Triumph Bonneville T100
Fashioned on what is traditionally regarded as the high point of early Triumph design, the 1969 T-120 Bonneville 650, the latest T100 is a thoroughly modern interpretation of a classic speedster. Retaining many features of the original bike - as well as adding a few of its own - the Bonneville caters for a niche market of riders who want more than ‘just’ a bike; they want a lifestyle choice. And you really do have to want one because, while it certainly looks the part, the new bike fails to excel in any particular area other than being vastly more reliable than the original.
The very name Bonneville implies performance, and indeed 0 to 60 comes up in a respectable five seconds, its 865cc parallel twin motor pulling smoothly. But the roll-on in top from 60 to 80, which is 'real world' motorcycling territory, takes a rather prolonged six seconds as the Bonnie's manner becomes somewhat languid. Given time though, the T100 will get a shift on around the lanes and the ‘kink’ in the pea-shooter pipes is testament to that. Not found on the original, the design has changed to allow extra ground clearance for maximum angles of lean. But that kind of behaviour is really only for the brave, because the handling also leaves a bit to be desired. The factory-fitted front Metzeler tyre has more grooves than a 70s disco, while the rear is a rather narrow 130-section affair that rolls you into turns far quicker than you want it to.
Much quieter than on the original due to modern legislation, the exhausts still produce a very Triumph-like sound, while the chrome header pipes soon turn blue from the heat. Sadly though, the thrum is soon obscured by wind noise at speed. Triumph, however, do offer their own noisier aftermarket pipes which not only embellish the riding experience, but also offer an extra 10 per cent boost to the midrange. The electrics and the transmission are faultless, however. After the quaint procedure of knocking off the steering lock on the right of the headstock with one key, and then locating the ignition barrel on the left with the other, the starter button sees the Triumph instantly roar into life with the help of the engine-mounted manual choke. On the road, the gears slip up and down sweetly with or without the clutch, and the headlight on main beam acts like a Royal Navy searchlight.
On board the Bonneville's comfy padded seat, you certainly won’t forget what you are riding. With your hands slightly higher than your elbows, the T100 is a comfortable means of travel. You're not slouched like on a true cruiser, nor are you hunched up as on a sports bike. It’s well suited to born-again bikers, new riders and those who prefer a low seat height. The hand-painted stripe on the tank is lacquered into the deep paint, while the cast tank badges ooze quality. In fact there are no fewer than 11 Triumph logos dotted all over the bike and its components. The spoked wheels and rubber knee grips finish off the retro look, but sadly gone is a lot of the chrome work to be replaced by lighter, non-corroding plastic for things like indicators and the tail light surround. Both engine case covers are still chromed though, along with the headlamp shell and the front mudguard struts, so there’s still plenty to get polishing.
Bonnevilles are always a good investment. As you rarely push them along the brake pads will last for ages, the chain won't take a hammering, and your average mpg figure should be the other side of 50. Insurance costs are low at Group 10 and the Triumph's residual values have proved to be strong.
For all its shortcomings, this is a bonny bike you can easily fall in love with. You'll never take it out in the rain. You'll probably want to keep it in the front room. And you'll more than likely kiss it goodnight!
Article written: March 15, 2007
The Triumph Bonneville T100 was kindly loaned by Fowlers Motorcycles of Bath Road, Bristol. For more information about test rides, call Fowlers on 0117 977 0466.
OUR STEER ON THE BONNEVILLE T100
Price: £5,349 (@ Jan 09)
Engine: 865cc parallel twin
Power: 66bhp at 7,200rpm
Torque: 70.5 Nm at 6,000rpm
Transmission: five-speed
Weight: 205kg
Fuel capacity: 16.6 litres
Top speed: 110mph (est)
Seat height: 775mm
by Jon Bennett
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