I just made a related post on another thread
here.
On Bonnie vs. Thruxton, I went with the Bonnie (T100) for a couple of reasons:
1) I didn't really want or need the sportier aspects of the Thruxton for the kind of riding that I had in mind.
2) I preferred the riding posture of the T100 which allows me to comfortably sit straight up when I am not on the highway so I can get a really commanding view of the road ahead, and also the cagers all around me get a better view of me!
That said, the two bikes aren't all that different. They have more in common than not. Check out my other post that I linked to above, take into account that I am a beginner too for better or for worse, and make an informed decision. I do not regret one bit making the Bonneville my first bike. I love it! I have been riding it more conservatively but a couple of experimental goosings on the interstate have showed me that if I ever want to engage in hearty acceleration, this bike can do it, and I won't soon outgrow it.
For reference, I'm 6'2" about 280 lbs in my birthday suit, closer to 325+ (guessing) in full riding gear with my backpack and laptop. 30" inseam. Ergonomically this bike fits me well except I would like to have highway pegs for longer rides as the regular pegs are a little too high I guess for longer rides. I don't necessarily want to drop those pegs; I'd just like to have the option to stretch my legs out and relax them on longer stretches.
