loved your honest, unbiased review!

[@redangrevival]

@@williamforbes4750 👍 Many thanks William, I appreciate that and glad you enjoyed the review. Yes the rear shock on both bikes in not great!

[@alanflynn4595]

Another great review.

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks I appreciate it and really glad you enjoyed it 👍 Two fantastic bikes!

[@oicu81too]

Both are museum pieces. Include storage & fuel capacities and the Speedmaster pulls well ahead. I have a tour planned next month for the twisted sisters in the Texas hill country. No way a Bobber could do that painlessly.

[@redangrevival]

👌 Absolutely both stunning bikes! The Bobber now has a 12 Litre tank, same as the Speedmaster. But yea, no way would want to take the Bobber on a long trip. Speedmaster wins that every time. Enjoy your tour.

[@oicu81too]

@@redangrevival True. Should mention I got my Speedmaster this past March, much because of your channel. Best bike so far. Thanks and keep up the good work!

[@redangrevival]

@@oicu81too That is great to hear, thanks 👌So glad you are enjoying it. Cheers

[@kevinpick194]

Not sure if you are on the Speedmaster 1200 Group, but if you are thinking of a remap or tune-up, there is a lady on there (from the States) who many Speedie owners have used - DNK-something. All done remotely and recommended by many people. BTW, The Speedmaster would have won if you had awarded points for practicality, which you touched on at the end. So I make it 2 points for Speedie and 1.5 for the Bobber which, as you say, is a great looking machine

[@redangrevival]

No I am not, but will definitely take a look, thanks 👍 My local garage said they cannot remap it because they cannot access the ECU. I slightly touched on it at the beginning with comfort and longer rides, but yes lets call it 2-1.5, Speedmaster wins 🥳 Cheers

[@MrEye4get]

Having a windscreen on the Speedmaster isn't the same. The small Bobber fly screen helps considerably! The gearing on the Bobber is very high! The Bobber has zero capacity to carry anything but the rider. A backpack is now standard equipment when riding the Bobber.

[@phildaniels1214]

Totally agree with your findings, but doesn't the Speedmaster claw back the half point by being a better tourer?

[@redangrevival]

Thanks. Well I think I gave the Speedmaster the comfort/touring point at the beginning! However lets say she gains another whole point for practicality!!

[@phildaniels1214]

@@redangrevival You did, I was just trying to make Speedy feel better!

[@redangrevival]

@@phildaniels1214 Haha thanks I appreciate it 👌

[@gkl6566]

2018 Bobber Black owner here. It's hilarious fun, & it looks fantastic. I've toured on it a bit, but the lack of anywhere to put even a bit of gear limits it tremendously in that. The tiny gas tank is another issue, I see Triumph has remedied that. The stock seat is pretty horrible as well, a corbin replacement solved that. I've been a fan of the Speedmaster, but I have a 2011 Thunderbird 1600 that handles the long trips. Probably too big a bike to be ideal for Britain or the Continent, the distances in the U.S. suit it quite well. If I had to replace the Thunderbird, the Speedmaster would definitely be on the short list. BTW, is that a Rpha 90 helmet you're wearing?

[@redangrevival]

👍 A fantastic bike and just looks amazing! Surprisingly fun ride as well. Sounds like you have a good combination and the best of both worlds. I will be sticking with my Speedmaster because of the extra comfort etc... Both great bikes though. Yes it is a Rpha 90, flip up helmet. Had it for about a month now. Do get some wind noise from the flip up section but other than that it's great. Cheers

[@sgtshak2806]

Bobber is absolutely beautiful and desirable however at 6'4" I think it has to be crossed off the future list. Maybe a more adjustable seat and forward controls would help.

[@redangrevival]

I think forward controls would help 👍 However unfortunately neither the Bobber or the Speedmaster are ideal for taller riders! You can still enjoy the beautiful of them 😉

[@NanceDrew]

IMHO, Speedmaster is soooo much better. Relaxed position is enough to win. Kill one’s back on Bobber. They look cool but seat hurts too on bum. Id love for you to test ride an updated Speedmaster. 2021-2023 made major improvements. Yours is a 2018 or 2019?

[@redangrevival]

Yes although the Bobber does look very cool, the Speedmaster doesn't look bad!! And so much more comfortable. For what I use it for I am very pleased with the Speedmaster 👌 Mine is a 2019 model

[@peterkinloch666]

Try a new 2022 speedmaster, I'd like to know how you find the later suspension compared to yours. I'm looking to buy one but leaning towards the later model. Great video as usual 👌

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks Peter I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the video 👍 I would very much like to try a 2022 model! If you can get your hands on one I think the improvements they made in 2021 are probably worth it! Better suspension and comfort seat as standard etc...

[@NanceDrew]

Yes, it’s a very cushy suspension for the 2021-2022, I love it but some say it’s too soft. I think it rides like a Cadillac. I haven’t tried the 2023s that are out now. The spec sheet looks the same.

[@redangrevival]

@@NanceDrew I believe the specs are the same for 2023.

[@TriumphLover]

I'd do the bobber. But then bikes I have aren't really comfort friendly. Daytona 765 Moto2, 22 Speed Triple 1200RR, 22 Thruxton RS Ton Up. Got a 2012 Explorer which is beautifully comfortable. But yeah I'd get a bobber mostly for the cool looks.

[@redangrevival]

👍 Nice stable you have there! Some beautiful bikes and can tell you like your Triumphs!! Fair enough, if you don't need the comfort then I would say the Bobber is the one to go for, such brilliant design 👍 At the moment I need to extra comfort of the Speedmaster. Cheers

[@TriumphLover]

@@redangrevival when I was 17 in 1975 I had a AMF HD XL1000 sportster. Last cruiser I had.

[@redangrevival]

@@TriumphLover 👍 Classic bike, love the looks of it! I bet your 1200 Explorer fills all the comfort you ever need.

[@TriumphLover]

@@redangrevival it's is indeed! Heated seats, grips. Yeah!

[@markhenry192]

Don't think you gave points for range/touring capabilities? In which case the Speedmaster would pip the Bobber. Love them both but as I own a Harley Softail I am happy, one day perhaps when the weight of the Harley gets too much! Great review, thanks.

[@peterkinloch666]

I've just sold my fatbob due to its weight so that's why I'm looking for a speedmaster which is so much lighter than the harley but similar riding position.

[@markhenry192]

@@peterkinloch666 The gold line edition would be nice. Hope you enjoy your new ride.

[@redangrevival]

Hi Mark, many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review 👍 I think the first point went to the Speedmaster for comfort, but lets be fair and give it another for touring/practicality!! The Speedmaster wins haha Cheers

[@joel.rundle]

My dream bike. One day…

[@redangrevival]

You will get there. Manifest it 👌

[@matoko123]

The MASSIVE decider is do you ever take pillion?

[@redangrevival]

Yes that is a big factor! If so then the Speedmaster is the definite choice

[@matoko123]

@@redangrevival To be honest, if I could afford either I'd happily never take my wife on pillion again ;)

[@redangrevival]

@@matoko123 😂😂 Fair enough!

[@vicfdez7830]

Would the Bobber be suitable for a 6´2 tall rider?

[@redangrevival]

Yes I think you would get away with it 👍

[@vicfdez7830]

@@redangrevival thank you very much, this motorcycle has got my attention.

[@mellog5647]

Did you get a Bobber? I’m also 6’2” and also wondering how comfortable it would be?

[@vicfdez7830]

@@mellog5647 I went to a dealer and sat on it, tbh it felt nice, powerful, stylish BUT small for a 6’2 guy, perhaps with forward controls and mini apes would be different. I ended up buying a RE Super Meteor 650. I hope this helps. Ride safe.

[@denisg4288]

Hi Angus Speed master is far more practical. Bobber does look great though. Regards

[@redangrevival]

Hey, yup exactly my thoughts! I will be sticking with my Speedy for now 😁

[@vincentkeith5259]

How beaitiful is that bike? You were parked in front of the Hay Monster for 3 full minutes before I even noticed it.

[@redangrevival]

😂😂 I thought I wouldn't mention the monster to see if anyone noticed!! The Bobber is stunning, such an awesome design. However for using the bike often and putting some miles on I would take the Speedmaster every time.

[@donaldcollins6373]

My Bobber left me stranded on the side of the road due to persistent electrical problems for the 3rd time in 2 years.... brand new bike.... keeps going back to the dealer.... stop.... please stop. 16,000 miles? Lucky.

[@redangrevival]

That is a shame to hear. Hope they can fix the problems! That is just bad luck on your part, can happen with any manufacturer I suppose. Just a bad egg. Good luck with it!

[@Aramis7]

The reasonable and sensible choice is the Speedmaster. Now....bikes are not about being reasonable and sensible right?

[@redangrevival]

Entirely depends on what you want it for. I love both bikes, but much prefer the Speedmaster for its touring capabilities

[@Aramis7]

@@redangrevival I keep telling myself that I want to do touring and that I'll do touring one day, but 99.99% of my rides are

[@MangoMike316]

😎👍👍👍😎

[@redangrevival]

👍👌👍

[@waynegodfrey8565]

The bobber seat doesnt look comfortable.

[@redangrevival]

It’s not too bad, but the Speedmaster is more comfortable

[@larespuertorico]

Love the look except I would change the handlebars to ape hangers,Change of seat and add white walls.

[@redangrevival]

👌 Love that, yup I would do the same for sure. Stunning bike