Triumph Bonneville Bobber black, long term review, its a bit like dating a supermodel!

[@nd7941]

I’ve owned mine for a year, and this guy is right, it turns heads everywhere!!! Also the foot peg scraping is accurate. I can’t ever see myself selling my bobber that how much I love it. The worst point for me is the size of the fuel Tank, it’s painful keep filling it up.

[@scubasteve524]

What year is your bobber? If it’s before 2021 then it’s the small 9L tank , but after it’s the standard 12L from all the other Bonny models. Yeah it’s small either way but…. She is a beautiful machine.

[@mervhoward5821]

I have one and get excited prior to every ride. I’ve had many bikes over the years and it is without doubt the best of them all.

[@Dazhimself]

I want one, never ridden this style before and the peg scraping worries me haha

[@sheraz1015]

Does it give a back pain after a good ride. I am sciatic. Is it suggestable for me.

[@DrSinisster]

@@sheraz1015 Comfort isn't it's strong point, but I have ridden for 5 hours and 400 km with minimal issues. Of course this includes stopping for gas every 140 km or so as well as a 40 min stop for food and drink. I've done similar riding time, and distance with minimal issue. If your going over 70 km/h and you hit a pothole brace on the pegs and you'll be fine if not it can jar you a bit. For context I am 6' ft 270 lbs. The stock seat offers minimal adjustment for your butt position, less with the Triumph accessory seats IMO(I have the ribbed one). Hope this helps.

[@sheraz1015]

@@DrSinisster thank you

[@avijitnarayan3457]

@@sheraz1015 i am also sciatic, and own a bobber. With regular core exercises, riding this beauty doesn't cause any abnormal pain

[@CommonsFilms]

At 6’4” and 17st the standard rear shock was as you would imagine way out of its comfort zone in just about every sense of the phrase. So I opted to install the adjustable Fox shock which I was very pleased to find transformed the bike entirely. There are now a number of other rear shock options on the market from Wilber, Ohlins and Nitron... the latter of which I’d have most likely opted for if available at the time of looking to replace the standard item. I have run Nitron’s on many of my race cars over the years and they have an uncanny knack of being superb when looking to push on yet compliment on U.K. roads. Ohlins of course have a Stirling reputation but based on experience I find them to be better suited to track work and very expensive. None the less I am happy with the rear Fox shock and will look to spend money on other areas of the bike ahead of revisiting the suspension. Nice review in any case Stuart... looking forward to seeing the bike develop as time goes on 👍

[@WayneWoodruff]

Thanks for the honest assessment. No bike is perfect (my F800GT was about the closest I got). She is gorgeous.

[@glasgowharleyrider]

I’ve now watched this way many times both before and now that I also own a BB, after having good times and experience on Harley sportys I’m not crying a bit and reminiscing, good bikes but the bobber black both with the tech and the torque is phenomenal. I opted for Fox suspension spring with forwards , padded seat and high bars . Absolutely pride and joy so it is Stuart .

[@cavemansam8400]

Do you find the stock seat and suspension upgrades make a noticeable difference to rider comfort? ..I want one but I also want to ride it a lot.

[@charliepick8422]

Fantastic real-world review, so much more useful than a standard first-ride review. Thank you, Stuart.

[@Riccotorres86]

Well thought out and honest video. Subscribed. The humour is much appreciated

[@hisham77x]

This is truly a great piece work of art.

[@redicanprime1181]

Nice shots in the beginning of the video. Im glad you don't punch out fake reviews like the majority. My wife and I love your videos, seeing how we have a Street twin and im about to pick up a T120 Ace.

[@lordloverocket71]

Add the Fox Shock, it was the first modification I made, worth every penny. There was no way me and the original shock were ever going to get along. For the life of me I cannot understand why Triumph signed off on it.

[@stuartfillingham]

because they want to sell you the Fox shocks Andy!

[@badger4361]

I'd get the Nitron shock, it's British and as good as an Ohlins IMHO.

[@carlosa.acevedo7466]

Wish more people could be as transparent with these things as you. Great video & such a beautiful bike. Currently looking into the Speed Twin, would love this if I didnt have a sportster already. Big shout out from Puerto Rico ✌🏼

[@pemtax557]

I'm 66 yrs old and have ridden cycles since I could afford to by my first bike (13 yrs old). This bike pulls on every nostalgic heart string I could muster. I will be seeking one very soon. I felt compelled to complement you on your insight and words that only a true biker of many years would understand ... you have struck quite the chord with me and I look forward to viewing your current catalog as well as those of the future. Cheers

[@misterskins]

I really don’t make comments regarding KZbin vids, but I will here. When I hopped on this bike I didn’t really have great expectations. When I came back to the dealership, I didn’t want to get off. I am not exaggerating. I loved this scooter! I loved everything about it save one thing and that was the controls in the back position. I like them forward, but all else was rootin tootin lovely. I want one and I want it now! One great trumpet, pardners.

[@tomkieper3704]

Very accurate in your description of the ride quality. Loved the looks, handling and fit and finish. The punishing ride caused me to send her packing and back to the dealer. I ended up buying the T120 black in matte grey. Fantastic bike. As always, great review Stuart!

[@zippybiddelli700]

Classy film once again . Gorgeous bike , if I ever fall out of love with my speed triple r I’m having a bobber

[@Rigz727]

A lot of the comments Stuart I think could also be attributed to the T120. I came to this bike after many years of owning a BMW R1200 GS adventure, With great hesitancy i May add, as a slight tear rolled down my cheek as the Beemer left my drive. Now after a year of ownership of the Bonneville I have to say I’m enjoying it very much indeed, just something about her, very enjoyable to ride. The suspension though has a lot to be desired. My wife said to me last week, why are you buying more stuff for the bike when it already has that stuff! Me feels she doesn’t quite understand! Most stuff is not of course through need, it is aesthetics starting as you mention ‘the blank canvas’ ,and the joy of ownership and making her MY bike! Keep up the good work😉!

[@paulhodgins]

Thanks Stuart Another really informative post and the video work is outstanding - love the drone shots.

[@CerebralCortexMr]

100% right this review, I bought my Bobber matte Black back in 2019. I can say I love this bike and have no intention to sell it. 3 years past and the super model still looks like a young super model. The suspension it's a bit stiff if you driving in a road with bumps, but in a nice road it's just perfect. Thing anoys me most is the 9litre tank... new version with 12 litre might be a nice improvement. I have the bike exactly has she came out of the dealer, and to be honest, I thought 1000 times to change it but I always think, it's perfect as it is as soon I look at her. Very good review, congrats Btw I would like the opinion on people who change the handlebar to clip-ons if any owner here did it. I'm 1.77m tall and afraid that will cost me a lot in my riding position. Thanks in advanced

[@saulovilanova2184]

I'm going from a Street Twin to a 2022 Bobber. The Street Twin has a very neutral riding position and confortable seat and suspention, but... I've alteady made the mistake to do a testride on the Bobber. Hard rear suspension, little ground clearence, foot pegs wanting to scrap all the time, but I'm prepared to ignore everything because of how the bike feels. Couldn't find that feel anywhere else!

[@hughphillips1427]

The bike looks great, but as you say the back suspension has little travel and the seat is firm. With this in mind I wonder why they did not put springs under the back seat, like the image of the older bobbers. I believe this could improve both the comfort and the looks.

[@MrKryss2k]

I'd love to have a bobber as a second bike... no pillion, no compromise and lots of rumble... almost the polar opposite of my Street Triple. I'm not a fan of the black though... give me a chrome covered red one :)

[@bioworkzllc9540]

Appreciate the brutal truth. I'll need to ride one to see how hard of a ride it really is. Thanks for the great video.

[@motorman857]

I rode a Sportster Iron back to back with The BB. The BB wins hands down in ride comfort and everything else.

[@lordjanuss]

Great video as always, bought myself a triumph bonneville bobber, fantastic bike. 👍🍺

[@gatogato3748]

Was the video that ultimately helped me decide to get it for myself. Seattle WA.

[@ahnafabtahy2260]

How is it? And what made you buy it over a t120?

[@DC3893]

I'm torn between getting another street triple or going with my first bobber 😬

[@CoachBob3]

Hey Stuart.. yet another...Excellent and objective video. I’m planning on buying shortly after the first of the year. Saving my pennies.. thanks for taking the time to make these videos. They’re very helpful.

[@rockintigger]

Very unbiased comments which makes my choice harder. " Bobber Black or Speedmaster?" Eany, meany, miny ya da ya da 😳

[@markkeneson6806]

What are your thoughts on the tank capacity? I do not own a Bobber, but I have seen reviewers comment that due to the small tank size they have to fill up often, making the Bobber impractical for long rides.

[@stuartfillingham]

I dont find it to be an issue, usually get over a hundred miles to a tank, and here in the UK you cant go five miles without passing a fuel station. of course that might not be the case in some other countries.

[@daveackers4373]

Great vid again Stuart, had my first close up look at one today and immediately fell in love! I have a 2010 Thruxton and I’m thinking of my next bike, but I’m torn between the T120 and the Bobber. I think a test ride on both will have to make my mind up but you just can’t ignore those supermodel curves! Keep up the good work. G’day from an exiled Scouser in Oz.

[@stuartvorster4911]

No motorcycle i know of does everything well. Its an engineering impossibility. Every bike has compromises. You refer to Triumph saying this is a 'hotrod' & in the same breath refer to 'handling'... A hotrod goes in a straight line - not necessarily fast through corners. But, the Bobber does in fact handle very, very well in corners. No, its not a Ducati but its not designed to be. Review a mptorcycle with the market in mind its meant to penetrate. No-one that rides the Isle of Man is going to buy this to race on. But it does look great outside a sidewalk cafe & damn it handles incredibly well for a retro Bobber! If you aren't egotistical as a Biker you may be the only rider on Earth that is not! We all ride for the beauty & the magic of two wheels whether we are posing or racing. I strongly suspect we all like to do both! The suspension on the Bobber will get better in models to come, i have no doubt. Its not ideal but in the circumstances is again a compromise - don't knock it! Triumph deserve a medal for producing this thing, its an absolutely superb bike in virtually every respect & does way, way more than it should - a great deal better than it should! If the World was perfect we would all own 6/7 bikes & they would each fulfil a precise purpose & defined roll on the road. Thanks for your observations, i get a little more out of each motorcycle review i read regardless of the praise or criticism. Ride Safe & enjoy the freedom Cape Town South Africa

[@povtestridesanddr]

Hi there, Beautiful review Stuart, Just wanted to know whether u have come across any options to raise the ride? I have gathered some Information from here and there, one has used a fork riser of 30mm Another said flipping the suspension links on the rear would raise it up a lil bit. Another is that wilbers suspension has an extra 10mm suspension travel Also one suggested trying to find a pair of tires with some extra dia. Please suggest if you have any info regarding the same. Good day

[@truthseeker2587]

I’m a subscriber after watching this brilliant of a review

[@paulgregory620]

Hi there just watched your video on your bobber black didn’t realise it was four years ago, have you still got it?

[@tnellly]

awesome video, just recently purchased one and i can not get off of it. the performance is addicting. thank you for inspiring me to modify it, i wish my bank account was on the same page! damn supermodel girlfriends.

[@paulenglish5389]

Boils down to this some folk consider a luggage rack as customising and some of us see a blank canvass that we can work on cause most of us can't build frames

[@donjuan2105]

I've owned mine since April and this bike is nothing more than a conversation bike. It's nice to look at but that's it!

[@travisc231]

The Bobber for sure looks like a bike that is otherwise intended to be modified after the initial purchase of the bike and it seems, atleast from a initial viewing that Triumph is still putting out tons of different little add-ons and improvements that riders can use to truly personalize their bobber.

[@vraimondi]

Spot on review Stuart!

[@spencergoddard8391]

Brilliant honest, thanks, enjoyed that

[@larespuertorico]

Triumphs and Indians have always been my favorite bikes but always lean towards the triumph.

[@whittlad]

It’s a great bike and loved it when I had a demo on the bobber. However, standing a 6’4” it’s a love affair that just isn’t going to happen for me😒

[@russmode]

Ahh, like the girl you thought maybe you didn't have a shot with...you gotta try at least once...might get surprised!

[@johnmoore4577]

great camera work dude...superb work ..what can i say keep it up

[@stuartfillingham]

Thank you John.

[@TheUKRifter]

Thanks, great video, it hasn’t put me off buying one but it will make me look at the after market fox shocks early on.

[@yannisstamoulis1366]

Another great video from you Stuart!! Although the camera was a bit shaky..

[@michaelevans1658]

Is their a service bulletin as on the street twin for the wiring loom bracket by the headstock? Triumph say it is not a recall but when your bike is next in for a service the mod will be done .Apparently the wiring can be stretched by the original bracket causing electrical issues .

[@stuartfillingham]

not that im aware of Michael.

[@zozoa1]

Excellent video I test rode one of these and I certainly noticed a lot of what you said. I have a sneaky suspicion you may like the Indian Scout give it a go

[@andrewbalfour9373]

Couldn't agree more..Terrific bike..Love mine.

[@samlouie5170]

I like your style and integrity...any reviews of the new Indian Scout Bobber 60?!

[@streetglidelover]

I love the looks of this bike

[@ralphington8441]

Very honest and detailed review, thank you.

[@doyrayburn2668]

Im 6ft 240 lbs and just looking at this for fun around town. It sounds like you demand from bike than I ever would. But damn this scooter will look great down town on the weekends....

[@matthewroy5076]

Thanks for giving an honest review.

[@threethrushes]

Ridiculously catchy music. You've given me an ear worm now Thanks a lot. Great honest review. Your middle name is integrity so we don't expect anything less from the Fillinghams!

[@stuartfillingham]

yes ive been whistling it all week too! thanks you very much sir!

[@daveharriman2756]

That tank is just crying out for those 4 bar tank badges!

[@jamesdspaderf2883]

Impractical, often makes you feel uncomfortable, gets thirsty real quick .... makes everyone look on in envy and admiration, and you smile like no other just having her sit in the garage. Yep, what's not to love!

[@danieloconnell4225]

Any thoughts on using it for light, long-ish range touring? I've no real interest in a Triumph Speedmaster, but my Triumph Speed Twin just isn't the right thing for longer trips. I thought perhaps a Bobber black, with an upgraded saddle and a decent pannier set, might be a good option for trips of a few days at a time. I don't mind stopping for petrol every 130 miles or so.

[@stuartfillingham]

I wouldnt!

[@danieloconnell4225]

@@stuartfillingham fair enough! cheers!

[@stuartfillingham]

@@danieloconnell4225 Sorry for the short reply Daniel was wading through the comments. The bobbers biggest limitation for long distance travel is its suspension and there i little that can be done to improve it. Its a weekend day tripper! might i suggest the T120 ?

[@danieloconnell4225]

@@stuartfillingham Cheers! Short is OK, I know you must get busy. I ride a Speed Twin, and the T120 looks rather similar, so I was hoping for another retro that looked quite a bit different rather than a fairly similar one - the Bobber Black looks fantastic, but the suspension and small tank size does give pause!

[@r000ketman5]

Perfect analysis Kinda Supermodel.. 👍🏽👍🏽

[@turvyjj9232]

Nice videos, Stuart, thanks a lot. However, this one comes sort of ambiguous. Do you like her, or don't? It seems you just stand her.

[@stuartfillingham7011]

It's a love hate relationship!

[@turvyjj9232]

@@stuartfillingham7011 I see, it's a part of the realm of dark dreams. Good we can always get sober... or get a divorce.

[@tinks43]

Like a supermodel - love it.

[@boredloner2609]

can I put a Speedmaster seat on it?

[@bobberfett]

Just watching this after commenting on your initial review. The contrast! I have clip-ons on mine and don't struggle with the riding position - maybe youth on my side. I did come from a 'Blade though. I do hate the attention it grabs, I park up and run away with my lid on to avoid conversation now...

[@stuartfillingham]

LOL!

[@stewartmaxwell550]

Another interesting, well presented and honest vid Stuart. Thankyou. Can't ever see me getting one. Incidentally, do you still have the t100? Or did I miss something?

[@stuartfillingham]

I do Stewart and I have just had a set of tyres delivered for her, ill get back on with it this winter!

[@triumphrider9796]

No such thing as a bike that's perfect out of the box; that's why there's a hefty aftermarket! With suppliers like Motone and British Customs around, how can one NOT change something, unless he lacks imagination? My T100 (Centenary Edition) is gorgeous, but some things just had to go (stock suspension, way too soft; secondary air injectors had to go; while we're at it, toss the airbox completely and put some K&N's on the carbs; still have to get some steel brake lines and upgrade the rotors, looking forward to your video on that point). Daytona ('97 T595) likewise -- thought (and still do think) it's one of the most beautiful designs around, but suspension needed work, rotors were, surprisingly, Sunstar bits (now EBC), seat wasn't the best, seating position with stock clip-ons was tiresome, a few cosmetic bits here and there, now it's about right (later wished I'd sprung for the Wilcox Engines kit that would have bumped it up to 142hp at the crank, but the full Arrow exhaust they modified is wonderful). I've done a near-700-mile day on it (and stopped there because one normally does when they reach their destination), and went on a 300-mile loop on the T100 in PA after riding over 200 to get there. The list of changes to my Yamaha ('73 TX500, still have it, I'm the original owner) is far more extensive; part aftermarket, part swap-out for later model bits to fix flaws the factory fixed later, a couple of factory accessory bits that were themselves modified to fix their own inherent shortcomings.

[@stuartfillingham]

My Suzuki GSX 550 was!

[@ThreenaddiesRexMegistus]

Good review Stuart! I have to admit I’m not a fan of these as they just seem to be neither here nor there and more aimed at the bar-hopping , 1000 mile a year posers. I know that’s unkind but I’ll stay with my T120 Black , that really does all that I expected and more. I also evokes the bikes I rode in the 1970’s.

[@badger4361]

Stu, I'd like to throw my two pence in if that's alright. I think your review is spot on, however I'd like to offer my own observations. I am a Bobber Black owner, seduced into the purchase after riding one on a sunny day (curse you feelgood weather). I haven't had the front end bottom out on me much, But I'm 14.5 stone, I figure there's more weight at the rear with me on and it maybe balances out a bit. During a spirited run through the highlands, I went into a sweeping corner a bit hot, and then it tightened up (couldn't see it coming), and I had to find a fair bit more lean angle and quickly, I was busy decking the exhaust out when I found a pretty big pothole on my driving line, I couldn't adjust my line so I just hung on and loaded my pegs somewhat to reduce the impact on my back. Now apart from the spine wrecking bang that ensued, to the Triumph's credit, it didn't shake its head or tie itself in knots, it held its line and I rode out the other side, shaken but not stirred. I know other sport bikes that would not have fared so well, it's a great bike, but it does have its limitations. Someone should make high exhausts for them, only problem is that it handles so well, you'd probably end up decking out the frame?

[@stuartfillingham]

Hi Badger, yes thats a spot on observation. that the bike should be given credit for, it does run true no matter what. I'm sure people will come along with some of the solutions you mention re ground clearance!

[@percyc123]

I enjoyed your vid. Can name the company who made the bar risers ?

[@stuartfillingham]

Motone customs

[@stevemarkarian5553]

It seems that this is a good companion bike to the Bonnie. If it were one or the other I'm assuming the Bonnie would be the one.

[@stuartfillingham]

The T120 is certainly the better allrounder!

[@GR-sg2lv]

oh thats in my neck of the woods, just outside Oxford!

[@kyleb3580]

I wish they made this with a rear seat option out of the factory

[@stuartfillingham]

They make the Speed master.

[@wallyr.7854]

Perfectly said, every word, every sentence, I love my TBB, or I should say, my sexy supermodel. Thanks for the video, cheers.

[@texasorange285]

Excellent video!!!

[@danilocapellan1316]

It is a, masterpiece. 🙏🏼👍🏼

[@1990-t1j]

Far too low-slung for me. Then there's the poor suspension. A good, honest review.

[@stuartfillingham]

Thank you sir!

[@motohobo]

Think you just about said it all there,mate. I feel it'll appeal to some for various reasons and those very same reasons will be why it won't appeal to others. Its a very personal bike. I agree its a gorgeous looking thing. But. If you were to be dating an expensive super model,after a while you'd prob ask yourself,she's gorgeous to look at but is that enough? I think you'd ask yourself the same of this Triumph.

[@daveyoude2828]

Another great production, thx Stu... as for the Bobber, it’s a bit like a jar of pub cockles or pickles eggs.... they look good after a few pint but that’s about it.... I know a number or people who impulse purchased on launch but chopped then in after a few months... I think less like a super model but the girl friend you can’t get rid of and no matter how good the dress you put her in is she still looks a bit minging..... try botox....?

[@richardcollins586]

I saw the bobber in my local showroom and was shocked at how low down it was, felt like sofa hight and very long. I know what you mean by a looker, my Ducati monster gets admiring glances as well, though no conversations as yet. It didn’t instantly fall in love with the bike, the agriculture gear box, the neutral issue, I’ve got used to the quirks of the bike and I’d hate to get rid of it now.

[@caroldave4037]

Hi stu its horses for courses. . I had a 2012 bonneville. ..and the ride was. ..........poor!! slightly better two up but what cracking handling on any road here up in cumbria...Durham .. northumberland...the bobber is a stand and look at bike😍😉😉😉cheers from dave

[@alanbstard4]

the poor bugger running at 0:54 looks like he needs a ride, whether or not the bike suited him

[@MrToonfish]

@2:45... Which nuclear power plant is that Stuart ? I am working in the nuclear industry, so I have an interest on that ! Thanks for the Bobber review, as you stated, we have all a sort of hate / love relationship with our bikes, I think it's the same for everyone. Cheers from Belgium. Take a look of one of my friend's modified Bobber, just search for : Krugger Bobber, painted in a grey Skoda color, this bike is so superb in real.

[@stuartfillingham]

Its actually a BP processing plant!

[@markmasztal2253]

My hand is up.

[@halz7]

Great video Stuart. I know you said you don't like to do first impressions, but would it be possible to test ride a new Speedmaster and compare it to the Bobber. Thanks, Hal

[@stuartfillingham]

perhaps one day!

[@retribution999]

Can you carry a passenger on that or strictly solo? Where's my girlfriend gonna sit?

[@ronaldwaddell3135]

Well done.

[@GrumpyGarry121]

I don’t see the point in spending £10k on a new bike and then start thinking of customising it. If it’s not what you want then don’t buy it.

[@stuartfillingham]

Ah completely missed the whole point of the Bonneville!

[@markbright7845]

Honda VT750 Shadow. OMG what a mistake. I knew it within ten miles. 🙁

[@lenmatthies9626]

I’ve got a slightly tricked out 2017. It is not a chick bike. In fact Harley has more chick bikes than anyone else. Mine is bad ass and turns head and causes stares even fro the most hard core Harley riders. Try and catch me.

[@wernerengel6357]

The size of English number plates is ridiculous. Ruins the gorgeous looks of the bike. Australian plates are a fraction of the size.

[@BlueSquid1001]

I suppose if you can afford one of these, you can afford to throw another few grand at it in upgrades. I’ll stick with my cheap working class bikes.

[@reggibs]

I ride this bike til 3am sometimes during the summer months FB Reggi singh

[@stuartfillingham]

Thats not possible! its locked away in my garage at that time!

[@reggibs]

Lolzzz i have one 2017 my facebook is Reggi singh (Dip)

[@philreadman1412]

It is now, and will always be a Girl's bike.

[@ahmadalsulaiti6405]

phil readman sounds like someone’s trying to compensate for something

[@torqueofthedevil8145]

Says the bloke who rides a Suzuki (arse) Bandit

[@badger4361]

Do not feed the troll 😋

[@richfeather]

Go play with your Bandit... Or, better yet, trade it in for a more formidable bike, like a Honda Grom.

[@stuartfillingham]

NOW NOW fellas phil is entitled to his opinion! im sure it wasn't his intention to upset anyone!