Triumph Bonneville - 2 Years On -- Would I buy one again ? My thoughts

[@TR5T]

I've owned 4 air/oil cooled Bonnevilles and loved them, I purchased a 1200 Thruxton in 2018, 65 years of riding plus 60+ bikes owned of many makes and capacities the 1200 engine is the best I have ever ridden. If you don't get it that's fine, I and several other mates all in their 70s all riding since their early teens get it. Brilliant machines.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Yes I totally get it. 👍. I hope I’m still riding in my 70s and enjoying Triumphs. 👍Thank you for your comments and for watching the video. 👍

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

I purchased a 2011 thruxton june of 2023 with 2000 miles on the clock and with many desirable mods. I'm 68 and its a fountain of youth. Very high quality a joy to ride. I have owned @30 bikes Goldwing Harleys dirt bikes. This triumph will be my forever bike easy to handle a pleasure to ride. And gets plenty of attention at the stops. I endorse Triumph as a brand that captures the soul of what a motorcyclist needs.

[@skidmarx7706]

Great comments. I've had my T120 a couple of years now. You name it, I've ridden it but I'd have to say.... the T120 is my favourite of all & a keeper. Such an effortless, classy & refined pleasure to ride... Just look at it !

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you and yes I totally agree 👍

[@garyturner3927]

Looking forward to taking delivery of a 2022 Bonneville in May. First wanted to buy a Bonneville fifty years ago (what?). Have primarily ridden BMWs since and will keep my R1200RT. However for me, the Bonneville feels like a return to the simpler and purer riding days of my youth. Like this video, no over the top hype.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Gary. Thank you for your kind comments. Bet you cant wait for delivery. 👍

[@williamjones6478]

To cut down on the wind blast fit a triumph short screen it looks good and does work to a degree

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi William. Yes agree. I’ve actually considered a aero screen which although small some have some effect 👍

[@charliefreeman2260]

Just bought a new Gold Line T120 and am very pleased with it. Years on big, loud Harley’s had found me wanting some refinement and I found it here in spades. The engine and gearbox are superb. The handling is nice and leisurely, but capable. I added a long haul screen just yesterday. It’s just right for me. Thanks for validating my purchase, Jack.

[@johnmartin7158]

I also just bought one as well Charlie. What sort of screen and model exactly have you installed on the T120 ? NZ

[@charliefreeman2260]

@@johnmartin7158 I bought the Triumph accessory (part number A9701646) Long Haul Screen. The mounting was slightly fussy, but not too bad. I have spent very little time on a naked bike and didn’t like the full-on wind in the chest. This screen makes the bike very comfortable for me.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Charlie. Glad you are pleased with your T120. 👍 Thank you for your comments and for watching the video. 👍

[@markb3180]

My T120 is on a 19 plate. I brought it 12 months ago as a one owner with 1600 miles on the clock. I to have customised it and it's definitely a keeper!

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

I bet yours looks fabulous now the customs parts have been added 👍

[@markb3180]

@@JackBonhamMotorcycles It does Jack, I've invested so mush money into it if I was to change it I'd have another bonnie and transfer to add on's over.

[@jackchristodoulou197]

Was stupid to sell my first T120 so 6 months later brought my second T120 and this ones a keeper

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Jack . Yes they are a fantastic bike. Thank you for watching the video 👍

[@chriscarbaugh3936]

I have had three. The older oil cooled Thruxton, a slightly new Newchurch and now a Speed Twin. I had to mod all of them. Premium price and crap suspension. They just need it. I love the fact that we can mod them for more power and made them our own.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Chris. A nice set of bikes. Thank you for watching the video 👍

[@kevinsmith2349]

I've owned my T120 for 6 months. The Kawasaki 650 has not been ridden much since and I'm thinking about selling it. For what I used the bike for, which is mostly around town city driving, the T120 is an outstanding choice. I've also taken it up into the mountains and have no issues with handling on a 15 mile winding road up to Mount Hamilton as well as Mount Umanhum (google them, they are not trivial climbs). It handles great. I would say if I was going to be riding on the freeway all day at 80 mph (which I don't), I would consider a bigger bike with a windshield - maybe a BMW GS or a Harley, but I wouldn't give up the T120. While it is not a small bike, it is very easy to pull out of the garage and park in tight places in the city. I also like the upright riding position for riding in the city - better visibility for cruising around. The seat and riding position is orders more comfortable than my Ninja 650, which is not really a sport bike either. I am glad I got the T120 and not the T100. I like the extra power in the low end. I'm a pretty slow rider, but I like having the extra power and takeoff and when you need it. It's also fun ! I would definitely buy one again, although I don't see that much more room for improvement unless I just want to get a new one in a few years. btw, I have absolutely no affiliation with Triumph other than the fact that I am a happy customer.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Kevin. Glad you are enjoying owning your T120. You are correct it is a great all rounder. Thank you for watching the video. Just off to google the mountains 🏔 you mentioned. Ride safe. 👍

[@tedsalmon2533]

I purchased my 2020 t120 in December of that year at a clearance price. I love the particularly the '20 model with heated grips, center stand and seat grab rail standard. I did have a malfunctioning gear position indicator but had that replaced under warranty. Once I replaced the crap Pirelli tires it became a great handling bike as well.

[@leiflindqvist9095]

I've ridden an awful lot of motorcycles since the 1970s and onwards. All varieties, from war model BMW to Hayabusa. As a relatively mature man, I love my 2017 T120. But there are things I have changed. I think the original tires are pretty lousy and gave me no confidence in rain and gravel, they are gone. 20 kg weight is also lost through replacement of exhaust system, elimination of central stand and replaced the shock absorbers, among other things. Now it is without competition the most pleasant motorcycle I have ever ridden, even if you would like to increase the pace to a fairly high level. And I did not really have any problems with it so far. Ride safe. 🏍️

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you Leif. Some great practical modifications on your bike. Thank you for watching. All the best and ride safe 👍

[@davidmacgregor5193]

I used to ride Meriden built Triumph's in the early 1980's, a TR7RV 'Tiger', T140E 'Bonneville' and a TSX, I also owned a T160V 'Trident' which dispite being thirsty giving just 35 mpg from 4-Star petrol, it was the best handling motorcycle taht I've ever owned in forty five years of riding. The twins were also great road holders on their Avon Roadrunner tyres, they were nimble too. The old Triumph twins weren't as unreliable as people claim and they gave me more smiles per mile than any of my previous Japanese machines ever did. I've never ridden one of John Bloor's Triumph's, so I can't give an opinion on those.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you David for your valuable comment’s. You’ve had some fabulous Triumphs 👍

[@davidmacgregor5193]

@@JackBonhamMotorcycles Thank you for your kind reply Jack

[@alanhedley8622]

I tested a Royal Enfield Interceptor back to back with my mates Triumph Street Twin and found the Royal Enfield a little underwhelming. I went on to buy a Triumph Scrambler 1200XE which sadly was a little bit on the tall side for me. I am now awaiting delivery of a Bonneville T120 Gold Line.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Alan. I had the same problem when riding a scrambler being only a 30inch leg. I had a similar problem on a Ducati scrambler. Bet you can’t wait for your T120 Gold Line to get delivered. Thank you for watching the video 👍

[@erikleeblake]

Bought my T120 in early 2019 after test riding every possible alternative. It's a comfortable all-rounder with an unmatched combination of character and refinement. It's a true pleasure whether just cruising along without a care in the world or picking up the pace in the twisties. I'd consider having other bikes for variety, but never in exchange for my T120.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Yes totally agree. It’s a great bike. My bike is also a keeper. Thank you for watching the video 👍

[@mikepopelka2349]

I too am the owner of a T120 (a 2020 model purchased 4/2021) as a leftover new model so I was able to get the last version with radiator guard, heated grips, center stand, grab handle and with gas tank and fenders color matched. I, like you, am extremely happy with my purchase even though I traded a 2016 Thruxton R which was getting no use, for the T120. I have owned 25 motorcycles over the years and they included Japanese, British, American and one from Eastern Europe and have enjoyed them all but my first love has always been British bikes because they were the super bikes of my youth! The T120 is as close to the original without having to be quite so conscious of maintenance prior to every ride nor the need to carry an extensive tool kit. The T120 is a machine and as such is subject to wear and tear but oh what a joy to ride!

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you Mike. Totally agree. A real pleasure to ride 👍

[@tedcity5861]

T120 is a nice bike. I still enjoy sporty riding, so i'd mod with performance part over bling. Suspension and some exhaust. A '19 or '20 Speed Twin1200 is still in the picture tho.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

I never thought I would ever have a chain drive, unfaired bike again. Yet here I am on a T120..... A premium bike indeed with a gorgeous engine.....but I think the suspension, especially the front, let it down. Not bad......just not very good either.........

[@RedfordBaron]

Nice bike i'm on my second one now a great bike especially the Bud Ekins the one i ride now

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you . I am really pleased with it. Thank you for watching the channel 👍

[@asacarrick1440]

It really makes very little difference these days where anything is made, there's so much computerisation in the process. Still we buy these bikes as a piece of British nostalgia. Nobody made better machines in the heydays of Brit Bikes

[@andrewbalfour9373]

I had one for a year and did enjoy it..However I parted company with it and got a lovely 1200 Speedmaster which I'm very much looking forward to using this year.. Nice video.👍

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Andrew. Fantastic bike the Speedmaster 👍. Thank you for watching the video 👍. Safe riding

[@andrewbalfour9373]

@@JackBonhamMotorcycles Hey Jack. Many thanks for the reply. I've also got the Truimph Bobber as well. The roads up where I am are terrific..Enjoy your riding this year and stay safe.. Thanks again Andrew.

[@kdsowen2882]

Sounds great , looks great , but here (in the REAL Down-Under ) I own 3 great bikes ;TX650-Cafe, 81 TR1, xv1000 chain-drive and a W650 . All are stunning-looking and go-strong ( 'W' being most sedate ). The TR1 sounds virtually identical to your T120 and is putting-out 70hp , the Yam TX Cafe sets-off car alarms and isn't much slower than the TR1 (hi-comp, head-work etc. ) . I would have to sell all three to buy one T120 , second-hand . I have owned the bikes people would Die-for these days, 51-bikes over the years (many Triumphs included ) . Price kills it for me, but I would love it as much as I love these and that is the point for me; enjoying them all . Old bikes are cheap-reg here , so that is a Huge-factor also , $58 per-year (NZD) . It is good to read so-many positive comments about the T120 , and if I 'win-lotto' I will definitely try one . Dave NZ

[@asacarrick1385]

I've just completed 111,111 Km on my 2017 T100. Classic smooth ride. Nimble with enough low end Torque to keep me happy at least. Not in a hurry to trade it but if I did it would probably be for a T120. Nice review Dude

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you ASA 👍

[@leighmcqueeney9848]

It has a premium price in the UK but not elsewhere. I have owned many bikes including 4 Triumphs (Sprint RS, Tiger 1050, Thunderbird 1600 and 865 SE. I can't wait to get another Bonnie.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you Leigh. Yes they have a mark up here in the uk. Which is a bit naughty of Triumph but that said it’s the same for all bikes here. The best value here in the uk 🇬🇧 are definitely Royal Enfield.? There is still a mark up but comparable with other brands it’s not too bad.

[@korni5292]

I couldn't agree more, Jack. Just like Mike Popelka, I bought a new Euro 4 leftover last spring, with all the gimmicks that come as extras on the Euro 5s. I drove it 7,500 km last year and I love it! Okay, the stock tyres are junk as they were made in Brazil (front) and China (rear) and only had half the tread depth compared to the German made aftermarket tyres - cost cutting obviously.... I put on Avon Spirit ST tyres, which work great - and they have a Union Jack on the sidewall :-) I also fitted Ixil Ironhead slip-on pipes and replaced the Mickey Mouse ears with handlebar end mirrors - done! I am looking forward to riding this Beauty as soon as the weather gets better - can't wait! Thanks for your thoughts and have a safe and joyful season!

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you for your comments. Glad you liked the video. Hope you get to ride soon 👍

[@JD-zw3ry]

Beautiful, classic and the real deal.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Yes agree 👍 thank you for watching 👍

[@toradog5719]

Since I bought my T120 I've stopped coveting other bikes. I treasure it.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Yes I do love my bonneville 👍

[@MotoTvWoodsFarm]

Having owned numerous Triumphs over the years i can observe some common traits even in the newest recreations, the handling is not quite as it should be, on their wire wheel models, the engine cases are soft and have porosity issues, the slightest touch of a metal spanner and the deep gouges can occur. So if you plod and give yourself time the bike works. the engine is better than the frame and handling. the seat is not particularly comfortable. However it has a charm and appeal that makes you forget these issues. Come in to fast on curve and this not a bike that will forgive you.. Certain brands have this as an issue Ducati for example, come in too hot on my BMW or Hayabusa no drama you will live and the bike will stay up. Take pictures of your bike before you let Triumph service technicians los on it. Stand outside and you will hear them hold the throttle open time and time again on a tight new engine. With the what was quiet engine newly acquired additional engine noise. This shouldn't put off any Triumph lovers just help them avoid their prized treasure getting mauled by the dealer. Dealers only respond to pictures and sound recordings so make record before you hand it over.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you for your comments and for watching the video. 🤪

[@rabbidbabies4094]

I love my T120 and plan to keep it forever. Now that doesn’t mean I don’t intend to have an Indian and a Moto Guzzi parked next to it 🤪

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

I like both the Indian scout and the Guzzi V7 👍 Great choices

[@rosslevitates]

The last Triumph I owned was a worn out 3TA……..no joy in that, so now I plan to buy a new T100. I expect the difference will be noticeable ………….!!

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Ross. Yes classic bikes do need quite a bit of maintenance 👍 and yes the T100 will be noticeable 👍

[@andrewbecker3700]

2 years and he still has the factory stickers on the bike? I guess he's keeping it all original? Haven't even started my '22 Speed Twin yet and am at 27 mods to date. Spring is still a ways off in NW Montana.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Andrew. Ha a keen eye but the stickers came off the tank when new. Some of the footage for this was filmed when new before the mods were done. The majority of the footage in the video was filmed while making the video. You will note no stickers. Hope you get to use the speed twin soon 👍👍

[@andrewbecker3700]

@@JackBonhamMotorcycles Probably fire it up tomorrow and get it through the self mapping sequence till the fan kicks on.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

That’s a great idea. I bought the T120 just before the first CoVid lockdown in the uk. I prepped the bike with pro prep to protect it, (I do that with all the bikes I’ve had) then let it tick over once a week .

[@iLLuzion1st]

NW MT represent! Come ride in the canyon with me! I want to see your bike when shes all done up. I got a 86 Xl600r

[@andrewbecker3700]

@@iLLuzion1st I'm assuming that's a Honda? Your say'n you want roosted on! '21yz450f heavily modified.

[@nickaxe771]

Jack you feel the same about your T120 as I do about my T100...bought new 2020.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thanks Nick much appreciated. Thank you for watching the video 👍

[@nickaxe771]

@@JackBonhamMotorcycles Got mine at Bill Smiths Jack.....I bet you did also after seeing your Chester Vids...I am in Runcorn.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Nick yes I did. Got a great deal from them 👍

[@asacarrick1440]

Ponderous but still a canny review. I've done 103,000Km. on my 2017 T100. Love it. It's like owning a piece of a better time

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Thank you. Yes agree a bike from a better time 👍

[@greysea4841]

For me, The Euro emissions and stock gear ratios are the only real downfall of this bike. Decat, remapped and changed to a 39T rear sprocket. Bike is now as it should be

[@marknansett4596]

Exactly!!! Did just that to me 2018. Revised rear sprocket, decat, bar-end mirrors, new (workable) shocks, Booster Plug to cure low-speed stutter, ...new front springs too. Loved it from that point on..until I traded it back on a Tiger 1200..that had it all from new...and could carry a pillion and luggage with comfort. The T120 was 80% good looks and 20% mechanical suitability. After $2000 I made it 60/40. I'd recommend it to a solo rider..who liked to tinker.

[@SteakOSaurier]

What a pleasant review, thanks Jack! Would you ride your T120 up two for light touring or even some bigger tours? Greetings from germany! Sam

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Sam. Yes thank you for you comments 👍. Yes the bike is great for touring. I would add panniers and maybe a small aero wind deflector screen if travelling over 60 mph 👍

[@SteakOSaurier]

@@JackBonhamMotorcycles you're welcome Jack! And thanks for the fast response, you're awesome! The T120 Bonnie is my dreambike i will be saving money for!

[@shubhromu]

Every biker should own a Bonneville at some point. It the quintessential bike. The way bikes used to be

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Totally agree 👍

[@Stevel_]

If only these bikes were still made in England. Such a nice looking bike but if I wanted something reliable made in Asia I'd buy a Honda. Going to have to go Guzzi V7 classic for my next bike I think.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

The Guzzi V7 in a nice bike. I was supposed to visit the factory last year but CoVid stopped play. All the best and thank you for watching the video 👍

[@josemanueldamasio89]

I bought one cause it was the bike I wanted 😳

[@nickaxe771]

You rear plate looks more vertical than std Jack....I modded mine on my T100 to be more vertical.....and lowered the rear mudguard a bit....to me looks to high above the wheel. Re the mudguard...small point but I alway paint the rear of the number plate black....the white blacking usually stands out like a sore thumb....and looks naff to me. I also made a front fender extender....stops all the crap hitting the rad....and most for messing up the front of the motor.....why do they make em so short. Made some other minor retro mods that I wont mention here. Would I buy another T100 yes....I would not have to think twice....well worth the extra over the RE. Only thing I would love off the T120.....the look a like carbs....they are stunning.....but not worth the several £1000s extra over my T100.

[@andyleigh343]

Hi Jack, nice reveiw thank you. I'm confused whether to by the 100 or 120, both excellent that is for sure. However I will be riding two up 80% of the time, so that is swing me to the 120, your thoughts please?

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Andy. I have an overview of the T120 v T100 on the channel. In your case and with a pillion riding it basically depends on where you will be predominantly riding. Ie in the city or congested areas or the motorway. The T120 has a six speed box over the 5 speed on the T100 and the extra power makes a difference at speed. In the town and city even with a pillion the power at only 15nm and the extra weight of the T120 in the city does cancel some of the power difference out. 👍

[@danield831]

Great review. Can you please tell where you purchased the brass/gold shifter peg? I'm very much interested in getting one for mine. thanks for the video!

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Daniel. Thank you for watching the video. I got the brass gear peg from Motone Customs. They ship worldwide 👍

[@andyleigh343]

Cheers

[@sharifela7993]

I’m planning to trade my tiger for either a T120 or T100, is there really much difference between the 2 ?

[@ehilts1975]

I have the same 2002 lucifer orange anniversary edition , looking to sell, it's in michiga

[@timcarter3239]

Hi where did you get your Union Jack Radiator cover from. Cheers

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Hi Tim it’s from Motone Customs 👍

[@ReturnOfWilderness]

This really helped me Jack. Good commentary. I was thinking about a speedmaster but this year i'll get the t120, which do you prefer out of the gold line - the green/silver or black/gold?

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

The Speedmaster is a great bike. In fact it’s lovely . If I could justify one in the stable I would. Re the gold line that’s a real tough one. I they both look fabulous but I think 🤔 I would go black but I’m not too keen on black pipes mmmmm nah I would choose green 👍I think

[@mikekeltner4291]

I have a speedmaster, I love ❤ 😍 💖 that machine,

[@mikekeltner4291]

I've ridden shoveheads, gold wings, BMW , and old triumphs, but my speedmaster is my favorite bike I have ever owned

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

@@mikekeltner4291 yes the speedmaster is a fabulous bike. Great choice 👍

[@jameshaywood878]

I'm afraid I can't agree about the build quality with the new Bonnevilles, my bike had never been ridden in the rain, and yet the wheel spokes, the brake disc carriers and fasteners on the engine all were showing signs of rust.

[@JackBonhamMotorcycles]

Sorry to hear that James. I’ve not had a problem but that said I always prepare my bikes with pro prep straight after delivery and then about 3 times a year and after washing and cleaning 👍

[@asacarrick1440]

I once had a dodgy pint, it didn't stop me drinking beer

[@jameshaywood878]

Even without the rust problems on my modern Bonnie, I still wasn't happy with it, I've been riding for 50 years and most of the bikes I've owned have been Japanese except for a couple of Triumphs and a Bmw four, I didn't keep any of them three for long, before going back to a Japanese four cylinder machine, guess it's just the type of motorcycles I prefer.

[@sunildsouza1389]

Uncle Stuart will not be happy with your assessment. Though I would not agree with you more.

[@newyorkhardcore3353]

I would never buy another triumph. Especially the BS treatment I have gotten from them and not cover their warranty

[@asacarrick1440]

You have to go by your own experience but...I once saw a guy slapped by a girl but it didn't turn him queer!