Triumphrat

Emanthehorse · 11-07-2012, 11:07 AM

I'm doing a three week test ride for the magazine with a 2012 110th anniversary limited edition T100. I tested one of the first Hinckley Bonnies in 2000 (it burned a hole through the exhaust valve while i had it) and a Thruxton for a day in 2004. This bike seems much better. In March I rode a Scrambler for a week in Daytona and loved it. I think I prefer the 360º crank.

But I have to admit I haven't been keeping up with you guys who ride them all the time. Is there a nagging problem with these bikes that I'm unaware of? I owned a Thunderbird Sport a few years back and had all the fun with the alternator as everyone else. Anything glaring like this on modern Bonnies?

I know they made a bazillion new Bonnies, but you really don't see them for sale much, I can only assume that their owners hold onto them. Well, the exception would be the America and the other wannabe HD® styling exercises that I intend to totally ignore.

So what about it? Weak electrics? bad transmissions? Or they just 100% kick ass?

So far, I love this bike, my only bitch has been leaning forward and trying to get the key to go in straight when the blinker is in the way... makes me feel stupid.

leftarmlogan · 11-07-2012, 11:22 AM

I can never seem to find the kick starter on mine.

Wheelhorse · 11-07-2012, 11:33 AM

Eman,

The modern classic line has been labeled on here as a solid platform offering tried and true reliability. A truly friendly motorcycle that does not need to be ridden at its limit to be thoroughly enjoyed.

The complaints are far and few between; unlike most other major forums.

Aftermarket support has been continually growing making this platform a great starting point.

In the era of over-weight cruisers and over-powered super bikes, the Bonneville is the hidden gem of the market.

Most owners will say that after many other motorcycles have passed through their garages, the Bonneville is the keeper. Most cannot believe just how fun and rewarding it is to tool around on it, while others appreciate the classic lines and modern technology carefully blending into a timeless classic.

I will leave you with this; a Bonneville in stock form is the quiet library lady patiently waiting for your question at the help desk. Let her hair down with a set of slip on mufflers, pod filters, a tune and she likes to get a bit naughty on the back roads.

keithkit · 11-07-2012, 11:35 AM

After 35,000 miles on my '09 SE (in 24 months) I've experienced trouble-free riding. Had to have the speedo cable replaced under warranty and the head gasket. That's it.

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norton74 · 11-07-2012, 11:35 AM

No troubles with mine except all the old guys that come up to me to tell their "I used to own a Triumph in the 70s" stories. It's not really any trouble to listen. I usually enjoy the stories.

wenzel850 · 11-07-2012, 11:43 AM

I've had 2 T100's in the last 7 yrs. The first was totaled by a deer. Before I was able to walk right after that accident, I went out and bought my second one.

The only problem's I've had is a leaky washer and the ignition switch. I've ridden these 2 bikes over 29k miles.

PAAS · 11-07-2012, 11:58 AM

Try putting the key in the ignition before mounting the bike, it's much easier!

geoffmcmanus · 11-07-2012, 12:22 PM

I have owned almost 40 new motorcycles of all types including Bonnevilles in 44 years of riding both for leisure and professionally and you know what I have ordered for when I retire in January "A Bonneville".
For me it is the best thing out there and has the same level of engineering integrity as God used when he came up with "Granite"

Geoff.

Dan McGrath · 11-07-2012, 12:43 PM

2012 T100. 13 months, 11,000 miles. Rock Solid.

steve betts · 11-07-2012, 01:29 PM

25.000 miles on mine, no major mechanical issues, and relatively cheap for routine maintainenance. The only "downside" is the aftermarket is so extensive that I spend a lot of time (and money) "improving" the bike, or thinking of ways I plan to improve it in the future. I am always, it seems, one solution away from serenity.