Should You Buy A Used 865 Triumph Bonneville?

[@bm7760]

One of the easiest bikes to live with. That entire range, all the derivatives, such trouble-free riding. Simple maintenance. Lots of custom options. Modular for easy mix-and-match. Can't go wrong.

[@southernmike3265]

Own the same year model here in Australia which is fuel injected. Had it for 3 years and racked up 43000 ks. Has a few mods like staintune exhausts (eliminates the wheel removal issue and sounds great). Ohlins rear shocks, removed pollution rubbish, and crashbar with highway pegs. Regular oil changes every 5 to 6000 ks, and tyres is all the maintenance I've done. These bikes are near bullet proof! Been riding 50 years now and owned a swag of different bikes over the years. Can say i have no plans on ever parting with it. Fantastic hassle free bikes with class and style. Highly recommended if thinking about one. They do everything well. Not outstanding, but they will hold their ground and are very reliable.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

I think if I sprung for some name brand rear shocks the bike would be near perfect.

[@southernmike3265]

@@mongrelmotorsports well worth the investment mate. Improves the bike greatly.

[@richardmarotto2538]

Considering purchasing a friend's 2007 model tomorrow. Sincere thanks for an informative and knowledgeable review! I'm 75 years old and would love to do some simple, calm, relaxing rides.

[@kdsowen2882]

As an older-rider I believe a good 30-minutes practice in a Parking-lot or similar (on a new/unfamiliar-bike) helps and stops 'Surprises' in braking-etc from occurring on the road . Have fun , Dave NZ

[@richardclegg7846]

Bulletproof. I've done 40,000 in 8 yrs , bought used. NEVER a problem. Mapped and breathing well. Easy ton all day

[@davapod]

You clearly enjoy this bike. Kudos to you. As a Brit I love how John Bloor resurrected the brand. When I started riding in the mid 80's Triumph were defunct and no longer in business.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

It's a good bike, and captures some of the essence of the original. The newer water cooled ones are a little to 'sterile' for my taste. And it always starts, unlike my 1964 RE Interceptor. 😆

[@billythebosn]

Bought a 2003 790cc new and now have 58K trouble free miles. Overbuilt is an understatement!

[@wienerman33]

I'm looking at buying a 2003 T100 with 58K miles. I wasn't sure about the high millage but from what I've been hearing (and reading) this is not too much of a worry? Is there anything else I should look out for?

[@billythebosn]

@@wienerman33 None that really come to mind. The clutch maybe, but I'm still on the original and did a lot of two up riding.

[@kdsowen2882]

Nice laid-back honest-review , relaxing and informative . I bought the first classic-retro that was priced-right (ie. tidy and cheap ! ) It's a W650 and is a great little-bike , it could have been a Triumph or an RE650 and I'm sure I would have been just as-happy . I think yours (ist-gen Triumph-retro ) has the same 360-degree-crank as mine , giving that old-classic sound and feel, takes-me back to days gone-by when I push it through the twistys . Dave NZ

[@charlieb3497]

I am 64 and just sold my 2015 t100 865 68bhp spirit Special edition! If you’re after a cruiser’s and enjoy a weekend run around the country and local run outs you will have a lot of fun! ( I had the triumph tor silencers fitted awesome sound) Can’t fault the owner experience and you will always find a buyer if you want to sell 👍 reason for selling I miss the fun I had in the twisties on my triumph street triple! The bonneville is a beautiful bike and you will always attract attention just not ready for the big easy yet 😎🤙 if you buy one the special edition are worth the extra 👍 in my opinion the one’s to buy Triumph Bonneville T214 top choice if you’re into custom T100 Spirit 😎👊

[@fabio5995]

Well Street Twin have same engine but some less weight and very funny in the twisted roads. Here in Italy we like a lot both bikes

[@kdsowen2882]

@@fabio5995 We have similar roads here in NZ (built by Italians ! ) much-Fun . Dave NZ

[@michaelking4578]

Got one today. 2013 t100 with 1800 miles at 1/3 of the cost of new. Loving it.

[@prantodatta7142]

How much?

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Shim under bucket valve adjustment very expensive and difficult to doby owners. My 1965 Triumph Tr-6 l have had her for 40 years.Very reliable and dependable.Commuted on her for 20 years. I have had her for 40 years. Will run for ever.

[@serious_in_seattle6917]

I might try to find one of those next year and have a sidecar made for it. I think it would be fun and beautiful. A great conversation piece for running around town with the family, including the dogs.

[@frederickwoods5943]

Nice review, I am just south of you in the Virginia foothills. I bought two 2012's a month apart in 2013 (leftover units) a Bonneville SE in September and a Thruxton in October; the SE just turned 12,000 miles, the Thruxton will soon turn 2,000 miles, riding it more now in retirement. I like the tach that you added, the lack of a tach kept me from buying the standard Bonnie. Mine are fuel injected, have front fork kit and full stainless-steel exhaust on the Bonneville SE, it weighs 475 wet, the Thruxton is 495 pounds. I am very tall, over 220 lbs and mileage is right around 58-60 mpg on both bikes. My 2020 Enfield 650 has almost 27,000 miles and yes, less weight particularly with the TEC headers and silencers: 429 wet, it was 468 pounds new/full of fuel. Best clutch and gearbox ever, very easy valve adjustment and economy of 74-76 mpg. All three go 170 miles before low-fuel warning with well over a gallon left at 180-190 miles.

[@kdsowen2882]

You just need a W800 and maybe a Guzzi-1100 to fill-in-the-gaps ! A man can't have too-many nice-bikes . Dave NZ

[@umik8512]

I've got a 2007 t100 , as you said I brought it for the looks as it's a fun bike when the weather is nice, I've changed the shocks for Tec ones and exhaust to dunstall and rejetted the carburettors. Still love it, mines got the chrome engine. Nice video 👍

[@CostosLotsamoula]

I have a mag wheel Bonnie, fantastic bike, I was so impressed with Triumph I bought a later model Speed Twin which is even better. The Bonnie is a keeper though, it's a hard life puting up with 2 Triumphs in the family.😅

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

Nice review I have a new to Me Thuxton bought used @2000 miles 2011 replaced tires. Yes there is no storage which is crazy the old bikes came with a flip seat and tool kit oh well? I'm 68 and have done two all day runs surprisingly comfortable. Have owned a goldwing 5 Harleys. A Roadking still my favorite all around but a thrid childhood requires a bike that brings me back to 1972 xs650 good times brothers.

[@kdsowen2882]

Loving my 3rd-childhood on two-wheels . Dave NZ

[@michaelreuss4741]

I own a 2009 EFI since 2011 and modded it considerably. It‘s a fantastic, reliable café racer style bike that turns a lot of heads.

[@primaltone]

Good review. '06 T100 owner here since 2008. Bought it with about 3000 miles, now has over 19,000 miles. Mine came with a Corbin seat and I'm 5'6", not cramped for me at all! Mine has an Icon shock upgrade, fork brace, airbox removal, and Predators among other minor things. Since it came with the pipes, I can't compare sound confidently, but as-is it is one of the best sounding bikes out there. It roars. Due to my own neglect I've had to redo the carbs a few times, and the regulator went out. It's a good bike, but it does have something going on, in which the throttle seems to cut randomly. I need to have it checked out because I don't feel comfortable cornering with it like that. An unexpected drop in throttle while digging into a corner is a recipe for a bad day.

[@jibjab351]

The T100 version has a tacho,The seat is reaaly hard to remove and harder to get those bolts back in.Agreed, the rear light is hideous,I got a T140 Meriden replica and T140 indicators to replace the 'Jetsons' style originals. A bit sneaky having no centre stand - but the mounting brackets are there and they will sell you a centre stand. Agree again with the rear shocks, I replaced with Hagons with damping & spring adjustmant, and progressive front springs while I was at it. Handles great now. Also the exhausts need upgrading, the originals are too restictive [modern laws] I have Mototwin stainless pipes which come with bigger jets, adds 10% to the power and sounds great without being too loud. [Mine is a 2007 model in the UK] The tank is too small for my liking, only does 90 miles before going onto reserve. A good tip for comfort is one of the Triumph King and Queen seats, super comfy but does look a bit chunky. Also if you like cruising fit a 19 tooth front sprocket. lowers the revs by 500prm.

[@markatr6]

40k miles on my '07, never a problem, 45 mpg, dealers are scarce ' tho in ma. good vid, thanks for NOT playing stupid music and shoving an attitude at us. you CAN change anything on the bike to make it more your own, if you WANT to.

[@antonioskarasulas7604]

My Bonnie 790 is now 20 years old (2003 model) and going great. Very reliable, never had a problem. My only wish would be that it was a lot lighter, but at least once under way you don't notice.

[@kculpia]

How many miles? I have 63k on my 2002, going strong.

[@Bryan-xf9oe]

Thats a beautiful machine! Thank you.

[@rykerward9147]

This is the exact bike I just bought as my first motorcycle just a few months ago

[@audettetim]

purchased one new in 2007, still riding it

[@georgegalea1937]

I’ve had a 2010 T100 new since 2010. Set of Staintunes and IKON shocks, still love it. My standard seat feels like a quality gel seat although it looks like an iron board. No complaints here.

[@freemenofengland2880]

Hagon in the UK is renowned for its Bonny rear shocks.

[@guenter63]

I have a 2015 Bonneville SE. The last year of the air cooled models. No problems, love it.

[@ChrisMason-q4w]

I had a 2015 SE and i was always looking for a 6th gear.

[@nimblybimbly]

@@ChrisMason-q4w 1-N-2-3-4-5-5

[@glenkay4478]

appreciate your comments and opinions, thanks for the video! I'm considering a 2002 T100

[@rolandbourbeau7478]

I have had my 2012 for 3 years and love it

[@NXatNight]

Is your 2012 model come with a carb or fuel injection?

[@rolandbourbeau7478]

@@NXatNight Fuel injected

[@RMJ3032]

I have a 2008 T100 with the 18 inch (Touring?) Triumph OEM windshield, Norman Hyde single seat and a unknown rear rack I hacked off the back rest to mount a SHAD SH 29 top case for the helmet, gloves, etc. Solves the storage problem and is secure. I bought the bike used in 2009 with 4300 miles and now at 27250 miles the bike stopped running for the 1st time while out on a ride. Looks to be the crank position sensor. Bike just turns off when it warms up. I'm not the first one, easy google search. At 27250, the orginal chain, last checked a year a ago, had .142 thousands of a inch to go and the sprocked teeth still look great. The clutch is near the end and since I have to now have to take the right case cover off to replace the crank position sensor, I have an EBC clutch waiting to be installed on the left side. Valve clearance check at 17200 was also good to go. Great bike and the more time I own it the more I want to keep it!

[@danield831]

Progressive makes a nice 412 series shock that is affordable, and performs much better than the stock. Thanks for an informative video!

[@kevincampbell3943]

Good work up gradeing and keeping your bike real nice.

[@mr1bienvenu1]

Triumph is the only company that knows what a retro bike should look like 👍

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Royal Enfield's Interceptor looks pretty close to the original.

[@glenkay4478]

and more budget friendly@@mongrelmotorsports

[@richardrichard5409]

Kawasaki W650, W800

[@jamescunninghamniven]

Remarkably accurate review, when reflecting on my 07 Scrambler. Good shout for the LED idiot lights, just ordered some as its become a habit leaving indicators on

[@patrickparsley4091]

I got a 2005 a couple of years ago for 3k, 7000 miles. M style bars installed with a wide wheel kit. Fenders are removed. I love it. Looks kinda mean. About to put tracker bars on it because I am just a bit too old to ride in that semi forward posture plus I wanna do a long solo ride before it is too late. WOnderful bikes.

[@fabiopunk1661]

I have a 2011 865 (fake carbs, 17" wheels) and I am pretty happy about it (I have six other bikes in the garage...) I agree with most of the comments here. I find the saddle ridiculously hard, it's clearly designed for the looks only. I did not feel like spending several hundreds euros, I solved the issue with a an inflatable pillow from SW Tec, it works pretty well, and raised the seat level (I am 6'). Suspensions too were ridiculously stiff, making for a horrible handling. I put YSS rear shocks on, and progressive springs in front (15W oil) Incidentally my 1985 Moto Guzzi came with progressive springs from the factory.... The rear view in mirrors is OK to me. I miss an RPM meter, but I a trying to get used to this lack. Brakes are OK, one should not be fooled by the "lack" of the second front disk. I too installed a central stand (costly item). The 17" wheels makes cornering unnaturally swift, I am used to heavier and longer bikes with 18 and 19" from wheels, so I need to calibrate myself every time I take this. I installed an original rear rack, with a top case, that I find useful due to the lack of storage mentioned here

[@stephenreynolds6239]

My 790 2001 model has been an excellent bike.a failed coil pack has been the only issue ive had in 22 years.

[@drumrooster]

What were yr issues when you changed the coil??

[@KRAMPUS1933]

Got the exact same bike. Had it since '09. Put a set of Hyde 32" Western bars on it and it really helped with the riding position and rear view mirrors. Did the wide rear rim 5.5" Morad conversion and got a 170 tyre and it handles fine. Fitted Norman Hyde downpipes and British Customs silencers - sounds wicked. Factory rear shocks are bad... I put a set of Tek shocks on and one collapsed. Literally came apart and lost the spring after 2000 miles. Going for a set of Ohlins next, just need to save up.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

I have the Tec shocks too. They are better, but still underwhelming. Probably going with Ikon next.

[@KRAMPUS1933]

@@mongrelmotorsports Yes, I agree with the Ikon option and it suits the overall purpose of the bike but I just love the piggy back style and look of the Ohlins. I know that the chassis was never designed as a performance package and its a little overkill and super pricey but hey, horses for courses. I am fitting a new chain and sprocket set from Norman Hyde later today with the 17 tooth front sprocket option in the hope to gain a better take off from the lights. Will keep you posted on that.

[@pops9577]

Hi, did you have to fit longer cables when you changed the bars?

[@mongrelmotorsports]

I did not. I was actually going back to what would have been the original bars for this model. The PO had changed them for something lower.

[@KRAMPUS1933]

@@pops9577 Yes, I have the 1" bars and had to use the cables from the Bonneville America, but Norman Hyde supply it all as a kit - or at least they used to...

[@philiphartstein9221]

Had my '06 790 fifteen years, excellent bike.

[@Havanorange]

I would like this kind of bike, but I'd need a larger frame size. Apparently they only make them in one size, unfortunately. Nice review, cool bike.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

If it's too short for you maybe look at the Scrambler version.

[@Havanorange]

@@mongrelmotorsports ok, good suggestion. thanks

[@kdsowen2882]

@@Havanorange Or the Thruxton , you can tweak the ergonomics a bit with cafe-bikes

[@passthataxe]

The add on tach looks good. I cant understand why they came without one.

[@MsDenver2]

Hi good video , I’m just buying the 2010 model with alloy wheels , fuel injection , the last owner upgraded the shocks , progressive springs in forks and pigyback quality rear shocks. He put the same exhausts as you have and it’s got the twin instruments , boy did I get a shock when I sat on it in the show room. But the riding position for me is great , and I’m retired so plenty fast enough for me as just want enjoy country lans at a slow pace and cups of tea at cafes. It’s done 10,400 miles so should I worry about the cam setting? The dealer is going to service it and new mot for me so should I mention cams to him? 👍🏍

[@rsc68er]

Hey Mate. I have a 2012 model and the cam shims are due at 40000kms her in Australia and according to the book. I got a quote and to do the 40k service was $1000aud, but I also just got a quote to do the shims and they said $400aud. So I reckon you dealer will want you to come back and do the shims so you can pay for it, anyway it's not due until 12000miles if I'm correct. I have talked to guys on forums who haven't touched the shims in 80000kms so it's not as of it's a problem with these bikes. It's up to you if you want the piece of mind but the shims won't let you down it just a valve adjustment. The bike you bought will give you years of enjoyment and trouble free riding. Enjoy it and ride safe Brother

[@tiggy2756]

Only problem have heard of is starter pinion boss breaking ,but totally preventable with safe start mod (they reinforced boss but it still broke) I know most get away without this happening but it could write off a perfectly good bike , apart from this the engine is bomb proof

[@richardgrausgruber175]

I am experiencing starting issues with my 2010 SE. What is the modification you mentioned.

[@tiggy2756]

@@richardgrausgruber175 Its called Safe start mod , it reinforces the starter pinion boss . If pinion boss has broken then the starter spins but does not turn engine

[@petersaulnier3526]

there is a YT video with lots of detail saw it last year on this weak point of the casing . if it fails it can cost over the value of the bike. i do not recall some details but that triumph dealer did not help that owner much

[@PeterErikson-rd5tj]

This is Exactly the Bike I want but I Only Buy Used so when I sell I get most of my money back -- of course take good care of it. Let other suckers Pay the Depreciation and take Losses.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Yup, same. All of my bikes have cost under $6000 each so far.

[@kevinmim6490]

Thanks for your review, I am down sizing from a GL1500 to much bike for me anymore. The only question I have is how is it two up? All the reviews on almost any bike on YT never mentions 2 up riding.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

My wife won't ride on anything, so I can't give you a good answer. The rear shocks are awful, but stiff, so may actually ride better with the extra weight. I'd think the seat would be comfortable. Just have to be cautious of soles against the pipes.

[@griffincates5327]

Great review

[@ozziejim8472]

That was really informative mate, just what I was looking for. Q. How do you find the power at hwy speeds , enough for overtaking? Beautiful bike by the way. Thank you👍

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Decent motorway power. More torque than outright hp. 70 is no problem. I rarely go higher than that, though, because the wind blast onto my chest is so strong. It would benefit from a small screen if you want to do extended motorway riding.

[@salpairadice]

They are quick up to about 90 mph and then keep pulling to 110 but its a stretch.

[@dougB4454]

Thank you for the review. I have a 2013. Did you add your grab handles? Mine did not come with those. My oil filter sometimes has a minor leak no matter what I do. Have you had that problem? It doesn’t leak bad and I never need to add oil. Funny on the battery. I just put one in.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Never a problem with oil leaks. The handles came from Ebay. They just loop over the frame tube and bolt where you can see them.

[@johnmctaggart3]

I own a 2013. I put 45000 in 4 years. No trouble road from Front royal to the dragon 5 times. From MdTo the keys and a lot of riding inbetween.5 sets of tires and metz road tech 1 is whats on it now.

[@Mickey-ci4cc]

Well balanced review, thank you Mongrel.

[@SusanWillan]

Can you buy original triumph saddle bags like on frame's or throw over bags

[@simonwarburton61]

Thanks for the information though.Super bike.👍

[@RedNffc]

Hi thanks for the information 👍. Did you notice any sound difference between the carb bike and injected bike?

[@mongrelmotorsports]

That was years ago now. I can't say I did, but remember, this bike has different silencers on it than stock.

[@stevecaruana2550]

I own a 09 t100 just replaced chain and sprockets at 70,000 ks !!!

[@GunCollector007]

Just got a mint condition 2003 for 2k.

[@barrygoodson4952]

Looking at a nice clean 09 with 8 k on the clock for $5,000. Not sure what the actual value of these puppies are but $5k sounds a little steep to me .

[@jeff-wo6mm]

You can do better. I’m about to purchase a 2014 T100 with 4.7k miles for $4500

[@toddcallison8087]

What is that annoying connector hanging out of the left side cover doing there?

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Battery tender lead. I don't even notice it anymore, LOL.

[@simonwarburton61]

Is your front tyre on the wrong way round?

[@melbinthomas1659]

Are the triumph spare parts available anymore?

[@mongrelmotorsports]

They generally are. I think Freddie Dobbs' experience was simply a supply chain issue.

[@melbinthomas1659]

@@mongrelmotorsports oh i see , heard that triumph stopped production f spares f air cooled model ! Thanks

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Even if they did, you won't hardly need any parts. They just don't break.

[@melbinthomas1659]

I was in a confusion between interceptors n this aircooled 865s , a fan of 360° twins but a friend f mine warned about the spares issue r else move onto liquid cooled ones which totally out f the budget!!!

[@Pigdowndog]

@@mongrelmotorsports I can confirm that. I've had mine for 15 years now and the old girl has never let me down.

[@annex6]

You and I are the same height. You said "cramped". You don't feel a look like a circus bear do you? As in too big for the bike?

[@mongrelmotorsports]

No, not at all. It's fine for 3-4 hours for me. I get bothered by the muscles in my legs being bent after that. My ADV bikes are more of an open triangle and are all-day bikes. It's only cramped compared to other things I have, but certainly isn't as limiting as, say, a RE Continental GT.

[@annex6]

@mongrelmotorsports good deal. Last question: I'm picking up riding again. Sold my last bike for my pilot's license. It was an M109R. Not a huge bike but not nimble enough for my tastes. It's why I looked at the Bonneville. I'm getting back in the saddle after 10 years, would you maybe recommend the 120T for power reasons?

[@mongrelmotorsports]

I see no need for that much power. I like power, but aside from the occasional "woo-hoo" surge I don't think it's worth the extra expensive. The 900 is plenty.

[@annex6]

@@mongrelmotorsports Roger that.

[@lucbos7516]

@@mongrelmotorsports Beautiful bike !

[@nmraupp]

Where did you find the grab handles???

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Ebay. It's been a few years.

[@nmraupp]

@@mongrelmotorsports thank you!

[@pethsm]

Do they have a fuel gauge? Thanks

[@mongrelmotorsports]

No. Trip odometer only.

[@gren509]

Even at 1.5x playback speed, this is still slow.

[@bigred8438]

I think any shocks that don't have rebound dampening, which none did back in the day in the period these are meant to emulate, are really not worth having on a bike ridden by older guys, because your body feels as though it has been hit by a rhino after a decent ride.

[@robertmcpherson2878]

Hi, I've been looking for a grab handle for using the center stand, could you post a link to it? Also is that a Triumph center stand or aftermarket and do you like how it works? Thank you.

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Center stand is OEM Triumph. It was a used item. You have to just be careful what you buy because the Scrambler and I think the SE both are different heights. The handles I got on Ebay years ago.

[@drumrooster]

Hey can tell me how you wired that tach up please..

[@mongrelmotorsports]

Too many years ago now. But this may help: www.triumphrat.net/threads/aftermarket-mini-tach-installation.139311/

[@asacarrick1385]

Jesus what a depressing video...fun bike is about the only good thing he had to say in this drone

[@asacarrick1385]

those dreadful black casings ruin the profile of this Edward Turner classic design

[@kdsowen2882]

A 'Nod to ED' and that's about it , he'd be a little horrified to think people attributed this machine to him ; too-heavy, too slow, too expensive

[@bigred8438]

No don't buy one unless you are shorter than 5'9". Don't get one if you want your bike you are riding to stop well. Don't get one if you expect to tour at speeds over 70mph comfortably without worrying the bike won't wobble off the road. No, don't get one if you hope to sit on a seat that is comfortable for more than 30 minutes.

[@asacarrick1440]

More importantly Don't listen to grumbling negative bull shitter's

[@etienneladangh760]

Correction : in 10 days

[@intellectualkshatriya3046]

Great information