Triumphrat

ChristianHaynes

I am looking at several Bonnevilles. I have 4 that I will be looking at this week.

The years range from 2001 to 2004.

Mileage is from 8,500 to 15,500.

Prices range from $3500 to $4500.

The models are from Basic Black to the Bonneville T100 with dual paint jobs.

Any model years to avoid or years that are preferable?

Just to throw in a curve, I am also looking at two tigers.

My background: I have been riding since I was 12. I am now 39. I quit riding about 7 years ago when my oldest was born. I am 6' and about 260 lbs. Not exactly a small guy.

I recently purchased a Ducati ST4 as my long distance tour bike. I have owned at least 17 motorcycles in the past. The bikes have ranged from all out race bikes (pro race built FZR1000) to Yamaha XS1100 to Honda XL185 to Yamaha RD350. I really want a Triumph and have wanted one since they came back to the states 15+ years ago.

I plan to use the bike to ride to work (about 20 miles each way) and for weekend trips around town. If I go with a Tiger I can ride with friends that own a BMW R1200GS and R1150GS on their trips.

I am really stuck between a vintage ride and an adventure style bike.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I will be making a decision on the bikes by this weekend.

Thanks for all your help...

propforward

Hi Christian, welcome to the forum, I hope you have a good time here.

Your question is a difficult one to answer objectively - you have to pick the bike that's right for you.

Personally, If I get my way I will end up with a sprint, a tiger and a scrambler as well as my Bonneville - but hey, resources are limited.

There is no need to avoid any of the model years you mention. They are all good, the Bonnies are a great ride. Simple, fun - great character. Pick the one that just "feels" right.

I am not sure what else to tell you - the tigers are great bikes too, but the Bonnie was what I wanted at the time.

I think when you see the bikes, if the right one is there for you, you will know it.

Cheers!

EDIT: There is no reason why you can't use the Bonnie to go out with your friends on their BMW's. An Englishman can go anywhere a German can!

EDIT2: The answer is obvious - stuck between a vintage style bike and an adventure bike? GET A SCRAMBLER!

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If you ever drop your keys in molten lava, forget about them, because man, they're gone.

Baltobonneville

I'd avoid the 2001 unless you know that the clutch chatter and oil-in-airbox issues have been fixed on that particular bike.

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Marty
2005 Bonneville Blue 790cc, AI removed, Staintunes, Unifilter, no snorkel, 120/40/Thrux needle/1 shim/3 turns, fly screen, tacho, D9 gauge panel, center stand, Ikon 7610s, Hagon fork springs, gaiters, Pirelli Sport Demons, 3 seats.

ChristianHaynes

Great advice guys. I did not think about a scrambler. Hmmm, yet another bike to add to the list.

On a positive note, I did buy a 2004 Bonneville Black tonight.

Thanks again for the help!

propforward

All right! Attaboy welld one, you made the right choice, and got the right colour too!

Now, post pictures my fine fellow, we desire pictures of your new steed!

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If you ever drop your keys in molten lava, forget about them, because man, they're gone.

pabonne

2003 is clearly the best. But hey, you'll probably enjoy your 04 too.

Congrats!

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2003 790 (black, not Black) KARK'd, K&N Cones, Staintunes, 130/42 jets, 2.5 turns out, BC Superbars, CRG LS mirrors, Generic Rubber, 16t

Why? Too many H-D's.