Hi guys if I can chime in here..................
I have owned 2 Meriden Triumphs , a 1974 T140V Bonneville as well as a 1975 T150 Trident, the one with the 'breadbox' tank ,low UK handlebars and that glorious triple sound.I loved those Triumphs they were real bikes even with their faults(vibration that would shatter front mudguard stays for the Bonnie and very poor assembly for the Trident-there were cigarette filters in the fuel lines :surprise: and crap MPG )
However......
I currently own a 1998 Trophy 1200. Considered by some to be a 'classic' in its own way. I do all the work on the bike myself with the exception of changing tyres. I have owned a newer T100 Bonneville , a 2007 carb version, and it was nothing like the old Bonnevilles. It looked different,sounded different and performed different. But it was a Triumph Bonneville of 2007 - not 1974. I look at the newest models as a natural progression with new engineering , new looks, new sound, etc, and they are x10 more reliable and user-friendly than the old ones. Did edward Turner think that his Speed Twin, which was a radical design for its day, as a 'fake'Triumph? i don't think so. Look at the Ford Mustang - the new ones cannot be compared with the original in the '60's. But I do agree with the comments made about the new 'Mini' and 'Beetle' they are nothing like the original in concept design or status.
We are all members of great riding fraternity - Triumph motorcycles. We love riding the, showing them off, curse them when they break, curse the cost of parts and lament for the 'old days'. The old days are gone. Even the old Bonnevilles are better machines with new improved seals, sealants,oils, filters, electric ignition ( remember trying to gap the points together.......)
So, how about we all continue supporting the Triumph brand,from all other brands, whether it be a Meriden Triumph or a Hinkley Triumph, for the next 100 years
Just my 2c worth
Cheers in peace
Gary