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One definition of an icon is something that is an important, enduring symbol. In the motorcycle universe, few machines fit that definition as well – but not necessarily better – than the Triumph Bonneville. Another definition of an icon is a person who is "the object of great attention and devotion." Indeed, many fans of Triumph love their Bonnies so much as to personify the machine, pay homage to it and worship at the alter of the British Twin.
The Bonneville struck a chord with riders when it was introduced in 1959 as the T120 – essentially a twin-carb version of the T110 Tiger – and it remained a constant in the line-up until Triumph's closure in 1983. In 2000, just 10 years after the Brit marquee was resurrected by John Bloor, the irrepressible Twin rose from the ashes, and today celebrates 50 years as Triumph model.
The original Bonnie received pivotal updates and enhancements in 1969; key among them was improved carburetion. Like its 1969 ancestor, the 2009 Bonneville has received a major update where petrol mixes with air. Instead of improved carbs, EFI is the name of the game. Fuel-injection is now standard across the entire line of what Triumph calls the Modern Classics: all three versions of the Bonneville, as well as the Thruxton and Scrambler.
More: 2009 Triumph Bonneville Review on Motorcycle.com