Triumphrat

larrykahn · 11-26-2012, 08:33 PM

in my opinion. I've owned my 850 Commando since new (1975) and have owned at least three different Triumph 650's ('65 Trophy, 67 Trophy and 70 Bonneville) and I have to say the new Bonny reminds me more of the Norton in engine characteristics and general chassis feel. Pulls right off idle, low vibes, longer wheelbase and slower steering, all feel more Norton to me. If the motor feels like the Triumphs I'd go with the 65 Trophy with the heavier flywheel and single carb.

Just sayin is all. My new-to-me '07 T-100 is a wonderful machine. Love it. Just wondering if my spare Norton Interstate tank will fit...

Nickwiz · 11-26-2012, 09:01 PM

Funny you should say that because I think that too. Only ever had a go on an 850 commando once but in my opinion you are right there.

Easy13 · 11-27-2012, 12:34 AM

My Norton experience was less than optimal. While I agree that the Hinckleys seem to act more like Commandos than their Meriden namesakes, the big difference in my opinion is that my '07 Bonneville is reliable in a good way. My '71 Combat model was reliably unreliable.

DUG · 11-27-2012, 02:11 AM

Hi guys

My thoughts are, I think the new bonnie's are like the old one's but on steroids, they rev heaps more than Commandos, the Bonnie has'nt the torque of the Commando, so you are useing the gearbox more and the Bonnie's steer quicker.
Nothing dance's round on the center stand like a Commando, the front wheel shakeing back and forward, all great caracter in my opinion, sittng on a rubber mount Sportster on idle is pretty close.
Actualy a roadking on a center stand on slow idle brings a smile to my face, the front wheel bounceing around. Funny the things that entertain me.
So sorry I think they feel different, just my opinioon, I think the new bonnie feels more like a GT 860 Duke.

Maybe a good debate here.

Cheers DUG

Forchetto · 11-27-2012, 05:06 AM

I fear that utter bounder M.G.Vig will be here shortly to remind me that the Bonnie feels like one of those awful late 70's Honda Dreams on steroids...

triplestrength · 11-27-2012, 06:07 AM

No the Dreams balancing destroyed any character:-)
I still have a CB400AT

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norton74 · 11-27-2012, 10:35 AM

My last Norton was a '74 Interstate. Loved the long tank and roomier seating. The roadsters always felt cramped to me. The Norton seemed have more low end torque. The sound from the interstate mufflers with the small baffles removed was just right with a great rumble. Miss that on my T100. The T100 was, of course, the better bike. But then again, the T100 is newer by 38 years. It should be better.

Sheepdog · 11-27-2012, 12:30 PM

Though there are differences, I agree that the Hinckley Bonnevilles are reminiscent of the Norton. I was certainly able to do all the things to my Bonnie that I could only dream about as a poor young man with my Norton (rearsets, better pipes, etc). The big differences are the weight and the low end torque. The one may contribute to the other...

rodhotter · 11-27-2012, 06:43 PM

i always lusted a norton, almost when i got my 70 bonnie i was in morocco in the military norton's were hit or miss bonnies were easy to get only worry was a big ugly tank model some guys got, i was lucky to get the beautiful T-120R i enjoyed very much $975 delivered. new nortons are beautifiul but too $$$$$ for me and poor riding position and few dealers

Nickwiz · 11-27-2012, 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sheepdog

That bike is a stunner.

Hagon shrouded shocks would finish it off